#leydileyla's 1k writing challenge

[sirisuorionblack]

Forced

(Sirius Black x Fem!Reader)

Summary - Being in an arranged marriage with a Black was something you considered your doom, but when it is Sirius Black it wasnt a doom rather a portal to such a beautiful life you never knew you would have.

Warning - toxic household. I really dont know, please let me know if anything.

A/N   Ahhh this is the longest one shot I have written and something that been in my mind for sooo long and I think it came out quite alright. And Sirius might be a bit OOC in this. It was for @leydileyla‘s 1K celebration. Congrats once again! Have a great read!

Blacks, just as their name suggested were often considered, in the belief of the orthodox, bad. However, many were fond of it, wishing to be a part of the most respected family of the Sacred 28 but Sirius Black was never proud of his surname. 

He hoped and wished day and night for somehow the name to vanish and he never - as opposed to his mother’s dreams - wanted to expand the Black “family”. He never wanted to marry. Never wanted anyone else to bear the name because of him and to the contrary of many beliefs he felt bad for who he was to marry.

The hatred he had for the name just grew when he found out he was betrothed, not by his parents, not by his brother but by the cousin who was disowned. Oh, how much he wished he ran away when he got the time rather than staying back just for his baby brother, enduring all the tortures.

At the ripe age of 19, when he was supposed to be out enjoying his life with the perks of being a young adult rather shut into his room, helpless and enraged by being betrothed.

Sirius twisted the platinum ring on his finger, sitting in the confinement of his room. Sure, it wasn’t the engagement ring but it was the one James Potter had brought him for the graduation. The words, ‘Padfoot’ was engraved into the thick ring. The letters barely visible but it meant the world to him. Everything about it was special to him.

“Brother,” He heard the door squeak shut. He could see the polished shoes of Regulus through the corner of his eyes. Without looking up from his ring nor stopping his actions, he asked, irritatedly, “What is it now?”

“M-mother is calling you,” He could hear the tightness in his brother’s voice, his heart clenched but was immediately engulfed in the thought that Regulus knew about this and never uttered a word to him.

“Tell her I will come,” He said shortly.

“Sirius-”

“Just go, Regulus,” He had never called him by his full name, it was always “Reg” or “Reggie” no matter what.

“Oh,” The boy stared at Sirius for a second before rushing out of the room, knowing the tears in his eyes would drop.

Sirius flopped back onto his bed, staring at the ceiling. He was mad, mad at everyone but you. He had never seen you before, never heard of you. It was bewildering at first how his mother agreed on this but it dissipated when he learned this…commitment could increase the international bonds.

Groaning, he stood up, straightening his always formal attire, ruffling his hair and left downstairs. “Good evening, Mother,” He said, bitterly.

“Oh, here you are, finally,” She said irritatedly but did nothing other than standing up from her study desk, giving a sideways glance to her husband who sat ignorantly with a newspaper in front of him. 

“Stop shouting,” His mother hissed, letting out a sharp breath she continued in her cold voice, “Since the marriage is on the day after tomorrow I would expect you to have a good rest, and not do any of your usual shenanigans. Do not let the Blacks down, Sirius,” 

A hanger was placed on the handle of a cupboard she was walking to, the clothing hung on it was completely covered. Sirius hoped it wasn’t what he thought it would be. “Since the marriage will be held on the day after tomorrow-”

”The day after tomorrow!?!” Sirius yelled. 

She wore a sweet smile as she saw Sirius’ gritted teeth and clenched fingers. She strode towards him with elegance, the one thing he actually admired in his mother ever since he was a child. She was the most elegant woman he had ever seen in his life however he despised the act of elegance. 

Her fingers adjusted his clothes and straightened his hair. With the same cold stare and the contrasting smile, she said, “You cannot escape this, Sirius, it’s important for us. I’d better hope you can behave properly,” 

She looked at him for a word of confirmation. Sirius didn’t look at her in the eyes, didn’t let his jaws and fingers relax. He felt like a black sheep, the odd one, as he stood rooted to his spot, his father’s eyes too turned towards him. 

His mother squeezed his arm, “Sirius,”

“Yes, mother,” He said, venom spilling out of his words. 

His mother smiled, “Go to your room now,” 

And like a puppet, Sirius left to his room without another word. Once back into his bright coloured room, he threw his wand onto the bed after casting a silencing charm and sat on the side of his bed, rocking himself. The grip on the mattress of his bed just grew tighter the more he thought of what happened. 

Sirius’ breath came out ragged as his fingers clutched his hair. He screamed. He screamed loud and in agony. All the tears he had within him burst out of his eyes as angry ones. He slammed his hands against the mattress as he stopped screaming but the tears didn’t, neither did his breathing calm down. 

He looked at himself in the mirror and saw a vulnerable boy. That’s what he was, still a boy and within the span of the next 72 hours, he would be a husband to a girl he had never seen. He could see the tears tracks in his eyes and he wondered what was your situation, he somehow, hoped you would be alright. 

And you weren’t in a better situation either. Ever since your elder sister ran away from the house - lucky her - and got disowned, you knew all had come onto your shoulders now. With your little brother by your side, you had discreetly heard the talk about the marriage with a Black. Your whole world collapsed, your dreams of becoming an Auror shattered into millions of pieces. You could remember your little brother’s grip on your hand tightening and his eyes watching you crash onto the floor.

Of course, you couldn’t run away as your sister did. Your parents were trained enough to not let you go; holding you onto their side with a firm, bruising grip and sweet smile.

Two days before the wedding you had laid on your bed, letting out all the tears that welled inside your eyes, threatening to spill out before your brother. You sobbed, curling into a fetal position, feeling as if the world was against you. A marriage with a guy you had never seen in your life before, for all you knew he could be in his fifties, with all the potbelly and a pureblood racist, an arrogant sexist or, perhaps, a foolish narcissist.

You had wiped your tears recalling the words of your mother “do not cry and make that pretty face of yours ugly.”

Two days, just two days and then your whole world will come crumbling down in the hands of a Black. But some instinct inside your proclaimed perhaps he was just in as bad as a position as you. Maybe, he was forced too, you hoped he did never wanting to hate a person so much in your life.

Sirius could remember the tantrum he threw two days ago so vividly as he stood at the altar, waiting for you to walk in. Playing with the ring James had given him, never looking at anyone, not the subtlest smile on his face. He could feel the stare of his brother but he wouldn’t dare to look. 

The Blacks were fancy and dramatic. Everything surrounding him was expensive and valuable, too grand for his liking. He hated this, hated owning anyone, hated to think of what his mother and cousins would do to the girl, hated the bond he would create by the marriage, and despised that he was 19 and married in a few hours.

Sirius sighed, having almost all the eyes on him until soft music played. The eyes (including Sirius’ own) were now on the other end of the aisle, where you stood, your arm around your father’s, a stoic look on your face as your father’s eyes gleamed in the joy of finally being able to have a close tie with the Black family.

