stars are brighter in the countryside

And if I had to do it all again
I would, because, babe, in the end
It brought me here to you

Wild at Heart - LDR

The more you learn, the less you know, Sirius was sure of it. 

Laying on the floor of his childhood bedroom, with headphones on and a college diploma staring back at him, he was certain that he knew almost nothing, or at least knew less than he did years ago at 18.

He did know, however, that he felt suffocated by the walls around him and the constant sirens passing by his house, something he should be used to for it being the soundtrack of his life for over twenty years.

It didn't work like that, though, and as the days passed he felt less and less comfortable in the environment he was trained to call home, getting up one day and burying his degree at the bottom of a suitcase ready to leave.

His family didn't think much of it, kids these days were known for traveling around and taking a year off– after all, this generation was full of lazies against the system, right? And before they knew it, Sirius was on a bus ride saying goodbye to buildings that were quickly replaced by tiny animals on the side of the road. 

Most people would call him naive, stupid even, for leaving a place full of opportunities and chances of having a rising career, as if those two things were enough to make one's life complete. Quite the opposite, if you asked him. 

The thought of getting locked up by companies and the never-ending hunger for capital was enough to suck all the energy out of anyone.

Sirius wouldn't lie and go as far as to say he was ready for change, using all of his courage to overcome the anxiety that was lingering at the back of his mind, traces of all the years he had to deal with an untreated panic disorder, before finally getting help for it. But he was sure of his decision.

He was lost in his thoughts when a honk broke his trance, followed by a shout coming from the dusty red truck parked on the other side of the street, "Sirius Black?"

"James Potter!" Sirius exclaimed with a grin, recognizing the person he had been communicating with for the past weeks, running over to him.

"Welcome to Frelside!" James replied, reaching to open the passenger door for Sirius to get in, "it's completely different from anything you've ever experienced, you're gonna love it."

"Thank you, James," Sirius chuckled, closing the door after him, feeling more confident with the exciting reception. 

He and James had been exchanging Facebook messages ever since Sirius had spotted a job vacancy at the town's community page.

"Landlord, manager and soon-to-be best friend, if you need anything just let me know!" James had told him on a phone call when Sirius made his decision to move for good, and his support was one of the biggest reasons Sirius felt secure enough to take this step in his life.

The house he was staying at was located at the back of James' family's place. The wooden construction, small and unassuming at first glance, welcomed him with a warm feeling. 

"What is this?" James asked with a chuckle, holding a pair of washed out denim with an embroidery on the back pocket that spelled 'Cowboy pillows' with red thread, causing Sirius to laugh and grab the pants from him, as they unpacked his stuff. 

Having arrived at the town at the early hours of a quiet Sunday, James had decided to spend the day helping Sirius settle down and run some errands around.

"Ma invited you over to eat."

"Really?" Sirius replies to James, getting slightly flustered, "I don't want to bother or anything."

"Please, she loves having people over," James waved, getting out the truck when they arrive at the grocery store, "and she's super excited that we're the same age, thinks I need a new friend now that Lily and Remus are both too busy to come over during the week," he continued, mentioning his friends like their names were supposed to mean something to Sirius, despite him being unfamiliar with them.

They entered the grocery store, and perused the aisles together. James, being the town veteran, effortlessly guided Sirius through the familiar and unfamiliar items on the shelves, most of them being produced locally.

"Lily owns a small organic winery with some of our other friends, and Remus owns the Lupin ranch," James explained, providing some context for his earlier mentions. "They're great folks. You'll meet them and the others soon enough."

Sirius nodded, appreciating the effort James made to include him in the local circle. When they finished their shopping, James directed them to the checkout counter, chatting with the people who greeted them.

Once they were back in the truck, James reassured Sirius, "Ma's gonna love you. She's been looking forward to meeting you ever since I told her you were moving here."

Arriving at the Potter residence, the aroma of a home-cooked meal filled the air, and Sirius couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging.

Euphemia, with a warm smile, gestured for everyone to take their seats. "Sit, sit, Sirius. We're so glad you could join us."

