Film Expectations
June 1982
Regulus stepped out of the limousine and into the pulsating night, where the neon sign of the cinema blinked like a firefly against the dark sky. The evening was not just a party, but also an opportunity to show the world that he was no longer the little boy born into a Christian cult and controlled by his parents' choices. He had the chance to show them that he had grown, and that he had worked hard and long to reach this level of self-control.
Regulus was more than just an observer that night. He was part of the film's magic as a central actor. Every muscle in his body seemed to vibrate with a combination of excitement and nervousness, but his face remained immovable.
Pandora by his side was a captivating figure, with light dreadlocks falling like silver threads over her shoulders. Her ice-blue eyes were clear as crystal, and her dark skin created a striking contrast. She wore a white dress that reminded of winter's beauty, sprinkled with feathers and pearls that glittered like snowflakes. The dress moved gracefully with her.
They were met by a welcoming committee of photographers and journalists, who bombarded them with a mix of questions and flashlights. Regulus posed routinely in front of the cameras, his face perfectly controlled by his natural ability to adapt to any situation. The red carpet stretched out like a blazing river of possibilities in front of him. The flashlights blinked like shooting stars, and Regulus stood at the center of this star rain. In this moment, amidst the flashes and turmoil, he became an eternal image, captured in a timeless mosaic of light, sound, and emotions. This was not just a red carpet; it was the moment where he stood on the threshold of immortality. He didn't like it, but he was ready to do anything to create his own reputation.
They maneuvered through the intrusive crowd of photographers and into the cinema doors. The cinema foyer was filled with the light hum of conversation and a scent of popcorn. Regulus didn't like popcorn. It wasn't just the taste that repelled him, though the greasy, salty coating always left an unpleasant taste on his tongue. Nor was it the crunchy texture that made his teeth feel weirdly rough and left small annoying kernels between them. For Regulus, it was about something deeper. He associated them with the cinematic experiences he had never shared with his family. His family had never gathered around a bowl full of popcorn, laughing and sharing moments of joy. Movie experiences were a luxury that never took place. Popcorn thus became a symbol of the warmth and togetherness he had missed. Each bite reminded him of the dysfunctional family that never managed to gather around something as simple as a film. It was a taste that brought back memories of a childhood without the small, cozy moments that so many others took for granted. Popcorn tasted of a world where he had never felt at home.
A blonde woman approached them with a tray filled with champagne glasses. Her smile, which Regulus suspected was an attempt at a seductive smile, was directed at him as she straightened her back, as if trying to emphasize her presence. Without glancing at Pandora, she asked with a voice full of double meanings:
“Mr. Black, would a glass of champagne sound appealing?”
Regulus had the feeling that she was offering more than just a glass of champagne. He took two glasses and brushed her off with a nonchalant hand gesture, clearly showing that he was not interested in her. He turned to Pandora and handed her one of the glasses. He was about to take a sip when Pandora said:
“Do you think she would be just as intrusive if it were wine?”
Regulus had to make an effort not to spit out the champagne at Pan's comment. He stifled a laugh and looked over at Pandora. She smiled mildly, as if she had discovered a secret that no one else knew about. Regulus shook his head and took a sip of his champagne. He enjoyed Pandora’s company and the light teasing that sometimes brought a smile to his face. Pandora had always had the ability to find humor in even the most embarrassing situations, and her sharp comments were a welcome distraction from the more serious aspects of their lives.
Then he spotted Dorcas. She wore a flattering blue dress that swam around her in soft waves, as if it was designed to follow her every movement. Her hair was styled with lots of silver jewelry that glittered in the light from the many chandeliers. When she saw Regulus, she gave him a warm smile with a slight nod of her head. Her eyes, clear and kind, quickly found Regulus' gaze.
“I hope I haven’t interrupted anything exciting,” she said with a tone of mild curiosity as she walked toward them.
Pandora laughed and waved her over.
“You must be Dorcas, I'm Pandora. Pandora Rosier - I’m Regulus’ stylist. Come here. Reg has told me a lot about you. We’re just in the middle of exchanging some jokes about a slightly intrusive lady,” she said, pointing toward the blonde woman now standing by the bar looking a bit offended.