Your breath hitched as you saw the boy on the opposite end of the aisle. Yes, he was a boy, looking barely older than you. Your first assumption of him was wrong. He wasn’t a man in his fifties with a potbelly rather he was a handsome young man, with shoulder-length, luscious hair and sparkling grey eyes he was the definition of divine beauty and if were any other circumstance than being in an arranged marriage with him, you definitely would have admired it. The rest of your assumptions still hold you back from having a clear picture of him, you couldn't judge by his appearance, after all.

“Smile,” your father mumbled, as he walked forward. You hated having a fake smile, believing it was like an open book for anyone to read but here you were giving the fakest smile ever as you walked to your doom with the cause right by your side, guiding you.

Your father nodded at the boy - Sirius (you gained enough privilege to know his name) - and placed your hand forward for him to take into his hold. He hesitated to take your hand, a glance into your eyes and with gritted teeth, he held your hand.

Sirius had to resist the urge to sigh as he took your hand in his. Oh, what sin had he committed by trapping the most beautiful girl he had seen in his life into the mess of his…family.

Most of what you had seen in usual marriages were skipped, this was new and different. And then, it was time to exchange the rings. Sirius had the ring so close to your finger but never put them on your finger. He stared into your eyes, apologetic and scared. He knew what he was doing by putting them on.

He felt a presence beside him and saw your mother next to you and knew who was standing by him. He felt his mother’s sharp nails squeeze his biceps as she said, “Put the ring on, Sirius,”

He didn’t do it, never looked away from your eyes even when the pressure on his bicep increased, he would feel the worst if he did it. “Sirius,” he could feel his mother’s anger rising and if he could apparate he would have done it, get you and him as away from the place as possible but this was a marriage connecting the Blacks and (L/N)s, two most powerful families, they wouldn't let that happen.

Sirius looked extremely guilty and for a minute you believed perhaps he wasn’t that bad, perhaps this would be alright, that you could trust him. And then he did it, the guilty look remaining on his eyes as he slipped the ring into your finger and he watched as your shoulders dropped, tears welling up your eyes and never spilling. 

Sirius Black felt like a monster.

The two of you, after the ceremony, were asked to share your first dance, and you obliged feeling lost and given up. What did you have to fight for now? Nothing, nothing at all. Not your brother in the clutch of his best friend, not your sister who hadn't bothered to send a letter, definitely not your parents and you. You scoffed when you thought of it. Fight for yourself? What a foolish thought!

In the middle of the wide dance floor, Sirius had his hands placed elegantly on your waist, yours on his shoulder. You never looked at him, your eyes either set on some spot, idly, behind him or ducked down, on his plain white shirt underneath the black tux that gave him a malicious look.

“I am sorry,” those were the first words Sirius ever spoke to you. You shook your head lightly, dismissing his apology, “I really am,” he said again.

“It's alright,” you said, softly and what a beautiful voice you had. The overflowing guilt in Sirius’ chest would never subside as watched your eyes skim behind him. The two of you were surrounded by a thick air of melancholy while everyone around you seemed to be engulfed in joy leaving you two to feel like mere objects used for exchange.

“Would you ever forgive me for what I have done?” he asked. Now, Sirius was never one to let the feeling of guilt be ignored, he had to act on it as soon as possible or it would eat him up bit by bit until he was no more than a little, lost child unknown of what to do next and shedding tears like waterfalls.

You chuckled humourlessly and Sirius couldn’t explain the feeling in his heart as though a huge knife was pierced right into his heart. “What did you do wrong for me to forgive you?”

Sirius gulped, he didn’t have the answer for it but he didn't want the conversation to stop, “If it was me, you wouldn’t have gotten married,”

“Don’t be stupid, if it wasn’t you, it would have been your brother. This was inevitable,” you said, finally looking into his eyes. Sirus felt the air leave his lungs as he stared into your beautiful eyes that didn’t hold a spark amongst them and Sirius was sure he would fall for it if they did.

“It wasn’t your mistake, nor mine. We couldn’t have done anything,” you said.

“You speak beautifully,” Sirius blurted, immediately appreciating himself for the subtle smile tugging in the corner of your lips.

“Thanks,” you said, your eyes averted from him although this time it was because you were flustered. The two of you stared into the others’ eyes, understanding your emotions all the while trying to decipher each other’s. 

“I am sorry,” The two of you said, simultaneously. 

Over the next month or so you have spent as (Y/N) Black, Sirius Black’s wife, you knew all your assumptions about him was wrong. He wasn't a pureblood racist or an arrogant sexist - he was, although, a bit of a narcissist - he was a handsome young man blooming with values, bravery and pride. 

You had also grown to understand his relationship with his family and brother. The discreet glares with clenched fingers his mother shot him as he wore an obnoxiously bright red hoodie to the dinner, the feared look his brother passed whenever Sirius had done any of his little shenanigans. 

You didn’t understand what was happening until Sirius had once met you on the balcony of your room after you found it suffocating inside and explained to you about his friends, his house - Gryffindor (the pride in his voice was heavy) - and what it had done to the relationship with his family. He further told you about what the marriage did to him and Regulus, making the guilt swallow you as a whole. 

He wasn’t bad but such a gentleman, putting himself in front of you as his mother glared at you for something you did, he would hold your hand tightly as he looked right back at her, fiercely. He would never leave your side alone unless he was extremely forced. You’d go as far as to say maybe you could give it a try. 

And Sirius was simply smitten. The way you had been with his brother alone was something he loved the most about you. Of course, you were so beautiful inside and out, fierce, brave, kind, loyal and sassy. 

The number of times he had looked at you with much pride blooming in his chest as you smirked at Bellatrix after saying something to make her zip her mouth and resort to glaring. Or the time he had managed to take you to Andromeda and the way you held little Nymphadora in your arms, bouncing her while casually chatting with his cousin.

He was almost certain there was some feeling in him for you that couldn't just be labelled as friends, it was new and Sirius didn't know what it was. 

The two of you now stood, once again, out of your bedroom, outlooking the stars as the moonlight shown down at you. Sirius had taken his time to admire how beautiful you looked, eyes shining bright and hair flowing lusciously. You looked like a princess who came out of a cartoon but much more beautiful. 

Sirius would almost say with pride that you were his…wife. You were his wife. Every time he said those words to himself he would shut himself down, too exhausted and unable to comprehend the words. You were such an amazing girl - kind, beautiful, compassionate and determined. It was everything anyone could need and it was bewildering that Sirius was blessed with you. Trapped would have been the word he would have used in the first but not anymore.

The two of you were engulfed in a peaceful silence - you staring at the scenery before you in bewilderment of how wealthy the Blacks were, and Sirius looking at you in admiration - until you asked a question. 

“What is your wand core?” You asked out of curiosity.

Sirius coughed and straightened, “Uh, what did you say?”

You chuckled and repeated, “What is your wand core?” 

“Oh, dragon heartstring,” He said, casually pulling out his wand. Sirius’ eyebrows drew closer in confusion as he watched your expression morph into one of utter incredulity. 

“You're kidding me,” you said, disbelief painted on your face. 

“No, I am not,” he said, smiling at your expression. 

“Oh my goodness,” you burst out laughing and the sound felt like honey to Sirius’ ears. Sweet and beautiful like he wanted to hear it for the rest of his life. You leaned against him for support and Sirius waited with a wide grin for your laughter to subside, never daring to kill it for it was the first time he heard you laugh and he was proud. 

