Regulus Black ambled through the Hogwarts corridors, his expression revealing a subtle disdain as Valentine's Day festivities loomed. Unlike many students eagerly anticipating romantic gestures, Regulus found himself disenchanted with the whole affair, particularly averse to public displays of affection. To him, relationships were intimate matters, not spectacles for the entire school to scrutinize. The prime example of this unwanted scrutiny was the pervasive attention bestowed upon James Potter and Lily Evans.
The school seemed to hold its collective breath, awaiting any signs of romantic development between the two. However, Regulus perceived a fundamental flaw in this collective fascination: the obliviousness to Evans's lack of interest in the Potter scion, especially considering the mischief Potter and his older brother, Regulus' own sibling, enjoyed at the expense of Evans' best friend, Snape. He scoffed inwardly, "Fools"
In the gossip-laden corridors of Hogwarts, rumors circulated about Regulus himself, particularly concerning a romantic entanglement with Hermione. Amused by these speculations, he reveled in being a mischievous instigator alongside his friends—Barty, Evan, and his brother. Their playful flirtations with her, served as a means to ward off any unwanted attention and ensured that Hermione remained blissfully unaware of their protective antics.
Regulus acknowledged her undeniable beauty, scoffing at anyone who failed to see it. Had he been in love with her? The affirmative answer lingered over their second and early third year. Falling for Hermione, with her kindness, humor, selflessness, and a bleeding heart that loved without expecting reciprocation, was almost unavoidable. It happened naturally and sometimes one didn't notice.
The realization that he liked Hermione as more than a friend struck during his first Quidditch match. Winning the game, Regulus spotted Hermione in the SLytherin stands wearing a replica of his Quidditch jersey. Though she didn't cheer conventionally like Evan and Barty, her eyes gleamed with pride, and a wink from her left him blushing. Subsequent hugs, smiles, and compliments from Hermione had made his chest warm up and his heart race.
Hermione and Regulus hadn't told anyone but the night they got drunk at the Shrieking Shack, they had didn't know if it was the alcohol or the way she looked at him but it had happened. Two subsequent, albeit brief, kisses had made it clear to Regulus that he did not love Hermione that they mutually agreed that a romantic relationship wasn't for them, he knew a part of him would always love Hermione.
Regulus couldn't help but feel infinitely grateful for her presence in his would have happened to him if Hermione hadn't come into his life? He'd probably be a prejudiced idiot who wouldn't talk to his brother. "You're still an idiot," an unusually Hermione-like voice echoed in his head.
He was fiercely protective of Hermione. He would do anything for Hermione, anything and because of that, he didn't let just anyone get close to her. Regulus was willing to go to great lengths for her, a sentiment that bordered on the extreme. He would kill for her, he would burn the entire world if she asked him to, and be completely unapologetic for it. Hermione was his priority, that was where his loyalty lay and he was a Black. His loyalty was unwavering.
Despite numerous attempts by other boys to court Hermione, Regulus, along with his friends, had effectively dissuaded potential suitors. Hermione's busy schedule with Order-related responsibilities further deterred any prospects of dating.
"Reggie, just in time for the show," Evan greeted, patting the seat next to him. Regulus arched an eyebrow but obliged, settling into the aroma of breakfast filled the air, and the low hum of conversations echoed through the vast hall
"What's going on?" He inquired, reaching for the coffee pot to pour himself a steaming cup. Evan grinned mischievously and nudged him, motioning towards the Ravenclaw table.
"Take a look at the Ravenclaw table," his friend said, a hint of excitement in his voice. Regulus followed Evan's gaze and immediately spotted Hermione engaged in conversation with a tall boy whose unruly, curly hair was similar to his brother's.
"What's Luchesse doing talking to Hermione?" Regulus demanded, his expression darkening as he observed the interaction.
Evan chuckled and leaned in, as if sharing a juicy secret. "Rumor has it that our newest Chaser fancies Hermione. Word is, he's planning to ask her out on a date."
Regulus glanced across the hall and spotted Barty sitting next to their best friend. He gestured towards Hermione and Luchesse, silently questioning the situation. Barty, a bemused expression on his face, shrugged in response 'I don't know, but they're discussing a potential date.' Regulus continued to gaze at the unfolding drama, a mix of concern and irritation etched on his face.
