"You're free now," Regulus says.
Severus narrows his eyes at the younger boy, biting back an angry retort at his unwelcome intrusion. "Excuse me?"
"That Evans girl doesn't want you anymore, so you're free now," Regulus explains, seemingly oblivious to the older boy's annoyance. "You can move on and stop moping like a bloody girl."
"I do not mope!"
"You do. It's pathetic, but sort of cute," Regulus says, a grin tugging at the corners of his mouth.
Severus rolls his eyes. "You're just as insufferable as your brother, Black," he growls. "Is there something else you wanted, or are you just here to waste my time?"
Regulus' cheeky grin wipes from his face. For the first time in Severus' memory, he looks serious. "You're free now."
"You've said that already."
Without warning, Regulus kisses him, just a quick brush of the lips. "Just thought you should know," he mumbles before walking away.
Severus watches his retreating figure, blinking in confusion. His fingers brush over his lips as he tries to process it all.
Regulus says he's free. Severus doesn't know if he believes him.