Through entries in an old diary, Hermione pieces together the untold story of Regulus Arcturus Black. A/N: Though I am attempting to match the timeline of this story to what is outlined in the books, I cannot promise that it will line up exactly since information about Marauders era characters is lacking. Also, I'm always open to constructive criticism, so please let me know what you think! Cover art created by the lovely @fuckudelilah

"You should tell him, you know," a familiar voice softly said from behind her. "I know you love him." "Remus," she began turning around to face her friend, "You know I can't do that. He's my best friend, and h-he's in love with his perfect Lily-flower," Elsie sighed as tears began forming in her eyes. "But, Elsie... you don't see the way he looks at you, he-," his sentence was cut off by the girl with tears running down her face. "I don't see how he looks at me, but I see how he looks at her! And, t-that's enough to know that I will n-never be good enough to be with h-him," she snapped through stifled words. "But why don't you just tell him? Why don't you let yourself have a chance at happiness for once?" he asked stepping forwards, wiping her cheeks with his thumbs. "Because...loving him is a losing game. Either way, I'm the one getting hurt," Elsie whispered, falling into the arms of the boy in front of her. SLOW BURN {extended summary inside} (All characters, plots, and aspects of this story belonging to the Harry Potter Universe are credited to JK Rowling.)