After drawing deep breaths you said, “Wands with dragon heartstrings are said to produce the most flamboyant spells,” You bit your lips and waited for Sirius’ reaction. 

Once he did understand, he was rendered into the same state as you were in a few minutes ago. And, indeed, he was divine like some greek god. 

“Well, then,” He held his wand out, letting the laughter slowly sink down, “Guess I have to do something now,” 

“No, no, no,” You snatched the wand from his hand, “not now!” 

“Your no fun,” He complained. 

“Piss off,” you said with a smile. 

“Where did you learn this?” Sirius asked and watched with guilt as your mood visibly dampened. You leaned against the railing, twisting his wand subconsciously between your fingers. 

“My sister taught me,” you said, quietly. Sirius’ eye widened. He had never heard of your sister. ‘Why would they need to know of that blood traitor?’ was the exact words of your mother when you asked her about telling about your sister.

“You had a sister!?” He asked, inconsiderately and watched with even wider and scared eyes for how you would react but was surprised to hear you chuckle. 

“Yeah, she was disowned,” you said.

“She is older than you?” The only answer Sirius received was a nod and he needed nothing more, that little gesture was all needed for him to know what happened exactly, “Were you mad at her? At me? For all that happened?” 

“Of course I was,” You let out a breathy chuckle, your eyes skimming through the night sky, eyes shining with tears, “I always wanted to study more, you know. Becoming an Auror was my dream but here I am listening to an old woman gush about getting pregnant,” 

“What?” Sirius asked, his face scrunched up in confusion, “Who?”

“That aunt of yours,” you said, looking at him, “She was giving me tips the other day when you were sent out. Tips on how to have a beautiful baby boy,” 

“Ew,” Sirius said and shivered, “That’s just so…bad,” 

You rolled your eyes, “Tell me about,” 

“You know, if anything, by any chance, in the case of a miracle, if it was ever to happen - I’d rather have a baby girl,” he said without giving it a second thought and felt free to tell you whatever came to his mind without a fear.

“Ooh, planning about the future now, are we?” you said with a giggle. 

Sirius shrugged, looking at you with a wide grin, “Also, what did you say you wanted to become?”

”An Auror,” You stated with a sigh. 

“Would you study now? Go for an Auror if you could now?” Sirius asked, looking at you intently. 

You took a deep breath. You’d be out of your mind if you said you don’t want to at the same time you cant. If your or his parents knew- 

“They can't do anything,” Sirius said as though he could read your mind. You whipped your head to look at him.

“They wouldn’t know, even if they did, what can they possibly do?” he said, taking a step forward to you.

“Why are you doing this?” You asked, softly, your eyes looking at the soles of your footwear. 

“Huh?” Sirius ducked down to meet your eyes and his breath was taken away when you looked at him with tears filled eyes. 

“Why? Why do you keep looking out for me? Like do you not hate me?” You asked, looking at him incredulously. 

Sirius’ eyes softened as he gently tucked a strand of hair behind your ears, “How can I hate you?” he whispered slowly, accurate for the softness wrapping the two of you, providing warmth and love. 

“Sirius,” you breathed and watched his rest gently against your cheek. You felt yourself leaning into his touch unconsciously. A mysterious feeling bloomed into Sirius’ chest as he stepped closer. 

“Your the prettiest person ever to exist,” He whispered, “And there is a feeling inside me that wants to do everything you ask for, everything you want and everything you need.” 

“It might just be guilt you said you had,” You suggested not believing his words. He shook his head, “That is not of the guilt, its far from guilt,” 

You stared into his eyes, trying to find something that would make you flow with the wind, away from him but he always found a way to pull you back, right into his arms, somewhere you’ve always wanted to be. 

It was about time Sirius recognised the feeling he had weighing his chest as he merely saw you from afar. He leaned down to connect your foreheads and felt your shoulders tense up and lean closer to him. Sirius cautiously wrapped his arms around your waist and pulled you closer, "I think it’s love, darling,” He could hear a gasp leave your lips and he shivered with the tingles it had given him. 

“You can’t,” You said, looking into his eyes and shook your head lightly, “You can’t love me,”

“I can and I will,” He said. Sirius could feel your heart hammering as you leaned into his arms and he held you so tightly against him. You took a deep breath and parted your lips as though wanting to speak something but immediately closed. 

What Sirius would do next could possibly result in two options - you would slap him and walk away or stay with him, perhaps, forever. He took a deep breath, drawing your attention to him as he leaned down and pressed his lips to yours. 

Your eyes widened in shock and slowly closed as you let yourself sink into the kiss. It was truly magical and blissful and you couldn't explain the feeling in words. The pit in your stomach erupting with butterflies as Sirius' hand slowly moved its way to your cheek. You felt as though the time stopped, too engulfed in each other to recognise anything. Sirius deepened the kiss, the hand on the small of your back rubbing comfortingly. 

If anything you were sure of when you pulled away from the kiss it was that you loved him.

“I love you,” You breathed. 

“And I love you more than anything,” He said, with a wide, soft smile. 

“More than anything?” you said, with a teasing smile. 

“I mean if I had to categorize who I love more it would be the ugly cat we saw the other day first,” He said, putting on a deep facade of sincerity. 

“There goes the romantic mood. You Blacks are worse at this sort,” you rolled your eyes.

“I sincerely apologize for that, Mrs Black,” he said with a smirk and for the first time, he saw you smile when you were called as so. 

“Oh, idiot is what you are,” You giggled against his lips. 

Sirius chuckled, “Your studying to become an Auror and I don’t take a no,”

”Sirius-”

“This is the first thing I ask you as your husband,” The words felt weird spilling from Sirius’ lips. He hated what he was doing, setting an emotional trap but if it meant it would have a good result and you would be happy, he would do anything. 

You took a deep breath, “Alright,” 

Sirius laughed happily and smashed his lips back to yours.

#leydileylas 1k writing challenge #sirius black #sirius black x reader #sirius orion black #sirius black x y/n #sirius black x you #sirius black fanfiction #sirius black fic #arranged marriage au #arranged marriage trope #arranged marriage fic #sirius x reader #sirius x you #sirius x y/n #sirius x wife!reader #marauders era #regulus black #harry potter #sirius black x wife!reader #husband!sirius black

[cupids-crystals]

Antiques (Sirius Black)

Word Count: 2.0k

Summary: Antique shop AU; Sirius meets an intriguing muggle in the search for a gift for McGonagall 

A/N: This is for @leydileyla writing challenge! No major warnings, a very sappy McGonagall moment at the end. Super fluffy! No reader pronouns.

The streets of muggle London were packed with locals and tourists alike, bustling to one place or another and filling the air with indiscernible chatter. Sirius moved slowly, his wonderstruck demeanor making passerby’s give him odd looks before they disappeared back into the sea of traveler goers. 

No one forgets their first time in London. Sirius might’ve grown up surrounded by muggles, but this was the first time he had been allowed to interact with them without the watchful eyes of the Black family. It was the first autumn after graduation, and he was excited to traverse the curious city by himself. 

