Chapter Text
At his vanity, Sirius stared at his array of lip glosses he’d meticulously arranged—not by shade or colour, but mood. His slender finger, the nail polished a deep maroon, touched the tops of each as he thought about how he felt that evening. Saucy a bit, flirty, tiny bit of angst because his brother had to send that sodding text about his father, and maybe a little horny because every time they were about to go on stage, it got him railed up.
So black cherry, it was.
He plucked it from the holder, unscrewing the top, and mashed the applicator into the liquid a few times before smearing it across his bottom lip. With the edge of his finger, mindful of the foundation caked on, he tidied the edge. Then with deft movements, curved the applicator over his full top lip. Mashing them together, sucking them in and pursing them out, he sat back and admired himself.
“Mm, delightful,” he muttered, getting a secret pleasure from the feeling of his lips sticking together a bit.
Moving next to the eyeliner, he did a harsh smear of black on his lower lids, complementing the smoky-and gold- eye he’d done earlier. He preened a bit, tugging on the end of his french plait—that done by Lily, and he moved a bit of his longer fringe out to frame his face.
It was his routine before every show, of course. And at times he envied James who turned his nose up to make-up in spite of whinging later on about how all the photos were unflattering, and wished he could get away with just a bit of hair product to make his wild hair even wilder. And James always favoured comfortable jeans and t-shirts whereas Sirius could go that route—and had in the past—but usually took hours to decide what to wear.
Then again, Sirius had always been far more fussy about his appearance. Something James used to take the piss about during their school years, and did so occasionally, but only when Sirius was going to make them late.
Tonight he’d started early. They were playing a very small venue for some charity thing—Sirius wasn’t sure, he hadn’t been paying attention when Lily’s girlfriend Marlene was rambling on about it. It was some secret show or something, he honestly didn’t pay much attention to what Lily and Marlene sorted out for them. He went where he was told, played the sets that they arranged, sat for the photos and interviews scheduled, and counted down the days he could be back in his flat with James and enjoying a small semblance of normalcy.
Not that they were a normal couple at all. They’d fallen for each other at school, a tumultuous time where James was trying to figure out his sexuality, and Sirius was trying to figure out his gender, and at first it was just getting off with each other and taking the pressure off everything else like exams and, in Sirius’ case, terrible family problems.
Sirius had come from a less-than supportive family. His father, Orion Black, had been appointed British Ambassador to Thailand where he met Walburga. Sirius was born there, and they moved back to London six weeks after his little brother, Regulus, was born. He grew up in a tidy, dark, vaguely frightening flat in Chelsea until he was sent off to a stuffy Public School in Scotland where his entire family had gone to—and half the Royals in the UK. A place that was supposed to teach him poise and propriety, instead taught him he was extremely queer—liked to shag boys and by sixth form had discovered he was genderfluid.
His father being who he was, was less than thrilled that Sirius was friends with a Potter—a rather well-off family who had business in both haircare and human rights. The Potters lived between London and Bangladesh, and before their first year at school was up, James had Sirius involved in human rights protests and giving up meat products.
It was when James and Sirius were caught on holiday in Brighton by some gossip rag called the Daily Prophet, photographing Sirius wearing a calf-length black skirt—one he hated but it was the only thing not covered in slime—long story, he’d always say, don’t ask—and snogging James’ face off near the club they’d stumbled out of, that his family’d had enough of his antics.
“You can either conform or consider yourself disinherited.”
Sirius went with option B. He moved in with James and they slowly fell in love.
They started their little band, The Marauders, their first year at King’s, and by the time they had finished their degree, a recording company was begging for them to sign on. Lily and Marlene—best mates since school—took over managing the group as James and Sirius weren’t exactly business minded, and it all went from there.
The record label was indie, but they hit the top of the charts with their first album, The Grimm. Their sound was folksy for the most part, maybe a bit emo with Sirius’ lyrical writing skills, but it was popular with the younger crowds and Sirius discovered very early on they related to their younger struggles.
