Sirius

Regarding his brother, Sirius had been in a semi-persistent state of shock since before the Easter of his seventh year. Remus had to hold him back that night near the Astronomy Tower when they found Regulus kissing Wendy. He hadn’t dared to believe she was doing anything willingly with his foul, bigoted little brother.

Regulus returned to school that year with the mark and had said such foul things to Lily on the train. Sirius believed him a lost cause. A zealot, a follower of his parents' horrible beliefs. Wendy was his polar opposite. Warm, kind and funny, but most crucially a Muggleborn. Everything Regulus should be hating.

Sirius and Remus had only discovered them kissing because Remus had been concerned Regulus might be doing something awful to her, since they’d been patrolling together more. But they had checked her for enchantments and watched her for signs of distress and found none.

Remus had subtly pushed him to confront Regulus, convinced something more was going on. Sirius was even more shocked when it turned out to be true. He had firmly pushed his regret over leaving Regulus behind out of his mind, focusing instead on himself. When confronted, Regulus vehemently rejected their family's beliefs and told Sirius it should have been him. It left Sirius shaken to his core.

Each time they had met since then, Sirius noticed how furiously Regulus worked to stay and protect the Muggleborn girl he was so clearly in love with. Everything Regulus had told them had been true. Even that Peter had been the leak from the Order. Sirius felt stupid for thinking, even for a moment, that it could have been Remus.

He and Remus had been quietly at odds, their every interaction steeped in Sirius’ suspicion. Regulus had given them back their closeness with his revelation.

The ugly, petty part of Sirius that had almost lost him Remus in their fifth year, longed to tell his Mother about it all. To watch her face twist in fury when she learned that her perfect son and heir was a traitor and fathering a child with someone she saw as filth.

But the louder part of him wanted to bridge the gap between him and his brother. With Remus's help, he'd been working hard to find a way to save Regulus.

So the terror he now felt as he looked down into dark water was so overwhelming he wasted precious seconds frozen. This was his fault. He’d gotten him into the boat but hadn’t held on to Regulus. Whatever that potion had made him see, it had also made him thirsty and addled enough to lean over the side of the boat to reach into the deadly water.

Snapping out of it, Sirius aimed his wand and blasted a pretego around Regulus’ thrashing form. Then he cast the strongest summoning charm he could.

The water surged with clawing Inferi bodies. Sirius swallowed bile as Regulus was lifted from the water, limp and surrounded by a shield of blue light. He carefully lowered Regulus into the boat, panic not subsiding as his brother lay still. He wished for Remus’ steady presence, cursing himself for not bringing him along.

Skeletal hands reached over the sides of the craft. Sirius shot them with bursts of Incendio and tapped the boat to speed it up. He leapt to the shore, levitating Regulus after him and casting a wall of fire along the water’s edge.

Screeching cries echoed off the chamber walls as he brought them both outside. The rock wall slid closed, cutting off the noise and leaving only his ragged breaths and the raging sea in his ears.

He set Regulus upon the rocks and aimed his wand again. The only thing he could think of to do was to summon the water from his brother's lungs.

He nearly screamed when the water came bubbling out. Regulus coughed wetly through pale blue lips as Sirius dropped to his knees beside him.

‘Please wake up, Reg. Please.’ Sirius begged, tears slipping down his cheeks. ‘We did it. We got it. Think of Wendy. Think of your baby. Think of me. I only just got you back. Breathe for us. Please.’

Sirius placed a hand on Regulus’ chest. One second, two seconds. Then it rose and fell. Sirius choked on a sob, wrapped his arms around his brother and apparated them away.

***

Regulus

Regulus woke with a rough gasp. He was soaking wet, and someone was sobbing into his chest.

‘Si-ri-us,’ Regulus coughed. ‘I should have told you, I’m glad you were with me.’ His voice felt grating in his throat.

‘I know, mate. Fuck-’ Sirius choked, wiping his face. ‘I thought I’d lost you.’

Reality trickled into Regulus’ mind. He felt cold. If he’d died, shouldn’t he feel nothing? He turned his head and saw home, Neverland. The door burst open, and Lupin and Wendy appeared, running down the garden path toward them.

His gaze was locked on her. She looked scared, and he hated that he’d caused that pained terrified look in her eyes.  Her hair bounced behind her, and he wanted to run his hands through it.

Sirius was wrenched from him by Lupin as Wendy dropped to the ground beside him, tears rolling down her face.

‘Don’t cry, baby,’ Regulus tried to lift a hand, but it flopped back to the ground.

‘Reggie, God, what happened?’ Her hands were checking him over. He liked that she was touching him.

‘Why didn’t you tell anyone?’ Regulus said, his vision blurring.

‘Tell them what? Oh God, stay awake, please.’ Wendy said, then turned her head to say, ‘Help me get him inside, would you?’

Regulus squeezed her hand so she looked back at him. She was so beautiful; he was glad she was here.

‘About how weak I am. I was crying like a baby.’ He rasped, head swimming. It was getting harder to stay awake.

‘Darling,’ she said, pushing his hair back. Her cheeks were streaked with tears he wanted to wipe away, but his limbs felt leaden. ‘You’re the strongest person I know.’

‘Your hair is so pretty.’ His voice sounded far away. He felt himself being lifted. The last thing he saw was Wendy’s beautiful face, her mouth shaping his name.

***

He was dreaming, he thought. The world was warm and bright. A little girl with dark, bouncing curls ran through the grass giggling. ‘Come on, Papa, Mama is waiting for us.’ She stopped, but as she turned to look at him, it faded away.

His mind was foggy. He felt warm and safe. Raised whispers roused him from his liminal dreaming.

‘…fuck, you mean he’s not coming?’

‘Sirius, please calm down.’

‘I bloody well won’t.’

‘Hush, the both of you,’ Wendy. Her voice was closer to him. Regulus tried to pry his eyes open. ‘We’ll do it without him.’

‘We need his help.’

‘We do not.’ He could hear the vehemence in her voice. He knew she’d look glorious. ‘I’ve been preparing to fake his death for months, and the two of you have the ritual to remove his mark done, correct?’

‘What do you mean you’re prepared?’ That was Sirius. Regulus could picture his frown.

‘What do you know about Dale Leveret?’ A beat of silence and then an annoyed sigh. ‘He faked his death in the Middle Ages to escape punishment for some dark magic he was experimenting with. It was very effective. He used a plant golem infused with his blood. The wizards searching for him were convinced that the body was his.’

‘Blood magic is dark stuff, Clark.’ Sirius said. Wendy scoffed.

‘Only when it’s used to harm people. This is to help someone, so I’d say we’re fine.’

‘And you have one of those?’ Lupin said slowly, ‘A plant golem?’