Sirius nodded appreciatively and took a seat beside James, exchanging a glance with his friend. Fleamont, James' father, sat at the head of the table, his presence commanding respect and warmth.

Fleamont extended a welcoming hand to Sirius. "Sirius, James has been singing your praises. We're thrilled to have you here."

The conversation flowed easily as they enjoyed Euphemia's delicious home-cooked meal. Fleamont spoke about the history of the town, sharing some of his memories and stories.

"So, Sirius," Fleamont began, "James tells me you're from the city. What brings you here?"

Sirius, taking a sip of his orange juice, responded, "Needed a change of scenery, and James made it hard to resist the charm of this place."

James grinned, nudging Sirius playfully. "What can I say? Frelside grows on you."

Euphemia chuckled, chiming in, "It has a way of doing that. The people, the sense of community—it's special. Everyone looks out for each other."

They continued their conversation, sharing laughs that filled the room, and Sirius found himself enjoying the company of the Potters, feeling more than grateful for the warmth extended to him on his first day in town.

Before dessert, James interjected, "Oh, Ma, Sirius is even considering learning to ride a horse."

Despite building an entire wardrobe carefully tailored to embody the essence of countryside, Sirius still managed to stand out in the small town while at his new job at the bakery. His unique sense of style was evident from the black boots adorned with a bow on the right foot, a departure from the typical brown, dusty footwear usually seen on others, and his outfits ranged from the classic washed-out denim pants to long skirts and black bell bottoms embroidered with stars at the bottom. 

He also didn't wear a hat, not having found one he considered flattering yet.

His first week in Frelside unfolded with Sirius embracing the charm of the bakery and the welcoming nature of the locals, having his mornings start with a fresh coffee at the Potters, the scent of freshly baked goods and the sound of the countryside stirring to life.

On Tuesday, his second day of work, Mrs. Turner, a regular with a penchant for pies, approached him with a twinkle in her eye. "Sirius, dear, you're not from around here, are you?"

Smiling, Sirius replied, "No, ma'am. Just got here."

Mrs. Turner leaned in conspiratorially, "Well, we'll have to make sure you try the best pie in town. My niece bakes them. I'll bring you a slice tomorrow."

Sirius let out a small chuckle and thanked her, watching as she left the place.

Meanwhile, James, with his cowboy hat– unnecessary to the bakery job, but apparently stuck to his hair; and easy going demeanor, became Sirius's partner in crime behind the counter.

"So, Sirius," James drawled that afternoon, adjusting his hat, "ever ridden a horse before?"

"I can't say I have," Sirius laughed at the sudden question.

"We need to get you on one of our ranch horses sometime," James grinned, casually continuing to his task.

The next day, as they were taking a break outside the bakery, James stepped in with another question and a mischievous look in his eyes.

"Quick question for ya" James began, leaning casually against the wall. "Ever milked a cow?"

Sirius, sipping on his coffee, choked on it, a sudden fit of coughing overtaking him. His eyes widened, and he tried to regain his composure, setting the coffee cup down and gasping for breath. "Uh, no. Why do you ask?"

James grinned, enjoying the opportunity to mess with his city-slicker friend. "Well, you know, it's a common skill around here. Thought I'd check if you're ready to learn."

Sirius chuckled, seeing through James's playful antics. "I might need a crash course in cow milking, then."

James laughed, slapping Sirius on the back. "We can arrange that. Maybe a cow-milking workshop at the ranch."

Sirius rolled his eyes, realizing James was having a bit too much fun at his expense. "You're really committed to turning me into a true cowboy, huh?"

James winked, "Well, you've got the boots and the starry bell bottoms. Now, we just need to work on your cow-milking skills."

Their playful chat continued, with James sharing exaggerated tales of his own early attempts at milking cows and weaving fictional stories of legendary city slickers turned expert cowboys. 

Throughout the week, Sirius found himself engaged in more conversations with the locals. Mr. Higgins, an elderly farmer, shared stories of the town's history, pointing out landmarks and introducing Sirius to the tales that shaped the community, and Mrs. Lewis, a young mother, frequented the bakery with her children, who soon became Sirius's little fans.

