Regulus leaned against the doorway of James’ office, his dark eyes flicking over the woman in front of him. Her disheveled appearance screamed of a poorly executed scheme, and the overly sweet floral scent of her perfume was enough to make him wrinkle his nose.
“Oh,” she gasped, clutching her chest in mock panic. “I didn’t think things with James would go this far. I didn’t mean for you to find out like this.”
Regulus’ lips twitched, and before he could stop himself, he let out a laugh—low and cutting. “Are you serious?”
The woman blinked in confusion, clearly not expecting this reaction.
Regulus took a step closer, his voice calm but laced with venom. “Let me guess—you thought you could stage this ridiculous scene and I’d believe it?” He tilted his head, his tone sharp. “You’re a terrible actress. If you’re going to play the part of the ‘other woman,’ at least try to look convincing.”
She stammered, but before she could respond, Regulus continued, his gaze unwavering. “First of all, my husband would never cheat on me. James loves me with every fiber of his being.” His voice softened slightly, but his eyes remained cold. “And second of all…”
He moved to the door, swinging it open to reveal James standing there, their son Harry cradled peacefully in his arms, his small face pressed against James’ shoulder. James’ smile faltered the moment he saw the woman, his expression quickly morphing into one of anger and disbelief.
“Care to explain what’s going on here?” James asked, his voice cold.
The woman flushed, her confidence shattered. “I—I was just—”
Regulus interjected smoothly, “Trying to convince me you two had some sort of illicit affair. Pathetic, really.”
James stepped into the room, his gaze sharp as he addressed her. “This was beyond unprofessional. You’re fired. Pack your things and get out.”
The woman’s eyes widened, and she quickly scurried out of the office, her perfume lingering like a bad memory.
Regulus sighed, taking James’ free hand and threading their fingers together. “Let’s go,” he murmured, his voice softer now.
James nodded, guiding them toward the car. Once inside, Harry still fast asleep, Regulus stared out the window, his mind racing.
James reached over, placing a gentle hand on his thigh. “Reggie,” he said softly.
Regulus turned to face him, his expression tired but calm.
James squeezed his hand, his voice firm yet tender. “I would never be that stupid. I know exactly what I have—a beautiful husband and a family I’d die for. You’re everything to me.”
Regulus’ lips curved into a small smile, his eyes glistening. “I know, James. I never doubted you.”
James leaned in, capturing Regulus’ lips in a slow, lingering kiss. When they pulled apart, Regulus rested his forehead against James’.
“Let’s go home,” Regulus whispered.
James smiled, his hand brushing over Regulus’ cheek. “Home sounds perfect.”