It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a husband.
The afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the grand drawing room of Black Manor, illuminating the opulent furnishings and casting long shadows across the polished marble floors. Walburga Black sat regally in her favorite armchair, her posture erect and her expression stern as she addressed her family gathered before her (albeit, reluctantly, and in Regulus' case, dragged by one ear).
"Orion, Sirius, Regulus," she began, her voice carrying the weight of authority as she fixed each of them with a steely gaze. "I have news of utmost importance to share with you."
Orion Black, seated across from his wife, raised an eyebrow inquisitively, his newspaper forgotten in his lap as he leaned forward to listen. Sirius, lounging lazily on the nearby settee, propped himself up on one elbow, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he awaited his mother's announcement. Regulus, perched on the edge of his seat, appeared disinterested, his attention elsewhere as he absently toyed with the book on his lap.
"Go on, love," Orion prompted, his tone patient yet expectant. "What news do you bring?"
Walburga cleared her throat, her expression grave as she delivered her revelation. "I have received word from Lady Pomfrey that a new resident has recently taken up residence in our neighborhood," she announced, her voice tinged with a hint of excitement. "A certain Mr. Remus Lupin."
Sirius's interest was piqued at the mention of a new arrival, and he leaned in closer, his eyes alight with curiosity. "Remus Lupin, you say? What do we know of him?"
Walburga nodded, pleased by her son's curiosity. "Mr. Lupin is a gentleman from a respectable family, well-educated and of good breeding," she explained. "He is said to be quite charming and personable, with a keen intellect and a fondness for literature."
Sirius's interest only seemed to grow at the description, and he exchanged a knowing look with Orion. "Sounds like an intriguing fellow," he remarked, his tone contemplative. "I'd be curious to make his acquaintance."
Regulus, however, remained unmoved by the news, his expression bored as he idly flicked a speck of lint from his sleeve. "And what of it?" he interjected, his voice tinged with annoyance. "Why should we care about some stranger who's moved into the neighborhood?"
Walburga shot her youngest son a withering glare, her patience wearing thin at his lack of enthusiasm. "Regulus, show some respect," she scolded, her tone sharp. "Mr. Lupin is a gentleman of means and distinction. It would behoove you to take an interest in him."
Regulus rolled his eyes, his irritation evident as he crossed his arms defiantly. "Forgive me, Mother, if I fail to see the importance of fawning over every new arrival," he retorted, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "I have more pressing matters to attend to than idle gossip. If it's my consent you seek to wed him, Mother, you have it all. Heartiest congratulation."
Walburga bristled at her son's insolence, her temper flaring at his impudence. "You will show respect for your elders, Regulus," she snapped, her voice tinged with anger. "Mr. Lupin is a guest in our neighborhood, and it is only fitting that we extend him a warm welcome."
Orion intervened before the argument could escalate further, his voice calm yet authoritative as he addressed his sons. "Enough, both of you," he admonished, his tone firm. "We will extend Mr. Lupin the courtesy of our hospitality, as is expected of us. Whether or not you choose to take an interest in him is your own affair, but I will not tolerate disrespect in this house."
Regulus subsided at his father's reprimand, though the scowl remained firmly etched upon his features. Sirius, meanwhile, seemed undeterred by the tension in the room, his curiosity unabated as he turned his attention back to his mother.
"When do we expect Mr. Lupin to arrive, Mother?" he inquired, his interest renewed. "I, for one, am eager to make his acquaintance. I am already so bored of the people in this town."
Walburga's expression softened slightly at her son's enthusiasm, and she inclined her head in acknowledgment. "Lady Pomfrey mentioned that Mr. Lupin will be attending the Spring Ball next week," she revealed. "It would be an excellent opportunity for us to introduce ourselves and extend him a proper welcome."
Sirius's eyes lit up at the prospect of a social gathering, his excitement palpable as he leaned in closer to his mother. "A ball, you say? How delightful!" he exclaimed, a grin spreading across his face. "I can't wait to see what Mr. Lupin is like in person."
Regulus looked at his brother and scowled. Wimp. Sirius looked back at him and winked. Regulus is well aware that it's not Lupin that excites his brother. It's the possibility of attending parties, socializing and being with their peers that got him going. Sirius and Regulus are jealously guarded by their parents, and it's this circumstances that would give them a bit of freedom.
"Dear, it will be wonderful if you could call at the Lupin residence," Walburga smiled and said eagerly. Orion's face ashened. "Think of how delightful it would be if we could be the family that introduced Mr Lupin to society!"
Stammering, Orion tried his best to soothe his wife. "Love, is it not best to let nature run it's course?" he said cautiously. As supportive as he is of his wife's ventures, the idea of standing in front of the Lupin residence, seeking for audience nauseates him. His family hasn't fallen that far. Regulus snickered at his predicament.
"Not you too!" Walburga shrilled. "Am I the only one that cares about the boys' future?" she said dramatically, resting the back of her right hand on her forehead. "My poor heart!"
"Not so dramatic, Mother," Sirius snorted. "The London Theatre might find their way to our house after your performance."
She glared at him and wailed. "Oh, my poor heart!"
