June 12, 1975
Dear Marlene,
I can't believe I'm writing you. Please don't take offense at that. I just mean that my family will probably be able to smell the blood-traitor stench that my owl will return with. That being said, I do hope he returns with a letter from you. Not to sound desperate or anything, but my summer has been terrible and I'm going mad from boredom.
Sirius has managed to infuriate my mother again – I don't know what he's done this time. He's probably breathing too loudly or something. I'm not sure how much more of this anyone can take. They're at each other's throats constantly. There have been more family dramatics as well, but I won't bore you with those. Suffice it to say, I think the only reason Mother hasn't disowned Sirius yet is that the Blacks are already the laughingstock and horror of what my mother calls 'civilized society.' I must admit it was hard to not laugh in front of her when I thought of the face you would make if you overheard her saying that.
The only good thing coming up this summer is the Quidditch World Cup. I'm sure you're going. We are as well, because it's apparently a high-society event that we must be seen attending. I'm excited to go to Spain, even though I'm sure the Spanish will be grumpy that they only made it to the quarterfinals. I do envy you though. You'll doubtless be out on the grounds after the match celebrating and partying all night. I'm going to be trussed up like a Christmas turkey at some boring event while you do that. Be sure to have a drink for me, won't you?
My money's on the Russians to win, but I do hope the Americans put up a good fight of it. Not literally of course, though Merlin knows tensions are tight enough between them that that might just happen. That's why I've enclosed the money, in case you were wondering. Put five Galleons on the Russians for me? Mother would scream herself hoarse if she caught me gambling, but I think having a bit of money down makes it worth the risk. Couldn't actually do it myself, of course, but knowing it's there will be enough. If they do win, buy yourself something nice. I don't need or want the money. What would I do with it anyway?
Why is it easier speaking to you in a letter than it is anyone else? I don't think I've felt this comfortable with anyone since Sirius and I were little. But he's changed now. Or maybe I have, but I don't think so. I am everything my family wants me to be. Sometimes I wish... no. If I even write it it is too much. I can't say what I want.
I'm sorry, Mar. You don't need to hear my whining. I hope the rest of your summer goes well. Perhaps I'll catch a glimpse of you at the World Cup.
Sincerely,
Regulus