The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm golden hue over the sprawling grounds of the Gryffindor Hall. Inside, the manor was a hive of activity as servants bustled about, preparing for the evening's dinner. Remus Lupin moved with purpose through the corridors, eager to impress his neighbor.
"Pandora, make sure the dining room is set with the finest silverware," Remus instructed one of the maids, his voice firm but gentle. "And tell Cook to spare no expense with tonight's menu. We have esteemed guests joining us, and I want everything to be perfect."
Pandora nodded eagerly, her apron swaying as she hurried off to relay Remus's instructions to the kitchen staff. Remus watched her go with a satisfied nod before continuing on his rounds, checking in on the preparations in each room.
"Master Lupin," Kreacher called. "The guests have arrived. One Mr Sirius and Regulus Black."
"Coming!"
As Remus rounded a corner, he nearly collided with two figures standing in the foyer, their presence momentarily catching him off guard. The two men stood. "Mr Lupin," the taller one smiled. "I'm Sirius Black, and this is my younger brother, Regulus Black."
"Mr Sirius, Mr Regulus Black," Remus managed to greet them with a smile, though inwardly he marveled at their striking appearance. Sirius, with his tousled black hair and mischievous grin, exuded a magnetic charm that was impossible to ignore. His eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief as he exchanged a knowing glance with his younger brother. Regulus, on the other hand, stood straight and composed, his stormy grey eyes looking at him with a hint of curiousity. His aristocratic features were softened by the gentle curve of his lips, adding to his undeniable allure. A bout of insecurity hit him at the sight of the young men in front of him. They are clearly younger than him. He hoped that they will not find him a bore.
"Sirius and Regulus, please," Sirius smiled charmingly. "We are not old enough for such suffocating salutation."
"Please, then. Call me Remus. I insist. A pleasure to meet you both," Remus continued, his voice tinged with awe as he took in their breathtaking presence.
Sirius grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief as he exchanged a knowing glance with his younger brother. "Well, you know us, Remus," he quipped, his tone playful. "We always aim to please."
Remus chuckled, charmed by Sirius's easygoing demeanor. "Indeed. Are your parents here,?"
Regulus stepped forward, his posture rigid and formal as he addressed Remus with a polite nod. "Call us Sirius and Regulus, please." he explained, his tone reserved but courteous. "Mother and Father are waiting outside, admiring your garden."
Remus's smile widened at the mention of their parents. "Ah, excellent. Please, come in," he said, gesturing for them to follow him into the foyer. "I shall ask my servant to accompany them."
As Remus led Sirius and Regulus into the drawing room, he couldn't help but notice the way their eyes widened in awe at the sight that greeted them. The room was bathed in warm, golden light, casting a soft glow over the elegant furnishings and intricate artwork that adorned the walls.
"Wow," Sirius breathed, his gaze sweeping across the room in wonder. "This place is incredible, Remus."
Remus smiled, pleased by Sirius's reaction. "Thank you," he replied, his voice tinged with pride. "I've put a lot of effort into making it feel like home."
Regulus nodded in agreement, his eyes lingering on a particularly exquisite painting hanging above the fireplace, and the grand piano at the corner. "It's impressive," he admitted, his tone appreciative.
Before Remus could respond, the sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway, signaling the arrival of Orion and Walburga Black. Remus turned to greet them, a warm smile on his lips as they entered the room.
"Mr and Mrs Black," Remus greeted them warmly, extending a hand in welcome. "I'm so glad you could join me this evening."
Orion returned the gesture, his expression one of genuine pleasure. "Orion and Walburga, please. Thank you for having us, Remus," he replied, his voice filled with sincerity. "Your manor is truly magnificent."
Walburga nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the room with a critical gaze. "Yes, quite impressive indeed," she remarked, her tone slightly aloof, clearly aiming to not seem desperate for his validation. "It's clear that you have impeccable taste."
Remus smiled politely, though he couldn't shake the feeling of tension that lingered in the air. He knew that Walburga's approval was not easily won, and he couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at her begrudging compliment.
As the conversation flowed in, Remus found himself captivated by the charm and wit of the Black brothers, Sirius and Regulus. Their easy banter and genuine interest in his home and interests made him feel at ease, despite the lingering tension in the air.
"It's truly remarkable," Sirius remarked, his gaze sweeping across the room with admiration. "I've never seen anything quite like it."
Remus smiled gratefully, feeling a sense of pride at Sirius' genuine appreciation. "Thank you," he replied, his voice tinged with warmth. "I'm glad you think so. I've tried to make it a space where everyone feels welcome."
Regulus nodded in agreement, his stormy grey eyes alight with interest. "You've certainly succeeded," he remarked, his tone sincere. "It's a testament to your impeccable taste."
Remus felt a surge of pride at Regulus's compliment, though he couldn't help but notice the slight edge of formality in his tone. Prior to his arrival at Hogwarts, he had heard of the Black family's reputation for propriety and refinement, despite them being less well off than himself, and he was keenly aware of the weight of their approval.
Before Remus could respond, Sirius turned to him with a mischievous grin. "Say, Remus, would you mind terribly if I played your piano?" he asked, his eyes sparkling with anticipation. "It's been ages since I've had the chance to play, and I would love to show my appreciation for your hospitality."
Remus's smile widened at the suggestion, genuinely pleased by the idea. "Of course, Sirius," he replied, gesturing towards the grand piano in the corner of the room. "I would be honored."
As Sirius made his way to the piano bench, Remus couldn't help but admire the easy grace with which he moved. There was a natural elegance to Sirius's demeanor, a confidence that drew the eye and commanded attention.
Just as Sirius began to play, the sound of footsteps echoed in the hallway, signaling the arrival of a new guest. Remus turned to see his companion, James Potter entering the room, his expression unreadable as he took in the company gathered there.
"James," Remus greeted him warmly, gesturing towards the other guests. "I'm so glad you could join us."
James's response was curt, his gaze flickering briefly over the assembled group with a hint of disdain. "Likewise," he replied, his tone polite but distant.
Remus couldn't help but feel a sense of unease at James's cool demeanor. He had hoped that the evening would be a chance for everyone to come together and enjoy each other's company, but it seemed that James had other ideas.