Dorcas’ eyes flicked briefly toward the woman before she turned back to Regulus and Pandora with a smile.
“Oh, that lady? I couldn't help but notice she had a very targeted approach to you, Regulus,” she said with a smile that was both understanding and a little teasing.
“Luckily, she hasn't discovered me yet, so I can still avoid getting entangled in her attempts to create romances.”
Pandora's laughter filled the room. They moved away from the hectic part of the foyer, where a sea of guests and cameras had created a hub for the evening’s events. Pandora and Dorcas continued an unbothered conversation while Regulus walked by their side.
“You know, I've always had a soft spot for films that manage to capture the unexpected,” said Dorcas with a bright smile that revealed her excitement. “And I know this film has really taken some chances with its narrative structure.”
Pandora nodded. “Yes, Reg told me that the director has managed to break with traditional storytelling styles. I'm really excited to see how he did it.”
Regulus let his attention drift between the two women. Although he refrained from participating in the conversation with the same enthusiasm, he listened attentively.
“I have to admit, I'm curious to see how our scenes have been received. I always feel awful watching myself on screen.”
Regulus looked at Dorcas with a puzzled expression. “Dorcas, you're an actress, that's what your job is about. And I have a feeling we've done something special this time.”
“Yes, maybe. I hope you're right! We've worked hard, and it’s going to live up to expectations.”
Pandora added, “Remember, it's not just you who has helped shape the film. There's a whole team of people who have worked to make it all work. So, if it's all crap, the blame isn't just on you!”
Regulus nodded briefly. “Of course. It’s always a collective effort. I’ve always been a bit disappointed that actors often see the results on the big screen very differently from how we experienced them during filming.”
Dorcas smiled with a bit of understanding. “It's part of being an actor. We get into the roles and bring our own interpretation to them, but when it's all put together, it looks different. Sometimes it’s a surprise, sometimes a disappointment.”
Regulus looked over at Dorcas, who with her light, yet sincere manner gave a glimpse of the person he had learned to appreciate as a close friend.
“I think it’s going to be good.”
“I agree. Now it’s time to find out what the film has to offer. I’d like to hear what the audience thinks.”
The three began to move toward the newly opened doors leading into the cinema halls where the film would soon begin. Pandora and Dorcas walked by his side, and there was a quiet understanding between them. Regulus' coldness was a little less pronounced in their company, and his focus was directed toward the upcoming film and the experiences they were about to share. Regulus, Pandora, and Dorcas took their seats and prepared to dive into the world of the film, ready to experience what the evening would bring
James was happy. Very happy. He had persuaded his best friend to come to the cinema, and now they were standing in line to buy popcorn. James loved popcorn. He loved popcorn because it had always been associated with the happiest moments of his childhood. Every time he crunched the crispy shell, he was reminded of cozy movie nights with the family, where laughter and joy filled the room. Popcorn became his little ritual to recreate the warmth and joy he loved so much.
"Can my life get any better?” James asked. He was very happy!
“Yay, forcing your best friend -against his will- to watch a movie is sooo much fun!”
“Come on, you went along with it! I clearly remember you saying this,” James straightened his back and mimicked Sirius’ tone and posture as best he could.
“Okay, okay. But if it gets too much, we leave. And you owe me a big beer afterwards!”
Sirius dramatically swung at James, but he dodged and instead poked Sirius in the stomach.
“Ouch! You're not very nice, you know that?”
“Mm, but you're much worse.”
They stood and smiled teasingly at each other, completely forgetting they were in line. It was only when a guy further down the line made them aware that it was their turn that they broke their silent staring contest. They bought a large popcorn to share and found a place where they could wait for the theater to open. They chatted while they waited, and when the doors to the theater suddenly opened, the cinema staff began announcing that people could start finding their seats. A stream of people began moving toward the rows, and James and Sirius quickly got up to follow.
"Okay, ready for action?" asked James, hastily taking one last mouthful of popcorn. He gently pushed through the crowd to find their seats, right in the middle of the hall – the perfect view. Sirius looked around with a smile and said,
"I'd say I'm more ready to make it through the whole movie without dropping my popcorn." James laughed and looked around.