James came to the muggle world with Lily. Peter and Remus with their families. Sirius, however, never had the opportunity to visit without his parents’ scornful presence over his shoulder. He decided that today, he was going to venture into the lively city with one goal: to find a present for McGonagall’s birthday.

Professor McGonagall’s birthday was in the beginning of October, just shortly after the start of the school year. Without fail, Sirius had managed to present her with a gift every year, even if his first year’s present was “keeping his usual mischief to a minimum”. 

This year, Sirius had planned to find the perfect gift for his old instructor. He would send his owl to her with an extravagantly wrapped gift and a charming note, claiming that the tradition didn’t have to end just because he had graduated.

McGonagall had been much more than a teacher to Sirius; despite his exasperation at her stringent teaching style, he was grateful to have someone who cared for him when his parents didn’t.

Sirius strolled past the seemingly endless shops, peering into their large windows for inspiration. He wanted something personal – not a book or a fancy quill or cat nip, like he had gifted her in fifth year. 

He turned down a deserted alley, his eyes glued to a rustic looking sign hanging lowly over a chipped red door. 

‘Antiques and Oddities’ the sign read. 

Sirius wasn’t sure what it was about the peculiar font that intrigued him, but he felt like this was the perfect place to find what he needed. He walked closer, passing the various plants and statues that collected dust outside of the isolated shop. 

When Sirius twisted the iron knob and pushed through the doorway, he was greeted with the sight of rows and shelves of trinkets that he could never have imagined. Some glimmered in the sunlight that filtered through the shop’s windows, others were muted and faded past recognition. 

He spotted stacks of books and a record collection that would have lasted him a lifetime. There were paintings and tapestries of every scenery, and coffee tables of every color. He had never seen such a place, and he wondered how someone had managed to collect such an array of items.

He moved further into the shop, immediately drawn to its magnetic atmosphere. His eyes flittered around the room, taking in the sight before him. The old wooden floors were scuffed, the walls a cool grey tone and covered with a multitude of posters and flyers. 

Sirius was broken out of his thoughts when you stepped out of the backroom, humming a sweet tune under your breath. You were unaware of his presence as you moved freely through the short aisles, dusting the objects that caught your attention. 

Sirius took another step causing the floor to creak and groan under his feet. At the noise, your head snapped up to meet Sirius’ wide-eyed gaze. You offered a small smirk, placing your trinkets back onto the shelf and wiping your palms on the dark material of your pants.

“Hello! Sorry, I didn’t hear you come in. What can I help you with?”

Something about your amicable attitude made Sirius feel as if he had known you his entire life. You seemed to be perfectly placed in your offbeat shop; your voice reflected the mellow air around you, your clothes conformed to the timelessness of the store. There was the muggle world, and the world of magic, but Sirius felt as if he had stumbled into something else entirely. 

“Oh, right. I’m looking for a gift for someone. This is actually the first shop I’ve stepped into, and I’m not quite sure what I’m looking for yet.

You nodded in thought, regarding the strange man that had entered your shop. He stood still in the doorway, almost as if he expected to turn and run at any moment. Moving behind the cashier’s counter, you leaned against the cool countertop and gestured him to come towards you.

“Alright. Who are we shopping for? Little brother? Mom? Girlfriend?” 

Sirius had stopped on the other side of the counter, his face a mere twelve inches from yours. He smirked at your insinuation, biting back a simpering smile. He shook his head in response, his raven locks falling into his face as he did so. 

“An old professor, actually.”

“And what did she teach?”

Sirius paused for a moment, unsure of how to answer. Obviously, he couldn’t tell you exactly what McGonagall taught. But he wanted to. He wanted to tell you everything that was happening right under your nose. He sensed that you would enjoy the world of enchantment and mystery.

“Oh, she teaches, um, arithmetic. She’s quite brilliant, really.”

You stifled a giggle as the man in front of you stumbled over his words. “Right. Arithmetic. I’m y/n, by the way. It’s nice to meet you. It’s not often that a gorgeous man comes into my shop to buy his old professor a birthday present. Actually, I think you might be the first.”

Sirius grinned brightly at you before offering his own name in response. 

You looked around the shelves behind your counterpart, considering what you would gift a professor for their birthday.

“Well, have you got any ideas? What does she like?”

He seemed to think for a moment, eyes downcast onto the chipped countertop and brows creased in consideration.

“Well, she likes me, of course. And then she likes books, and that sort of thing. But I want to give her something that she’ll never forget.”

After a moment of pondering, he continued, “thought about setting off some fireworks, but that’s too much of a hassle. She hates the things anyways.” 

Tilting your head to the side, you offered him an incredulous look. 

“That sounds pretty rude to me,” you replied in a joking manner.

“Nope, she likes my mischief. I was her favorite student, I’ll have you know.”

“Oh, were you the only one?”

He glanced back up at you with a small smirk. He was surprised at your words and your ability to joke with him so easily. He hadn’t met many muggles before, but if they were all like you, he wouldn’t mind living in a world without magic.

Sirius’ fingers danced over the dusty trinkets on the counter as he contemplated the perfect gift for his favorite teacher. Your voice broke him from his thoughts.

“What else does she like? Does she have any hobbies? Weird interests? Any place she likes to visit?”

Sirius shook his head after each question, prompting you to continue your query.

“What about pets?”

As if a light bulb went off over his head, Sirius pictured the perfect gift. He told you of his idea, and you agreed sincerely. 

“That sounds perfect. I’m not sure if I have anything like that, but I can help you look around the store if you’d like.”

You spent the next hour by Sirius’ side, swapping stories of your youths and thrills that you retold fondly. You moved through each aisle, barely paying attention to the trinkets in front of you as Sirius spoke of a lifetime of adventure and excitement. You were intoxicated by the passion and enthusiasm that radiated off of him

Even if Sirius couldn’t tell you the specifics of his escapades, he enjoyed the way you gasped and awed at his narratives. You seemed to be completely focused on the way his stories unfolded, offering entertaining quips and comments when he spoke.

Time, however delightful, always passes. Before Sirius knew it, the two of you had reached the other end of the shop, nearing the final row of interesting treasures. He was picking at the edge of a cracked picture frame while you told him of another exciting romp around the city

Even though he had wasted the better part of the afternoon in your shop, Sirius didn’t feel like the day was entirely useless. Never had he met someone so unabashed and intriguing, and he lived in a world of magic – literally. 

He almost felt the need to invite you to Diagon Alley with him. Your shop would surely be the talking point of the wizarding community with your collection of oddities on display. You neared the raven-haired man, holding an object in his line of sight and breaking him from his faraway train of thought.

“How about this?

Sirius took the object into his own hands, running his thumb over the surface. It was perfect. He was so preoccupied with finding McGonagall’s birthday present, that he almost didn’t realize that he would have to leave your shop soon.

“It’s exactly what I had pictured. Thank you, y/n.”

He turned to you, offering a sincere smile. You held his gaze for a moment, not ready for him to leave just yet. 

“I’m glad you found what you were looking for. My shop is always here if you have any more professors with birthdays coming up.”

