Happy birthday
“Regulus!” James’ voice echoes through the corridor. It was late afternoon, and classes were already over so he was planning to spend the rest of the day in the library.
“Potter.” Regulus turns around sighting. James stops in front of him, his hand behind his back, smiling. It takes willpower for Regulus not to stare at his lips. “Do you need something?”
“Happy birthday,” James says softly. Well, Regulus certainly wasn’t expecting this.
“How-“ Regulus is about to ask. He never told anyone at Hogwarts. So, the only way James knows is… He narrows his eyes “That little snitch. Sirius told you.”
James nods sheepishly. “You don’t celebrate your birthday?”
“No,” Regulus answers shortly.
“Why?” James looks truly sad. Like it was the biggest tragedy.
Because at least this way I don't have to watch them forget about it. He thinks but instead says “It’s not a big deal. Just a regular day as any other.” He shrugs.
“Oh, if you prefer it this way,” James says, and no Regulus does not prefer it this way. He would love to celebrate his birthday, with his friends and his brother. But it was never an option. His parents used his birthday to have dinner with important people focusing on politics instead of their son. And in Hogwarts Regulus just resignated. Even though he watched others have a nice lunch or small party with a longing look in his eyes, he never asked for his own celebration.
“Anyway, I got you something.” James smiles again and hands Regulus a package wrapped in green wrapping paper with a silver ribbon.
“You got me a present?” Regulus breathes out in awe. He certainly did not expect this. Regulus talks to Sirius’ friends from time to time. But he didn’t think they cared about him. He was just the little brother of their best friend, nothing more.
“Of course, I did!” James grins but then his smile falls slightly. Regulus immediately wants to destroy anything that makes James’ smile waver. “I… Sirius told me just two days ago, so I didn’t have much time. It’s not anything special, but…” He gestures to the package.
Oh, if this boy only knew how much it means to Regulus that he got a present. And specially from James, the boy who he is pining about for ages. Regulus carefully unties the ribbon and unwraps the paper. Inside is a black notebook with gold ornaments drawn on it. Next to it is a matching calligraphy set. It’s beautiful.
He looks up to see James nervously watching his reaction. And for once Regulus lets himself to be happy. He smiles at James. “Thank you, it’s great. I really like it.” He shifts his gaze back to the gift nervously, because James is watching him earnestly, and he is too close, and Regulus wants him. He always wants him.
“I’m glad you like it. So, happy birthday Reg. You were walking somewhere, so I don't want to keep you. See you around, yeah?” James says.
Regulus nods. “Yeah, see you around.” James lingers at the same spot for a moment longer, but when none of them say anything more he turns around and starts walking away.
“James?” Regulus calls for him before he can stop himself. The boy in question turns around with a bright smile. “Thank you.”
Regulus was never into birthday wishes. It was silly in his eyes and never came true. But maybe this year he can allow himself to wish for one thing or more precisely one person. He closes his eyes and makes his wish.