‘I do. I’ve been working on it for months. It’s in the greenhouse out back. All we need to do is leave it in the bed at Reggie’s flat with a note saying he’s taken his own life. It’s only Saturday now so he won’t be missed until Monday at the earliest. Plenty of time for him to recover his strength for us to remove the mark before someone checks up on him there.’

‘You’ve really thought about this.’ Sirius said in a hushed voice.

‘Of course I have. You think I trust Dumbledore to help him? None of this should have been asked of him in the first place.’ Wendy said, her grip on Regulus’ hand tightening.

‘Okay,’ Lupin said. ‘But what about the Horcrux he gave to Regulus? Once this golem is discovered, won’t he go looking for it?’

‘No,’ Regulus said in a harsh rasp, finally managing to blink his eyes open. Wendy came into focus with Sirius and Lupin behind her, all looking pale and concerned. ‘I made a copy and left it at Black Manor. Everyone thinks it’s there, including the Dark Lord.’

Wendy’s face broke into a smile, and she leaned over to pepper his face with kisses. Sirius gagged, then grunted as Lupin elbowed him in the side.

‘Oh, thank goodness you’re awake,’ she said delightedly, standing up and grabbing a potion from the side table for Regulus. ‘Take this, and I’ll get you something to eat.’

Before she could move away, Regulus snagged her arm and pulled her down next to him. Wendy yelped.

‘We’ll, uh, give you a minute.’ Lupin said, seizing Sirius and hauling him out of the bedroom.

Regulus buried his face in her hair as she wriggled to get comfortable.

‘Regulus, you’re going to hurt yourself.’ She huffed.

‘Don’t care.’ He grumbled. ‘I thought I’d never get this again. Let me enjoy it.’

She huffed but relented, starting to card her fingers through his hair. ‘You gave me such a fright.’

‘I’m sorry, baby.’ He shifted his face to kiss her. ‘Remind me never to do it again.’

They kissed for a while, soft and tender. Her hands were in his hair, and he held her like the precious treasure she was. He slid his hand down to cover her rounded belly, and she giggled. He felt slight movement under the small bump.

‘I think we’re having a girl.’ He said suddenly, breaking their kiss.

‘Why do you say that?’

‘I was dreaming about her.’

***

On a chilly early December afternoon, Kreacher, a house-elf enslaved by the Noble and Most Ancient House of Black, discovered the decomposing body of his youngest master at a flat in Central London. On the side table was a note that read:

To my family, I am sorry. I cannot continue. I don’t agree with the barbaric violence that has infiltrated the Dark Lords' mission. With no option to leave, I have taken an overdose of Sleeping Draught. I will not awaken, but I hope you do. I would rather be dead than a disappointment. 

- R.A.B.

None of this was published in the vague obituary and plea for privacy issued by the Black Family in the Daily Prophet.

***

Regulus ran his fingers along the rough, bare skin of his left arm again. He reapplied the salve Wendy had made to reduce the inflammation and scarring. Over the past few days, he'd made a habit of checking it to make sure it was really gone. Music was playing from downstairs. Sirius could be heard singing off-key amidst the clatter of dishes and pots.

‘It’s gone,’ Remus said from the chair by the bed. ‘We double-checked.’

Regulus sighed. ‘I know. I’m not sure I believe it. I’ve wanted it gone for so long.’

‘Sirius Black! You put that colander down right now!’ Wendy’s voice floated up, full of laughter.

Remus sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. ‘Never a moment of peace.’

Both of them started chuckling.

Regulus sobered. ‘I’ve never thanked you.’

‘For what?’ Remus tilted his head, his scarred brow creasing.

‘For, you know, looking out for him. Giving him somewhere to go.’

‘That was James and the Potters.’

‘Not really.’

Remus shifted in his seat, red flushing his neck. He cleared his throat. ‘He’s been talking non-stop about being an Uncle.’

Regulus smiled. ‘I was surprised by his reaction to it. I thought he’d go spare. Tell me we were too young or something.’

Remus was looking thoughtful. Regulus shot up in bed. He’d felt the wards around the house let someone in. Remus stood, wand in hand. ‘What was that?’

Regulus still wasn’t used to Remus’ werewolf perception. After the ritual to remove Regulus’ mark, he had woken to Remus sitting by the bed. They’d talked about the Arithmatic equations he’d used and gotten on a first-name basis. Close enough that they stopped pretending Regulus didn’t know about Remus’ curse.

‘It was the wards. Someone is here.’ Regulus swung his legs over the side of the bed and drew his wand. His muscles ached. Almost drowning had wreaked havoc on his body.

Remus breathed deeply through his nose. ‘Dumbledore.’

***

After the standard Order procedure of exchanging questions to prove they were who they were meant to be, Wendy fussed over making tea for them all. She settled next to Regulus, who put an arm around her waist and drew her close, a protective hand on her belly. Dumbledore took an armchair next to Remus. Sirius perched on the arm of Remus’ chair.

Dumbledore’s usual pleasant expression was nowhere to be seen. His tired blue eyes kept flicking to Regulus’ bare left arm.

‘You’re looking remarkably well for a man whose obituary I read this morning, Mr Black’

‘Thank you, sir.’ Regulus pulled Wendy closer.

‘I thought I instructed you to wait for the right time.’ Dumbledore directed this at Remus, whose jaw tightened.

‘I asked you to come. We couldn’t wait any longer.’ Remus said, holding Dumbledore’s gaze. Sirius looked mutinous.

‘Regulus has done enough.’ Wendy said.

Dumbledore looked at her piercingly. ‘Has he? Because his information has been helpful so far but nowhere near enough.’

Regulus felt his blood heat at Dumbledore’s sharp tone. Sirius stood, clenching his fists. ‘Don’t speak to her that way.’

‘It’s alright, Sirius. I can defend myself.’ Wendy straightened. ‘I think what Regulus has done is far more valuable than any paltry information he may have gathered.’ She glanced at Regulus. He nodded to her, admiring her unflinching spirit again. She turned her blazing gaze back to their old professor and lifted her chin. ‘Regulus has stolen the Dark Lord’s Horcruxes.’

Satisfaction settled in Regulus’ chest. They’d caught Dumbledore off guard. Dumbledore’s face flickered so fast, Regulus almost missed it. ‘Horcruxes? How many?’

‘Five in total. They are all here. I can fetch them if you like. We’ve not found a way to dispose of them yet.’ Regulus kissed Wendy’s hair and rose.

Minutes later, he returned holding the warded bag he’d put all the foul objects in, for fear they would do something if left out in the open. He tipped them out onto the coffee table next to the tea tray and returned to his seat.

Dumbledore’s brows had disappeared into his hair. ‘How can you be sure this is all of them?’

