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James was packing. He was supposed to floo to Sirius’ house at half past four, which was in five minutes. 

He was about to spend two weeks at Grimmauld Place, and that did not sound appealing. But James did this for Sirius. 

He didn’t want his best friend to be stuck there alone for two weeks. 

James is a good friend. That is why he’s doing this. 

“James! Have you finished packing yet?” his mum yelled from downstairs. 

Had James finished packing? He was praying he hadn’t. But after a quick check in his bag, he saw that it was done, he couldn’t avoid it any longer. 

“Yeah, mum!” he yelled back. He looked around his room one last time before he closed the door and made his way down the stairs. 

What James wasn’t expecting was to see Sirius sitting on their sofa. But the universe works in mysterious ways. 

“Hey, mate?” James said.

“Hey, Prongs. So, funny thing actually, I need to tell you something,” he said awkwardly. This was new. James squinted at his friend. Nodding, urging him to get it out. “Well, the thing is. I have a brother.”

“What? Are you taking the piss right now?” James asked. 

What the fuck does he mean he has a brother. James and Sirius had been friends for six years and only now does he decide to tell James that he has a brother. Sirius winced at James’ question.

“No. I- Well, it’s hard to explain,” Sirius began. 

“Well, try,” James said. He was feeling sort of irritated. 

“Yeah, so I have a brother. I’ve always had a brother, he’s two years younger than me. But like, he’s sort of secret?” he explained. 

“What does that mean? He’s secret?” 

Sirius bit his lip, looking timid. “He- well, when he was younger something sort of happened and my parents have kind of kept him secret since,” he said in one breath.

“What- what happened to him?” James asked curiously. 

“Well, that’s the funny thing actually. He uh- he got bit,” Werewolf? “by a vampire.” 

Huh. James knew what vampires were, of course. They weren’t super rare, vampires and werewolves have around the same status. But society was usually less prejudiced against werewolves than vampires. Because, well, vampires are classified as dangerous all the time, while werewolves are only considered dangerous during a full moon.

“Okay, so he’s a vampire?” James asked. Sirius nodded in answer. “And your parents kept him secret because of that?” Another nod. “So you also have to keep him secret?” He didn’t nod this time.

“Well, it’s not- they aren’t really trying to hide him or anything. It’s more like, well they’re homeschooling him, because of laws and rules and all that. And it’s no secret that they have two sons, but he doesn’t leave home often. At least not in the wizarding world. I think he leaves to go to muggle London sometimes in the middle of the night. But don’t tell my parents I said that,” Sirius looked panicked, “And well, my parents don’t talk about him with others often. I- I guess I worded it wrong. He’s not secret, but because he’s been sort of hiding himself since he was seven, people stopped asking about him. And my parents are never the ones to bring him up in discussions. So, I guess I also sort of never bring him up,” Sirius said quietly. James only nodded, he guessed he could understand what Sirius meant.

“God that sounds so bad when I say it out loud. I mean, we don’t even have a bad relationship, sure it’s a little awkward sometimes but that’s only because we can go days without seeing each other at times. He sleeps a lot during the day, and I sleep during the night so our sleep schedules kind of clash. But I mean he’s my brother and I love him and I never meant to act like I didn’t have a brother but sometimes it does feel like I’m an only child. But I don’t want that, and I mean Regulus has also asked me not to talk about him at school so- I don’t know, it’s complicated,” Sirius was rambling.

“But anyway, the reason I’m telling you this is because, when I found out my parents were going away for two weeks, I thought Regulus would go with them because he usually does. And they left yesterday morning and I didn’t see Regulus the whole day, but then I woke up this morning and there he was preparing to go to bed. So, if you still want to come over and stay with me, my brother would also be there. Which is why I completely understand if you don’t want to. Now I’m done. Sorry for the rambling.”

“You’re saying your brother will be there the whole time?” Sirius nodded. 

“You said he’s two years younger than you?” Nod. 

“When’s his birthday?” 

Sirius looked confused. “In August.” 

James nodded. “So a little more than a year younger than me. Is he cute?” James asked. 

“I- he’s my brother James.” 

“Right, okay, but like he’s probably cute right?” 

Sirius looked offended. “I don’t know, but, you’re not allowed to flirt with my brother James!” he hissed. 

“I can’t promise anything, Padfoot. If Regulus is cute I won’t be able to stop myself.”

Sirius only shook his head. “Does that mean you’re coming to stay anyway?” he asked. 

“Is he going to try to kill me?” James asked. 

“No?”

“Then I see no reason not to.”

James did see a reason to not want to come. Their house was fucking terrifying. He had no idea how Sirius could live here without wanting to run away daily. 

“It’s not that bad, you’re just not used to it.” Sirius had said. 

Well, James would never be able to get used to it. No matter how many times he visited. Everything was dark, all windows were covered with blackout curtains. Everything was black, or well almost everything. But the things that weren’t black were a very dark shade of green or purple.

“Is it supposed to be this dark?” James asked. 

“Yeah, well, it’s for Reg,” Sirius answered. Reg. James chuckled at the nickname. 

“Are vampires really allergic to the sun?”

“No, but their eyes are sensitive to light. Their vision is like ten times better than ours,” Sirius explained. “I’m pretty sure Reg’s asleep so we can open the curtains if you’d like?” 

