Lucius
The morning sun cast a warm glow over the quaint town, its cobblestone streets bustling with activity. Merchants called out their wares, and the scent of fresh bread wafted from a nearby bakery. Regulus Black wandered through the market, attempting to shake off the lingering unease from the previous night’s ball. The encounter with James Potter and Lucius Malfoy still played on his mind, but he hoped a change of scenery would help clear his thoughts.
He paused at a fruit stall, inspecting a selection of ripe apples. The vendor, an elderly woman with a kind smile, offered him a sample, which he accepted with a polite nod. As he took a bite, savoring the crisp sweetness, he felt a presence beside him.
“Regulus,” came a familiar, silky voice.
Regulus turned to find Lucius Malfoy standing there, his piercing gaze fixed on him. Dressed impeccably as always, Lucius exuded an air of arrogance that made Regulus’s skin crawl. He tensed, his earlier discomfort resurfacing.
“Lucius,” Regulus greeted tersely, placing the apple back on the stall. “What brings you to town?”
Lucius smiled, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “Just taking a stroll, enjoying the morning. And you?”
Regulus forced a smile. “The same.”
Lucius’s eyes swept over him, a predatory gleam in their depths. “You seemed rather unsettled last night. I hope I didn’t cause you too much distress.”
Regulus clenched his jaw, unwilling to engage in Lucius’s game. “I’m fine, thank you.”
Lucius took a step closer, his voice lowering. “You know, Regulus, you really should consider the company you keep. Some people aren’t as understanding or as forgiving as I am.”
Before Regulus could respond, a voice interrupted them. “Is there a problem here?”
Sirius Black appeared beside Regulus, his expression a mix of concern and anger. He glared at Lucius, stepping protectively between him and his brother.
“Lucius,” Sirius said coldly. “I think it’s time for you to leave.”
Lucius raised an eyebrow, a mocking smile playing on his lips. “Sirius, always so quick to defend. Your loyalty is admirable, if misguided.”
Sirius’s eyes narrowed. “I won’t ask again. Leave.”
Lucius looked from Sirius to Regulus, his expression one of contempt. “Very well. Enjoy your day, Regulus. And do consider my advice.”
With that, Lucius turned and walked away, his presence lingering like a dark cloud even after he was gone. Sirius turned to Regulus, his concern evident.
“Are you alright?” Sirius asked, his voice softening.
Regulus nodded, though his hands still trembled slightly. “I’m fine. Thank you for stepping in.”
Sirius placed a reassuring hand on his brother’s shoulder. “You don’t have to deal with him alone, Reg. I’m always here for you.”
Regulus managed a small smile, grateful for Sirius’s support. “I know. It’s just… he makes my skin crawl.”
Sirius nodded, his expression darkening. “He’s a snake. Best to stay away from him.”
They continued their walk through the market, the encounter with Lucius casting a shadow over the otherwise pleasant morning. Regulus appreciated the distraction of the bustling town, though his thoughts kept drifting back to the previous night and the harsh words exchanged with James Potter.
As they walked, Sirius tried to lighten the mood, pointing out interesting stalls and making jokes. Slowly, Regulus felt himself relax, the tension easing from his shoulders.
Eventually, they found a quiet café and settled at a small table by the window. Sirius ordered tea for them both, and they sat in companionable silence for a while, watching the world go by outside.
“I’ve been thinking,” Sirius said suddenly, breaking the silence. “About the Pettigrew Ball and what happened with Potter.”
Regulus tensed slightly at the mention of James, but he nodded for Sirius to continue.
“I think Potter’s an idiot,” Sirius said bluntly. “But maybe there’s more to it. He’s Remus’s friend, after all.”
Regulus frowned. “What are you getting at?”
Sirius shrugged. “I’m just saying, maybe there’s more to Potter than we realize. People can be complicated. Doesn’t mean he’s not a prat, but maybe there’s a reason behind it.”
Regulus considered this, though his pride resisted the idea. “Maybe. But that doesn’t excuse his behavior.”
“No, it doesn’t,” Sirius agreed. “But it might explain it.”
Regulus sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I just don’t understand him. One minute he’s insulting me, the next he’s… well, I don’t know what he’s doing.”
Sirius smiled slightly. “Sounds like you’ve got him all twisted up, Reg.”
Regulus rolled his eyes. “I doubt that.”
They sipped their tea in silence for a few moments, the warmth of the café providing a comforting contrast to the chilly autumn air outside.
“Just promise me you’ll be careful,” Sirius said finally, his tone serious. “Whether it’s Lucius or Potter or anyone else. You’re too important to get hurt by people who don’t deserve you.”
Regulus nodded, touched by his brother’s concern. “I promise.”
Sirius smiled, clapping him on the shoulder. “Good. Now, let’s finish our tea and find something fun to do. I think we both need a break from all this drama.”
Regulus couldn’t agree more. As they finished their tea and ventured back into the bustling town, he felt a renewed sense of determination. He would be careful, he would protect himself, but he wouldn’t let the likes of Lucius Malfoy or James Potter dictate his happiness.