‘You’re not honestly suggesting he made more than this? Splitting his soul even this many times is a huge risk!’ Sirius crowed. Remus took his hand.

‘To my knowledge, he gifted them to my father, Lucius Malfoy, Bellatrix and myself.’ Regulus said, pointing to each object as he named them. ‘This one he hid in a cave in which I almost died retrieving it. As Wendy so accurately pointed out, I have done more than what you asked of me.’

‘As it would seem,’ Dumbledore mused, taking a handkerchief from his pocket to examine each object carefully. ‘Is there no one else he would entrust with something?’

‘Not by my estimation. The Blacks, Malfoys and Lestranges are the most influential and wealthiest of the Sacred 28. He needs us the most.’ Regulus was assured of this fact. In his mind, there was no other reason for the Dark Lord to gift something unless it was to ensure loyalty.

‘This is good news. It would mean he has not created his last one yet.’ Dumbledore had paused on the ring, twisting it back and forth, examining the black angular stone.

‘His last one?’ Sirius breathed.

‘Yes. I would expect Tom would want his soul to be split into a strong magical number, like seven.’

Wendy shifted, glancing at Regulus, then back to Dumbledore, frowning. ‘Tom?’

‘Tom Riddle. That was his name when I met him and taught him. Perfectly average, isn’t it?’

Regulus thought he must have looked as shocked as everyone else. It had never occurred to him that the Dark Lord was once a boy who must have attended Hogwarts.

‘I would like to take these with me, if I may. To see if I am able to save the objects. They are, of course, very valuable items belonging to several Hogwarts founders. I trust no one outside this room knows you have them?’ Dumbledore finally looked up from the ring. They all nodded.

Regulus carefully gathered the Horcruxes back into the sack and held it out to Dumbledore. Taking it, Dumbledore rose.

‘Would you like to stay for tea, Professor?’ Wendy said, rising from her seat. ‘We’re having a roast.’

‘No, thank you, Miss Clark. I do apologise for my tone earlier. Perhaps another time.’

***

By Christmas, Regulus was feeling cautiously optimistic. His family had interred the golem in the family plot, and he’d been all but forgotten. He and Remus had been working tirelessly on research for Dumbledore on extracting bits of soul from objects. They were getting close. He could feel it.

Wendy was glowing. He was constantly besotted with her, obsessed with touching her more than before. She was perfect in his eyes. He sometimes caught himself watching her and would shake himself out of it, then move closer and place a hand on her round belly. She always smiled and kissed him. His perfect girl. He savoured their days together in the cottage and made sure she was as comfortable as possible as their child grew.

He agreed to Christmas dinner at the Potters only because of her. She was so excited by the prospect that he couldn’t bear for that joy to go away, no matter how nervous it made him. Sirius had assured him that it was a small gathering of people who already knew about Regulus’ defection and fake death, trusted Order members who wanted to meet him.

Wendy looked adorable in a pinafore dress and her snowflake jumper. Regulus reached out and ran his fingers through her loose curls as they went through the Floo together.

The Potter home was bright and warm, a stark contrast to the family home Regulus grew up in. Wendy knew everyone and greeted them all with hugs. He was grateful for Sirius, who joined him by the fireplace to introduce him. He remembered the Prewett twins from his early years at Hogwarts, but didn’t know their older sister or her husband. Three excitable boys nipped at their heels, and two others were wrapped in swaddles in their mothers' arms. Regulus was thoroughly shocked when her husband, Arthur, was warm and polite. Lucius had made a habit of harassing him at the Ministry with Regulus in tow. But that didn’t seem to dampen the welcome he got.

‘You’ll be begging for a girl after tonight.’ Arthur said, pulling apart his two older boys who had gotten into a scuffle on the carpet. The younger one had retreated to sit beside his mother with a cardboard book in his lap.

He knew Marlene and Dorcas on sight. They smiled pleasantly with murmured Happy Christmas.

Next, he was reintroduced to Frank and Alice Longbottom. He recognised them from the DMLE floor. Frank shook his hand, while Alice eyed him warily, excused herself, and joined Lily and Wendy in the kitchen.

‘Don’t mind her. Bit of a shock when Sirius told us what had happened. Good for you.’ Frank said kindly. Regulus could only nod.

He wasn’t prepared for the latecomers, however.

‘Dora!’ shouted the two red-headed boys as a man stepped out of the Floo with a girl around their age. Behind the man, Andromeda stepped out. All the air left Regulus’ lungs.

Sirius moved from his side and hugged her. Then she turned to Regulus with a wide smile he didn’t expect and pulled him into a crushing embrace.

‘Glad to see you’re not really dead, Reg.’ She whispered in his ear. ‘I heard congratulations are in order too. A baby?’

Flushing, he pulled away from her and nodded. ‘Yeah, it’s, uh, great, really.’

Sirius slapped a firm palm on his shoulder and squeezed. ‘Reggie’s actually out of his mind excited about it.’

‘Leave the poor bloke alone, Pads. We all know you’re the most excited,’ James yelled from the dining room doorway. ‘Everyone get seated!’

Dinner was an entirely foreign beast.

Everyone talked merrily, passing plates and laughing—no scheming or barbed comments. Even so, he was relieved he was next to Wendy so he could hold her hand under the table.

‘Have you thought of a name yet?’ Lily cooed from her other side.

Wendy smiled and glanced at Regulus. ‘Not yet, but I thought the star names were sort of a nice idea.’

Regulus was caught off guard. ‘You do?’

‘It’s probably the most palatable tradition of the Black family.’ Sirius laughed from across the table. Andromeda nodded in agreement, laughing as well.

‘Don’t be getting any ideas, Lil.’ James said. ‘Our child is having a normal name.’ Everyone went quiet.

Lily rolled her eyes. ‘Well, I guess we’re telling everyone then. We’re pregnant.’ James slid an arm around her, grinning.

‘What? When are you due?’ Wendy asked excitedly.

‘Early August probably.’

‘Well, since we’re sharing,’ Alice said. ‘Same for us.’

Wendy squealed, shocking everyone. ‘You know what this means? They’ll all be in the same year at Hogwarts together!’

‘I’ll drink to that!’ Sirius raised his glass, laughing. ‘Congratulations, everyone!’

Wendy fell into conversation with Lily, Alice and Molly about babies. Regulus listened to Sirius and his friends banter. He found he really liked Andromeda’s husband Ted and talked with him until well after dinner.

Wendy had charmed the children, who listened rapturously to the fantastical tale she was telling them, eyelids drooping. Sirius was providing sound effects.

Regulus thought this was what it must feel like to be a part of something good. It was the best Christmas he had ever had.

***

‘Wendy?’