Sirius would’ve given anything to grab your hand and take you with him. He no longer thought you belonged in your odd shop in a desolate London alleyway; you belonged by his side, your hand in his and your futures entangled together. 

“Actually, I do have quite a few friends that I’ll be shopping for. You seem to have a knack for this sort of thing, maybe I’ll be back someday soon.”

You nodded, eyes still locked onto his silvery gaze. There was something different about Sirius, and you craved the sense of mystery and allure that he carried with him. This wouldn’t be the last time you saw the beguiling stranger, you were sure of it.

“I’ll be waiting.”

October 4th, Hogwarts Great Hall – 

Owls flew through the air, dropping parcels and letters overtop students, young and old alike. The entire room buzzed with excited energy as students talked about their new classes and the possibilities of the year to come. 

Professor McGonagall sat at the table beside her colleagues, enjoying a quiet breakfast and observing the students from her house. A dark owl swooped down over her, dropping a small box that was wrapped in bright red paper with a large bow on top

Her lips pulled into a tight grin as her counterparts observed the occasion curiously. Her fingers nimbly tore away the paper, placing it in a small pile beside her breakfast plate. With gentle movements, she lifted the top of the box, peering inside for any signs of a prank in action.

Inside was a porcelain figure, its paint slightly muted in color but otherwise in perfect condition. She lifted it from the box before setting it on the table to inspect. The figure was of a silver tabby cat standing beside a larger shabby dog, its coat much darker and its head pointed up towards her. 

A small note was attached to the figure, its formal print stating:

Minni, 

You should have known that my absence does not denote the end of our friendship. We may have gotten along like cats and dogs, but there is no one in the world who I owe more to. I will always remember your life lessons, even when I’m old and sending my children and grandchildren to your tutelage. For now, though, please remember me for who you have made me into. Not a man without flaws, but one that strives in spite of them.

Happy birthday, Sirius Black

Taglist: @catching-the-train-to-hogwarts @just-a-smol-spoon @msfandomfreak @mjoubertt-1 @laceycallisto @itsmentalillness @florqlness @ohnoitsmekc @616films @alohastitch0626 @oh-dionys @wolfyprongs @abbott27 @eeniemeenienini @mydelicategirl2000 @mrs-brekker15 @rons-whore @thestral-queen-rules @dreamcxtcherr @pepper-up-potion @ughgclden @mollysolo @pottahishotasf @ginnysbabymama @word-addict-lisette

#cupids fics #leydileyla’s 1k writing challenge #I can’t decide if I love this or hate it #Sirius Black #sirius black x y/n #sirius black x you #sirius black x reader #sirius black imagine #sirius black one shot #sirius black fic #sirius black blurb #sirius black fluff #sirius x reader #sirius x you #sirius x y/n #sirius imagine #marauders #marauders era #marauders era fluff #professor mcgonagall #harry potter #harry potter blurb #marauders x reader #marauders era x reader

[cupids-crystals]

Mary Oliver (r.l.)

Word Count: 1.0k

Summary: Bookstore AU; Remus finds an odd bookshop in London

A/N: This is for @leydileyla writing challenge! No warnings, no reader pronouns. My requests are open!!

Everything was beige – that’s the first thing Remus noticed as he stepped into the tiny bookstore that sat on the outskirts of London. Beige wasn’t necessarily bad, not to Remus, at least.

The walls were a cream color that might have been white at one point, maybe when the store first opened some years ago. The shelves were cluttered with an array of books that seemed to be ordered in a way that Remus didn’t understand. As his fingers traced over the cracked spines of the novels in front of him, he wondered why the owner had decided to use such a peculiar system. There was obviously a method to their madness, and Remus was determined to figure it out.

The store was completely empty bar himself and a calico shop cat sitting idly on the counter, keeping watch over Remus as he moved through the aisles. He could hear a faint humming coming from somewhere in a back room; he couldn’t place the tune, but it sounded familiar and gave him the feeling of nostalgia.

Remus walked down the rows of light brown shelves, wondering what the place might’ve looked like in it’s prime. He could imagine a crowd of writing enthusiasts stumbling over each other to explore the curious shop. The light layer of dust over every surface told him that the pinnacle of the shop’s business had long passed.

The wooden floorboards groaned underneath Remus’ steps as he moved to another section of books, this one seemingly in more disarray than the last. His brows furrowed in thought as he searched for the meaning behind the reckless organization. After a moment of roaming over the varying titles, Remus realized that the alluring tune had stopped, and the sound of humming had been replaced with a dissonance of shuffling coming from the once unmanned counter.

Peering through the gap on the shelf before him, Remus watched as you shifted through a stack of books that now sat on the desk. While you inspected the deep brown hardcover in one hand, the other moved to give attention to the relaxed feline that was now purring in contentment under your touch. Remus almost laughed at how well you fit into your surroundings, your clothing and aura reflecting the still and soothing atmosphere of the bookstore.

Remus was intrigued by you – the way you graciously flipped through the secondhand book, the way you muttered reassurances to the multicolored cat. Deciding that he couldn’t go a second longer without knowing you, he moved from his place in the aisles. Hearing the creaking floorboards, you glanced over and offered a genuine smile to the sandy haired man before you.

“Hello. Sorry, I didn’t hear you come in.”

“That’s alright. I’ve only just popped in a moment ago.”

Remus approached where your place the counter, his fingers twisting around themselves in a nervous manner.

“Is there something that I can help you with?”

He stopped just short of you and looked at the books laid out over the wooden countertop. Some were so worn that you could barely read the cover, others new with price stickers still stuck to the spine.

“Well, I originally came in to have a look around, but now I have a question.”

You nodded silently, waiting for him to continue. His gaze met yours and you could see curiosity written across his features.

“I’ve been trying to figure it on my own. The books on the shelves, they’re not arranged by author or title or genre. Why did you organize them the way that you did?”

Your mouth turned up into a grin as you listened to him speak. Most people didn’t question the odd arrangement of your books and you were appreciative of this intrigued stranger in your shop.

“Would you like to know the secret?”

“Please.”

You grabbed a book from the pile and made your way towards the shelves. Remus followed wordlessly, almost as if he was in a trance as he awaited your explanation.

“I’ll tell you something that most people don’t know. I’ve placed most of these books exactly where they sit, based on nothing. If someone asks why I’ve arranged my books a certain way, I ask them if they have any ideas. Some say I’ve arranged them by color scheme, some would say I’ve grouped stories that create similar emotions in the reader.”

You glanced over at Remus to see him eyeing you with a perplexed look. Turning to face him completely, you continued.

“It’s all about interpretation. Like how people might interpret an art piece differently than the person beside them, everyone has a different idea about my methods. The truth is, there is no method.”

It seemed like the pieces finally fell into place in Remus’ mind. He was completely intrigued by the person in front of him. Before he could get too lost in his thoughts, you opened the book in your hands, eyes downcast onto the faded pages as you read.

“Take this book for example. This page says: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” I could put this book anywhere and every person that saw it would have a different poetic explanation for its placement.”

“That’s a great book. I’m a fan of Mary Oliver myself.”

Your grin grew as you took in the well-mannered man before you.