Sirius gave nameless interviews discussing trans issues, and what it meant to be genderfluid. The public loved his somewhat flamboyant and excited attitude, and made him the face of the group. Neither James nor Peter really seemed to mind it, and Sirius relished the spotlight.
The door to his dressing room opened, and the tousled head of his lover popped in. James glanced at him over the rims of his squared glasses and he grinned. “Nearly finished?”
Sirius rose, displaying his body clad in very shiny, black leggings, and a tunic-like white shirt that was nearly see-through. “Just now, actually. Though if you want to come here and give us a kiss, I still have time to reapply my gloss.”
James rolled his eyes, but slipped in and let the door shut with a click. Stalking across the room, he carefully took Sirius by the shoulders, backing him up against the vanity table, and captured his mouth in a very slow, gentle kiss. “Hi there,” he whispered against Sirius’ mouth.
Sirius grinned, letting his fingers grip James’ hips tight. “Hey gorgeous.” With a gentle thumb, he reached up and brushed the gloss away from James’ mouth. “You know what I’m looking forward to most?”
“Hmm?” James asked, pressing his forehead to Sirius’.
“After this we’re done for six full weeks. Six. Which means we get to go to the shops like normal people, and go out for tea and I can go on a morning run, and we can go see Dori at the local because she’s been sending me angry texts for the last month.”
James snickered, ghosting his lips lightly across Sirius’ cheeks so as not to disturb his meticulously applied make-up. “I’m looking forward to lazy lie-ins and Netflix marathons.”
“Netflix and chill, you fucking nerd,” Sirius said.
James laughed, dipping his head low to nuzzle Sirius’ neck. “I fucking love you, you great, gorgeous git.”
“Alliterations are the devil, Jamie,” Sirius warned. He gave a whimper of protest when James pulled back, but smiled when James linked their fingers together. “So how long is this set?”
“Thirty minutes. Nothing too trying, and it’s a really small stage so we’ll be sat on bar stools.”
Sirius, who rather liked showing off and prancing about the stage, pulled a face. “How many does the venue hold?”
“Two hundred, I think. You’ll have to ask Lils. I guess the manager there is a mate of hers from when she was younger.”
“So this is a favour more than charity?” Sirius asked. He finally broke away from James to reapply his gloss, then bent over to fix the laces on his boots.
“Well it’s both, I guess.” James ruffled the back of his hair. “Does it matter?”
Sirius pursed his lips, glanced at himself, then shook his head with a wide grin. “No, love. I’m just excited for a short holiday.”
James beckoned him along after that, their fingers twining together as they headed for the car. Peter was already at the venue, getting everything set up, and no doubt Marlene was managing security. Managing to slip out the back of their building, the pair jumped into the back seat of their hired car, and the driver sped off.
Luckily the small venue wasn’t far from their flat, and before long they were pulling into a darkened alleyway where a rather large bloke was stood by the back door. James and Sirius got out, looking round before walking up, and were immediately led through the service entrance which cut through a small kitchen.
“Christ,” Sirius muttered, grimacing a bit. “This is a small place.”
“Told you. But it’s nice. We used to play spots like this all the time. It’s kind of nostalgic.”
Sirius grinned. “Well it’ll be extra nostalgic if we lock ourselves in the loo after,” he said, and waggled his brows.
“You’re insufferable.” But James squeezed his fingers as they spotted Lily who was waving them down a small corridor. They were pushed through a door, which led to a small stage covered by what looked like a hand-made curtain.
“It’s about time,” she admonished, hands on her hips. “Honestly you two left Peter here to sort everything out.”
“He volunteered!” Sirius declared, pointing a long finger at their shorter friend who was busy testing the amp.
Peter shrugged one shoulder, smiling. “I don’t mind. Those two fuck it up every time and I’d rather not be delayed anymore.”
Sirius turned his nose up at the implied insult—although he was hard-pressed to argue. If he was trying, sure he could sort it out just fine, but he’d never been really good at these things and life was much easier once they had hired crew members to work all the electronics.