‘Mm?’ She tilted her face toward him from where it rested on his chest. It was Christmas morning, and they had agreed to stay in bed.

His voice felt caught in his throat. ‘We should get married before you have the baby.’

Her eyes widened. ‘Married?’

Regulus shifted and summoned the ring he’d been hiding. It was a simple princess-cut diamond in a platinum band. ‘Will you have me?’ His hand trembled slightly as he held up the ring.

‘Regulus,’ she breathed, shifting in his arms. He held his breath. ‘Of course I will. Yes.’

Both smiling, she let him slide it onto her slender finger, and they didn’t leave bed until well after lunchtime.

***

On New Year's Eve morning, Sirius, Remus, Lily, and James invaded Neverland. Lily took Wendy upstairs while the men decorated the greenhouse with fairy lights and a flowery arch.

Regulus couldn’t believe it. He fumbled with his buttonhole for so long that Sirius took pity on him and stepped in to fix it.

‘Take a breath, baby brother.’ Sirius said gently.

‘What if she doesn’t come? What if she’s changed her mind?’

‘I very much doubt that. You haven’t scared her off so far.’ Sirius said, smoothing Regulus’ shoulders.

‘She was upset about her family not being here. What if she wants to wait?’

‘I don’t think she does, mate. And she’s the one who told her brother to go to America for that job. They’re safer away from here until things are settled. We can throw another party later with them here.’ Sirius squeezed Regulus’ arms.

Regulus relaxed slightly. ‘I’m really glad you’re here.’

Sirius’ smile faltered and then widened. ‘I’m not leaving you again.’

For the first time in seven years, Regulus hugged his brother. Emotion pushed up his throat.

At some point, Ted had arrived. Andromeda followed him some time later. ‘Everyone, get ready. Reggie, she looks beautiful!’ She said, ushering James and Ted into seats.

Sirius stood beside him as they waited. A tiny seed of regret sprouted over Narcissa not being there with them. She was the only other person in the world he would want here. But she thought him dead. The ache gave way to breathless anticipation as Lily entered the greenhouse carrying flowers. She stood opposite them, smiling widely.

Regulus looked back at the door. Remus and Wendy stepped through.

Nothing else in the entire universe mattered except her. Her hair was twisted in braids with flowers, curls hanging down. Her dress was simple, but beautiful on her. She looked like an angel. When she smiled at him, tears pricked his eyes.

Remus handed her off and sat. Lily took the flowers from her.

Regulus could not take his eyes off her. ‘You look beautiful.’ She smiled and grabbed his hands.

Sirius stepped forward and wrapped their joined hands in binding magic. ‘No going back now.’ Everyone chuckled.

They said the words together, the words that would bind them together forever.

‘With this vow, I bind my magic to yours—my heart, my wand, and my fate entwined with yours until the stars no longer shine.’

Regulus felt his magic touch hers, and the air left his lungs with a whoosh.

‘Kiss her!’ James yelled through his hands.

Regulus didn’t need telling. As the light around their hands faded, he pulled her forward and kissed her. He didn’t hear the cheering and wolf-whistles. Pulling back, he whispered against her lips. ‘I’ve never loved anyone the way I love you.’

‘I love you too.’ She smiled, putting her arms around his neck as someone took their photograph.

The greenhouse was transformed into a dance floor. Sirius and Remus played music for them all to dance. Lily had made them a cake. It was perfect. Regulus couldn’t stop looking at his wife the whole time.

***

The side effect of Wendy in a white dress, swollen with his child and wearing the ring he gave her, was that he was unbearably hard by the time everyone finally left.

He turned and stalked towards Wendy, who smiled cheekily at him. She laughed as he scooped her up into his arms. ‘You’re coming with me, wife.’

‘Oh, I like that.’ She laughed, kissing his cheek. ‘Husband.’

Regulus groaned and moved quickly upstairs to their bedroom. He set her down on the edge of the bed, knelt between her legs, pushed her skirt up and smoothed his hands over her thighs. She was undoing the buttons on the back of her dress. Soon it was discarded beside her on the bed. The vision of her in her white slip, round-bellied, had his cock throbbing.

‘You’re the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.’ He rumbled, rubbing his hands down her waist to her hips, hooking his fingers under the band of her underwear and sliding it slowly down her legs. He kissed the inside of her knee, rewarded by her widening her legs for him.

He worked his way up slowly, making sure she was panting and gripping his hair before he flattened his tongue against her. Moaning low in his throat, he pushed his tongue between her slick folds, savouring the taste of her. He could have sworn she tasted even better now that she was officially his.

His fingers joined his mouth, and her legs shook on his shoulders. He lapped and sucked at her clit as he pumped his fingers, curling them into her.

‘Reggie, please.’ She whined. Regulus wanted to do this all night; he would live between her legs the rest of his life if he could.

With his free hand, he vanished his clothes. Then he quickly picked her up and drove into her heat as he sat down on the bed. He held her hips as she rolled them.

‘That’s it, baby. Take what you need.’ He lay back and let her ride him. From this angle, he could admire the delectable curve of her body, her flushed face and the twist of pleasure there. His voice came out gravelly. ‘Are you going to come on my cock, wife?’

She gasped and bit her lip, nodding, her eyes becoming heavy. ‘Yes.’

He felt her fluttering around him, so he rubbed circles on her swollen bud until she was crying out his name breathlessly. There was nothing more satisfying to him than filling her up with his seed while she was already round with his child. He choked her name as he came harder than he ever had before.

No matter how many times he had her, his favourite part was always after. He cleaned her up with aching tenderness, carefully kissing her everywhere he could. Then he gathered her into his arms under their duvet.

‘I can’t wait to do this for the rest of our lives.’ He murmured onto her bare shoulder.

She ran her fingers up his chest and sighed. ‘Me either.’

***

‘One of us should have gone with them.’ Regulus was pacing around Sirius’ living room.

‘I like my bullocks where they are, thanks.’ James laughed, swigging his beer.

‘Come on, Reg. Have a beer. Relax. Tell us about your wedding night.’ Sirius held out a bottle to him and wiggled it.

Regulus scowled at him and snatched the beer. ‘I will not.’

Remus came in from the kitchen. ‘They’re in Muggle London. They’ll be fine.’

‘Yeah, and Lil has my two-way mirror so they can call us anytime.’ James said.

Regulus finally sat down, grumbling. But he shot back to his feet as the front door to the flat opened. Bags rustled as they were set down, and the two women came into view. His heart squeezed when he saw Wendy’s face. She looked upset.

He moved right to her. He took her in his arms. ‘What happened?’

‘We saw, um, Severus.’ Lily whispered into James' chest.

‘What?!’ Sirius shouted.