On Thursday, the bell above the door chimed repeatedly as customers poured in, while James, ever the multitasker, handed Sirius a tray of freshly baked muffins.

"Try these," James suggested, his eyes sparkling. "Grams' secret recipe. A local favorite."

Every time the pair laughed and exchanged playful jabs, Sirius couldn't help but appreciate the light-hearted friendship that had developed between them. 

Sirius and James were behind the counter, serving up pastries and engaging in light conversation with the locals, when Mrs. Thompson entered, greeting them with a smile.

Sirius promptly handed her a bag of freshly baked muffins, and James seized the opportunity, turning to Sirius with a sly grin, "So, Sirius, ever tried sweetening your coffee with honey instead of sugar?"

Caught off guard, Sirius stopped in his tracks just as James posed the question. The question itself was innocent and it had nothing surprising about it—it was the unexpected and serious tone in which James asked it that got to Sirius, with his lips parted mid-sip, frozen. 

The abrupt comment caught him off guard and suddenly, a wave of laughter erupted from him, causing James to join him with an infectious laughter.

"Seriously, honey in coffee—it's a game-changer."

Those moments filled him with a genuine warmth, nothing like he had ever felt before.

That evening, as they closed up the bakery, James leaned against the counter with a grin. "You seem to be fitting right in. The town's taking a liking to you, I can tell."

Sirius returned the smile, "It's been quite the experience."

On Friday, he was already considered a familiar face behind the counter, with locals accustomed to his distinctive style.

"Morning, Sirius!" Mrs. Thompson greeted him with a warm smile as she entered the bakery. "What's fresh today?"

Sirius pointed to a tray of cinnamon rolls, his personal favorite. "Fresh out of the oven. You won't want to miss them."

The bell above the door jingled, announcing James' arrival with his cowboy hat firmly in place, joining Sirius behind the counter, his boots echoing on the wooden floor along with his typical "Morning, folks! How can we help you today?", proceeding to move effortlessly, almost as if he and Sirius had been around each other for years creating the perfect harmony.

"Sirius, have you tried fishing in the river yet?" Mr. Johnson, a lively retiree, inquired later in the day, "It's a local pastime, you know."

Sirius chuckled, "Not yet, but it's on my list. I've got a lot to catch up on, it seems."

James, overhearing the conversation, chimed in, "We should organize a fishing day soon. What do you think?"

"Yes please," Sirius replied, chuckling at his friend's excitement.

Learning more and more about the local culture, Sirius was informed that Friday and Saturday nights, in particular, were bustling, as farmers flocked to the downtown area for a well-deserved drink after a demanding week of work.

That was clear to him when he got off work only to find the usually-empty streets filled with trucks, a stark contrast to the quietness he had grown accustomed to.

Sirius and James made their way to the local bar, where James planned to introduce Sirius to his friends. 

Walking under the chill night breeze, Sirius paired white cable knit tights with denim shorts, topped with a long dark blue flannel and a sleek black leather jacket complementing his black leather boots, while James remained with the classic blue denim and red flannel duo, along with the light brown hat he wore religiously. 

Upon entering the place, Sirius couldn't help but notice the music. Unlike the clubs he frequented back in the city, the bar was playing the collection of songs that probably inspired Taylor Swift's debut album, and despite not knowing any of the lyrics, James' contagious enthusiasm caused Sirius to nod his head along with the music, embracing the perfect blend of country charm and Friday night revelry.

They spotted James' friends at the back, engaged in a lively game of beer pong. Two duos faced off, with Marlene and Alice on one side, and Mary paired with the famous Lily on the other—according to James, the love of his life. Against the wall, cheering and making bets, were Frank, Peter, Dorcas, and Remus, the latter having his gaze set on Sirius as they approached the group.

James bounced excitedly toward the table, embracing Frank and playfully attempting to steal Peter's hat, before greeting the others with a quick pat on the back and slap on Remus' ass.

"Who's winning?" James inquired, directing his question to the group.