Lily was rolling her eyes though, and looking annoyed. “Well you both look good, so that’s something. There’s going to be a few people here from a couple of music zines and websites. Personally invited, of course. It’ll be good for the pub as well, I think.”
“Your friend here?” James asked, scanning the small group of people who were milling about.
“Er. I think he’s behind the bar. He’d probably like to say hi. He’s not really heard your music, but he appreciates the free press.”
“Oh bloody hell,” Sirius muttered, leaning into James. James replied by slipping his arms round Sirius’ waist and pressing a soft kiss to the back of his neck. “We get loads of snuggles tonight, right?”
James snickered. “Anything you want.”
Sirius always liked the sound of that, and waited impatiently for Peter to finish and Lily to return. Which she did a few moments later, and the man next to her gave Sirius pause. He wasn’t conventionally attractive, not the way he was. Nor was he ruggedly handsome like James. But there was something about him which made his breath catch.
He was tall, taller than James even, with a nest of tight, dark-tawny curls, a large nose, and a grin which showed a slight overbite. He was wearing a loose fitted jumper with the sleeves pushed up to the elbows, and trousers that looked a bit worn. He looked decidedly shy, which Sirius found instantly endearing, and he glanced up at James to see if his lover was having the same reaction.
To his delight—he absolutely was. James had the, ‘Oh hell I’d like to invite that man home,’ look on his face which only Sirius knew about.
Their relationship wasn’t open, per-se. They didn’t bugger anyone they wanted, but they weren’t monogamous either. They’d carried on in a polyamorous relationship a few times in the past, but no one ever really fit with them to stay long enough for it to last. Which was disappointing in the least, and the breakups were always hardest on Sirius who wore his heart on his sleeve.
“James, Sirius, this is Remus Lupin. He runs the Leaky Cauldron.”
Sirius was the first to react, pulling away from James slightly to extend his hand. He took Remus’ in his, giving it a lingering squeeze and his most charming smile as James straightened his shoulders and cleared his throat.
“Pleasure,” Sirius said.
Remus looked even more shy, if possible, and there was a faint blush to his freckled cheeks. “Hi. I’m really pleased to meet you.” His accent was Scottish, and Sirius wanted to die a little bit.
“Same here,” Sirius said, still holding on. “I’m Sirius, front person for the band. That’s James, normally on bass, but since we’re doing a mostly acoustic set he’ll be on guitar tonight. Jamie, love. Say hi.”
James cleared his throat, then offered his hand and Sirius noticed with a zing up his spine, James’ fingers lingered just as long. “Remus, was it? Very nice to meet you.”
Sirius’ grin threatened to split his face. “So, you own this place?”
“Ah just run it for a friend, but he’s always travelling so most of the day to day is up to me.” Remus gave his hair a nervous ruffle. “This is the first time we’ve had honest-to-god celebrities in here though. I was beside myself when Lily told me she could arrange this.”
Sirius quirked a brow. “I thought you’d never heard our music.”
Remus’ blush deepened. “Ah well, you know I don’t get out much. All I’ve got are my mum’s records from the seventies. Don’t own a telly, none of that so…”
“Well I hope you like what you hear tonight,” Sirius said, and noticed Lily rolling her eyes.
“Anyway, I think you lot need to get set up and do a sound check before we start. Remus, I’ll chat with you later, yeah?”
Remus nodded, backing up a bit, taking one last look at Sirius and James before wandering off. The moment he was out of earshot, Lily turned on her friends.
“Don’t. You. Sodding. Dare.”
Sirius blinked at her. “Don’t what, Lils?”
“I know that look. I know both of those looks, and I’ll not have him pulled into your little…whatever it is.”
James looked affronted. “I’ll have you know that even if we were interested, and I’m not saying we are, Sirius and are really great partners. To everyone we date.”
“Yes,” she said slowly, “and you spend more than six months touring. Which is why each one have left heartbroken. You will not do that to him. He’s been through enough.”
Sirius’ interest was definitely piqued now, but he decided to let it go for the moment. “Come on, love. I think I’m going to use the baritone tonight. Peter, d’you have Coco?”
