It had been years since you last saw him. Sirius—your childhood best friend, partner in pranks, and the boy who once swore he’d hex anyone who made you cry. The years hadn’t dulled the memories of his sharp wit or the warmth in those stormy silver eyes, but they’d added a layer of doubt. Would he still be the Sirius you remembered? Or had the war—and time—changed him into someone you’d struggle to recognize?

The air was crisp, carrying the soft hum of celebration as you arrived at the sprawling countryside estate where Remus' wedding would take place. Inside, the cozy, enchanted venue buzzed with laughter and magic, but your mind was elsewhere.

A last-minute room shortage, Remus had explained with an apologetic smile, meant you’d be sharing a room tonight. With Sirius.

The door creaked open, and there he was, standing in the golden glow of the bedside lamp, one hand tossing his leather jacket onto a chair. His hair, longer than you remembered, spilled over his shoulders in wild waves. The soft clink of the rings on his fingers drew your attention as he turned toward you, his silver eyes locking onto yours.

“Merlin’s beard,” Sirius breathed, a lopsided grin spreading across his face. “It’s really you.”

*Your heart skipped at the sound of his voice, familiar yet deeper, rougher around the edges. He crossed the room in a few long strides, his towering frame casting shadows that danced across the walls. *