Word Count: 583
He wishes it could be different, but it can't. No matter how hard James tries to fight it, they are still supposed to be enemies. All they can do is hide away in the dark, stealing kisses and dreaming impossible dreams.
"You're late," he says when he hears the soft footsteps behind him.
Regulus chuckles. "Not all of us can turn invisible. Some of us have to sneak out the old fashioned way."
James turns, his chest aching. If only it could be easier; if only Regulus could be his without complications. His lips twitch, slowly pulling into a charming smile. "I brought refreshments," he says, retrieving two bottles of butterbeer.
Regulus' brows raise. "Color me impressed."
James shrugs. By now, Regulus is used to his mysterious ways. It just makes James happy that he can still surprise the Slytherin. If he ever loses that, he doesn't know what he'll do with himself.
Regulus takes a step closer. James' heart flutters. It isn't fair that one boy can have this effect on him. He's meant to be a brave and bold Gryffindor, yet it's so easy for him to come undone.
"Shall we?" Regulus asks, gesturing toward the Black Lake.
James nods. He would never deny his boyfriend anything. Once they settle in on the sandbar, he opens his drink, taking a dip swig of it. It isn't as good bottled, but it's the best they can do for now.
Regulus doesn't touch his. He stares off into the distance, looking absolutely gorgeous in the milky glow of the moonlight. His mind seems to be elsewhere. James opens his mouth, but he can't seem to find the words to say.
Regulus is a Black. Like Sirius, he was never taught to properly express himself. He makes an effort, of course, but emotions are so foreign to him. James has learned not to press. If Regulus wants to talk, he'll come around.
"Do you think there's hope for us?" Regulus asks, kicking his trainers off and pulling his socks away. He sets them aside before dipping his bare feet in the cool water. "I mean… We always say we'll do anything for one another… But do you mean it?"
"I do."
He means it with every fiber of his being. Regulus means the world to him, and James would fight a thousand battles if it meant protecting Regulus.
"Do you mean it?" James asks.
Regulus nods without hesitation. "I hate hiding. I mean…" He sighs heavily. "If someone asks…"
"I never saw you," James says. "The fact that we were both out of bed is purely coincidence."
No one has ever asked. He doubts anyone will ever be able to put two and two together. Still, it's a lie he's practiced a hundred times, a lie that has become second nature to him.
"I love you," Regulus says, reaching out and resting his hand on James'. "I want to find a way to love you out loud."
"We'll find a way."
Another thing he's said more times than he can count. It has become something of a mantra for him now, and he still believes. Nothing will ever take that away from him.
It may not happen quickly. They may find themselves stumbling around, blind and lost and ready to let go. James will hold on. He will hold on because Regulus is worth the fight.
It may seem impossible now, but they will figure it out. All he has to do is believe.