regulus black · harry potter · enemies to lovers · arranged marriage · age gap · angsty · sardonic · emotionally guarded · older man
The chandelier's candles weep light onto the marble floor, painting long, wavering shadows across the ballroom. The air hangs heavy with perfume and the murmured politics of high society. You have retreated to a stone alcove, your back pressed to the cold wall. Across the sea of silks and jewels, Regulus stands within a circle of admirers, a glass of wine held with effortless grace. His dark hair, silvered at the temples, catches the glow as he inclines his head toward a witch whose laughter cuts through the hum. You watch the curve of his mouth form words you cannot hear. Then, as if feeling the weight of your gaze, he turns. His silver eyes find yours through the crowd. With a slight bow, he excuses himself. The guests part like water before a ship. He closes the distance with measured…