Regulus cupped Wendy’s cheeks, stroked them with his thumbs and spoke only for her. ‘Are you okay?’

‘Yeah, he didn’t do anything. But we don’t know how long he was following us around Harrods.’ Wendy cast a glance at Lily.

‘I really don’t think he would have hurt us. And he wouldn’t have heard anything important. We were mostly talking about what Wendy will need for the baby.’ Lily said before James engulfed her in a tight hug.

‘He’s one of them. Trust me.’ Regulus said irritably.

Wendy frowned. ‘Reggie...’

‘I know.’ Lily said in a small voice.

‘Sorry. I just knew this was a bad idea.’ Regulus held Wendy closer to him.

‘It really was fun until we spotted him. It was nice to get out and about.’ Wendy said softly.

James took Lily home, and Regulus took Wendy back to Neverland soon after. Regulus’ anxiety about it all dissipated as they cuddled up on the sofa and she showed him the baby clothes she had bought. The tiny shoes didn’t even cover his palm.

***

The day Wendy went into labour, Regulus had been at the Potters' working with Remus on their research experiments. Sirius, who had been keeping her company, panicked and took Wendy straight to St Mungos, even though the plan had been to do it at the cottage. When the dog patronus came to inform them, Lily went ahead with Mrs Potter, and Remus and James had to hold Regulus back from storming to the hospital.

‘Everyone thinks you’re dead!’

‘Don’t be stupid!’ Remus growled. It was only a few days until the full moon, so he was especially menacing. Regulus stopped struggling.

‘Wait, I have an idea.’

James disappeared down the hall for a moment and didn’t return, or so it would seem.

‘You can use this.’ James’ voice said nearby. Regulus swung his gaze around, confused. Remus huffed, stretched out a hand and gripped the air. Then he pulled an invisibility cloak off James, who was grinning stupidly.

‘This actually explains a lot.’ Regulus said in disbelief.

‘Well, you’re one of us now, so let’s get you to your family, eh?’ James said, putting the cloak around Regulus.

‘As long as I don’t have to have a stupid nickname.’ Regulus laughed.

‘We’ll brainstorm it.’

***

It turned out to be a lot of waiting on uncomfortable chairs. Mrs Potter and Lily took turns in the room with her. They all decided it was too much of a risk to sneak Regulus in while healers were coming in and out so frequently. So he just had to wait, albeit impatiently, for the baby to come. It took all night.

A half hour after the sun rose, a healer came out to inform them that Wendy had had a girl.

‘Which one of you is Sirius? She’s asking for you. This way.’

Regulus, still covered in the cloak, followed close behind his brother. His legs felt like gelatin as they went into the room. Wendy was sitting up in bed, exhausted, with a bundle in her arms.

‘Maia, this is your Uncle Sirius.’ Wendy said, showing the bundle to Sirius.

Sirius nodded to Lily, who ushered the healer out and locked the door behind her. Regulus tore off the cloak and moved closer to the bed. Sirius stepped back.

‘Regulus!’ Wendy whisper-yelled. ‘What are you doing here?’

Regulus was speechless, however. Transfixed by the tiny pink face of his daughter. She looked up at him with signature Black Family grey eyes and a full head of dark hair. He brushed her soft cheek with a knuckle. ‘She’s beautiful.’

‘Don’t worry, Wen, no one has seen him.’ Sirius said quietly.

‘They better not have.’ She huffed.

Regulus finally dragged his eyes off Maia, looked at Wendy, cupped her cheeks, and kissed her forehead. ‘Are you feeling alright?’

Wendy softened. ‘A bit tired but fine. We should be able to go home in a few hours. Do you want to hold her?’

Regulus felt wonder and nervous energy as Wendy showed him how to hold his baby. Sirius bounced around, complaining that he wanted to hold his niece, but Regulus was greedy. He held Maia close and kissed her tiny head. His heart felt unfathomably full. Wendy was wiping her tears away as she watched them. Regulus looked at his wife again. ‘Thank you.’

***

A sharp cry wrenched Regulus from sleep. Wendy pushed herself up and swung her legs out of bed. He stopped her and pulled the blankets back over her.

‘You rest, baby, I’ll go.’

Regulus was uncaring about his lack of sleep. Whenever Maia cried out from her cot, he was up without hesitation, picking her up to soothe her. It also gave Wendy extra rest.

He padded softly across the room and scooped up Maia, bouncing her gently. ‘Sweet girl, don’t cry now.’

Wendy watched them from bed. ‘She’s probably hungry again.’ She reached her arms out. Regulus brought her over.

‘Our little black hole.’ He chuckled, tickling Maia’s belly.

He sat with his arm around Wendy as she fed her. Wendy leaned her head on his shoulder. ‘I couldn’t do this without you. I’m so tired.’

‘You’ll never have to.’ He said, pressing a kiss to her hair.

***

After many exhausting hours developing a complex spell to separate pieces of soul from objects and destroy them, Remus and Regulus were summoned to meet with Dumbledore to help perform it. Regulus did not want to leave Wendy and Maia alone. Wendy decided to visit with Lily. Trying to ignore the knot in his chest, he promised his girls he would be back as soon as he could.

He travelled with Remus to Godric’s Hollow, wondering if this location was somehow important to the ritual they were about to perform. The modest cottage there turned out to be Dumbledore's.

They had devised a way to transfer the Horcruxes to less important objects, including an old shoe, a wooden spoon, and empty bottles, which they would then destroy with Fiendfyre in a controlled space. So they set to work straight away. Regulus cast and reinforced protective charms over the three of them while Dumbledore and Remus worked through the many steps.

Once the pieces of soul were extracted and placed in the new objects, they placed them into a special crate Regulus had made. It would contain the Fiendfyre until it eventually burned itself out.

‘Would you like to do the honours, Mr Black?’ Dumbledore asked cheerfully, still holding the ring.

Regulus cast into the crate. Fire licked at the assortment of junk, and thick, dark smoke formed. The next result was positively chilling. Voldemort's cruel voice slithered out from within.

‘You are a traitor, Regulus Black. Your Mudblood wife will tire of you, and your child will grow to despise you. You will end up bitter and twisted like your mother.’

‘Albus Dumbledore, you are a murderer. Your sister died hating you as you stole her final breath. You will always be alone.’

‘Halfbreed scum, Remus Lupin. Your own father was so ashamed of you he killed himself. No one has ever loved you and no one ever will.’

Soon the crackling of the fire inside was the only sound that they could hear. Dumbledore clapped his hands. ‘I think that does it! Marvelous! Job well done!’

Regulus felt a weight in his stomach. He glanced at Remus, who was staring, pale-faced, at the box. All he wanted at that moment was to get back to Wendy and Maia.