“And what would you think if this was the first book you opened in my shop?”

“I would take it as a sign. Maybe I need to recognize the wild and precious aspects of life.”

You both stood silently in contemplation for a moment. Neither of you had any thoughts beyond the walls of the bookstore, as if you were the only people left in the world. You closed the book gently and slid it in an empty space on the shelf beside Remus’ figure before turning to face him.

Y’know, I think I’ve already experienced the precious part of life. Now, I just have to work on the wild.”

“What a coincidence; so do I.”

#leydileyla’s 1k writing challenge #leydileyla #Remus lupin x reader #Remus x reader #remus lupin x y/n #remus lupin x you #remus x you #remus x y/n #remus lupin fluff #bookstore au #Harry potter #Harry potter x reader #harry potter blurb #marauders era #marauders #marauders era x reader #marauders x reader #marauders x you #marauders era fluff #marauders fluff #marauders blurb #marauders era blurb

[sirisuorionblack]

Wonders in the Rain

Remus Lupin x CEO!Reader

Summary - After being unemployed for very long Remus reluctantly allowed his best friend to find him a job as the PA of her boss. And he would forever be grateful to her for that.

Warnings - Metions of death. 

A/N   This is also a fic written for @leydileyla 's 1K followers celebration. And now this fic is by far the longest I’ve written with 4K words. So, enjoy!

You groaned, throwing your pen onto the pile of papers and stood up from the confinement of your study desk and slowly walked towards the coffee machine to fill in the third cup of coffee since the morning and it wasn’t even past noon.

It was difficult and exhausting being the CEO of the most renowned company at the age of 21. It was certainly something you hadn’t expected when two years ago your mother said it would be you who continues her legacy and take care of the company in her death bed. You weren’t ready when you were announced the CEO right after the funeral, the grief inside you never had time to dissipate.

You remember so vividly as you stood in the corner of the room, dressed in all black, eyes swollen as the aftermath of losing your world overnight took a toll on you. Your little brother, at the mere age of 11 looked up at you with wide eyes unknown of what was going on as he clung to you, tightly and you held him as tight, afraid you would lose him just as you lost…the man who the cause for the illness of your mother. Her husband, your father, whose name spurred rage in you as you recollected him arguing with your mother and leaving you and your brother to watch as your mother collapsed onto the floor. 

You smiled pleasantly as your eyes fell on the beautiful woman you had the privilege to call your mother. It was her last picture. Your brother and you were huddled in her arms, a wide smile on your face as your mother kissed your forehead, your eye closed as your brother looked at you, his head thrown back as laughter engulfed him. It was like the time was frozen and you would rather be that girl - carefree and filled with happiness than…you, life so dark you can’t see anything except for the little shine that you so dearly held close to you in protection - your brother.

That was all in your life. Brother and company. Nothing in the orbit of love. It disgusted you ever since you saw your father leave. You despised that feeling of giving someone so much of yourself only for them to dust it off as though it was nothing but a speck of dirt. 

“Ms (L/N)?” your trail of thoughts were interrupted by a sweet voice. You composed yourself, placing the photograph on the table and turned around. It was Lily Evans, an employee of yours who you could very well say was close to you. She knew everything about you, from what you do first in the morning to your drastic sleeping schedule. She almost knew how you would react in every situation yet you couldn’t label your relation with her.

“Yes,” you turned around, avoiding her eyes. She stepped into your lavish office the only person ever having the privilege of being allowed to.

“So, there is this really good friend of mine-” she started with a feared voice only to be cut off by you.

“Evans, please, if this is some sort of a recommendation-” You said and paused as she hurriedly said, “No, no, no. I mean, yes, but he really deserves it,” 

“Fine, what is it?” you said, sighing as you once again took a seat behind your messy desk. 

“I’ve heard people say things about you never having a PA and my friend is actually, I mean, would actually love to take that position,” she said awkwardly. You smirked and leaned back on your chair, looking at her intently as she blushed under your intense gaze. 

You shook your head, “Fine, but I want to meet him and then I will decide,” 

You watched as Lily’s was brightened and she nodded enthusiastically, “Just an hour and he will be here to meet you,” 

You hesitated thinking of your schedule before she said, “You are free the next few hours,”

“And how do you know that?” you asked, raising your eyebrows. 

“I just heard,” she said, looking at the soles of her shoes. 

You rolled your eyes, “No wonder I can’t keep any secrets,” 

You were known for many conspiracy theories and gossips. It was difficult at the start, many breakdowns later you were broken enough that all those knives passed right through the holes, never affecting you. 

You were not excited about the arrival of Lily’s friend and time passed so quickly that before you knew it there was a knock on the door. “Come in,” you mumbled, too endorsed in your work to even look up or comprehend the sudden presence. 

“M-Ms (L/N),” you heard a deep voice say. The voice was new and one you had never heard of and your head automatically whipped to look at the source, startling the poor guy before you. Scars were littering his face and had a failed attempt at masking the exhaustion. He looked weak although there was a pleasant aura surrounding him, buzzing around him with energy. 

He played with the hem of his denim jacket, shifting from one foot to another. His ripped jeans and slightly dirty shirt telling he wasn’t prepared for this meet. He gulped, “My name is Remus, uh, Remus Lupin,” 

You blinked and stood up from your chair, “Who-why are you here?”

Remus’ eyes widened, “I-um, I, Lily told you wanted to see me. I mean, like wanted to meet me before you gave the, uh, the job,” 

For the first time, Remus saw you smile. Remus always admired you, the power and authority that radiated off you was bewildering when considered you were just 21, a year younger than himself and a successful CEO while here he was jobless and wandering around aimlessly. 

Of course, it hurt that ego instilled in him but he wasn’t gonna lose the opportunity of having some money in his hand to pay off his bills. Working as a PA to a girl younger than you wasn’t often considered a better one, and his mother told that very thing when he had called her minutes ago. 

You chuckled, “Take a seat,” you sat down and beckoned him to a chair placed on the opposite side of the desk. You closed the cap of your pen as Remus awkwardly walked towards the desk. 

“So, tell me something about you,” You said, your eyes boring into his eyes. They were gorgeous to Remus and it was terrifying when the reality set in that he was sitting before the (Y/N) (L/N). Someone he had admired only while scrolling through his phone and watching the news. 

You shook your hand dismissively, “I’ll rephrase that,” you sat in a more comfortable position on the chair, “Tell me about the companies you’ve worked for before, your qualification and some basic information about you like your age and things. If you don’t mind, that is,” 

“No, no, of course,” Remus said, “I just graduated from my university and I’ve worked for a minor publishing house for about six months,”

“And why aren’t you working with them anymore?” You asked but immediately asked him to continue as the subtle melancholy wove into his facial expressions and his fingers twitched. 

“Um, I studied English literature and yeah,” He said, shrugging and finally a small smile formed on his face.

You chuckled, shaking your head, “Where are you from?”

“Wales,” he said, without leaving a gap and was weirded out to find the odd feeling in his stomach as he saw you smile and chuckle over again in the short span of time you had met him. 

