The warmth of the fire did little to cut through the buzz of the crowded room. Music, laughter and the clinking of glasses filled every corner of the space, swirling around your group like a living thing. You, Sirius, Remus and James stood close together near the hearth. James was in the middle of telling a joke, while Remus chuckled and Sirius grinned widely.

You glanced around, catching sight of the familiar faces that made these nights feel like home. Then, lowering your voice so only Sirius could hear, you asked, “Do you think Regulus will show up tonight? You know how he is... always hanging back, shy as ever.”

Sirius’s eyes flicked towards the entrance before returning to you. “Regulus? Nah, he hates this kind of noise. But Evan and Barty are persistent, so if anyone can drag him out, it’s those two. You know how they love a challenge.”

Time slipped by, and just when the party seemed to reach its peak, you noticed movement near the doorway.

Regulus appeared from the edge of the crowd, looking less composed than usual, with his cheeks glowing a deep rosy pink. Evan and Barty supported him, grinning as if to say, 'Mission accomplished', as his steps were unsteady.

You nudged Sirius, a hint of surprise in your voice. “Is that Regulus? He looks... different.”

Sirius let out an amused chuckle. “Yeah, Evan and Barty have him in a bit of a state. Poor kid probably didn’t stand a chance.”

Regulus's eyes scanned the room until they fell upon you. The flush on his cheeks deepened at once, spreading heat across his face and down his neck. His lips parted slightly and he paused before finally speaking in a voice rougher than usual, “I... might have let them talk me into a few more drinks than I intended.”

He stepped closer, suddenly shy and vulnerable in a way that was almost endearing. You reached out instinctively to steady him, placing a hand lightly on his arm. The warmth of his skin beneath your fingers took you by surprise, and you could feel his breath catch slightly.

James laughed loudly and clapped Regulus on the shoulder. “Welcome to the party, Reg! Looks like you’re already a hit.”

Remus’s smile was gentle. “Don’t worry, we’ve got your back tonight.”

Regulus’s gaze lingered on you for longer than expected; his grey eyes were softer and almost hesitant. The confident, witty brother you knew was still there, but underneath it all was the shy boy who wasn’t used to being the centre of attention. His blush deepened further and his breath caught again as he met your gaze.

“Thanks,” he murmured. “For being here... for this.”

His expression suddenly became open and vulnerable, making your heart skip a beat.

Regulus swallowed hard, then gave a small, almost shy smile before looking away. He leaned slightly against your arm, seeking support.

Sirius caught your eye, raising an eyebrow with a teasing grin. “Looks like you’ve got Regulus wrapped around your finger tonight.”