Peter pointed to the small, electric acoustic baritone Uke sat against the wall near James’ guitar. It was one of Sirius’ more favourite instruments to play, and he hurried over to grab it. Plugging the instrument in, he waited for Peter to turn the amp down before he gave it a low strum, then went into the first chords of their first song.
After twenty minutes, the sound-check was completed, which left ten to do nothing at all. Walking over to where James was fiddling with his guitar, Sirius slid his arms round his waist. “I’m going to go get a drink.”
James turned his head. “Lily’s probably right, love. I mean he’s…” James trailed off with a low hum. “Very good looking, but assuming he’s even vaguely interested in us, we’d be leaving him for ages and I’m not interested in a one-off.”
“I know,” Sirius breathed. “But I miss it. I miss having someone with us, you know? Don’t you?”
Once upon a time both had dealt with an almost rabid jealousy when they were trying to work out how to function in a poly relationship. But when they discovered that their love for each other was going nowhere, and they would always be this, it got better. And both craved the company of a third.
“Just…go easy, alright.”
Sirius smiled a bit and backed away. “I’ll at least see if he responds to a chat-up.”
James chuckled, shaking his head fondly as Sirius dodged Lily’s glances and slipped through the curtain. The pub had filled up, but there was a dark corner by the edge of the bar, and Sirius eased himself into the shadows. He managed to catch Remus’ eye who grinned and made his way over.
“Alright, there?”
Sirius nodded, leaning on the top of the bar. “Sorted. But was wondering if you might recommend me a drink. Something to take the edge off.”
“Nerves even in this little place?” Remus teased.
Sirius felt his belly go warm. “Mm, only when cute bartenders are watching.”
Remus’ eyes went wide a bit, but he looked pleased as he fetched a glass, put one massive sphere of ice in the bottom, then poured two fingers of scotch. He added a bit of lime, then handed it over. “Here. S’what I always use when I’m having an off day.”
Sirius took a long sip, then his smile spread out. “That’s wonderful. I might have to come back here and visit once all this madness is over. James and I don’t live far from here, you know.”
“Yeah?” Remus smiled, but looked a little disappointed. “You two been together long, have you?”
“Ages. Since school.” Sirius set the glass down on the bar and ran the tip of his finger round the rim. Glancing up through his lashes, he saw Remus watching, and because he was paying attention, noticed a sharp intake of breath. So he was interested.
“And is that when the band started?”
Sirius gave him a small grin. “At Uni. We started it for a laugh, but…apparently the Universe had other plans.”
Remus let out a small chuckle. “Seems so, doesn’t it? Did you always plan to be the frontman?”
“Person,” Sirius corrected automatically, then continued when Remus looked confused. “I’m not a man. I’m…” He hesitated, trying to work out how to explain it quick enough for Remus to understand before he had to dash off. “I’m genderfluid.”
To his great relief, Remus nodded with a knowing smile. “Ah. So your pronouns…?”
“He,” Sirius said. “I identify most of the time as demimale, so they’re what’s more comfortable. And yours? So I’m not making assumptions?”
“He,” Remus said. He leant a little closer, almost unconsciously. “And James?”
“Oh he’s my big, strapping cis man,” Sirius said with a slow wink. “Who, by the way, was rather taken with you.”
Remus blinked, and then took a step back. Bugger, Sirius thought, thinking he’d gone too far. Remus cleared his throat. “Ah. That’s erm…flattering.”
“We both were,” Sirius clarified, trying to bring the conversation round. “How could we not be? You’re…” He stopped, letting his eyes give Remus a slow once-over. “Lovely.” He licked his lips and watched the flush creep up Remus’ neck.
“Very flattering erm…Sirius. But I’m not really interested in…”
“Listen, can I be blunt?”
Remus looked startled, but nodded. “Aye, of course.”
“James and I are poly, and we think you’re fucking lovely. And we don’t do one-offs. So if you’re even remotely interested, find me at the end of the show and get my number. I’d love to ring you and take you on a date. And I think Jamie would very much love to do the same.”