"Marlene and Alice, obviously," Dorcas replied, earning an irritated look from Lily, who huffed before witnessing another point scored by the opposing team.

"Drink it up, Evans," Remus chuckled, drawing Sirius' attention. "Ay, Potter, found a lost lamb on the way here?"

"Are you sure this isn't one of yours, Lupin?" Frank added, addressing the way Sirius' eyes were set on Remus. Sirius blushed at the comment, quickly redirecting his eyes to James.

"Is this the city guy you mentioned?" Marlene asked James, winking at Sirius. "Cat got your tongue?"

"Oh," Sirius snapped out of his trance, "I'm Sirius, Sirius Black," he replied with a small grin, feeling Remus' stare still on him.

"Sirius is staying at the Haven and helping out at the bakery," James explained, throwing an arm around Sirius' shoulder.

"Responsible for the chickens then, is he?" Peter teased, leaving Sirius bewildered.

"Not yet," James chuckled, "Ma said he should start slow."

"Euphie didn't act like that when it was me working there," Mary complained jokingly, reminiscing about her time at the Potter's bakery during their school years.

"Poor McDonald," Remus retorted mockingly. "The kid probably never touched an animal in his life; you grew up with the chicks."

"Oh, I sure did," Mary replied smugly, throwing a wink at her game partner, while Sirius watched, amazed by the dynamic within the group.

"So, where did James find you?" Alice asked him, leaving the game to approach her boyfriend, Frank.

"Facebook," Sirius answered. "Well, actually, I found him."

"A lifesaver!" James exclaimed. "Posted the job ad, and bam! Got his message."

"You make it sound like I was stalking you," Sirius chuckled, hearing Peter mockingly mimic his accent.

"Are you planning to stay for long?" Lily asked, approaching him and James with a kind smile.

"I hope so," Sirius replied, looking flustered. "Didn't exactly buy a ticket back," he added, noticing the group raise an eyebrow at him.

"Well," Frank said, "Let's toast for the new guy then."

"I'll get more drinks," Remus offered, having finished his beer.

"I'll help you," Sirius said, following him to the bar.

"Beer for you too?" Remus asked, standing at the bar.

"Just water, please," Sirius answered quietly. He noticed Remus's weirded-out look but nodded and ordered a beer for the group and a glass of water for Sirius.

"So, Sirius Black from the city," Remus began, a wry smile playing on his lips, his cowboy hat tipped slightly to the side while leaned casually against the counter, wearing a thin gray knitted sweater that seemed to highlight the contours of his figure, studying Sirius with a playful glint in his hazel eyes. "What brings you to our quiet little town?"

Sirius, feeling just slightly out of place, matched Remus's gaze and grinned, "Wanted some change, and Frelside seemed like a good fit. Who could resist the charm of a small town?"

Remus chuckled. "Charm, huh? It's a different kind of charm compared to the city lights, I reckon."

Sirius nodded, "Seems much simpler than all the hustle and bustle of the city."

Remus arched an eyebrow, "Simple? I'm not sure you know what you're getting into, city boy."

Sirius chuckled, realizing that his city-boy status might be a recurring theme in the new location. "Well," he retorted with a smirk, "I've always been up for a challenge. And I do have James to show me the ropes."

Remus laughed, "Ah, James Potter. Good ol' country boy. He's got a heart as big as the sky."

Sirius chuckled, "Yeah, he's been great so far. I'm still getting used to the whole cowboy thing, though."

Remus leaned in a bit closer, his eyes twinkling, "Well, you've got the boots for it, and a touch of city flair. It's a good mix."

“Thank you for your approval, Mr. Lupin” 

 “Nah, drop the last name, friends just call me Remus.” 

“So we're friends already?” Sirius asked in a smooth voice.

“We can be anything you want, love,” Remus replied, keeping his gaze, a smug look taking over face, seeing the red tint on Sirius’ cheek.

The silence was broken by the bartender with their drinks, in which they gathered before heading back to the group, James being the first to notice their return, moving to the twang of country music in the background.

