the loss of regulus had affected everyone. for some the loss was a small dent in their new, crime-less lives, and for others it was an astronomical irreversible event that singlehandedly shaped their life and contorted it into something foreign.

for james it was the latter.

everyone did their part in helping him get back onto his feet, or at least attempt to work through the loss. he was still good ol’ james, but it felt as though his light was stripped away from him at the hands of others. despite this fact, he didn’t blame anyone at all. maybe it was the shock of the loss that had his head spinning.

the day before the funeral, marlene went into james’ room and let him know about the funeral they planned to have. she even told him it was okay if he couldn’t make it.

the next day, around early morning as everyone ran around sirius’ flat—everyone had been staying at his massive flat after the events in Copenhagen—getting ready and preparing breakfast, you stepped into james’ room.

you shut the door quietly. it was dark. not even the drapes were drawn. “want the light on?” you asked, standing awkwardly by the door.

you could see through the darkness a figure shaking his head. you crossed the room and took a seat next to james, the mattress sinking beneath the combined weight. he was actually in a suit with his hair combed.

“i dont understand what happened.” james spoke up. you nodded in response, readying yourself to listen. “it feels like im living someone else’s life, like this hollow heart of mine..isnt mine.” his voice wavered.

james’ universe was irrevocably shattered and it would be that way until the end of time. it kinda felt as though no one knew what really happened. it all happened so suddenly.

it’s surprising how quickly things are taken away from us.