James nodded. And oh boy, did that make a difference. James could see the charm in the dark décor. It felt like a completely different room compared to when it was only lit up by one candle in the corner.

“Okay, what the fuck?” he said. 

Sirius turned to look at him when he’d opened the last curtain. “What?”

“The room literally turned from a haunted horror house to just- bloody gorgeous. I could get used to this, but definitely not the dark,” James explained. 

Sirius huffed a laugh. “Yeah well, you practically grew up on the sun, your house is like the brightest home I’ve ever been in. I grew up in this, it makes it easier to see the beauty in it even when you can barely see.”

“Yeah, I guess. Hey, does your brother know I’m staying here?” James suddenly realised. What if Regulus wasn’t comfortable with James being there. 

“Oh yeah, yeah, I’ve told him. He’s fine with it, but like I said. He mostly sleeps during the day so you probably won’t see him much.”

“What if I want to see him a lot?” James smirked. 

“James. Don’t flirt with my brother.” 

James shrugged at the command. “The heart wants what the heart wants Sirius. If my heart wants to flirt with your brother then it’s going to do it,” he said flatly. 

Sirius only gave a defeated breath.

“Soo, should we get pizza?” James asked after some time. Sirius had given him a tour of the house, they’d been extra quiet outside Regulus’ room. It was on the top floor, for privacy. They’d gone to Sirius’ room, which was on the floor under Regulus’ and it looked exactly like James remembered it. 

It wasn’t the first time James was there, but Sirius’ parents had been home the other times he’d visited. So he had only ever been in Sirius’ room before today.

“Yeah sure, what time is it?” Sirius asked. 

James looked around but couldn’t see a clock anywhere. “I don’t know? Maybe five?” 

Sirius seemed to accept that answer and soon they were on their way downstairs when Sirius suddenly stopped.

“You can go to the hallway, I’ll be right there. Just gonna wake Regulus and ask if he wants anything,” James nodded. 

Vampires ate normal food? Hopefully. James didn’t want to go pick up a batch of blood from somewhere. Was that even possible? Can you buy blood? Surely they would have to, the ministry probably wouldn’t allow vampires to just run around feeding off of random people. Right? Could they even survive without blood? James had so many questions. 

His thoughts were cut short because soon enough he heard footsteps coming down the stairs. But not only one pair. No, James was sure that he could hear two people coming downstairs. Would he meet Regulus now? Yes, he would. 

“Regulus is coming with us,” Sirius said. 

James smiled at how awkward Sirius was. The younger brother was also the taller brother. 

“Hello Regulus, I’m James,” he put on his most charming smile and looked at Regulus. He was wearing sunglasses and sweats. He looked normal. Except for the fact that he was absolutely stunning. 

Regulus looked at James. Or at least he thought he did. He couldn’t exactly see his eyes behind the sunglasses. But that wasn’t a problem anymore since Regulus lifted them to the top of his head, letting them rest in his curls. He smiled smugly at James as his eyes travelled along his body. James felt like he might just die, he had never felt this nervous about someone checking him out. 

“Hi,” was all the younger brother said. And James decided that he absolutely would ignore Sirius’ earlier orders to not flirt with his brother. 

Sirius looked displeased with Regulus’ greeting. James wasn’t sure why, until he said, “Oh not you too. Do not flirt with my best friend.” he said to Regulus. And then turned to James, “Do not flirt with my brother.” Then the oldest boy stomped out the door. 

James and Regulus only looked at each other until the latter one pulled down the sunglasses again and said, “Let’s go.”

As it turned out Sirius had been right. Regulus did sleep for most of the day. James had only seen him that first evening, and a few minutes before he and Sirius went to bed. 

James had officially survived four nights at Grimmuald Place. James and Sirius were sat downstairs on one of the sofas, just talking. 

“I can’t believe this will be our last year at Hogwarts,” Sirius said,  “it feels like it’s all gone by too quickly.” 

James nodded in agreement. “Yeah, but we’re gonna make the best of it. It’ll be the best year yet,” James said. 

“Yeah, if we don’t have fun I will actually divorce you, Prongs. I want it to be memorable,” Sirius half-joked, “I want us to have fun, with each other. I don’t care if Moony thinks he has some kind of duty to make us behave. We should remember it as the best year, filled with fun memories of the people we love.”

“Jeez, I completely agree. But- oh, whatever. You’ve always had a thing for dramatics,” James stated. 

“Excuse me, so have you. Do you remember how you sulked like we'd kicked a puppy or something when Moony and I told you we were together? You were like a baby saying that you would die alone and shit.”

“Well, no. I- I didn’t sulk because you were together. You know I’m happy for you two, Pads. I just, I mean you’re so happy with each other. So in love. And as much as it warms my heart that you’re that happy, it also kind of makes me feel a little lonely. I also want to love someone like that,” James pouted. 

“Yeah, we’re lucky. But James, you’re going to find someone. We’re only seventeen. Plus, you have Wormtail! You can be single together,” Sirius joked. 

“That is not the same thing, he doesn’t even want a relationship. Ever.” 

“Oi, just because he’s asexual doesn’t mean he never wants a relationship,” Sirius said sternly. 

“What? No, I know what it means Sirius, but he has also said that he isn’t interested in anything romantic. He only bloody cares about his insects, he said and I quote ‘I never want to be in a relationship. I only want to bake and take care of my bees.’ So, you are all happy while I’m miserable and lonely.”