"Look who decided to join us again!" James exclaimed, raising an eyebrow at Remus and Sirius, who distributed the glasses to the rest.

Their conversation paused momentarily, and Remus raised his beer, offering a friendly toast, "To new beginnings, Sirius. May your time here be filled with good company and the joys of our beautiful town."

Sirius clinked his glass against Remus's, a genuine smile on his face. "To new beginnings."

Laughter soon erupted from the group, and they began exchanging banter and stories, Lily, with a playful smirk, being the first to tease Sirius about his city roots.

"So, Sirius," Lily began, "Have you ever ridden before?"

“A horse or a cowboy?” Sirius, not missing a beat, replied, drawing a collective chuckle from the group, "I've ridden a carousel at the mall once, if that counts."

Peter burst into laughter, and even Remus couldn't help but to roll his eyes. "You'll fit right in, city slicker," Peter quipped.

As the night progressed, Remus found himself stealing glances at Sirius, his hazel eyes carrying a subtle, flirty undertone. Sirius, catching Remus's gaze, felt a warmth in his cheeks but returned the flirtatious look with a playful twinkle in his eyes.

The group soon decide to participate in a horseshoe tossing game, Alice and Marlene being challenged by Frank and Dorcas, eager to dethrone the pair.

"Prepare to be defeated!" Frank declared, twirling a horseshoe in his hand for emphasis.

Marlene raised an eyebrow, smirking, "You wish, Frank. Alice, show 'em how it's done."

Meanwhile, Lily sidled up to James and Sirius, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "So, Sirius, any hidden talents we should know about?"

Sirius grinned, "Well, aside from mastering the art of ordering takeout, I'm open to suggestions."

Lily chuckled, "You might need to learn a line dance or two to survive around here."

"I've been told I'm a good dancer before, maybe if I get a good teacher," Sirius smirked, throwing a quick subtle glance at Remus.

The playful chat continued, with Peter and Remus taking turns entertaining the group sharing stories from their adventures on the ranch. Peter, with animated gestures, recounted the time James narrowly escaped a feisty stag when they were younger, while Remus told the tale of a daring rescue mission involving a runaway calf.

While they were telling their stories, Lily leaned over to Mary, whispering conspiratorially, "Did you see the way Remus is looking at Sirius?"

Mary chuckled, "Oh, please! Don't start with the matchmaking, Lily."

Remus, catching wind of their conversation, joined in with a mock glare. "What's this? Gossiping about me, are we?"

Lily winked, "Just observing the dynamics, cowboy."

Remus rolled his eyes, but the corners of his lips curled into a faint smile. 

Frank and Dorcas managed to clinch a victory in the horseshoe tossing game, earning cheers and applause from the group, before they decided to move to a quieter corner outside of the bar, away from the horseshoe pit, to exchange their goodbyes and promises to meet up again soon.

Remus, walking beside Sirius, couldn't resist a final teasing comment, "Looks like you've earned the title of honorary cowboy for the night."

Sirius smirked, "Barely, but I'll be back for more."

"I must say, it's been a pleasure getting to know you," Remus said, his tone carrying a hint of sincerity.

Sirius smiled, "Likewise. Maybe you can teach me a thing or two while I'm here."

"I'd be happy to," Remus grinned, dipping his head, his eyes never leaving Sirius' gaze as the brim of his worn Stetson hat tipped downward, "until next time, city boy."

Sirius rejoined James, and they began making their way back together under the crisp night air, Sirius glancing back for a moment, catching Remus's eyes one last time.

Sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the wooden walls and on his bed frame the next morning. 

Disoriented and still half-asleep, Sirius heard a persistent knocking on his window, causing him to groggily stumble toward the source of the noise, and upon opening the window, he was met with the sight of James, standing outside with a mischievous grin.

"Rise and shine, city boy! We've got places to be," James announced, his cowboy hat shading his eyes from the morning sun.

Rubbing his eyes, Sirius squinted at James. "What's the emergency, James?"

"No emergency, just a little adventure planned. Get dressed, and I'll meet you outside," James replied, the corners of his lips twitching with a playful smirk.