He took Remus by the arm and murmured. ‘Come on, Sirius is waiting for you.’

Remus looked at him gratefully. They said goodbye to their old Professor and Flooed to the Potters.

Sirius bounded up to them, his face dropping when he saw Remus’ expression. ‘Moony?’

‘I’m fine. Need a cup of tea, though.’ Remus rasped, slipping his hand into Sirius’.

Wendy appeared through the kitchen door, smiling, holding Maia’s little hand to wave at him. ‘Look, bubba, daddy’s back!’

Regulus felt his chest ease as he beheld her holding their child. He wanted to burn the image into his memory forever.

***

Spring was coming to an end, but Neverland's garden was still bursting with life. The three of them were enjoying a walk between the flower beds. Wendy took Maia from Regulus’ arms, and she started to fuss, crying out and holding fast to the front of his shirt. His heart swelled to bursting.

Wendy chuckled, handed her back. ‘Well, at least we know who her favourite is.’

Maia stopped fussing. Regulus tucked his small daughter to his chest and kissed the top of her head. She rubbed her face on his shirt, sighing. He freed one arm to pull Wendy in and kiss her. ‘My girls.’ He murmured against her lips.

He had never imagined he could be so happy. Every day, his love grew for the tiny girl who looked at him with eyes so similar to his own and smiled a toothless smile.

They made their way back toward the front door when Regulus felt it, a pressure against the wards. He stopped, Maia tight against his chest and his arm still around Wendy.

The man who tore them open stepped onto the garden path. His wild gaze moved from Wendy to Regulus to the bundle, and his face split into a maniacal grin. A menacing laugh cut through the balmy air.

‘This is a fucking surprise, isn’t it, Reg?’ Barty said, still laughing.

Regulus pushed Maia into Wendy’s arms. She didn’t fuss this time. ‘Take her and go to my brother. Now Wendy. Run.’

‘I love you.’ Wendy whispered back and ran for the house.

Regulus turned to face Barty.

‘Don’t run, Mudblood! You’ll miss all the fun!’ Barty mock-pouted and stepped forward a few steps.

Regulus brandished his wand, calm enough to focus when he heard the front door close behind him. ‘What do you want, Barty?’

Barty tapped the end of his wand on his chin, pretending to think. ‘Well, I was coming here to pick up Clark and her bastard child for this evening's entertainment at Bella’s house. But now I’ve got an even better prize. I think the Dark Lord will be very surprised to see you.’

Regulus’ jaw clenched. ‘How did you find her?’

‘Well, Snape told me about seeing her up the duff, and I thought it’s no good for the dirty ones to procreate. Oh! And I stole this from her before leaving Hogwarts.’ Barty held up Wendy’s bracelet. The one Regulus had given her, and she’d cried for weeks about losing it. He’d replaced it, of course, but never imagined Barty would have taken it. ‘Tell me that thing isn’t yours.’

‘She is my daughter.’

Barty laughed again, more madly than before. ‘Fuck me, Reg! What the fuck are you doing? I thought you were dead! You were one of his favourites! I’m sure the Dark Lord would have let you keep your Mudblood pet if that’s what you really wanted!’

‘Don’t fucking talk about her like that!’ Regulus threw a curse at him. Barty dodged, returning the hex.

They were locked in a duel. Regulus knew he only had to outlast Barty. He was reckless, sloppy and unpredictable, but he’d tire eventually. Regulus kept his spells controlled, utilising more defensive magic as he’d practised with Sirius.

But Barty was playing dirty. He sent a blasting hex at the ground under Regulus’ feet. Unprepared, Regulus fell backwards onto the gravel, barely holding on to his wand and getting the wind knocked out of him.

Barty ran forward before Regulus could act and stomped hard on his shin. Regulus felt only blinding pain as a sickening crack struck his ears. Red in his vision, eyes watering, he held back his scream. Barty was laughing, pointing his wand at Regulus’ chest.

‘I’m going to be his favourite no-’

A violent curse launched Barty into the air; he flew past the gate and crashed to the ground with a heavy thump.

Then Sirius was over Regulus, looking furious, James beside him. ‘Make sure that fucker is dead, Prongs.’

James nodded and jogged off.

‘Wendy is going to kill me.’ Regulus gasped out.

Sirius was already casting a splint around Regulus’ throbbing leg. ‘I won’t lie, she’s pretty fucking worried.’

‘He’s dead.’ James confirmed as he came to help Sirius lift Regulus off the ground. Regulus choked and grimaced as they pulled him to his feet, leaning heavily on his right leg. He looked over at the broken heap that used to be Barty and felt nothing but relief.

‘I’ll take care of that. Get him inside. Wendy and Lily will be coming through in a minute.’ Remus said as he strode from the front door past them.

Regulus was helped inside to the sofa just as Wendy burst through the Floo. Lily followed. Wendy immediately started working on his leg. Her magic was focused on cleaning and setting his leg. They didn’t have any Skele-Gro in the cottage, and she fretted over how to get some.

‘Where’s Maia?’ Regulus asked.

‘With Mrs Potter. She’s fine. Stop moving.’ Wendy clipped, her brow furrowed as she bound his leg in tight bandages.

Sirius had disappeared outside to help Remus, but the moment he was back, Regulus got his attention by grabbing his arm as he passed the sofa. ‘We need to move. Barty said the Dark Lord will be at Bella’s tonight.’

***

Regulus hated the helpless feeling he had as he watched the Order arrive at the Potters’ to prepare to attack Lestrange Manor. There was no way his leg would heal enough for him to go with them. Even with the Skele-Gro he’d just taken, it would be hours before his bone would be fused enough to put weight onto it. The only thing holding him together was his daughter, now sleeping on his chest. Wendy was coordinating with Mrs Potter and Marlene, gathering all their medical supplies in case things didn’t go well.

Lily and Alice were arguing loudly with their respective husbands about wanting to go. James and Frank were both visibly grateful when Mrs Potter stepped in and put the two heavily pregnant women to work with them.

‘Thanks, Mum.’ James said, hugging her.

‘You come back, you hear me?’

Sirius came over looking uncharacteristically solemn. He bent down to kiss Maia on the head and gripped Regulus’ shoulder. ‘See you soon, brother.’

Regulus’ mouth felt dry. ‘Be careful, please.’

‘Always.’ Sirius winked, but it lacked its usual roguish flair.

Dumbledore arrived with a surly Auror named Alastor Moody. He spent most of the planning session looking darkly in Regulus’ direction. He adjusted Maia in his arms so she was covered by them.

He agreed with Dumbledore that they should use surprise and press the advantage. The Order members were to disarm and restrain as many followers as they could, and Dumbledore and Moody would push to strike Voldemort as fast as possible.