“Jesus, you really are dramatic. I can see why you get along so well,” came a voice from behind James. They both turned their heads and there was Regulus. Fucking hell. Every time James had seen him these past nights his heart had just gone wild. Regulus really was gorgeous. 

“Mhmm, says you,” Sirius scoffed. 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Regulus questioned, furrowing his brow. 

“Well, maybe you lock yourself in your room all day every day, and don’t come out until night, and then you leave to go to Merlin knows where and then come back acting as if you’ve just done some top-secret mission from the queen herself.”

“Well, what do you know? Maybe I am out doing missions for the queen. And no one can be more dramatic than you Sirius,” Regulus said flatly. 

“I agree with that,” James peaked in, looking at Sirius with a teasing smile. 

“Did you not just hear James, if anything he’s the most dramatic person I know,” Sirius insisted. 

“That’s because you’ve never met yourself.”

Sirius tsked. “Whatever, where are you off to anyways?” he questioned. 

James perked up at that question, he hadn’t even noticed Regulus was dressed up. Or well, he was wearing black jeans and an oversized t-shirt. 

“Is that Led Zeppelin?” he asked when he saw the picture on the shirt. 

Regulus looked down to see his own shirt, “Uh, yeah I guess,” he answered.

“Since when do you listen to Led Zeppelin?” Sirius asked. 

“I don’t, someone gave it to me,” Regulus said quietly. And the change in tone wasn’t missed by anyone. 

“Who?” Sirius questioned. 

“You don’t know him,” Regulus scowled. 

“Him?” Sirius continued. 

“Yes, him. It’s really great that your ears work properly,” Regulus uttered. 

“Well, who is he?” Sirius questioned, completely ignoring Regulus’ diss. 

“None of your business.”

“I’m your brother, I feel like it’s some of my business,” Sirius claimed. 

“No, it’s not,” Regulus argued. 

“Yes, it is. Is he a muggle?” 

Regulus stared for a few seconds before he nodded. 

“Okay, so, is it serious?” The older brother continues questioning. 

“I never said it was my boyfriend,” The younger brother said. 

“Is he your boyfriend?” 

Regulus scowled and shook his head. That made James relax. 

“He’s my ex,” Regulus said. And James tensed up again. 

“You’re going to hang out with your ex?” Sirius questioned. 

“No. I never said it was him I was going to meet with. We don’t talk anymore,” Regulus answered. And James relaxed for a second time.

“You’re just wearing your ex’s t-shirt?” Sirius inquired. 

“Yes.”

“Why?”

“It’s a nice shirt,” Regulus shrugged. 

“Okay. So, who’re you gonna meet up with?” Sirius pressed. 

“Again, it’s none of your business. But, I’m just gonna meet some friends.”

“You have friends?” Sirius joked. 

“Fuck off.” 

Sirius held up his hands in surrender. “Sorry. But, why are you meeting up with your muggle friends in the middle of the night?”

“Because they play in the middle of the night,” Regulus said simply. 

“Play? Play what?” Sirius looked confused. 

“Their band, idiot. They play at the pub down the street.”

“Your friends are in a band?” Sirius asked dramatically. 

Regulus rolled his eyes, “Yes.” 

Sirius nodded, “Are you also in this band?” 

Regulus grimaced. “No. I don’t really like the music they play, to be honest. They’re playing their last set now, then we’re going to hang out. So I need to leave, now. Because I don’t want to be late.” was what he said before turning around and leaving. 

“Bye!” Sirius yelled after him and was only answered with a wave.

The next night Sirius went to bed early. He’d been woken up early this morning by Regulus who had tripped up the stairs and hadn’t been able to go back to sleep. James on the other hand had slept through the whole thing and accidentally slept until lunchtime. Which was why he wasn’t tired right now.

It was an hour ‘til midnight and James was sat in the kitchen, drinking chamomile tea, to try to make himself tired. It wasn’t working. He was on his third cup when he heard footsteps in the stairs. That instantly made him thank Merlin that he wasn’t tired. Because less than a minute later Regulus came shuffling into the kitchen. 

He stopped the second he saw James. Looking confused as to why he was there. “Hi,” James said. 

“Hello,” Regulus greeted back. It was awkward. 

“Would master Regulus like for Kreacher to give master his breakfast?” Kreacher appeared out of nowhere. 

“Uhm, uh- yeah, sure. Thank you, Kreacher,” Regulus said, unsurely. He slowly came to sit down at the table, in the seat in front of James. 

“Why are you still up?” Regulus asked. 

“Oh, uhm, I wasn’t tired,” James shrugged. And before Regulus could say anything else Kreacher came back, with a cup in his small hands. He placed it on the table in front of Regulus and turned to James. 

“Would Mister James want for Kreacher to make Mister another cup for his awakeness?” he asked. 

“No thank you, Kreacher,” James smiled. 

“Your awakeness?” Regulus said with a smirk. 

“Yes, my awakeness. I’m not tired, at all. I’ve had three cups of chamomile tea,” James sighed slightly. 

“Hmm, lavender usually always works for me. Maybe try that,” Regulus hummed. 

James nodded but said, “Maybe next time I can’t sleep. Now I have a reason to stay awake,” with a smirk. He wasn’t sure how vampire biology worked, but he was sure he could see a faint blush on Regulus’ cheeks. 

