Word Count: 375
"You really shouldn't fall in love with me," Regulus cautions.
Barty just snorts, a grin on his lips. "Why? Because you'll break my heart?"
"Yes."
…
This isn't how he planned to break Barty's heart. In those early days, Regulus had assumed that he was just too damaged, that loving him would prove to be a horrible mistake.
In the end, he had been wrong.
Barty lies in bed, eyes closed. Regulus had come to say goodbye, and, as always, he had stayed a little too long. An amused smile plays at his lips. He plucks a cigarette from his pack and places it between his lips.
What would happen if he stayed, if he decided to keep his head down? What's the point in acting like a Gryffindor now when his blood has always been emerald and silver? Hasn't he always been taught that saving himself is the most important thing?
Sirius would be so proud.
…
"I love you," Regulus whispers.
Barty pulls away, brows raised. "I thought we couldn't say that."
And Regulus had made the rule, so sure that love is dangerous and he could never learn to fall. Now, he isn't so sure.
"Only if you mean it."
And Regulus kisses him hard.
…
Barty opens his eyes, a sleepy smile on his lips. "Come back to bed," he mumbles, yawning.
"One last cigarette." Regulus wonders if Barty can hear the way his voice trembles.
Will this be the last cigarette? He has a feeling it will be. No time to smoke with what he's planning to do.
Barty scowls, but he doesn't protest. He closes his eyes once again and curls up, gripping the pillow beside him. "Fine."
Regulus smokes slowly. He wants to savor these final moments with his lover.
…
"Still think you'll break my heart?" Barty asks.
"Without a doubt."
Barty just laughs. "And what if I break yours first?"
…
The cigarette has burned down to the filter. Regulus puts it out.
Time is not on his side, and he should leave. Instead, he pulls out a cigarette, lighting it and inhaling the smoke, reminding his lungs that they can still expand.
The night is long, and Barty is beautiful.
One last cigarette won't hurt.