“Beautiful,” You glanced at the desktop placed on the side of your table and then looked back at him, “It's not gonna be an easy ride of you being my PA you might know the controversies that sparked in the past,”

“Yes, mam,” Remus nodded, his hands that were tightly clasped together was sweating profusely. 

“You will be sent an email that will let you know about the rest of the details. Make sure you read it thoroughly,” You said, glancing at the computer screen again. 

“Yes mam,” Remus said, fiddling with his fingers. 

“Also, the date when you can join will be mentioned in the email itself,” you smiled at him, “And that’s about it,” 

“Oh, alright,” Remus stood up slowly. 

“Your appointed, Mr Lupin,” You said once again and watched as the glow finally found his face after your confirmation. He grinned happily and said, “Thank you very much, Ms (L/N),” and dashed out of the room without another word, leaving you feeling extremely happy for some reason as you returned to your tedious paper.

Two months, that’s how long you had known Remus and over time it was appropriate to say the two of you grew closer.

You had never had anyone to stand behind you and guide you to what is right, it was always you, yourself alone in the vast arena named society feeling scared and little in the insides while having a brave facade outside. It was extremely difficult to push everything aside and struggle to move forward alone and without proper guidance.

But ever since Remus was appointed two months ago, he had never left your side. It was as though somebody had stepped beside you on the high podium you stood on, facing what was worse than galloping hordes. The comforting aura radiating off him calmed the burning insecurity and fear drilled into you. He stood like a guard, a mentor and a…friend. You’d go a far as to say family as you saw the ways he behaved with your brother.

Remus never made you regret a thing in your regretful life. It was almost bewildering in the start at what he could do. He had made a tiny hole in the wall you had created for yourself from the world. And the little crack Remus created bombarded him with everything he knew that you wouldn't have told anyone else.

You weren’t aware how he knew all those things about you that even you didn’t. It was as though he knew exactly what you would do before you even thought of it. Remus Lupin did wonders to you.

And (Y/N) (L/N) did wonders to him. Remus couldn’t calm his nerves the first day he walked into your office in that posh suit and saw that bright sparkle in your beautiful eyes. He fell. Quite literally, it was extremely awkward when he tripped over his own foot and had to hold onto the door handle. But you had a smile and beckoned him inside saying it happens all the time and how you had to change the layout of the office. 

Just as Sirius Black - the love god as he demanded to be called - predicted, by the end of the first month, Remus was smitten over you. He couldn’t find a reason to dislike you in fact, every minuscule detail he learned about you just made him like you more.

One drunken confession to the “love God”, Remus was clear of his feelings to you and he was never one to understand his feelings, rather run away from them and he had lost a handful of relations like that and he never wanted to do it again yet there wasn’t a chance he could tell them to you and the victim of the mess of his love life was James (Remus thought he deserved it). 

Remus groaned, leaning back on his chair and rubbed his eyes. He received the mail for the annual conference that would be held where thousands of companies would be having a discussion. It was a really good idea but you hated it and just yesterday he had listened to you speak passionately against it, although Remus just heard the first few sentences and the rest of them falling into his deaf ears as he stared at you. 

“Remus,” Lily shook his arm, “Remus!” 

“I'm listening,” He mumbled and he didn’t have to see her to know she would have rolled her eyes. 

“What is the email about?” She asked. 

“Read it yourself, Evans,” he said with a sigh.

“Is this what you would have told to the love of your life?” she said but he could hear her voice drawl as she read the mail. Remus mumbled, “I don’t love,”

“Sure you don’t, Lupin,” she scoffed. Remus knew what was happening and who she was referring but he would dare say it himself and be teased relentlessly. 

“So, why are you groaning to attend a conference,” Lily asked. 

“She hates that,” Remus said, still not opening his eyes. 

“Ah, she hates everything,” Lily said and he failed to notice the smirk on her lips as he defended you and glared at her. 

“First of all, it’s overseas and she said they would be poorly organised. Second, she doesn’t hate everything, alright, you just don’t know what she likes,” He said, sitting straight on his chair. 

“Sure, sure, Remus,” She said, teasing and left not before ruffling his mass curls, “You suck, do you that?”

”Yep, ask James of it!” She said, winking at him as Remus groaned, disgusted. 

“Ms (L/N),” Remus managed to leave his seat 30 minutes later, mentally preparing himself. You looked at him with a bright smile and beckoned him in by waving your hand enthusiastically. It physically hurt Remus to think he would be the one delivering the news that would wipe the grin off your face. 

“The annual conference-” Before Remus could even complete his sentence he saw your mood shift completely by how you slammed your head against your study desk. He winced. 

“When is it?” He could hear you mumble. You would be thoroughly pissed if he told when it was. Remus shifted his weight from one foot to another and said, “Day after tomorrow,” 

“Day after tomorrow!?” you yelled, whipping your head to look at him. Remus nodded apologetically. 

And here you were two days later, in your private plane flying to a place where you dreaded to go. Although the only good thing in this was seeing Remus in a causal outfit other than his tailored black suit even that was overpowered by the fact that it was seven in the evening. 

“We will be there in about two hours,” Remus said, scrolling through his phone, “You can take a nap and once we reach there we need to get to the location they sent by a car they have arranged,” 

“They arranged a car?” You asked, blinking at him.

“Yes, they did,” he shrugged, closing his phone and keeping it in the holder. He looked into your bewildered eyes.

“Do we have a backup plan?” you asked, glaring at him. 

“We-no? Why do we need a backup plan?” He asked, puzzled. 

“Remus, do you remember when I told you about their ability to organising things?” You said, looking at him accusingly. Remus took a deep breath, he had not just forgotten them but ignored them too. 

“Uh,” He gulped and rubbed the back of his neck, “We-”

”Lupin, I swear I am not walking miles!” you scolded. And for some reason, Remus’ damned mind could predict exactly what Sirius would have said at the moment and was almost tempted to say the exact words he would have said, “I’ll carry you, don’t worry,” but Remus knew better.

“You won’t, promise,” He gave thumbs up, “Now, you get your needed nap, yeah?”

“Would you leave?” you asked, staring into Remus’ eyes with mixed emotions and he couldn't place a finger on what exactly it was to give a response, so he resorted to the good ol’, “Do you want me to leave?” 

You took a deep breath. Did you want him to leave? You were torn between yourself. One part of you wanted him to stay with you, having no strength to battle with your thoughts alone although he wasn’t going to do much, his sole presence was comforting for you. The other part was scared. Scared of what he could do and just fear blocking every thought of yours. 

But the fear, somehow, for the first time was brought down and you whispered, “Stay,” and who was Remus to disobey that.

After two exhausting hours confined in that plane, the first thing you did once you got off the plane was crack your joints while walking outside and Remus stood on the side chuckling at you. 

“Well, you are the one who is supposed to do it,” You said, rolling your eyes with a smile. He walked to your side, “I don’t exactly ‘cause I knew how to sit on a plane,” 

“Oh is it now?” You scoffed. 

Remus hummed, “Yep!” 

“How else do you sleep in that uncomfortable seat?”

“You wouldn’t kill me if I said, would you?” He asked, looking at you cautiously.