They moved out in groups until only Regulus, his leg propped up on the sofa, Wendy, Lily, Alice, and Mrs Potter remained. They waited in anxious silence, tea forgotten on the table, for time to pass.

***

An eternity passed before a silvery stag galloped through the wall, speaking in James’ voice.

‘We won! Dark Lord and Greyback dead. Lots in custody. No losses on our side. Coming back soon. Moony injured.’

Regulus must have made a face or noise because Wendy squeezed his hand. ‘He’ll be okay. The full moon was on the 28th. That was only two days ago. He’s always more powerful right after.’

It was horrific, however, when they arrived. Sirius was pale, covered in Remus’ blood. Remus was barely conscious. James and Mr Potter carried them both into the house. Wendy and Marlene set to work quickly with blood-replenishing potions and complicated incantations Regulus couldn’t follow.

‘What happened?’ Regulus said, looking at Sirius’ shaking form.

‘He wanted to fight Greyback.’ Sirius rasped, scrubbing his hand over his face. Regulus’ blood froze. Remus had told him about how Greyback had been the one to attack him when he was a child and how he’d vowed to rid the world of him. ‘I couldn’t stop him. I tried to help, but his magic stopped me from getting close.’

Sirius sat next to him, trembling, so Regulus held his hand. They hadn’t done that since they were boys. Sirius didn’t let go until Remus was stable enough to be moved to a bedroom. 

***

What followed was something mostly removed from the quiet life Wendy, Regulus and Maia had at Neverland. Regulus had been promised a pardon for his testimony into the Dark Lord’s operations and his defection. He only had to sit one day in the cold Wizengamot chamber and speak to what he knew.

If he had read any of the papers, he would have known how shocked everyone was that the Black Heir lived. He may also have learned about the public’s fascination with the mysterious Black Heir who betrayed his family, seemingly for love. But he didn’t care to.

After he finished his statement to the Wizengamot, he learned that his parents had been at the Lestrange Estate that night, and he now had full control of the Black Family fortune, since they were both securely in Azkaban for the rest of their lives. Bella and her foul husband joined them there to rot. Somehow Snape and Pettigrew had avoided being caught there. Regulus assumed they were probably waiting somewhere on Barty and hadn’t made it, though he could not help but wonder where the two might resurface in the uncertain years ahead. There was no doubt in his mind that both men were slippery enough to find their places in whatever shadows remained.

He didn’t quite know why he had apparated from the Ministry to Grimmauld Place, but he went inside number twelve. Kreacher was beside himself to see Regulus. He hugged the elf and apologised over and over. The elf only sobbed and shook his head.

Regulus went room to room, perhaps looking for closure, pausing only once. He stopped in front of the family tapestry. A black cloth had been pinned over his spot. He pulled it away and found there was something he had missed in his plan to fake his death. There, on the tapestry, connected to his name was ‘Wendy Black’, and under them, connected by a joined line was ‘Maia Black’.

He wondered briefly when they had been covered up and whether his mother had known, but quickly moved on, keen to leave this place and never return.

***

Summer 1985

Maia, Harry and Neville were playing in the grass of the garden at the Potters. Maia, as usual, was bossing the two boys around. Neville, being less inclined to argue with her, was going along fine. Harry, however, frowned through his spectacles at her.

‘It’s my toy broom, Mai! I get to go first!’ The small boy huffed.

‘Harry James! You share with your friends!’ Lily called out from where she was sitting next to Wendy. She turned back to coo at baby Leo in Wendy’s arms again. Leo had been a most pleasant surprise to Regulus. They had not intended to have another child; Maia was a handful enough, but fate had other plans. And Regulus knew not to question that by now. Fate had led him here, to this warm summer day where peace and happiness were abundant.

‘You look nervous.’ Sirius said, handing him another beer.

‘I’m not.’ Regulus said, taking it. ‘Not really. Just worried Mai might frighten her cousin, and we’ll never see them again.’

Sirius barked a laugh. ‘We could bet on it?’

Several years after the Dark Lord had fallen, Regulus received a letter from Narcissa. She thanked him for not speaking about Lucius in his testimony. From Regulus’ perspective, Lucius was a bigot, but he never really got his hands dirty, so he had nothing to say. He also had not wanted to hurt her. She was the only member of his family he felt cared about him at all for a long time.

He wrote back, apologising for any pain his fake death may have caused her, and they started up a correspondence to stay informed about each other's lives. They had been waiting for an opportunity to see each other and have their children meet. By some rare alignment, everyone was around this sunny Wednesday. There was no Quidditch this week, so he and James could be here. Wendy was on leave from the hospital after having Leo. Lily worked out of their house brewing, so she made her own schedule. Sirius and Remus had returned yesterday from their jaunt to Thailand and Cambodia. Lucius was away at a Ministry summit as he now worked as a foreign diplomat for the Department of International Magical Cooperation, so Narcissa was free to bring her son to Kent for the day. Neville was an added extra. Alice and Frank were out on assignment this week, so he’d been staying with the Potters on account of his deep fear of his grandmother Augusta.

Narcissa arrived exactly when she said she would, a small blonde boy in tow. Regulus went to greet her. She threw her arms around him and cried into his shoulder. Her boy tugged on her skirts. ‘Mummy, don’t cry.’ Then he levelled a classic Black scowl at Regulus. Regulus had to keep from laughing.

‘Mummy is okay, Draco darling. I am happy. Sometimes you cry when you’re happy.’

As if on cue, Maia bounded over and stopped in front of Draco.

‘Hi, I’m Maia. Daddy says you’re my cousin and you have a star name like Leo and me. Come play with us.’ She chirped. He looked startled and glanced up at Narcissa.

She wiped her face and nodded. ‘Go on, darling. Have fun.’

Timidly, Draco took Maia’s outstretched hand and was pulled along to where the other boys were sitting on Harry’s toy broom.

‘Already friends.’ Narcissa hiccuped and wiped her nose delicately with her handkerchief. ‘Oh, it’s so good to see you, Reggie. You look well.’

‘I am.’ He smiled at her. ‘Please come and meet Wendy and Leo.’

‘I’d love to.’

***

September 1 1991

The house was unusually quiet. Wendy had put Leo down and gone up herself, and Regulus sat up anxiously, waiting for Maia’s promised letter about her journey to school and sorting.

He went back over the morning at King's Cross: Maia had been so excited, bouncing as she went through the barrier. She’d called out to Draco, scowling as his mother fixed his hair, and Harry, who was as excited as she was. She had hugged Leo the longest, telling him something secret that Regulus didn’t hear. Then she was gone, on the train with her friends.

‘Dad?’ Leo was on the stairs. Regulus beckoned him over to the sofa. Leo climbed up beside him.

