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"You're in a good mood," Evan observes, narrowing his eyes. "What's happened?"
"Why can't I just be in a good mood?" Josephine counters, laughing.
Truthfully, locating the horcrux keeps her spirits high for the past few days.
Evan chuckles, shaking his head in response.
The two are currently in their last class of the day.Returning her attention to the paper, Josephine smiles faintly.It feels liberating not to be burdened by guilt for feeling happy.
Ironically, her happiness stems from finding a means to end a dark lord.
When class concludes after a few minutes, Josie and Evan exit together.
"See you at dinner?" Evan raises his eyebrows.
"Sure."
Josephine turns, heading towards her common room. However, she pauses at one of the windows along the way.
The view outside is captivating—the setting sun painting a picturesque scene. She decides to take a walk, book in hand, relishing the chance to read outdoors.
Taking a break feels soothing.
Stepping through the courtyard doors, a refreshing breeze greets her. It's oddly deserted, devoid of students.
Deciding to stroll for a while before delving into her book, she silently wishes for perpetual spring or autumn weather, finding both summer's heat and winter's cold extremes less appealing.
Her footsteps crunch on the grass, the only sound aside from chirping birds. The air smells remarkably clean.
Josie hasn't seen Regulus lately, missing their conversations during shared classes.
Dating and relationships are unfamiliar territory for her. She hasn't envisioned herself in such a situation.
Her insecurities often cloud her thoughts, making her doubt the possibility of a lasting relationship. But hope still lingers, a hope for continuity.
However, her thoughts veer towards darker realms—her insecurities. Josephine acknowledges that eventually, these insecurities might jeopardize her relationship. Her busy schedule has thus far prevented these doubts from surfacing.
Being her first relationship, it's natural for her to question its authenticity, especially considering Regulus' past relationships with conventionally attractive people.
"Josephine."
She turns at the sound of her name, a smile lighting up her face upon seeing Regulus. As he approaches, his hands hidden behind his back, strands of hair framing his face, his eyes appear unusually bright.
His attire consistently adheres to dark hues—black, greens, and deep blues.
"Are you okay?" she inquires, sensing his unease as he conceals something behind his back.
Surveying the courtyard briefly, Regulus cautiously reveals what he holds. A bouquet of flowers.
Her eyes widen at the sight—every bloom comprises her recently stated favorites: sea lavender, bell flowers, and baby's breath. A faint flush graces her cheeks.
Silent, Regulus extends the flowers to her. They are exquisite—varied shades of blue, purple, and white, bound together by plastic wrap.
"You got me flowers," she murmurs, almost to herself. Regulus nods, and she continues to admire the blooms. No one has ever surprised her with flowers before.
"You mentioned they were your favorite, so..." His words trail off.
"Thank you," she says, meeting his gaze with a grateful smile. "No one's ever gotten me flowers."
Regulus wears an expression that proves challenging for her to interpret, but after a moment, he returns her smile.
Glancing around discreetly, Josephine takes a step closer, her free hand reaching to cup his face before she leans in to kiss him.
When they part Josie says once again "Thank you" Both of them now closer, neither retreating after the kiss.
Regulus responds with a gentle smile.
Josephine appreciates the unique smile he reserves for her—it feels distinct, and she cherishes that feeling.