A low growl rumbled in the youngest Black's' throat, his protective instincts kicking into high gear. "I don't like it," he muttered, eyes still fixed on Hermione and Luchesse, his mind already strategizing how to handle the situation.
Evan chuckled again, sensing the brewing storm. "Well, you better get used to it, mate. Looks like Luchesse has just secured himself a date with She-Devil." he said, raising his coffee cup in a mock toast as he watched Luchesse return to the Slytherin table, getting cheered by his friends.
The hallways buzzed with the usual noise of students as Lily made her way towards the library. She navigated through the sea of students, her red hair a vivid flame against the backdrop of the castle walls, James Potter trailing behind her like a persistent shadow.
"Evans, I love you, go out with me, come on," James pleaded, his hazel eyes earnest and a tone of desperation in his voice. Lily rolled her eyes, a familiar routine playing out for what felt like the hundredth had been dancing around this same routine for two and a half years, ever since their second year began.
Despite her annoyance, Lily couldn't deny James's attractiveness. Tousled black hair, mischievous hazel eyes behind glasses, and a certain charm made him quite the catch. She was well aware that she was the object of envy for many girls at Hogwarts, as James, the handsome and rich Quidditch player, consistently chose her over others.
However, Lily's irritation stemmed from James's arrogance, a confidence that bordered on entitlement, which grated on her nerves. His constant pranks with Sirius, and their bullying of Severus. She couldn't bring herself to like the Potter heir.
"Lily, let's just go on a date," James continued to insist, running a hand through his hair, a nervous habit of his. Lily, however, maintained her firm stance.
"James, I've told you a million times, no," Lily snapped, her steps quickening. James, undeterred, continued to walk beside her.
"Lily, we're already friends. What's so difficult about taking another step?" James persisted, running a hand through his tousled black hair, a nervous habit of his.
The library's quiet ambiance enveloped Lily as she entered, James still trailing behind her. "Mia, I'm sorry I'm late," Lily said, her voice slightly agitated as she sat down, catching Hermione off guard.
"Buon giorno dolcezza," James greeted with a wide grin, earning an eye roll from Hermione. Lily, however, was too shocked to respond immediately. "Wait a minute," she cried out, pointing between them, "when did this happen? Since when have you two been getting along?"
"New year, new us, Lils," Hermione replied with a mischievous smile.
James, not missing a beat, directed his attention to Hermione. "By the way, how come you're going out with Luchesse?" He had also witnessed Giacomo Luchesse asking Hermione on a date.
"I'm not dating him," Hermione scoffed, rolling her eyes. "I just told him that if Slytherin wins the next Quidditch match, I'll go out with him on a date."
James turned to Lily, a glimmer of hope in his eyes. "See, Evans? Why don't you follow Hermione's example and go out with me if Gryffindor wins the next match?"
Lily giggled, finding the situation amusing. "To be honest, I'm excited for you to go on that date, Mia. Giacomo Luchesse is hot stuff. You go girl!"
James, feeling a bit left out, protested, "Hey, hello? What about me? I'm also handsome, and I play Quidditch. Plus, the guy is a twisted mix between me and Sirius. It's like putting Sirius's hair on me, and bam! Giacomo Luchesse."
Hermione, with an evil smile, grabbed him by the tie, causing him to swallow hard. "Are you trying to tell me that you want a date with me, Potter? Wish it was you who'd ask me out?"
"N-no, of course not!," James stammered nervously, caught off guard. Lily and Hermione exchanged amused glances as they crossed their arms defiantly. "But not because you're not pretty. You are," he added quickly, realizing he might have dug himself into a deeper hole. "It's just because you're Remus's little sister, you know, you're basically off-limits."
Lily, thoroughly enjoying James' squirming, asked, "So, you wouldn't date Mia because you're afraid of her older brother?"
James, now sweating bullets, attempted to redirect the conversation, "I... Lily, I love you. Hermione is like my little sister."
"But I thought you did like me, Jamie," Hermione pouted, feigning sadness. Lily watched the exchange with amusement, her eyes flicking between James and Hermione.
"I do like you, Hermione, but not that way," James stuttered, feeling increasingly trapped. He looked like a deer caught in headlights.
