It was well-known that Blacks never stood as one; all were completely separate, all relied only on themselves. None ever showed any love for each other – they were either acquaintances or rivals.
Regulus wasn't sure whether this was good or bad. Sure, that meant no-one could betray him (because how can you betray if no trust is placed in you?) but sometimes it was just a little lonely.
And – well – there was something that he kept hidden. It was his little secret. Well, more of a massive one.
He thought he was in love with Bellatrix.
Regulus knew it wasn't right, knew he shouldn't be, knew that Bellatrix didn't feel the same way.
"Reggie!"
Well speak – well, think – of the devil.
"Reggie!"
His cousin entered the room. Her long, black hair fell loosely at her sides and her heavily-lidded eyes might have shown a little pleasure at seeing Regulus.
"Happy birthday, cousin dear."
So that was why she was here. It was a sort-of Black tradition; you would never forget someone's birthday. You didn't have to give them anything, but if you saw them you would have to at least acknowledge the day.
Bellatrix was proud of being a Black, so she would go out of her way to follow the traditions.
Regulus was surprised, however, when she pressed a package into his hands unexpectedly.
"You didn't have to get me anything."
"You'll like it."
She settled down onto the bed, cross-legged, looking like she slightly regretted her generosity.
Regulus shrugged and began to open the package. Something rolled onto the bed.
"A broomstick?"
Bellatrix nodded. "Latest edition. Now promise me you'll do a good job Seeking for Slytherin, otherwise there might be hell to pay."
"I promise."
He thought he detected a glimpse of a smile. "We can go for a ride together sometime, so you can get a feel for it. You and I."
"Defying gravity," Regulus smiled at her. "I like the sound of it."
Well, what he really liked the sound of was 'you and I'. Not just 'me', not just 'you', but 'you and I'.