Taking a glance at his wardrobe after a hasty shower, Sirius opted for a more laid-back look, choosing a pair of faded denim, a band T-shirt, and his now signature boots. His dark hair, tousled from sleep, fell in loose waves contouring his cheekbones.

Outside, James was leaning against his trusty truck, dressed in a classic cowboy attire—a well-worn brown button-up shirt, jeans, and a pair of scuffed brown cowboy boots. His cowboy hat sat atop his head at a jaunty angle, completing the look.

"Finally decided to join the land of the living." James teased, pushing away from the truck.

Sirius shot him a mock glare. "You know, some of us appreciate the beauty of a good sleep-in."

"Sure, sure," James chuckled. "But today, my friend, we've got a date with the great outdoors. "

Sirius shook his head, intrigued. "What's the plan?"

James clapped him on the shoulder, guiding him toward the truck. "Remus invited us for a barbecue at the ranch. It's a tradition around here. You'll love it."

A subtle flush colored Sirius's cheeks at the mention of Remus. The blonde-haired cowboy had caught his eye the night before at the bar, and the simple memory of Remus, with his cheeks flushed from the beer, casually taking the sweater off to reveal just a white T-shirt, was enough to cause him a sudden thrill.

"Remus's ranch, huh?" Sirius replied, trying to sound unbothered, despite the butterflies in his stomach. 

Sirius still couldn't shake the image of Remus from his thoughts while James drove through the winding roads, his mind going back to the cowboy's easy smile, the way he moved with an effortless grace, and the beautiful shade of his eyes.

"So, what's Remus like?" Sirius finally asked.

James grinned, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh, you know, just the most charming cowboy this town has ever seen. Rumor has it, he can tame wolves with a single glance."

"I'm sure he can," Sirius rolled his eyes, catching onto James's playful tone. "just wanted to know if he's a decent guy."

"Decent? Remus is more than decent. He's the reason half the town is in a perpetual good mood." James laughed as the truck rolled through the roads, the gentle hum of the engine and the rustle of the wind through open windows creating a comforting soundtrack. 

Sirius sat in the passenger seat, taking in the scenery that unfolded before him—endless fields painted with the golden hues of the afternoon sun, and the occasional ranch house nestled among the trees. He couldn't help but marvel at the vastness of the landscape. "It's beautiful out here," he remarked.

James nodded, a grin playing on his lips. "You get used to it, city boy. But yeah, it's something special. Clears the mind, you know?"

Sirius leaned back, absorbing the tranquility of the countryside. "I can see that."

"How's the small-town life treating you so far?"

Sirius grinned, "Well, it's definitely different. But in a good way. People here are friendly."

"Good to hear," James said, his eyes focused on the road. "And hey, don't worry too much about fitting in. You're doing just fine with your special charm."

"Is that a compliment?" Sirius laughed.

James smirked, "Take it however you want, but it's working. Folks like having you around."

As they approached Remus's ranch, the landscape shifted to rolling hills and open pastures. The rustic charm of his house came into view, and Sirius couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement mingled with a touch of nerves.

The truck pulled up to the ranch, and Remus, already aware of their arrival, waved at them with a friendly smile. He was dressed in a tightly fitting denim button-up that complemented his jeans, making Sirius' heart skip a beat.

Sirius stepped out of the truck, and he couldn't shake off a mix of anticipation and curiosity. 

"James, I see you brought the city boy," Remus greeted, his hazel eyes meeting Sirius'. 

"Had to drag him outta bed," James replied, walking over to his friend. "The others arrived already?"

"At the balcony," Remus replied, motioning towards the house, the sounds of laughter emerging from the porch.

"Nice," James nodded, eyeing the pair with a smirk, slowly taking a few steps back to leave them by themselves and go meet the others. He winked at Sirius, giving him a silent encouragement before leaving. 

"Hi," both of them blurted at the same time, causing them to chuckle. The shared laughter broke the initial awkwardness.

"Hey," Sirius replied, looking around with his hands in his pockets, feeling a blush increase on his cheeks. 