Remus swallowed thickly, then in a very hoarse voice said, “I think Lily’s trying to get your attention.”
Sirius looked back, saw Lily’s angry-face, and sighed. Gulping down the scotch, he carefully dabbed his perfectly glossed lips and took a step back away from the bar. “Just think about it, alright. Not a one-off. And if you’re not single, well then I’m sorry for being an arse.”
“I am and erm…I…thanks? I suppose?”
Sirius found Remus’ painful embarrassment incredibly endearing, and walked backward toward the stage, finally slipping through the curtains to get set up. Lily didn’t say anything, but gave him a look which he promptly ignored in favour of taking his seat next to James at the mic.
He gave it a tap to ensure it hadn’t been turned on yet before leaning over. “It’s a maybe. He’s definitely interested, but nervous.”
James smiled, his head shaking a bit. “Well at least he didn’t throw a drink in your face.”
Sirius chuckled just before the curtain was pulled to the side, and the lights came up. Unable to really see the crowd, Sirius straightened in his seat, giving his audience the most winning smile he could muster, and pulled the mic closer as the sound was turned on.
“Good evening and thank you for joining us tonight at our secret show. We’re the Marauders, and here to serenade you lovely beings for the next thirty minutes.” He winked, and there was a few squeals from the crowd as he went into the opening bars of their first number.
Just as he leant in to begin the first verse, he caught a glimpse of Remus’ shadow watching, and he made a vow to win him over right then and there.
***
After the set, they agreed to play two encore songs before calling it a night. The curtain was drawn, and Lily and Marlene rushed over with drinks for the lot, and the promise that food had been ordered for delivery.
Still riding his high, Sirius helped pack up all the instruments to be delivered to the studio, then rushed at James, holding him by the shoulders and giving him a long, lingering kiss. “We were bloody amazing.”
James grinned at him fondly. “We were. As usual. And everyone loved you. You know that Remus couldn’t take his eyes off you. I had a decent view from where I was sat.”
Sirius licked his lips as he pulled away to sip his drink. “You sure he wasn’t looking at you?”
“Mm, maybe?” James offered. “But I think he’s erm…” James nodded and Sirius peered over his shoulder and saw Remus looking decidedly nervous.
Licking his lips, Sirius debated between talking with him privately or beckoning him over, and the latter won out. James needed to be part of it as well, so he gave Remus the head nod, and tried not to smirk when the curly-haired man began to make his way over.
Sirius saw Lily’s death-glare but ignored her, knowing she wouldn’t do anything about it in front of Remus. Pulling completely away from James, Sirius reached out to give Remus’ shoulder a squeeze. “Well, can we ask your honest opinion of the set? Speaking as someone who’s never heard us before.”
Remus looked a bit nervous. “Ah. Well. It was good.”
James let out a cough, which cleverly hid a laugh, and he ruffled his hair. “So in Remus speak does that mean it was total shit?”
Remus flushed. “No! No it wasn’t shit. I just…it’s not my usual cuppa. But you’re both incredible. And your stage presence is…” He trailed off, blushing harder.
Sirius gave him a slow, careful smile. “Well that’s something, I suppose. Someday you’ll have to hear our Stones covers. I think you’d appreciate that more.”
Remus’ eyes widened. “Have you done them?”
“We have,” Sirius said. He shifted from one foot to the other. “So have you thought about my offer? Our offer,” he clarified.
Remus swallowed. “I’m…well let’s just say I’m interested, but confused.”
James sighed and shook his head. “This one’s got you all wankered on his fancy words and winning smile, hasn’t he?”
“I resent that,” Sirius complained.
James snorted and rolled his eyes. “Listen, why don’t you come round to ours. Nothing untoward. We’ll have drinks and take away since the pair of us are completely pants at cooking—but we know all the good deliveries. We can chat and maybe clear a few things up.”
“But,” Remus said slowly, “you want to date me. Is that basically what Sirius was asking earlier?”
“Yes,” Sirius said emphatically. “We both think you’re fucking stunning.”