"That's a good plan. After all, I need something to cover my comments with. If I get too much criticism, I can always point to the popcorn and say, 'See, that's where I'm focusing my energy!'" They quickly found their seats and sat down. James took one last big handful of popcorn and said,
"We're ready. It's almost like waiting for Christmas Eve, isn't it?" Sirius nodded and looked up at the big screen, which was now being prepared for the film.
"Yeah, and the best part is that you're here to make it even more entertaining with your comments." James shrugged with an exaggerated theatrical expression.
"Well, you know, a good movie requires a good critic. And who better than me?" As the opening music of the film began to play and the lights in the hall dimmed, all distracting conversations were quickly drowned out by the sound of the film's opening. James couldn't help but comment one last time as the film began.
"And here comes the obligatory opening scene, where we get to know the characters in the most predictable way. I could almost write the script myself." Sirius shook his head and laughed.
"If you keep this up, I won't even be able to hear the film." With the last bit of popcorn in his mouth and a satisfied smile, James sat back in his seat, ready to enjoy the film. James couldn't help but comment anyway.
"Are you sure they didn't just use a chain for that landing? It looks way too perfect to be real. I mean, they can't just..."
Then Regulus appeared on the screen, and the air left James’ lungs.
And ... Shit!
When did he get so hot? Clearly, something had happened to Regulus. He had grown up. Not just physically, but also ... well, he was a man. Controlled. Composed. Cool. He was beautiful in a way that only knives, glass, and snakes were. In a cold and elegant way.
And wow.
Fuck!
like, seriously. James felt his jaw practically hit the floor. His mouth went dry. Dry as a desert. It was a miracle he hadn't fainted. How anyone could be confronted with a young Regulus Black and survive it without being affected was a mystery to James. For he was not and would never again be the same James. This image was forever tattooed in his brain.
Just.
Fuck.
And James absolutely could not say or do anything. Not when it came to Regulus. Only God knew if Regulus was into boys. Most people thought it was wrong. Disgusting even. And from what James knew about the Black family, there was a good chance Regulus would kill James for even suggesting he might find boys attractive.
James was losing his mind. Regulus was beautiful. His skin was fucking perfect. Flawless. He was just ... James thought Regulus was the most graceful creature he had ever laid eyes on. So James just sat there, with a million thoughts in his head, unable to move or breathe or function, because there were sunbeams that caught the light and trapped it in Regulus' gray eyes. They were gray like a stormy sky, like puddles of water or the ash from a fire. They were beautiful. And God have mercy, James was actually about to faint.
He let out a long whimpering sound and buried his head in his hands.
"Prongs, what's going on?" asked Sirius.
Shit! Shit! And shit again! He was dealing with his chosen brother's biological little brother. Sirius would lose his shit if he found out. What should he say? The truth was out of the question. Why did he have to be so terrible at lying? James grabbed for any excuse for his behavior that could hide the real reason for his astonishment.
"Oh, Pads," James said with a strained smile plastered on his face. "I think I have a headache ... or something. It'll pass soon. Don't worry." Sirius looked skeptically at James but chose to dismiss it with a sarcastic remark.
"It must be something that comes with age!"
"Yeah, something that comes with age!" James lifted his head from his hands, and all he could think was:
Can my life get much worse?
Regulus was surrounded by idiots. Everyone was dancing and reeking of alcohol. They were annoying. He stood at the edge of the party, leaning against a wall and trying to seem interested in his conversation with Dorcas. Fortunately, it was her by his side, which made it a little more bearable.
"Are you sure you want to be here?" asked Dorcas, who had noticed his scowling grimace.
"I'm sure I'd rather be somewhere else!"
Dorcas shook her head and rolled her eyes lightly.
"Let's find a quieter corner. Maybe it's even possible to have a conversation with you if you have room to think."
They moved through the dense crowd of people, who were engrossed in dancing and chatting. The music pumped loudly from the speakers, and the lights flashed in different colors, giving Regulus a headache. Finally, they found a quieter spot near a window where they could get some fresh air. Dorcas pulled a pack of cigarettes out of her bag and tossed one to Regulus. He caught it between two fingers while pulling a lighter out of his back pocket. Regulus felt a pang of longing as he inhaled. For the thousandth time, Regulus regretted not bringing a stash of cigarettes with him. What a stupid mistake for someone who was so proud of being clever.