“Well, that’s good,” he whispered while staring at James. Had he blinked even once? His eyes were like silver, like Sirius’ but grey instead of a pale blue. But they were also more magic, James couldn’t look away. 

“What’s that?” James asked after a while, pointing at the cup in front of Regulus. It was slightly bigger than James’ cup. But Regulus hadn’t touched his yet. Regulus looked down to where James pointed.

“Oh, uhm, it’s… my breakfast?” he said more like a question. 

“Yeah, I gathered that when Kreacher said it. But what is it?” James queried. 

“Well, it’s- blood,” Regulus whispered. Oh, right. Vampire. 

“Huh,” James nodded, “why aren’t you drinking it?” he asked. Regulus looked slightly startled. 

“ I- I didn’t want to make you uncomfortable or anything,” he said. 

“Why would I be uncomfortable?” James frowned. 

“Because people always are. I never- I never drink blood around others,” Regulus explained. 

“Wha- why? Don’t you need it to survive?” James questioned. 

“Yes. I do. But people don’t really like the fact that it’s blood. They act as if I’ll suddenly turn into a monster and suck them dry, if I drink it around them.”

“That’s just bloody stupid. Who thinks that?” James said firmly. 

Regulus shrugged, “Everyone.” 

James hadn’t stopped frowning. “Sirius as well?” 

Regulus looked unsure and shrugged. “Not really? I mean, he knows I wouldn’t do that. And he never says anything or blatantly shows that he’s uncomfortable. But I can still feel it,” he explained. “But I don’t think it’s the whole vampire thing. Sirius has always been queasy when it comes to blood, and like- I drink it. So, I’m pretty sure it’s the blood and not me being a vampire,” he continued, his voice fading into a whisper.

James nodded, “Well, I’m not uncomfortable. So, please drink your breakfast.” 

Regulus smiled slightly and took a sip. The blood stained his pale lips, and James couldn’t stop looking at his mouth. When Regulus opened his mouth to say something James could see the blood on his teeth, it was strangely attractive. James missed what he said but only a second later Kreacher was there. 

“Could I have a glass of water, Kreacher?” Regulus asked while covering his mouth with his hand. It only took a second before a glass of water sat peacefully on the table.

Regulus quickly grabbed it taking a sip, James didn’t miss how he swished it around his mouth, most likely to rinse away the blood from his teeth. 

“Thank you,” he said looking at Kreacher. 

“What does it taste like?” James asked suddenly. 

Regulus looked startled. “The blood?” he asked. 

James nodded. 

“Ehm, I don’t know? Like blood. I’m not sure how to describe it,” he said. 

“Does it taste the same every time?” James continued questioning. 

“Not really. I mean, blood is blood. And I’m sure it would all taste the same to you. But, for me- it depends on the person it comes from,” he pondered. 

“Do different blood types taste different?” 

Regulus looked amused. “Yeah, you want me to explain it?” James nodded.

“Mmm, O is probably the blandest one. It doesn’t really taste much, especially O negative. It’s very light and airy. And A reminds me of white wine. But A positive is sharper, more acidic, and almost sour. While negative has a smoother taste, sweeter. A tastes like the feeling of drinking ice-cold water. B reminds me of A, but it tastes fuller. A is airier. B is also a little sweeter, but like A, positive is sharper while negative is sweeter. And B is the opposite of A in the feeling, because B tastes like the feeling of drinking warm water. And then there’s AB which is my personal favourite. It’s the fullest of all types, it has a more rounded taste, and depending on the person, it’s like it’s just hugging my tongue when I taste it. AB tastes like the feeling of drinking lukewarm water, very smooth in a way. I would say B is the more sweeter type, but AB is definitely more expressive and A is more sour. O works with everything because it’s so bland. But then again it all depends on the person, because if someone with type B has been drinking alcohol it’s pretty much disgusting while if a person with type A has been drinking it gives the blood a lift, brings out the flavours, AB can also be really bitter depending on the person's diet. It also depends on the vampire, because for me AB is very easy to drink while others would think it’s a very special taste and have a hard time with it. And in wizards the magic in the person also affects the taste, like my family's blood smells sour and bitter, not Sirius, he smells more sweet and short. While you- you smell amazing. It reminds me of Sirius, but at the same time, it’s the complete opposite. While Sirius smells like an acidic type of sweet, very short and sharp, you smell full, and sweet. But not too sweet, a well-rounded sweet. It’s not really a candy type of sweet but like fresh fruit in the summer, also a little like how a sweet white wine would taste. You- Oh, I’m rambling. Sorry,” he finished. Looking slightly embarrassed. James smiled.

“No, it’s fine. It’s very interesting, and I am definitely taking that as a compliment. My blood smells nice, that’s really amazing. No one's ever said that to me,” James smirked. 

“Lord, I shouldn’t have said that. You’re just like Sirius in that way, taking every compliment and piling it onto your ego,” Regulus said. 

James chuckled, “Well, it was a nice compliment.” he said while yawning. 

“You’re tired now?” Regulus asked softly. 

James nodded, “A little.”

“Come on then, I’ll walk you to your room,” and they stood up. Regulus’ cup still only half finished. 

“Goodnight James,” he whispered when they were outside the door of the guestroom James was staying in. Regulus turned around to go back downstairs but James grabbed his arm through the open door. 

“Goodnight Regulus,” he whispered back. Regulus looked at him like he expected something more, but James’ mind was empty. He let go of Regulus' arm and the younger one began walking away. 