“Sirius, back off,” James cautioned.
“No it’s fine,” Remus said, worrying the sleeve of his jumper between his fingers. “I’m sure I seem like some backwoods country boy or something, but I actually live. And date. And fuck.”
At that, Sirius choked on his scotch and hid his cough in the crook of his elbow. “Jesus.”
Remus smirked a little. “I’ve just never been presented a situation like this before. And you two are celebrities.”
“Only barely,” Sirius said with a wave of his hand. “Not even millionaires. Well technically Jamie is, but he’s got family fortune to thank. And believe me we’ve checked into the celebrity circuit and they’re not…what we’re looking for, so to speak.”
“We don’t do casual,” James clarified. “Ever.”
“Ah.” Remus ruffled his curls again. “Well, I’ve a day off tomorrow so…I could come round then?”
“That,” James said, carefully putting his hand on Remus’ arm, “would be a delight.”
Remus smiled shyly, then took a step back. “Alright well, leave your number then, before you go. And…”
“And we’ll see you then?” Sirius offered.
He nodded. “You’ll see me then.”
***
After a thorough lecture from Lily who was still on about Remus not getting hurt more—though she wouldn’t clarify, James and Sirius finally made it back to theirs and let out huge groans of relief at the prospect of being able to relax for the first time in months.
Their flat was a bit stale, no food really, a few boxes of tea left, but their bed was comfortable and the sheets clean, and as they snuggled under the covers, Sirius felt his entire body relax.
They lay there in the dark for a while, basking in each other, James drawing lazy patterns along Sirius’ spine as Sirius kept his face tucked up against James’ neck.
“Love?” he asked after a little while.
“Hmm?” James shifted a little, moving his hand to Sirius’ hip.
“Have I gone in too fast with Remus? I mean we don’t know him. I don’t even know what it is about him, you know? I mean…there was just something there that…that…”
“I know,” James said quietly, gripping Sirius a little tighter. “I felt it too.”
“He wasn’t scared off, either. I mean, that’s something.”
“It is,” James agreed. “Just don’t get too over enthusiastic at first, alright? I think after tonight we might want to try a few dates. Single dates.”
“Yeah,” Sirius breathed gently. “I know I seem really excited. It’s just been so long and when Benjy left…”
James tightened his hold, pressing several kisses to the side of Sirius’ face. “I know, love.”
They’d been with Benjy the longest. Almost ten months. They’d met him by chance, on one of their breaks, and he was immediately interested in both Sirius and James. He was cute, funny, and Sirius had fallen in love with him almost immediately. It had taken James a little longer—he was always the more wary of the two, but just as soon as he fell, Benjy decided he couldn’t take it anymore. He wasn’t ready for the lifestyle, and he’d left in the worst way. Sirius and James had come home from the studio and Benjy was just gone. There was a note on the table that simply read, I’m sorry, but I just can’t.
Sirius had been shattered by the loss. And they hadn’t even attempted to date after that. Not until now.
“We’ll take it slow,” James said, carefully carding his fingers into Sirius’ hair. He turned his face up by the chin and pressed a line of kisses across his cheek, over his lips, and down to his neck.
“Alright,” Sirius breathed. He nuzzled into James and held him tight, but when he closed his eyes, his mind was full of the fuzzy jumper and curly hair of Remus Lupin.
***
It wasn’t until noon that Sirius heard from Remus. He was trying to play it cool, but he’d spent half the morning curled up with endless cups of tea, being slightly melancholy in one of James’ long t-shirts and a pair of his most comfortable, silky knickers.
James had to sort out something with Lily and left earlier that morning, promising to be back in time for their impromptu date with Remus. He kept in touch with a few texts, but Sirius was in an uncommon, quiet mood and most of his replies were just a handful of words.
When the text came through from the unknown number, Sirius’ heart was in his throat. Hi, it’s Remus. Was wondering if tonight was still good. I know last night was a little hectic so if you’ve changed your mind, it’s alright.
