Chapter 17
James doesn’t necessarily like working nights.
It fucks with his sleep schedule, ruins his perception of time and prevents him from having a social life. As an Auror, night shifts are a necessary evil and there’s no way around it, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t suck.
Luckily, it’s not all bad. Because even though there’s many downsides to being on duty at three in the morning, there’s nothing he loves more than coming home to a sleepy Regulus.
When he opens the door to their bedroom, he’s met by a warm glow of light. Regulus always leaves on one of their nightlights when he knows James will be home late. It’s those little things that leave him feel warm and giddy, even after all those years.
Regulus lies curled up under the blanket. His hair’s a mess and he’s wearing one of the old band tees James has lying around. He could stand there for hours and just watch him, all comfortable and relaxed in their bed.
But James is tired, so he decided to join him instead. He turns off the light and carefully slips under the covers as well, trying to be as stealthy as he possibly can, but it’s no use. Regulus stirs and opens one eye.
“James…”
His voice is heavy and hoarse. He’s barely awake, but he still reaches out, immediately wrapping one arm around James’ waist. He smiles and presses a loving kiss to the top of Regulus’ head.
“Hi love.” He whispers. “I’m home.”
Regulus hums contently and buries his face in James’ chest, fingers curling into the back of his shirt. Within minutes, his breathing evens out and he’s drifted off to sleep once again.
James holds him and listens to his soft snores with an enamoured smile on his face.
He’ll never get sick of this.