"I was wondering if you wanted to look around," Remus asked, "Get to know the place and all."

"I'd love that," Sirius smiled at him. 

They strolled through the ranch, and Remus became a storyteller, pointing out various facts about the land. He led Sirius to the old barn, its weathered red paint telling tales of decades gone by. "This barn has seen it all," he explained, his voice carrying a nostalgic tone. "It's where we gather for parties, get-togethers or sometimes just to watch the storm roll in."

They walked past a pond, wandered through clusters of trees, and Sirius watched as Remus' expression softened while moving around the place, he found himself captivated not only by the beauty of the ranch but also by Remu's passion for it. 

Their conversation flowed effortlessly, and Sirius and Remus returned to the gathering on the balcony not even noticing the time that had passed. 

As they approached, the others turned their attention toward the pair, curiosity and friendly smiles evident on their faces.

"We were starting to wonder if you two got lost in the wild," Marlene announced, a teasing glint in her eyes.

Sirius chuckled, "Nah, just taking in the sights with Remus here. The ranch is something else."

Remus nodded in agreement, "Always a pleasure showing folks around. Get them acquainted with the heart of the place."

Mary, standing by the porch railing with a glass in hand, raised an eyebrow playfully. "Heart of the place or heart of the cowboy giving the tour?"

Remus blushed ever so slightly, the corners of his lips quirking up. "Maybe a bit of both."

The afternoon went by, with the laughter and food spread out on the balcony distracting the group while the sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm glow over them.

"Anyone up for a bonfire later?" Frank suggested, earning enthusiastic nods from the group.

"Sounds like a plan," James agreed, shooting a quick glance at Sirius. "What do you think, city boy? Ready for a Frelside-style bonfire?"

Sirius grinned, "Absolutely."

Soon the group separated, and Sirius and Remus found themselves side by side, preparing for the evening.

Remus, with a playful smirk, nudged Sirius with his elbow. "You're not too shabby with that ax, city boy. Ever done this back home?"

Sirius chuckled, relishing the friendly banter. "Can't say I've had the pleasure. But I'm a quick learner, especially when there's a charming cowboy giving me tips."

Remus raised an eyebrow, his eyes sparkling. Their playful exchange continued as they gathered firewood, the subtle touches and lingering glances bringing them closer together.

"So, Remus, any secret cowboy skills you're hiding from me?" Sirius teased, a playful smirk on his face.

"Well, I can lasso a hay bale like nobody's business," Remus chuckled, tossing a log onto the growing pile, "but don't worry, no wild animal will catch you around here."

Sirius laughed. "Shame, I was hoping for a demonstration."

Back inside the house, they began preparing snacks for the bonfire, and Sirius found himself mesmerized by Remus' cooking skills and the effortless way he moved in the white-bricked kitchen.

"Do you do this often?" Sirius asked, watching Remus expertly slice vegetables next to the sink, beneath the window.

Remus shrugged with a grin. "You learn to cook when takeout isn't an option. Besides, nothing better than a meal made from scratch."

Sirius nodded, impressed. "I can barely manage a decent omelet."

Remus handed him a chopping board and a knife. "Well, lucky for you, I'm here to guide you through the culinary wilderness. We'll make a chef out of you."

Remus' gentle touches, when handing Sirius ingredients or accidentally brushing against him, sent a shiver through Sirius, a red flush coloring his cheeks. 

"Careful with that," Remus mentioned, handing Sirius a vibrant red pepper. "We don't want the salsa to burn us all."

"A little heat can be a good thing," Sirius smirked, his eyes meeting Remus', "adds character."

"Character, yeah right," Remus chuckled, his gaze lingering for a moment. Sirius couldn't help laughing, watching as Remus leaned against the kitchen counter, a playful glint in his eyes. 

They continued preparing the snacks, with their movements becoming synchronized, and their playful exchanges escalating.

"Do cowboys make guacamole, or is that too sophisticated?" Sirius teased, holding up an avocado.

Remus raised an eyebrow, feigning offense. "Sophisticated? You underestimate our culinary skills. We're more than just beans and cornbread."

