Marauders age regression one shots

Bye-bye

James had never felt his protective instincts go into overdrive quite like this. He held tightly to Regulus's hand as they made their way down the winding path away from the Black estate. 

Regulus was regressed, caught in a headspace so tender that he didn't fully understand why they were leaving. All he knew was that James was with him, leading him away from his family.

"Jamie?" Regulus's voice was small, almost timid as he tugged on James's hand. He looked up at James with wide, trusting eyes, his brow creased with a hint of worry. "Can we... can we go say bye-bye to Mum and Dad?"

James swallowed, his heart clenching at the innocent request. He knew Regulus's parents were a source of pain, a reason why he felt safer regressed in the first place. There was nothing good waiting back there—just harsh words and cold treatment. But Regulus's soft, hopeful expression made it difficult to just dismiss his request outright.

"Reg," James said gently, crouching down to be on eye level with him. "Your mum and dad... they're not like us, remember? They don't know how to look after you like you need. That's why we're leaving, okay?"

Regulus fidgeted, clutching the sleeve of James's shirt with his free hand. "But... but I should say goodbye. They're my family..."

James nodded, letting him express his thoughts, but he didn't loosen his hold on Regulus's hand. "They're your family," he agreed, "but so am I. And family is supposed to make you feel safe and loved. They... don't know how to do that the way you deserve."

Regulus's bottom lip quivered as he looked back toward the house, his gaze distant and clouded with confusion. "Are you sure they won't miss me, Jamie?"

James took a deep breath, wishing he could promise him that he'd be missed by those who truly cared. Instead, he gently pulled Regulus into a hug, holding him close and rubbing circles on his back.

"They're not going to understand what they're missing, Reggie," he murmured, his voice thick with a mix of sadness and determination. "But I do. And I'm not going anywhere."

Regulus relaxed into James's embrace, and after a few moments, he seemed to let go of his desire to return. He nodded slowly, nuzzling into James's shoulder. "Okay... I trust you, Jamie."

James smiled softly, holding him a little tighter, knowing he'd made the right choice. "Good," he whispered, standing and lifting Regulus up into his arms. "Let's go home."