𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐬 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐧𝐞-𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬

Shielding the Heir Black 1

Title: Shielding the Heir Black

Orion Black, known as the illustrious Heir Black, had always been a magnet for attention. Whether it was his striking looks, his aristocratic bearing, or the allure of his pureblood status, he had a way of drawing admiration wherever he went. But lately, the attention had become far too much for one particular person to handle-Regula Black.

Regula had always admired her father. He was a figure of strength, dignity, and an unyielding protector of their family's honor. But now, it seemed he needed protecting. It started innocently enough: whispered compliments at galas, lingering gazes from across the room. Yet it escalated quickly, particularly when Lord Marvolo Gaunt Slytherin-a man as cunning as he was powerful-decided to set his sights on Orion.

"Papa, did you notice the way Lord Gaunt looked at you last night?" Regula asked one evening, her brow furrowed in concern. She had always been observant, but now her attention was laser-focused on anyone who came too close to Orion.

Orion, seated comfortably in his study, looked up from his parchment with a bemused smile. "Regula, darling, I'm certain you're imagining things. Lord Gaunt is a respected ally of the family."

"Respected ally or not, he's far too interested in you," Regula muttered, crossing her arms. "I won't let him... or anyone else, for that matter, take advantage of your kindness."

Orion chuckled softly, clearly amused by her protectiveness. "And what exactly do you plan to do about it, my sly little basilisk?"

Regula's grey eyes sparkled with determination. "I'll handle it, Papa. Just leave everything to me."

The Plan

Regula set to work immediately. She began shadowing her father at every social event, placing herself strategically between Orion and anyone who dared approach with overly friendly intentions. When Lord Gaunt attempted to corner Orion during a Ministry banquet, Regula intervened with a sharp smile and an even sharper tongue.

"Lord Gaunt, how lovely to see you," she said, stepping in front of her father. "I trust your evening has been pleasant? I'd hate for anyone to feel left out of the festivities."

Gaunt's snake-like eyes narrowed as he studied her. "Miss Black, you're as charming as your father. It seems the apple doesn't fall far from the tree."

Regula's smile didn't falter. "Thank you. Now, if you'll excuse us, I believe my father promised me the next dance." Without waiting for a response, she looped her arm through Orion's and steered him away.

Orion's deep chuckle rumbled in her ear. "You're enjoying this far too much."

"Someone has to keep you safe, Papa," she replied, though the hint of a smirk betrayed her satisfaction.

A Final Confrontation

The tension came to a head during a gathering at Malfoy Manor. Lord Gaunt, emboldened by too many glasses of elf-made wine, cornered Orion in the library. Regula, who had been keeping an eye on the situation, burst into the room just as Gaunt stepped closer than was appropriate.

"I believe my father requested some privacy," Regula said, her voice cold as ice. She stood tall, her wand subtly drawn at her side.

Gaunt turned slowly, his expression both annoyed and amused. "Miss Black, you're quite the watchdog, aren't you?"

"And you're quite the nuisance," she shot back. "Perhaps you should learn to take a hint."

The room seemed to crackle with tension. For a moment, it appeared Gaunt might push back, but the intensity in Regulus's gaze made him think better of it. With a mocking bow, he excused himself.

A Grateful Father

Later that evening, Orion pulled Regula aside. "You've been working so hard to protect me, my dear. But you know I'm more than capable of handling myself."

Regula looked down, suddenly feeling a bit sheepish. "I know, Papa. I just... I couldn't stand the thought of someone trying to manipulate or hurt you."

Orion cupped her face in his hands, his eyes full of warmth. "You have a heart of gold, my darling. And I'm proud of you. But remember, you don't have to fight all my battles for me. You're my daughter, not my guardian."

Regula smiled softly. "Maybe not your guardian, but I'll always be your fiercest defender."