I'm as free as a bird now

Regulus does a kindness for his brother, under the ruse of being like the rest of the family.

"This has been a long time coming," Regulus says, slapping a cheque down on the table and sliding it over to his brother. "I'm buying out your share of the company."

Sirius looks at his little brother in shock, before his gaze moves down to the table. "I'm sorry, you're what?"

"Mother and Father are very much on board," Regulus states, removing his hand. The cheque sits in between them. "They could actually just play the long game and remove what is yours from you. There are by-laws and stipulations and I know they've been calling the lawyers. I suggested that it would be bad for business."

"Why are you doing this?" Sirius hisses, the flicker of betrayal in his eyes.

"I for one am sick of you making eyes at the man in that little bakery down the road. The one that's on the verge of closing," Regulus states. "Whilst you're here, you're unable to associate with him." Regulus' eyes move urgently to the cheque. "Accept the offer, Sirius."

Sirius blinks. He looks down at the cheque and back at Regulus.

"Are you saying—"

Regulus looks around, towards the man standing in the corner that Sirius has paid little attention to. "May I remind you that mother's lawyer will be… ensuring mother is aware of what is done in here, of what is said," Regulus murmurs. He crosses his arms, turning his head away from the man.

"Take the money and be free," Regulus whispers, so quietly the man can't hear. "It's enough to save your lover's bakery, enough to live on. I've got you, big brother. Accept the offer and don't look back."

Sirius almost smiles, but his gaze flickers over to the man.

"I'll reluctantly take the offer, and I'll not be a part of this company or family anymore," he snaps harshly. Regulus' lips twitch - they both know it's just for show. "This is the last Mother and Father will ever see of me."

"But you," Sirius murmurs, his lips almost don't move as the words pass them, "you're always welcome, Regulus."

Regulus hides his smile as the lawyer approaches, dropping down the paperwork between them.