‘You should be in bed.’ Regulus said gently. He wasn’t scolding him; he was honestly thankful for the company.

Leo looked at his hands. ‘I know. But I miss Mai. Why can’t I go to Hogwarts too?’

Regulus felt his heart squeeze, and the memory of his first night alone after Sirius left came back at once. He never wanted Leo to feel that way. He pulled Leo onto his lap and cuddled him into boyish giggles.

‘You’re too little for Hogwarts, my boy.’ Regulus said, wrapping his arms around Leo.

Leo peeked up at him. ‘Can’t you do a spell and make me bigger so I can go?’

‘But then who would spend time with me?’ Regulus said, sticking out his bottom lip. ‘I’d be lonely if you went too.’

Leo rolled his eyes. ‘That’s what Mai said. She said I have to take care of you and Mummy.’

‘Yeah?’ Regulus said, heart in his throat. ‘Well then you’d better do what she says.’

‘Yeah, or else.’ Leo giggled.

‘If you feel bad about Mai being gone, you can tell me. I felt sad when your Uncle Sirius went to Hogwarts.’

‘You did?’

‘Yeah, but I wasn't allowed to write to Sirius but I wanted to, badly. You can write to Mai as much as you like.’

‘Can I write to her now?’

‘Good idea. Write something now, and I’ll send it to her in the morning.’ He shifted Leo to the sofa, gathered parchment and Leo’s pencils, and then a tap sounded at the window.

Regulus crossed to the window and greeted the owl, Chicken, as Maia had called him. ‘This looks like Mai’s first letter. We can read it together.’

Dear Mum, Dad and Leo,

HOGWARTS IS HUGE. It’s so big! I am definitely going to get lost. Uncle Sirius said they had a map. Do you think they could make me one? I’ll write to him and ask.

Draco and I are in Slytherin. Harry and Neville were put into Gryffindor with the Weasleys. Draco said there’s no other place for us because we’re Blacks. Is that true?

The common room is UNDER THE LAKE. It’s cool but also sort of creepy.

Don’t be mad, but I had two servings of sticky toffee pudding at dinner. (Draco had FOUR!)

I miss you all already. Tell Leo to stay out of my room!

Write soon!

Love, Maia xoxo

Regulus and Leo both wrote letters back to Maia. Leo’s was mostly a drawing of the four of them and a big ‘I miss you’ across it. They gave the letters to Chicken, and Regulus then let Leo sleep in with him and Wendy.

He vowed that his sweet boy would never be lonely.

***

Late August 1997

Regulus emerged from the Floo into Neverland's living room. He stretched his sore muscles. This would have to be his last season. He was getting too old for this. Wendy laughed whenever he said this. “You’re only thirty-six!”

Maia appeared in the kitchen doorway and smiled.

‘Hey, Dad.’ She crossed the room to hug him. He was always in awe of how big she’d grown.

‘Your mum here?’ He squeezed her and reluctantly let go.

‘Nah, hospital. Some emergency.’ She drifted back to the sofa and sat, pulling a book onto her lap.

‘Not that I’m complaining, but I’m surprised you’re here. I thought you were at the Potters’.’ He sat at the other end of the sofa and looked over her stack of books. Maia had been over at the Potters' constantly this summer because Harry finally mustered up the courage to ask her on a date at the end of last term. Maia had been thrilled. Regulus had felt a bit apprehensive until Wendy stepped in and pointed out they were a similar age when they started up.

Maia made a face. ‘Our Hogwarts letters came. I realised I’d done absolutely none of my reading. And I can’t concentrate there.’

‘Uncle Sirius?’ He asked with amusement.

‘He and Uncle Moony are staying in a guest room there.’ Maia nodded, cringing. ‘I’m only glad I’m not Head Girl. I’d have never heard the end of it. Draco is Head Boy, you know. Want to know what his father said?’

Regulus fought a grin. He loved how much she shared with him. ‘What did he say?’

‘Good.’ She rolled her eyes. ‘Good! That’s all! Not even a ‘well done’. Can you believe it?’

‘Sadly, yes.’

‘I’m glad you’re not like that.’ Her words sent a jolt of pride through him. ‘We should throw him a party. And invite the Head Girl. Oh! I bet he’d really love that!’

‘Who’s the Head Girl?’

‘Who else? Hermione, of course. Never had a detention in her life.’ She paused, looking sly. She was a Slytherin through and through. ‘And he’s obsessed with her. Waxes on and on about her hair.’

‘Who are her parents again?’

Maia snorted. ‘You wouldn’t know them, they're muggles, they have a dental practice in London.’

Regulus felt his brows rise. A Muggleborn. He was surprised his baby cousin hadn’t mentioned it. They exchanged frequent letters about almost everything else. ‘I’m sure his father is thrilled about that.’

‘Who cares what that old crumpet thinks! Aunt Cissy already spoke to Mum about it. Draco can do what he likes.’ She nodded firmly and cracked open her text.

Regulus watched her. She looked so like her mother it made his heart swell. Her hair was like his, darker, but still wild and curly. Freckles dusted the bridge of her nose.

‘You’re not upset?’ She said quietly, glancing up at him.

He frowned. ‘Why would I be upset?’

‘About me not being Head Girl. It’s all Harry’s fault, really. I got those detentions with him last year. Totally ruined my chances. I’m lucky McGonagall didn’t take my Prefect badge. I’m sorry.’ She said in a rush.

Regulus’ chest felt tight. ‘Mai, there’s no world in which I’d ever be disappointed in you.’

Her face dropped in relief. ‘Thanks, Dad.’

Hurried footsteps on the stairs heralded Leo's arrival, and he carried his broom. He had Wendy’s curly brown hair and the Black cheekbones.

‘Dad! Brilliant! You can help me practice! I have to make the team this year!’ Leo danced on the spot. As a second year, this year was his first opportunity to try out. Even though Regulus was bone-tired from his professional career, he’d been out with his son whenever he could. He could forgive himself for making a Gryffindor player better if it meant spending time with his sweet boy. Leo was as gentle and kind-hearted as his mother, and Regulus adored him. ‘Mai said Harry won’t give me special favour, so I have to be the best!’

‘Want to join us, Mai?’ Regulus stood. ‘Surely you can take a break.’

‘Go on. Twist my arm.’ She laughed, set her book aside, and summoned her broom wordlessly.

Regulus beamed with pride. ‘Excellent nonverbal magic.’

‘I’ve been practising.’ She grinned at the praise.

They flew until Wendy returned and called them in for dinner. Wendy was waiting for them by the back door. She was still the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen. Kissing his wife, soundtracked by his children's groans, he didn’t think life could get any better.

THE END

***