"So, I just wanted to hear what you plan to do now that the film is finished? Any particular plans for the money?"
Regulus took his time exhaling the smoke out of the window.
"Give me two minutes to think." Regulus didn't need two minutes to think. He knew exactly what he wanted and what the money was going to be used for. But he wanted to hear Dorcas' answer before revealing his own plans.
"You can always share your plans while I think."
Regulus inhaled once more before turning and looking curiously at his best friend. She had pursed her lips in a thinking grimace.
"I've always wanted to see more of the world, so I'll probably go on a trip, but I don't know when or where." She still had a thinking expression, but she brushed it aside and looked attentively at Regulus.
"Well, the two minutes are up, so spit out!"
He sighed and said,"I'm going back to London."
"What? When?" she asked, shocked.
"I'm going back at the end of June. There are still some interviews I'm obligated to attend for the premiere, but otherwise, there's nothing keeping me here." Dorcas looked a bit hurt when Regulus announced the last part.
"So, what are you going to do in London?" Dorcas was good at hiding her feelings, but not good enough that it went unnoticed by Regulus. She was hurt.
"I have a house there..."
"You're going back to London to spend time in your house?" Dorcas interrupted him before he could say more. She began to sound very hysterical. As if the thought of Regulus having had a life before her bothered her incredibly much.
"Listen, Dorcas, I was actually planning to offer you to come with me, but if you get hysterical so easily, I don't know if I can stand having you stay!"
Dorcas' mouth was wide open, but she quickly closed it and smiled broadly at him.
"Well, then you're not as cold as you pretend to be?"
God, how quickly that woman's mood changed.
"Watch it, Dorcas, I can still retract my offer!"
She laughed brightly. Regulus liked the sound. He didn't get people to laugh very often, so her reaction was welcome.
"Yes, Regulus. Yes, I'd love to go to London with you!"
He nodded briefly but then turned his attention back to his cigarette. It was almost finished. He took one last drag before flicking it out the window.
"So, what are the plans for the money?"
Regulus looked confused. "What?"
"The money! You told me your plans, but not what the money would be used for!"
Regulus wasn't sure if he should tell her. She was his friend, but it would complicate everything. He could always lie – he was good at that. He could spin it with such conviction that even a skilled actress like Dorcas would never doubt his words.
"I'm going to invest it in stocks!" She looked disappointed.
"You're so boring!"
"Maybe, but I'm sensible. In two years, my money will be doubled, while you've spent yours on beer and clothes."
Dorcas glared at him, but he could clearly see the warmth in her eyes.
"So, you really meant it? I can come with you?"
Regulus looked irritated at her. He really didn't have time for this kind of thing.
"Dorcas, do I look like someone who jokes?"
She smiled. She did that a lot, actually, and it annoyed Regulus greatly that he wasn't bothered by it. Dorcas' gaze swept past him and settled on something. He turned around. Someone. Dorcas was looking at Pandora.
"What about her?"
"Pandora is also going to London – she was born there. She lives with her brother Evan." He paused briefly but then added: "And Barty. He also lives there in a way. Or he's there so often that he should pay for dinner." Regulus didn't quite know how to explain it. He shouldn't explain it. It only concerned them – and maybe a little bit Pandora, but only because she also lived there. Regulus looked at Dorcas. Now she was smiling again. Maybe even more than before. He was just about to ask what was so funny, but she answered his question before it was even asked.
"That was probably the biggest chunk of information I've ever gotten about you."
"Shut up, Meadowes!"
She just laughed. They stood for a while in silence, enjoying the cold breeze from the open window.
"What are they like?"
"Evan, a bit violent, but soft when it comes to his close ones. Barty is crazy; others would say dangerous, but he's loyal to his friends. Let's hope for your sake you never meet them in person."
"I want to meet them! If they're your friends, then we have something in common."
"Trust me, Dorcas, that's not something you want."