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First Week

Starting to date a new person is like getting on a roller coaster;
you don't know what will happen next, but you're ready to enjoy the ride.

- Unknown

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Had someone suggested to Diora that by the end of March of her sixth year she would be dating Sirius Black, she would have scoffed at the sheer absurdity of the idea. The notion seemed especially far-fetched given that she couldn't picture herself with someone as strikingly handsome, immensely popular, and as attention-grabbing as Sirius. Moreover, the prospect of dating someone of his stature seemed like a surefire way to disrupt her studies, a risk Diora wasn't willing to take.

Yet, life had its own plot twists in store.

The journey began when he showed her the correct way to perform the spell she had been struggling with. Surprisingly, her tutor was the last person anyone would have expected: Sirius Black. Not only did she master the spell that afternoon, but she also left with a newfound curiosity about him, a depth of knowledge she could not have gained from mere observation.

He was not only amicable and easygoing, but also a surprisingly good listener. His intelligence added another dimension to their friendly dynamic, fueling their challenge to outdo one another.

Over time, their playful competition began to evolve into something deeper. This shift became clear through the subtle changes in their interactions. Whenever Diora accurately countered Sirius with a response, he found himself lingering on her with a gaze that held a tad longer than usual. Equally telling were the moments their eyes locked across a bustling room, maintaining contact for a heartbeat longer than customary, until one of them, typically Diora, couldn't help but smile, a gentle blush coloring her cheeks. It was these small gestures and reactions that hinted at the development of something more profound between them, a deeper connection that went beyond their intellectual banter.

Despite the numerous subtle hints she had noticed, nothing astonished her more than his unexpected confession. It occurred during the celebratory after-party following a Quidditch victory, where, in a moment of inebriated boldness, he revealed his feelings for her. Initially, she dismissed his words the following day, attributing them to a fleeting moment of drunkenness. However, to her surprise, he recalled his confession. It was unexpected to realize that even the most confident individual sometimes requires a bit of liquid courage to express their feelings.

While Diora was intrigued by Sirius' unexpected confession and the potential for a deeper connection, there was one significant concern that gave her pause: his past relationships. She was aware of Sirius' reputation as a serial dater, and the brief durations of his previous romances made her hesitant to embrace the possibility of something more. In contrast, Diora had only been in a single relationship herself, a nearly year-long affair with a fellow Ravenclaw that had ended before Christmas break. The stark contrast between their dating histories added extra weight to her apprehension.

"You're different, Diora. He knew that from the beginning. That's what intrigued him the most about you." Remus had revealed to her, a week after Sirius' drunken confession took place. Among their circle, it was Remus Lupin who stepped forward to vouch for his friend. While he was quick to clarify that he did not endorsed Sirius' notorious flirtations, he was emphatic about the profound effect she had made on Sirius. Remus refrained from delving into the specifics of Sirius' past, respecting it wasn't his place to share. However, he stressed Sirius' genuine feelings for her, urging her to consider giving him a chance.

So she did.

Dating Sirius turned out to be surprisingly normal, with their natural synchronization continuing as before. The only noticeable difference was that they now freely expressed their feelings for one another and embraced the prospect of a romantic connection. Diora was granted access to a more intimate side of Sirius, such as accompanying her to meals or carrying her books without any sense of awkwardness. Most importantly, they could now spend time together without the feeling of unease. Their bond deepened, and they found comfort in each other's presence, making their relationship feel effortless and natural.

Even before she became Sirius's girlfriend, she was already acquainted with some of his friends. Through schoolwork, she got to know Remus, who was easy to talk to and very understanding. James and Sirius were inseparable troublemakers, so she was, of course, aware of him as well. Peter, though quieter, was amiable. When Sirius introduced her to the group at the Gryffindor table for lunch, she was greeted with a warm "Hoorah," naturally welcoming her into their circle.

If there was a single drawback to dating Sirius during their initial week together, it was the stares Diora attracted from several girls, particularly from his most recent ex-girlfriend, who shot her daggers with her eyes whenever she walked by alone. Through her close friend, fellow Hufflepuff Marlene McKinnon, Diora found out that his ex had been attempting to rekindle things with Sirius and seemed to think that Diora had obstructed her chances. Upon sharing this with Sirius, he dismissed it lightly, describing his ex as "crazily obsessive and jealous. I wouldn't give it a second thought," and so, Diora didn't.

At this early stage in their relationship, it was too early to contemplate anything serious between them. Their chances of succeeding were as uncertain as a coin flip, yet she harbored a hopeful wish for their lasting bond. For now, she intended to savor every moment spent together, cherishing how he made her feel—like the brightest star in his universe