“I like hearing your voice,” James whispered and just before the door closed he was sure he could see a small smile on Regulus’ face.

“I spoke with your brother last night,” James said. 

Sirius’ head snapped to look at James. “What?”

“Yeah, I couldn’t sleep so I was in the kitchen drinking a bunch of tea when he woke up,” James explained. He had debated on whether he should tell Sirius or not, but there was something he really wanted to ask him. 

“What did you talk about?”

“Well, nothing much at first. But then Kreacher gave him his breakfast. I’m sure you know what that is?” Sirius nodded while looking a little tense. “Yeah, so we got onto the topic of it. Blood. It was really interesting. But I just- he told me he never drinks it in front of people,” James continued. 

“Yeah, I know,” Sirius said.

“Yeah, I asked him why and he said because people get uncomfortable,” James said. Sirius only nodded. “And I asked him if you were also like that, and he said you kind of are.” Sirius nodded unsurely. “Why?” James asked. 

“Did Regulus not say?” 

James shook his head, sure that was maybe a lie but he wanted to hear Sirius say it. 

“Okay, well- James you need to understand that he’s my brother and I love him unconditionally.” James nodded. “Great. Well, okay so. Fuck. Sit down.” Sirius stuttered out. James did as he said and sat down on Sirius’ bed. 

“Okay so, when we were younger, me and Regulus were inseparable. And once when I was nine, and Regulus was seven, we were outside in the park across the street. It wasn’t that late but it wasn’t early either. And we were just playing, having forgotten the time when we were supposed to be back. I didn’t want us to get in trouble so I told Reg that we had to go back, but he refused. He still wanted to play in the snow. But when I continued insisting we go home, he ran, deeper into the park. It was very dark outside, except for the few lamps marking the trail. And I mean it took some time to find him, or- I couldn’t find him. But then I heard him scream, and he continued screaming. And then he wasn’t. And I was panicking, and he was only seven, and we were supposed to be home,” Sirius choked out. 

“I found him eventually, laying in the snow, covered in blood. I- it was really messy, I called Kreacher and he came and helped me. Our parents got him to St. Mungos, they said he would survive but that he would turn. And I was so scared, because I did that. Our parents were already strict with us, but after that- they’ve never outright said that they blame me. But after that, it was obvious that they thought it was my fault.” Sirius was on the verge of tears.

“It was such a big change, for everyone. Of course the biggest for Regulus. Everyone was there for him, making sure he was okay. But it also was very obvious that people were uncomfortable with the whole thing. Our parents did handle it really well, and they always made sure Regulus was staying healthy. They still do. But now Regulus is grown, so they’ve accepted that he can take care of himself. But they still look at me from time to time like I ruined their whole life. And I look at Regulus sometimes like I have ruined his whole life.”

“And I guess I’m trying to say. Yes, I’m uncomfortable. But not because he’s a vampire. I’m not scared of him like others are. I don’t think it’s disgusting. Despite my parents being so supportive of him they still don’t like it, they still have their prejudices, I think. I don’t . I don’t think there is anything wrong with Regulus. But I can’t help but feel that it’s my fault. That he could’ve had a ‘normal’ life if I had just made him go home that night.”

“Regulus always tells me that it isn’t my fault. He is so determined to make sure that I don’t blame myself. Ever since he was turned he’s said that it isn’t my fault. And I’ve been trying to tell myself that, that I was just a child and I couldn’t have done anything because we were both children. But it’s hard. And I can’t help it sometimes. And sometimes I forget that he’s a vampire, because- I mean- it’s not like he's not normal. But then I get reminded when he’s drinking his blood and I feel bad again, and I know it’s not his fault and he keeps telling me it’s not my fault. And I’m not saying I’m some sort of victim or anything, but- well- yeah, that’s it,” he finished defeated.

“Oh, wow, okay. That’s not really what I was expecting to hear,” James said completely baffled. “Okay. Hmm, okay. Sirius, I’m not sure what to say. But like you said, and like Regulus has said. It’s not your fault.”

“Yeah, I know. It’s fine, James, I just wanted to explain,” Sirius said. 

James nodded, “Okay? Well, okay. Do you want to know what Regulus said?” James asked. 

“I thought he didn’t say anything?” 

James shrugged, “I lied.”

“Well, yeah obviously I want to know,” Sirius said. 

“He said that you’re just queasy with blood.” 

Sirius snorted at that. “Did he now?” 

James nodded. 

“Oh lord. You know, when we were younger we both would throw up at the sight of blood. And obviously, Regulus has no problem with it now. But I guess he’s kind of right. But I’m not nearly as sensitive about blood as when I was younger,” Sirius smirked.

It’s been almost three days since James' late-night conversation with Regulus. And he was really, really starting to get impatient. Regulus hadn’t come out from his room a single time since then, at least not when James was awake. It was around midnight and Sirius had already gone to bed. James seriously debated going up to Regulus’ room and just knock on the door. What’s the worst that could happen?

But now that he was actually standing outside of Regulus’ bedroom he was nervous. Was this a bad idea? Probably. But James really wanted to see Regulus. He raised his fist to knock but before his hand met the door it opened. Revealing a slightly dishevelled Regulus. 

“You know, your heart is beating very loudly,” Regulus stated. 

“Is it?” was all James could get out. 

