Bonus Chapter IV

The Rose

Whilst everyone planned the New Year's party and greeted the destroyed Horcrux, Regulus took Amelie to the garden.

Which once was a green and warm grass was now icy and cold, and they nestled in their coats to protect from the cold as they walked to the only tree in the Potters' yard.

"Remus was sorry for Sirius." Remus commented distracted. "He sort of forgave he and James for putting whisky in his water."

"It was so funny when he danced that tango!" they laughed. They stood for some minutes laughing, until Regulus stopped and turned suddenly serious.

"Do you really have to go?" he stared at her eyes. Amelie lowered her head.

"Yes. However happy I get for visiting my uncle here, I belong to France, Reg. But I'll write, we can keep in touch!"

"Yes…"

Seeing the boy's sad face, Amelie messed his hair with her hand.

"Be calm, Reg. Nothing will change what I feel for you, Mon Cher."

Regulus took a deep breath, taking his wand from his robes.

"I want you to keep this."

"I thought you couldn't do magic outside school…"

"This place has too much magic. No one will notice."

Regulus grabbed some snow, touching with his wand and muttering a spell. The snow started to mold and crystallizes, forming a rose which shone even at daylight. Conjuring a golden string he put the rose in it and gave it to her.

"This is for you not to forget me."

The girl moved the braid of her hair and turned around.

"Put it for me."

Tremulous, Regulus passed the necklace through her neck, wondering what Sirius would do in his place. If I kiss her, would she beat me?

But before he could do something she turned, rubbing their noses.

"You have such a warm heart to a cold Black."

Regulus smiled, letting his lips get closer.

"Maybe it's only because someone made it so."

"You say pretty words, Regulus." Amelie touched his lips with hers.

"Words are vague, dear Amelie. What is really worth are the metaphors hidden in them. My metaphor is you."

Regulus felt the girl's arms enlace his neck, and his heart gained a beat when they started kissing, forgetting Marlene for the first time in his life.

When they parted, they smiled to each other and heard loud claps coming for near. Blushing strongly they turned to see their friends, dressed heavily for the cold, cheering and clapping.

Regulus rolled his eyes and Sirius hugged him.

"Now you're my brother! Wait until dad heard it."

"You're really trying to get well with him?"

"Why wouldn't I?" Sirius whispered as they hugged. "He just gave me the best gift of my entire life."

Curious, Regulus followed them to the front yard, where a black bike waited to be used.

"Want a ride? I've got other two here, boy." Oreon said.

And for the first time, Regulus could look at his brother and father with a smile, like he wanted to smile forever.