"Oh, I'm sorry, Chef Lupin," Sirius grinned, scooping out the avocado, "teach me your guacamole secrets then."

Remus rolled his eyes, before stepping closer, "first secret: the fresher, the better. Second secret: a dab of delight."

Sirius laughed, appreciating the flirtatious undertone. "You sure are a delight, Chef."

"Why, thank you, kind sir." Remus shot him a playful wink, before standing behind him and placing his hands on top of Sirius', their fingers interlocking. 

"Start with the tomatoes," he instructed, his breath brushing against Sirius's ear. "We want a combination of chunky and finely diced. Feel the rhythm of the knife, let it dance."

When Sirius began to cut the tomatoes, Remus's hands moved over his, subtly adjusting the angle and pressure.

"Good," Remus whispered, his voice a soothing presence. "Now, the onions. Keep it steady."

Remus's hands continued to guide Sirius', feeling the warmth of each other's touch.

"Peppers next," Remus murmured, his closeness creating an intimate atmosphere. "We want a bit of heat, but nothing overwhelming. Let your instincts guide you."

While Sirius diced the peppers, Remus's hands remained on top of his.

Sirius could warmth of Remus' hands against his own, as they added the final ingredients, and began stirring the mixture.

When finishing the dish, Remus stepped back to grab a tray, ready to be taken outside, and Sirius caught Remus looking at him intently, before they left to join their friends.

They sat in front of the lit bonfire, watching as the rest of the group finished their own preparations. 

James and Lily worked on setting up the seating area, bringing blankets and cushions from the house, while Marlene and Alice served their refreshments, their laughter echoing through the air.

Peter and Frank, with hands full of marshmallows and chocolate, engaged in a mock argument about the proper way to make s'mores, while Dorcas and Mary observed the scene with amusement.

"Alright, who's ready for some s'mores perfection?" Frank called out, holding up his marshmallow-roasting stick.

"I still say you're doing it wrong," Peter retorted, a playful glint in his eye.

Sirius and Remus found themselves stealing glances all throughout the night, sitting closer and closer to each other as the time went on.

"Alright, let's hear it," Marlene said, her eyes gleaming mischievously. "Who's got a good ghost story?"

James grinned, ready to entertain. "Oh, I've got one. It happened right here a few moons ago.."

Sirius felt a gentle touch on his thigh while listening to his friend's spinning tale, until Remus leaned closer, silently inviting him for a walk away from the group. 

Taking advantage of the group being focused on James' story, they discreetly separated and ventured into the field, leaving the flickering light of the bonfire behind.

Away from the group, Sirius learned more about Remus who, in return, was also intrigued by Sirius' life.

"So, what's the biggest adjustment so far?" Remus asked, intertwining their fingers as they walked.

Sirius pondered the question for a moment before answering, "I'd say the quiet nights. Back in the city, there was always some noise—cars, people, music. Here, it's a different kind of quiet, too quiet... it takes some getting used to."

Remus nodded in understanding, his gaze meeting Sirius's. "You'll get used to it," he reassured.

"What's your favorite thing about living out here?"

Remus smiled, his gaze moving to the starlit horizon. "Life is slower, I suppose, you get to appreciate the little things a bit better."

Sirius nodded, absorbing Remus's words. "I'm starting to see the appeal."

Remus chuckled, their hands still gently intertwined. "Nature has its own way of keeping you on your toes."

The magnetic pull between them grew stronger with each step taken, and when they reached the peak of a small hill, with the vast expanse of the starry sky stretched out above them, Remus turned to face Sirius, reaching to tuck a strand of hair behind his ear.

Curiosity flickered in Sirius' eyes as Remus gently cupped his face.

The silence between them was charged with anticipation, and then, as if an unspoken agreement had been reached, their lips met in a tender kiss. 

When they finally pulled back, Remus wrapped his arms around Sirius, looking up at the sky above them, and the constellations that adorned the night.

There was one in particular that held a special place in his heart, and fate, it seemed, had brought it closer to him.

"Sirius," Remus murmured, pointing to the constellation "has always been my lucky star."