“Yes. I could hear it when you were walking up the stairs.”

“You have superhearing?” James asked dumbly. 

“Superhearing?” Regulus questioned. 

James just nodded. 

“I- I guess? Sometimes?” 

James only stared. Regulus looked cute, like he had just gotten out of bed. 

“Did you want something?”

“Yes! Or, well, no. Or, yes. But like no.” James stuttered out. What the fuck? 

“What?” Regulus chuckled confused. Yeah, James felt exactly the same. 

“I don’t know? I wanted to see you,” he got out. Regulus’ eyes widened slightly. 

“You wanted to see me?” he asked with a smirk. James nodded. 

“Okay. Come in.” Regulus said, motioning his arms to welcome James into his room. James was slightly taken aback by this but didn’t argue. Regulus’ room was the same size as Sirius’, but darker.

His windows were covered, not by curtains but by bookshelves. Not letting in even a sliver of light. Or, well it was dark outside but there were still lamps that would’ve shone in if it was possible. There were candles all around the room and a small lamp on the bedside table. The few papers that were stuck on the wall looked like sketches, and some of them were just short sentences. The only one James could read was a short poem. 

“Because I could not stop for Death,

He kindly stopped for me;

The carriage held but just ourselves

And Immortality.”

“It’s Emily Dickinson, but it’s not the whole poem. Just the beginning,” Regulus said quietly. 

James nodded and looked at him. It was dark in the room and he couldn’t see Regulus’ ghostly grey eyes. James continued looking around, seeing sketches of Sirius, their parents, random objects. He saw people he didn’t recognize, people playing instruments, more poems, or quotes. The more James looked around the more papers he saw on the walls. Some were so small they melted into the wallpaper, only containing a few words, one word, or a small drawing. 

There were books everywhere, not just in the huge bookshelves. They were covering the desk and the two bedside tables. Big books, thick books, some were small, thin, some were children's books. Some names sounded like they should never have been published. Regulus’ room was organized, it was tidy. But at the same time, it was a mess. It was an organized mess. 

His room showed his personality. And James couldn’t stop looking. He was in a trance. But it was broken when Regulus spoke.

“I heard you and Sirius the other day,” he said. 

James’ eyes snapped to him. “What?” he asked. 

“You and Sirius? When you asked him about me,” Regulus explained. 

Oh. “ Oh. ” 

Regulus nodded. “I didn’t know he felt like that. I had a clue, but I didn’t know it was that serious,” he said. “I would’ve never asked him. So thank you.” he continued. 

“I didn’t really mean for him to tell me the whole situation. I just wanted to make sure he wasn’t being a bitch,” James said. 

It made Regulus chuckle. “Yeah, well it’s a little hard for him not to be a bitch.

“But, how did you hear us? I get the superhearing but weren’t you sleeping? It was the middle of the day,” James asked. 

“I don’t actually sleep all day, James,” Regulus answered amused. 

“You don’t?” Regulus shook his head. “Then what do you do all day?” 

“Read,” Regulus shrugged. 

“You just read all day?” 

Regulus nodded, “Did you have your eyes closed when you looked around my room?” 

James laughed lightly at that. “No, I just- Is that really all you do? Don’t you have to sleep?” James didn’t know what to think. 

“Well, no, it’s not the only thing I do. But mostly. And of course, I need to sleep. But not like a corpse, I don’t even need to sleep as much as you do. I mean, I could probably go days without sleeping and be fine,” he said. 

“Wait, really? But then why do you sleep so much? Or, well, wait? How much do you sleep?”

“I sleep because I like it. And I do sleep every day, but not all day, only a couple of hours, sometimes I divide those hours into multiple sleeps. I like naps,” Regulus said while sitting down on his bed. James just stood awkwardly in the middle of the room. 

“Are you just going to stand there? Come sit,” Regulus said with an amused smile. So James did. Regulus bed had purple covers and was very soft.

They stayed like that for a few minutes, until James got comfortable and laid down on his back. Regulus stayed sitting up with his back against the headboard. James wasn’t sure how long they talked, but eventually, he fell asleep. And Regulus didn’t wake him.

When James woke up he didn’t recognize the room he was in. He was in an awkward position, with his legs hanging over the side of the bed and arms stretched above his head. When he sat up he suddenly remembered last night. He and Regulus had talked for hours. James looked to his side and there he was. Still cuddled up against his pillows, with his duvet drawn up to his chest with a book in one hand, still open. He was sleeping.

James had fallen asleep, and Regulus had let him stay asleep. Had Regulus sat beside James reading until he also fell asleep? James looked around again. He could barely see anything. If it wasn’t for the small lamp on the nightstand it would’ve been pitch black in here.

He thought he should let Regulus sleep, so he stood up slowly and carefully made his way out the door. When he got down to the first floor he looked to the sitting room. It was bright. James made his way to the kitchen and there Sirius sat, eating lunch.

“Good morning,” James said. 

“It’s almost one, James,” Sirius said flatly. James frowned and looked at the clock on the wall. 

“Oh,” was all he said. And Sirius laughed softly.

That night when his best friend went to bed at ten pm James went straight to Regulus’ room. This time he knocked before Regulus could open the door.

“Hello,” he smiled. 

“Hello,” Regulus smiled back. They didn’t say anything but Regulus motioned for him to enter and James went directly to sit on the bed. Some of the candles were lit, and the room smelt like lavender.