Hermione's pout deepened as she pretended to be hurt. "So, you would never go out with me? Will I ever be anything more than Remus's little sister?"
James, completely confused, looked like he was on the verge of tears. "I... Of course if—no—I don't know. Why are you doing this to me?",he pleaded, his panic palpable.
Lily exchanged a glance with Hermione, both suppressing laughter. "But I thought you liked me, Potter," Lily said, playing along, "and now you want Mia?"
"I'm leaving," James couldn't take it anymore. He hastily scrambled to his feet, making Lily and Hermione burst into laughter as they watched the black-haired Gryffindor leave the library in a hurry, as if chased by a banshee. Once he was out of earshot, Lily turned to Hermione with a grin. "That was brilliant, Mia. I didn't know you had it in you."
Hermione chuckled. "Well, sometimes you have to teach people a lesson, especially when they're being too persistent. But he's not that bad, you know? Maybe you should reconsider that date."
"Whatever you say, Mia," Lily rolled her eyes, pulling out her books. "But if that ever happens you have my permission to throw the heaviest thing you can find at me."
Sirius sat under the stands of the Quidditch pitch, a cloud of smoke surrounding him as he leisurely puffed on a cigarette. The anticipation of the upcoming game buzzed in the air, but his attention was focused on the swirling smoke.
His tranquility was interrupted by the appearance of his younger brother, Regulus, dressed in a Slytherin Quidditch uniform that mirrored Sirius's own, but in shades of green and silver. Regulus held a broom in his hand, a determined look on his face.
"Reggie, what brings you here?" Sirius inquired,his voice a casual drawl. He crushed the cigarette beneath one of his black sneakers, watching as the embers flickered and died. "There's half an hour left until the game."
"I don't care how you do it, but I want Luchesse off his fucking broom," Regulus hissed, his eyes fixed on his brother. Sirius looked at him with an amused expression, crossing his arms. "What are you laughing at?" he snapped, his frustration evident.
"Isn't Luchesse the guy Mia has a date with tomorrow?" Sirius raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. "I thought you would be happy for her."
"I don't trust Luchesse," Regulus responded shortly. "From what I've heard, he's a ladies' man. I'm not letting that asshole near her, Siri."
Sirius sighed, uncrossing his arms. "You should trust Mia more, Reggie. She's a very capable witch, and you already know what she's capable of if she gets angry." Both brothers felt a shiver run down their spines at the thought, having been on the receiving end of Hermione's magical wrath before.
"I don't want them to hurt her," Regulus confessed, running a hand frustratedly through his hair, his raven locks ruffling in disarray. "Her time is too valuable to waste on assholes like Luchesse."
"If that asshole hurts her, I'll fuck up his face myself," Sirius growled, his gaze darkening as his lips curled into a snarl. "But if you want me to throw him off the broom, you've got to throw off the game. Are you willing to give Gryffindor a victory as long as Mia doesn't date that guy?"
Regulus met his brother's intense gaze, a silent understanding passing between them. "I want him in the infirmary by the time the game is over," he declared, determination etched across his features. Without waiting for a response, he moved away from his brother, leaving the underbelly of the Quidditch pitch with purpose.
The Quidditch pitch at Hogwarts was a riot of color and motion, with the Gryffindor and Slytherin teams soaring through the air on their brooms. Remus Lupin, perched high in the stands, squinted against the sun as he took in the exhilarating spectacle below. His werewolf senses heightened the thrill of the game, and his sharp eyes followed every twist and turn.
"Hello, Quidditch enthusiasts! Remus Lupin here to bring you the play-by-play of what promises to be an exciting match between Slytherin and Gryffindor. The teams are on their brooms, and we're about to witness some thrilling broom action if you know what I mean!"
The match kicked off with both teams soaring through the air, chasing the Quaffle and dodging Bludgers. James showcased his skill early on, marking his Slytherin counterpart, Giacomo Luchesse, closely. "Potter is keeping a tight grip on Luchesse, not giving him an inch. Go James, make him eat that fucking Quaffle for even daring to look at my baby sister!" earning an scathing glare from Professor McGonagall
However, the tone of the match took an unexpected turn when Regulus subtly signaled to his brother, Sirius, the Beater. With a wicked grin, Sirius wasted no time directing a Bludger towards Giacomo, catching the Slytherin Chaser off guard. The impact sent Luchesse wobbling on his broom, struggling to maintain balance.
