Remus couldn't help but feel a knot of insecurity tightening in his chest as he watched Y/N and Sirius banter playfully across the common room. Their laughter echoed around him, each giggle and teasing remark amplifying his self-doubt.
It wasn't that he doubted their love for him. Remus knew that both Y/N and Sirius cared deeply for him. But seeing the ease with which they interacted, the natural chemistry they shared, left him feeling like an outsider in his own relationship. He wondered if he was enough for them, if they would be happier without the complications he brought to their lives.
Sirius caught his eye and flashed him a reassuring smile, one that was meant to say "I love you," but Remus couldn't fully shake the feeling of inadequacy. Y/N noticed his troubled expression and, leaving Sirius mid-sentence, crossed the room to sit beside him.
"Remus, are you alright?" she asked softly, her hand resting gently on his arm.
He forced a smile, not wanting to spoil the moment. "Yeah, I'm fine."
But Y/N wasn't convinced. She glanced at Sirius, who was now making his way over to join them. "Remus, you know we love you, right?" she continued, her eyes filled with concern.
Sirius sat down on Remus's other side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders. "She's right, Moony. We love you just as much as we love each other. You're an essential part of us."
Remus took a deep breath, the warmth of their touch and the sincerity in their eyes slowly easing his insecurity. He knew he had to be honest with them if their relationship was to thrive. "I know you love me," he said quietly. "But sometimes, I can't help but feel...less, compared to you two. The way you interact, it's so effortless."
Y/N and Sirius exchanged a look, their expressions softening with understanding. "Remus, you bring so much to this relationship," Sirius said earnestly. "Your kindness, your wisdom, your strength. We balance each other out, and we wouldn't be complete without you."
Y/N nodded, her eyes shining with love. "You don't have to compete with us, Remus. We're all in this together. If something's bothering you, we want to know. We want to make sure you feel as loved and valued as you make us feel."
Remus felt a wave of relief wash over him. He realized that his insecurities were something they could face together, just like everything else. He smiled, genuinely this time, and pulled them both into a tight embrace. "Thank you," he whispered. "I love you both so much."
As they held each other, Remus knew that, despite his insecurities, they would always find a way to reassure him and reaffirm their bond. Together, they were stronger, and their love was something worth fighting for.