“When did you wake up?” Regulus asked as he sat down on his bed. 

“Around one,” James answered. 

Regulus huffed, “Bloody hell.” 

James laughed. “When did you wake up?” he asked. 

“The last time I woke up was around an hour ago,” Regulus muttered. 

“The last time you woke up. How many times have you woken up today?” James mused. 

“Like four times,” he answered cheekily and James laughed.

This went on for a few days. James went to Regulus’ room after Sirius had gone to bed, they talked for hours until James fell asleep in whatever awkward position he’d chosen that night, then he woke up around lunch, hung out with Sirius until he went to bed, went to Regulus’ room and repeated. 

“You’re leaving tomorrow, right?” Regulus asked. It was well after midnight so really he meant today. 

“Yeah, I am,” James sighed. He’d really miss Regulus. 

“Okay,” Regulus said. 

“If you think you’ll get rid of me just because I won’t be sleeping here, you’re wrong,” James said. He meant it, he was going to visit them so many times, he didn’t care if their parents were sort of scary. 

“Oh, I didn’t think that,” Regulus said with a smirk. “How would you ever be able to stay away from me?” he continued. They had been doing this every night. Flirting. But they still hadn’t really done anything. 

“Oh, I wouldn’t be able to stay away from you. No matter how hard I tried,” James whispered. He wasn’t laying down yet. Regulus didn’t say anything. They only stared at each other until James shifted closer. They were both leaning against the headboard and their legs were touching.

“Are you going to kiss me?” Regulus whispered. 

“Can I?” James whispered back. 

Regulus nodded. And when their lips met James could feel his stomach twisting and untwisting. Regulus’ lips were cold, but soft and they tasted like mint. And when James moved his hand to cup Regulus’ cheek he found that his skin was just as soft as his lips, almost softer. 

Regulus grabbed James’ shirt pulling him even closer. And when James parted his lips and Regulus eagerly accepted the invitation, his hand moved to his hair. The kiss grew heated and James panted as Regulus’ lips moved down to his neck. James moved his hands to his hips, urging him to get onto his lap. Regulus did, of course. 

James’ hands travelled back to Regulus’ hair, softly pulling it, unlatching him from his neck and attacking his lips once again. James felt the heat in his body travel down, and his pulse quickened. 

“ James, ” was whispered onto his lips.

But the kiss didn’t stop. James’ hands moved back down to the younger boy's hips, and Regulus’ hands cupped James’ face. They stayed like that, kissing each other like it was the last night of their lives. Until Regulus pulled away. 

“Wait,” he whispered, “James, I need you to know stuff before we do anything else.” he continued. 

James nodded with a frown. He was still dizzy from all the snogging. 

“A lot of stuff. Because I like you, and I- if you like me I need you to know stuff,” Regulus said. 

James nodded again, “I do like you, Regulus. What do I need to know?” he whispered. 

Regulus smiled. “Well, that’s the thing. I- I don’t want you to make up your mind about anything yet because- I mean-” Regulus began, frowning, “there is stuff that might make you not want to pursue anything.” he explained. And when James went to argue, Regulus held up a hand to stop him. “I know, but I’m not talking about me, really. I would very much like for you to get to know me better with time, but- I’m talking about vampire stuff. Because I get that you might not judge me for being a vampire now, but it’s different being friends with a vampire and being in a relationship with them,” he explained.

“So you want me to do research?” James asked. Regulus nodded. “Okay. I’ll do research. But I do really like you Regulus, don’t think anything else.” Regulus smiled. 

James stood in front of the fireplace, about to floo home. When he thought back on the two weeks he’d spent there he realised that he hadn't really done much stuff with Sirius. Or well, they had but at the same time, they had.

“Hey mate?” he said. Sirius looked at him. “We didn’t really spend a lot of time together these past days, did we?” he continued. 

Sirius snorted. “Well, considering you woke up around lunch every day this week I would say we could’ve spent more time together. But it’s fine.” 

James grimaced. “I’m sorry,” he said. 

“No, it’s fine. It was nice just knowing you were here, even if you were sleeping,” Sirius began, “or spending time with my brother.” he finished with a pointed stare.

James cleared his throat, “Well, I’ll see you in a few days. Take care, mate. Love you, bye!” he said before flooing home.

The second James got home he ran to their library. Or well, it wasn’t really a library, more a room filled with books. He grabbed every book he could find on vampires and started reading. It wasn’t until three hours later when his mother walked in that he took a break.

“Oh! James, when did you get home?” she asked. 

James shrugged, because he really wasn’t sure. “At like, three?” he said. 

His mother looked shocked, “That was three hours ago, have you been sitting in here since then?” she asked. James only nodded.

“Well, what are you reading?” she asked, eyes scanning over the books surrounding James. 

“Just researching a little,” he answered vaguely, “When’s dinner?” he asked. 

His mother seemed sceptical of his answer but chose to ignore it. “Mhmm, dinner’s now,” she said with a small smile.

It’d been three days and James had finally finished every book he’d plucked from the shelves in their room filled with books. James understood why Regulus had wanted him to do this, because he’d learned a lot . He could also understand why Regulus would want James to do this before he decided anything, because some of the stuff he’d read was… questionable. But even if there were some stuff that made James sort of nervous, he was still sure he wanted to give it a go with Regulus. 

