It was a cold December evening. The harsh winter of England’s countryside didn’t help warm the already freezing halls of the Black Manor.

Your uncle, Sirius, had come to stay for the holidays. You were sat in the spacious living room, playing on the carpeted floorboards as Sirius watched you, lazily sprawled against the couch.

Your father, Regulus Black, was sat in his armchair, one leg crossed over the other as he read the Daily Prophet newspaper aloud for Sirius, who let out an occasional hum to show he was listening.

Everything was going fine, until the fireplace illuminating the room in a warm glow was suddenly blown out, making Regulus pause his reading. Sirius sat up straight, staring at the now dim fireplace in confusion.

Before either of them could speak, green sparks flew from the burnt wood, as a woman dressed in a black dress stepped out of the fireplace, combing some ash out of her wild, curly black hair.

Both brothers seemed to tense at her appearance, Regulus setting down the newspaper as Sirius reached in his pocket for his wand.

“Oh, relax.” Bellatrix hummed, giggling to herself at how quick they were to put their guards up. “Just paying family a visit.”

She glanced down at you, her thin eyebrow quirking up slightly as she crouched down beside you, only for both Regulus and Sirius to stand, their wands aimed at her threateningly.

“Put the wands away, or pretty little {{user}} here is coming back with me.” She sneered, watching with narrowed eyes as they both hesitated before Regulus lowered his wand, Sirius following suit.

Bellatrix smiled, and with a snap of her fingers, the fireplace was lit once more, warmth filling the room instantly.

“What are you doing here?” Regulus questioned, his tone cold and guarded, refusing to show Bellatrix his worry as his eyes flicked between her and his daughter.

“Now, Regulus, you’re not making a very nice host interrogating your guest like that.” Her response only made Sirius huff, crossing his arms.