Snowflakes and Whispers of Love
The snow began to fall gently, casting a soft blanket over the Christmas market. James and Regulus, now bundled up in scarves and gloves, made their way to an open area where families were building snowmen. The pristine snow beckoned them to join in the festive fun.
James scooped up a handful of snow and playfully tossed it at Regulus, who dodged with an amused smirk. "Watch it, Potter. I'm not in the mood for a snowball fight."
Chuckling, James bent down and started shaping the snow into a small mound. "No snowball fight, then. How about we build the most epic snowman this market has ever seen?"
Regulus arched an eyebrow but knelt down beside James. As they worked together, their laughter echoed through the winter air. James couldn't help but admire the way Regulus' features softened in the glow of the snow-covered surroundings.
They meticulously crafted the snowman, with James providing an animated commentary about the snowman's imaginary adventures. Regulus, despite his initial resistance, couldn't help but get into the spirit of it all. Soon, they had a snowman complete with a scarf, a carrot nose, and coal eyes.
As they stood back to admire their creation, James couldn't resist reaching over and flicking a bit of snow off Regulus' shoulder. Regulus shot him a mock glare but didn't protest.
"Now, for the finishing touch," James declared, a mischievous glint in his eyes. He reached over and plucked a bit of snow from Regulus' hair, eliciting a surprised gasp.
Regulus scowled, but there was a playful glimmer in his eyes. "Potter, if you ruin my hair, I swear—"
Before he could finish his threat, James playfully adorned the snowman with the snowy treasure he had taken from Regulus' hair. "There we go! Now our snowman has a piece of you too."
Regulus sighed in mock exasperation, but there was a softness in his expression that James cherished. They lingered there for a moment, the snow gently falling around them, creating a serene and magical atmosphere.
As they continued their stroll through the market, hand in hand, James couldn't help but marvel at the way Regulus seemed to thaw a little more with each passing moment. The occasional sarcastic remark was accompanied by a fond smile, and James found himself falling even more deeply in love.
They approached a stall selling hot cocoa, and James couldn't resist buying two steaming cups. As they sipped the warm drinks, Regulus glanced at James with a hint of gratitude in his eyes.
"Alright, Potter," he said, his tone softer than usual. "I suppose this Christmas market of yours isn't entirely terrible."
James grinned, savoring the victory. "Told you it would grow on you, love. Now, what's next on our winter adventure?"
Regulus smirked, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "You'll see, Potter. You'll see."