"Oh, it seems like Slytherin's Luchesse is having a hard time keeping his balance after that Bludger hit from Sirius Black. And would you look at that, Sirius is totally unapologetic. Typical Black."
Sirius, seemingly unapologetic, offered a mocking apology that echoed across the pitch, "Oh, my apologies, Luchesse! Didn't see you there! Maybe watch your back next time!" His tone dripped with sarcasm, earning a scowl from the Slytherin Chaser.
As the game progressed, the tension between the two teams escalated. Pushes and aggressive plays became more frequent, particularly directed at Luchesse. The Quaffle changed possession rapidly, with each team vying for dominance in the air.
"And the game is heating up, folks! Gryffindor seems to be employing a more physical strategy, and Slytherin is feeling the pressure. Let's see how they respond."
In a heated moment, James and Giacomo raced for the Quaffle, pushing each other in an attempt to gain an advantage. Seizing the opportunity, Sirius aimed a Bludger in their direction. While James skillfully dodged the Bludger, Giacomo was not as fortunate. He lost control and plummeted from his broom, prompting Madam Pomfrey to be called onto the field.
Remus, aghast at the unexpected turn of events, struggled to maintain his impartiality as he announced "Looks like that Bludger had quite an impact on Luchesse. Madam Pomfrey is on the scene, attending to the fallen Slytherin Chaser. Guess there's no date now, is there?"
The match continued, but the aggression had taken its toll on the Slytherin team. Gryffindor's Chasers capitalized on the opening, scoring goal after goal. The final whistle blew, signaling a Gryffindor victory. As both teams descended from the air, Remus watched the players exchange glares and muttered words. In the midst of the tension, Sirius and Regulus discreetly bumped fists, a silent acknowledgment that their plan had gone off without a hitch.
"Well, that was certainly an eventful match, ladies and gentlemen! Gryffindor next time, this is Remus Lupin signing off from the Quidditch pitch!"
Hermione cautiously pushed open the door to the infirmary, her eyes darting around the room until they landed on Giacomo. He was laying on one of the beds, a faint grimace on his face, but as soon as he heard her voice, he turned with a small smile.
"Sorry for my brother's comments," she apologized, a hint of embarrassment in her voice.
Giacomo chuckled, his eyes crinkling with amusement. "Part of the job, Lupin" he replied, attempting to ease the tension. Hermione couldn't help but laugh. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd be comforting Black or celebrating with the Gryffindors."
"I can go if you want," Hermione teased, making a move to leave. But Giacomo's hand gently stopped her. "Please stay," he said, a sincerity in his eyes that caught her off guard.
With a small nod, Hermione sat on the bed. She absentmindedly brushed a lock of hair away from Giacomo's face. He smiled at her, grateful for the company. "I'm sorry I can't take you on the date I promised you," he apologized, a hint of disappointment in his voice.
Hermione shook her head, offering a reassuring smile. "We'll have more chances to go out, Gio, so don't worry."
The Slytherin Chaser, appreciating her understanding, made space for her on the bed, silently inviting her to lay down. Hermione took the unspoken invitation and as she settled beside him, she couldn't resist to tease him, "Trying to get me into bed already, Luchesse?"
He chuckled, shaking his head, "I think your brother and Black hate me for asking you out."
Hermione's amusement sparkled in her eyes. "Which one?" Her words were slightly slurred, and Giacomo could tell she was tired.
"To be honest, I think both," he answered with a thoughtful expression. "What do you think?" he added, but all he received was the sensation of her head resting on his shoulder and the sound of her steady breathing.
Giacomo looked down at the peaceful expression on her face and couldn't help but smile. He carefully adjusted his position to make her more comfortable, mindful of his injuries. Despite the pain, having Hermione beside him provided a comforting distraction "Good night, cara mia," he whispered, pressing a gentle kiss on her forehead. With that, Giacomo closed his eyes, his fingers gently intertwining with hers, feeling the weight of the day lifting as sleep embraced him.