Before he wakes up
James blinks the sleep away as he tries to read the time from the alarm clock. Why do they have to make it so small? He gives up and blindly reaches out to the nightstand so he can put his glasses on. It’s only seven in the morning. Though he is not surprised. James was always an early bird. It comes from the habit of years and years of morning practises.
Regulus, on the other hand, is definitely not. The boy is fast asleep next to him. He is lying on his side facing James, with hands folded in front of his face. He looks absolutely adorable like this. Innocent and soft. James can’t hold himself and he reaches out intertwining their fingers. To his absolute delight, Regulus tightens his grip on James in reflex and he pulls their linked hands to his cheek snuggling close.
James likes the fact he always wakes up early when it gives him the chance to watch his boyfriend sleep. Regulus is beautiful. James can see his bare shoulders rise and fall with every breath he takes. A blanket hugging the curves of his body. The soft smile on his lips and calm expression, like nothing bad ever happened. It’s just two of them tucked in the calm bubble before real life can get in the way.
James spends an hour just watching him grateful he is lucky enough to witness Regulus like this, before the boy starts stirring in his sleep.
“You are staring at me, James,” Regulus whispers without opening his eyes. James wonders how he knows.
“Well, you can’t blame me. You are beautiful.” James admits. He can see the blush creep to Regulus’ cheeks. He tries to hide his face in the pillow, but James is faster. He presses himself against the boy, feeling his hot skin on his. He grabs Regulus’ chin with his free hand urging him to look up.
The grey eyes are soft when they land on James. Everything about Regulus is soft in the morning. James kisses him slowly and without purpose stealing the breath from Regulus. “Absolutely stunning.” He whispers between them.