And this was perfect, because today the Black family had a dinner and the Potters were invited. Well, it was only the Potters who were invited. And Remus and Peter. But that was because Sirius had convinced his parents to let them come. James was sure they actually didn’t want to go to that dinner, but they felt too bad to say no.

“Hello Euphemia, Fleamont,” Mrs Black greeted, “James,” she said with a smile on her face. 

“Hello, Walburga,” his parents greeted back. 

“Hello, Mrs Black,” James said politely. 

“James!” Sirius yelled from the backyard and James made his way outside. “You bloody idiot. You’ve poisoned my brother,” he said when James arrived. 

“What?” he asked confused. James looked around and saw Remus and Peter sitting further away having a conversation with Regulus. “Oh,” he said. 

“Yes. ‘ Oh.’ He’s being social,” Sirius deadpanned. 

“Yes, I can see that Pads. But how have I poisoned him?” James asked. 

“You jumped him like a kangaroo and crept into his brain sticking like a leech. He’s been out of his room more times these past few days than all of his life!” Sirius explained. 

“What?” Sirius didn’t make sense at all. 

“What Sirius is trying to say, James, is that Regulus has been happier since you stayed here,” Mrs Black said while walking out of the house. 

“ Oh, ” James said. 

“Yes, it’s quite nice to see him like this,” she continued, “It’s been so long since I’ve seen him be social like this.”

James had never seen Mrs Black like this. She’s almost, emotional? She was staring at her youngest son with a soft smile on her face. James also turned his head to look at Regulus. He was sitting under a tree with a book in his hand, having a conversation with Remus. Most likely about a book. He was wearing the same sunglasses he had on the first time James saw him. Which was only two weeks ago but still. 

The dinner was nice, Sirius and Regulus’ parents were still scary. But they seemed more relaxed after their trip. James had been able to slightly relax. This wasn’t the first time he’d been to a dinner with the Blacks, but it was the first time they’d had dinner with only the Potters and Sirius’ friends, at their house. 

“So how’d Remus and Peter take it when you told them about Regulus?” James whispered when the other ones were occupied by the discussion on politics. 

“They were slightly annoyed I hadn’t told them earlier but then it was fine. They understood why I hadn’t. Pretty much the same reaction as you,” Sirius explained. 

James nodded. “Did you know that my parents knew about Regulus?” James asked. 

“No, but I guess I’d probably been more surprised if they hadn’t known about him.”

The dinner continued like that. The adults having their own conversation, occasionally asking the younger ones something. And the younger ones mostly sitting quietly eating their food. James had tried catching Regulus’ eyes multiple times, but he had been determined to not look at James. 

“Regulus,” James said as he sat down beside said boy after dinner. The parents were still at the table talking, and the others were sitting further away discussing something James couldn’t hear. “I have done my research.”

Regulus finally looked at him for the first time that evening. But through his glasses. “Mhm,” was all he said. 

“Mhm,” James said back with a smile. 

“And what is your conclusion?” Regulus whispered. A leaf fell from the tree they were sitting under, landing in Regulus’ hair.

“My conclusion is that I really like you, and since you also really like me, and since the information I learned didn’t scare me off. I think we should try a relationship, if you want?” James said with a small smile while plucking the leaf from Regulus' hair.

“Yeah, I’d like that.” Regulus smiled back.

It was the end of August. James would leave for his last year at Hogwarts in two days. Which was why Regulus and Sirius were over. It’d been more than a month since James and Regulus got together. They’d both visited each other many, many times. Been reintroduced to each other's families as each other's boyfriends. It was all going very well. 

The two Black brothers would be spending the night at the Potters, they’d been there the whole day as well. Regulus had slowly started turning his sleeping schedule, since he wasn’t actually allergic to the sun. But he was constantly wearing his sunglasses.

Sirius was currently sleeping in the guestroom at the end of the hall. Regulus and James were in James’ room. In James’ bed. But they weren’t sleeping.

“Promise you’ll write as often as you can, and want?” Regulus whispered. 

James smiled, “I promise. If you promise it as well.” 

Regulus also smiled, “I promise.”

It all happened very quickly, at first they were just talking the night before Christmas eve and the next second Regulus had straddled James and their tongues were aggressively dancing together. It wasn’t the first time they were doing this. No, far from the first time. James had realised sometime when he was at Hogwarts that he really missed when Regulus told him what to do.

“Take off your shirt James,” he whispered. 

James did. So did Regulus. Regulus, whose skin was pale and cold, filled James with so much warmth he thought he would melt. Whoever said vampires are as good as dead already, was completely wrong. Because James had never met a person with more life than Regulus. 

Their bodies pressed together had James thinking that he would never enjoy anything more than this.

He would be a prisoner to Regulus’ body, for however long he would have him. He would never want anything other than this. He would never ask for anything ever again, if it meant that he could have Regulus for the rest of his life. He wanted Regulus to lock him in his heart and throw away the key. James would never try to escape. 

He felt Regulus deep inside him, he felt Regulus around him, he felt Regulus’ desire in his soul. The breath stroking his neck, whispering in his ear. ‘I have waited five months. And I will wait for five more. I will wait your whole life for you.’ James knew what Regulus wanted. James knew that he also wanted it.

“Regulus,” James turned his head and kissed him. Pressing his back even closer to the younger’s chest. Feeling him closer and closer, deeper and deeper. “ Bite me. ”