You shrugged, “It depends,” 

“Alright. Um, that’s not reassuring but I’ll tell - you don’t sleep when you on a plane,” Remus said and watched as you whipped your head towards him and glaring.

“What sort of a creature are you?!”

“A good one,” 

“Ooh, getting brave now are we, Lupin,” You bumped your shoulder with him and Remus chuckled, shaking his head. 

“Remus, how long will it take?” You asked glaring at him, who spoke frantically to someone on his phone. The two of you were still in the airport after an hour or so and just like you warned the car has not yet arrived. You huffed and looked at the large window panels that showed the exit of the airport. The sun had already set, not a speck of it in the sky. It was pitch black, the half-moon already shining with the stars in its company. 

You always loved staring at the sky. It not just reminded of your mother but her interpretation. She always considered the moon to be herself when she was younger. The little stars close to it were you and your brother and the rest all were her employees and comrades. She later said the moon was you and the stars behind you were every single person you would meet and the beautiful night sky was reserved for a special person. However, you tried to oppose her point, she stood her stand and told you that one day you will understand it and perhaps it was about time you did. 

You felt someone touch your hand and when you turned to look, Remus was crouched before you, his scarred hand on top of yours. His bright eyes were apologetic as he stared into your eyes. He was confused about how watery it was. Remus scrunched his eyebrows, “Are you alright?”  You nodded with a smile. Remus sighed and held your hand tightly in his.

“The car didn’t come, isn’t it?” you asked with a smirk. Remus ducked his head low. He always felt extremely guilty when he couldn’t do the job he was given and certainly not when he ignored the instruction. 

He was surprised to hear you chuckle, “It’s alright,” You said, grinning at him.

Remus’ eyes widened, “Really?” 

You shrugged, “There isn’t much that I can do now, is it?” 

“I-I’m really sorry,” He hoped you would accept his apology. 

You laughed, “It’s OK, Remus, calm down and think of how we are going there now,” 

“Yes, about that the organizer said they would arrange us a motorbike,” Remus grimaced in anticipation of your reaction.

“Really?” You asked, your eyes widened in excitement. 

“Yeah, it’s actually there at the exit of the terminal,” he said. 

“Ah! Can we use it then?” sitting on the edge of the seat you asked him with a childish excitement making Remus’ heart swell happiness. He stared at you with a mild smile on your face as he chuckled. 

“That’s why it is there in the first place,” he said and watched your eyes lit up with no concern of the sass in his words that usually wasn’t ignored. 

“I wanna see it!” You stood up abruptly and pulled him up with you. Although getting slightly intimidated by how he towered over you, the profound excitement of finally seeing a motorbike coursed through your veins like fire. 

Remus chuckled, “Yes, of course,”

He couldn’t believe it. Remus couldn’t believe the sight before him - his ever stoic boss had her jaw dropped to the floor as she saw the motorbike.

It all quite made sense if he had to think of it, it was impossible for you to drive it down the streets anywhere back home but here it was rather unknown of your arrival, so you could zoom through the streets as you whished without a sense of fear. It was one of the reasons why you chose to travel in the night while announcing you would be leaving the country in the morning. 

“Ahh, this is so beautiful!” you gushed, walking closer and running your hand across the seat, “Can I drive? Please?” 

“As you should. I dunno to drive that,” Remus said, shrugging. 

“It’s alright,” You waved your hand, dismissively, “I’m not gonna judge,” 

As you swing your leg over the bike seat and adjust your coat, you said, “My mum got me one for my 18th birthday and I was obsessed over it, like that’s was my only means of transportation,” 

“That’s brilliant,” Remus said as he planned the first thing he would do once he is back home. 

You and Remus were high on adrenaline as the two of you zoomed into the night. The feeling of cutting through the air with wide grins and hollering happily was indeed beautiful and in the back of your mind, the astonishment of how long it had taken you for being like this again baffled. 

But it all went down once the light drizzle became fully-fledged rain. Having to park the motorbike by some bus stop, the two of you held your jackets above your head and ducked inside, still grinning. 

“Ah, the bike is getting wet,” you said, the thought dampening your mood. 

“This doesn’t seem to be stopping any soon,” Remus said, taking a deep breath as he scanned the surroundings. It was pitch black except for the moon shining down at you. It was such a sight for sore eyes when Remus turned to look at you, your coat was tightly wrapped around yourself, your hair dripping with the rainwater, your eyes shining as you watched your surrounding. You looked divine. 

Remus didn’t know what he was thinking when he took hold of your hand and ran out of the bus stop. “Remus! What are you doing!?” You yelled as he pulled you to the middle of the deserted road.

“You said to me once you loved dancing in the rain!” he said, pushing the water out of his eyes. 

“But-” You looked around, the adrenaline still rushing inside and it indeed was your dream to be out in the streets dancing while rain poured down and the night sky guarded you. Remus let go of your hand, his eyes never leaving you as your legs slowly started moving as though by nature of the memory. 

Time slipped through your hands and before you knew it, after all the laughter, you were back in Remus’ arms, staring into his eyes. You always loved them, feeling as though they held mystery amidst them although always raw. You knew on your fingertips how he felt at that moment when you could just see his eyes but now, it was unknown. 

Remus had a gentle smile on his face as he protectively had his arms wrapped around your waist, a reassurance to himself that you were indeed protected from anything and everything. He leaned down to keep the two of you close and warm. 

“Remus,” you whispered, silently.  He smiled, allowing his eyes to shut as the echo of his name tumbling from your lips ran in his ears and before he knew it before he had control on himself, Remus blurted, “I love you,” 

He was stunned to hear the tiny gasp leaving your mouth and his heart was wrenched out when he saw the disbelief and incredulity in your eyes, “What’s wrong?” 

“What’s wrong!?” you yelled and Remu was taken aback, “Is that what you ask after telling me you love me?!”

”I am sorry," his statement ended more like a question as he looked at you with wide eyes. The rain was still pouring and he didn’t know if it was the rain or your own tears in your eyes. 

“Jerk!” You yelled, your fingers holding his drenched shirt tightly as your chest heaved rapidly. 

Remus wasn’t confused, he was beyond just confused about your reaction. You were yelling at him like he was some stupid but never letting go of him and now he was never the best at these messes. 

Clearing his mind off all the thoughts he cautiously moved his hand to rest on the side of your cheek and watched as your eyes closed, your own hand moving to hold his tightly.

Remus leaned down and kissed your forehead. He had never seen you more vulnerable as a sob escaped your lips and you slammed against his chest, your arm tightly wrapped around his torso. 

It was the first time in three years had you been kissed on the forehead and that alone proved to you that Remus was different. He is your night sky.

Remus held you tightly in the comfort of his arms as you whispered “I love you” into his shoulder. He never knew when the rain stopped. And now the surrounding was fragile. It was just you and him in the deserted street, the freshly smelling earth, the stars and moon shining down at you…and love.

#remus lupin #remus lupin x reader #remus lupin x you #remus lupin x y/n #remus x reader #remus x you #remus x y/n #remus john lupin #Remus lupin x CEO!Reader #CEO AU #ceo!reader #Lily evans #Muggle au #harry potter #leydileylas 1k writing challenge