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After a full day of classes, Josephine makes her way towards the great hall doors to meet Regulus for their patrol. Despite her best efforts, she struggles to shake off her weariness.
Regulus, on the other hand, seems preoccupied, fidgeting with a ring on his finger. It is the very ring she has gifted him, an amusing coincidence considering she is adorned with the necklace he has given her. A small smile creeps across her lips as she finally speaks his name, "Regulus."
He glances up, returning her smile with a small one of his own.
As they begin their patrol, Josephine inquires, "How's your day been?"
Regulus shrugs, replying, "It's been alright. How about yours?"
Draining. "Good."
Regulus appears unconvinced, prompting her to avert her gaze. Lately, it feels like everyone is judging her.
Yes, she can also be judgmental but she's hypocrite. At least she is self-aware.
Her thoughts shift to Regulus, wondering if he has ever really been in a relationship before. Without hesitation, she voices her curiosity, "Have you ever dated someone?"
Furrowing his brows, he inquires, "Why do you ask?"
"Just curious," she replies, absently picking at her nails.
After a moment of contemplation, Regulus admits, "I would say yes. Perhaps not officially. It's complicated."
A mischievous grin plays on her lips as she quips, "Oh, it's complicated?"
His lips twitch in response. "What about you?"
"I've told you, I've never been in a relationship," she affirms, and he seems skeptical.
"Never even something complicated?" he questions.
She chuckles. "Nope."
"Really?" His disbelief is palpable.
"Regulus, you were the first boy I kissed," she reminds him.
"Actually?"
Brushing her hair back from her face, she says, "You knew my date with Davian was my first one. I'm not sure why you're so surprised."
He shakes his head. "Why didn't you ever go out with anyone?"
Because I didn't believe I deserved love, and I still struggle with that notion.
"I just... I didn't think anyone liked me," she admits.
"That's insane," Regulus counters.
She rolls her eyes. "It's not that crazy to think that."
"Kind of is," he insists.
"Don't argue with me," she teases.
His laughter fills the air, a sound she finds undeniably charming.
Josephine can't help but smile when she hears his laughter.
As they stroll past a window, a spontaneous idea takes root within her.
"You know what we should do?" she suggests.
Regulus raises an intrigued eyebrow.
"Be one of those cliche couples that dance in the snow," she proposes with a playful grin.
Regulus responds with a theatrical sigh. "Oh, Merlin."
"You don't have to say yes," she reassures him.
But he surprises her by picking up his pace toward the door, declaring, "Come on, let's go outside in the freezing cold so you can live out your book fantasy."
Her laughter rings out as she hastens to follow him.
Once they step outside, they are greeted by the gentle descent of snowflakes.
Regulus ventures further into the courtyard, urging her along with him. "Come on, Josephine!"
Her laughter echoes through the serene surroundings.
Unexpectedly, Regulus reaches for her hand, and she marvels at the swift initiation of physical contact.
Then, with a chivalrous flourish, he leans down to kiss the back of her hand, adopting a posh tone. "My lady."
She attempts a graceful curtsey. "My lord."
Regulus maintains his hold on her hand as they begin to dance. Unsure of the steps, she follows his lead.
As they move, the wind tousles her hair, prompting her to laugh and push it back.
He extends his arm to spin her, and she eagerly obliges.
Upon completing the spin, he draws her closer and initiates a quick, affectionate kiss.
A warm smile adorns his face as they part, and Josephine is relieved to see his happiness.
"Come on, let's go back inside. We're going to get sick if we stay out here too long," he wisely advises.
She nods in agreement, and together they return to the warmth of the castle.
"Bonne nuit, ma jolie fille,"(Goodnight my pretty girl) he whispers, bringing her hand to his lips.
She can't hide the flush of her cheeks, attributing it to the chilly air outside.
"I'll see you tomorrow, Regulus," she bids him farewell with a smile.