The insecurity in those words triggered something in Sirius who scrambled to type out his answer as quick as his fingers could move. Not at all! We’re looking forward to it. Here’s the address, but let me know when you get here just in case there’s some paparazzi posted outside the flat. It happens from time to time right after a show. Hope that doesn’t put you off.
Ten minutes passed before the reply came through. No it doesn’t but it is WEIRD. Need me to bring anything?
Just your lovely self. See you soon?
Remus texted the time, which Sirius sent off to James, and then hurried off for a shower. He wanted to look nice, but not like he was trying so hard. He felt a small pang of guilt he thought might not ever leave that he was this anxious to woo another person—but over the years it got easier. When he and James first decided to be in a relationship together, Sirius couldn’t work out why he never felt complete. He thought it was something wrong with him, and of course James thought it was something wrong with him which led to a near split between the two.
But after talking about it, and experimenting, and remind each other that their love wasn’t going anywhere, it was sorted. And both of them decided they were just meant to love more than one person.
Sirius couldn’t quite work out why he was so drawn to Remus, and he reminded himself that after getting to know the Scot, he might not like him in the end—but he couldn’t ignore the feeling in his gut. It was too much like the feeling he’d got when he first realised he desperately fancied James.
After his shower, Sirius stood at his wardrobe and perused his clothing. He closed his eyes, trying to decide how he felt that day, and in the end went with one his most comfortable and cosy black skirts that hung down to his calves, hugging his hips just right, and an old Pixies band t-shirt which was threadbare and almost see-through over the years, but he didn’t care. He wanted to be comfortable and happy, and no date was worth his own happiness.
Piling his hair into a messy bun on the back of his head, he smeared on a little bit of clear gloss, and decided to leave the rest of his face bare. Checking his mobile, he saw James had texted, promising to bring food on the way home. It was getting close to when Remus said he’d be by, so Sirius went through a hysterical spot-clean of the flat, making sure not a speck of dust could be seen.
When he was satisfied, he had less than five minutes to spare, and threw himself onto the sofa, hoping he would at least look somewhat casual before either James or Remus arrived.
Ten minutes later, Remus was at the door and Sirius was trying to pretend that he wasn’t nervous at all. Not that Remus wouldn’t find out what an incredibly anxious person he was, but for their first meeting he could at least attempt to play it cool.
“Hey,” he said, stepping aside. “Jamie’s not back yet, but he’s on food duty and should be home any minute.”
Remus walked in, looking delicious in his jeans and jumper as he had the night before. He was wearing a slouchy beanie, which he immediately removed and clenched between his fingers. “Er. Alright. Thanks for having me.”
Sirius took Remus into the lounge, and gestured to their squashy sofa. “Do you want a drink or…?”
“I’m alright for now,” Remus said. He eased himself on the far corner of the sofa, wrapping his arms round his middle in a defensive position.
Sirius felt his gut clench a bit as he resumed his former seat. “Listen, Remus…Lily was in a strop because I came on to you, and you seem very…” He waved his hand at Remus. “Uncomfortable. I feel like maybe I shouldn’t have.”
Remus shook his head. “No it’s…it’s fine, really. Lily and I have known each other a long time, she was with me when I went through a few difficult periods in my life and she gets a little protective.”
“Bad breakups?”
Remus licked his lips. “Bad relationship. Long. Abusive.”
Sirius blinked, then felt his throat tighten at the thought that anyone would hurt Remus ever. “Fuck. I’m sorry.”
Remus shook his head. “It’s alright. It’s been years and I’m in a really good place now. But if I seem cautious…”
“No I get it,” Sirius said in a rush. “I mean, I could easily say we’d never hurt you, but I think all the shitty people say that.”
Remus looked almost relieved. “Yeah, they do tend to.”
“I know all this is really unconventional, and frankly it’s not like James and I were exactly the best at maintaining a poly relationship. Most of our thirds have all left because well…we’re busy a lot. We travel for work, we’re constantly in the spotlight, and when we’re home we like to just chill, you know?”
“I get that,” Remus said. “I might have looked the pair of you up online last night.”
“No telly but you have the internet?” Sirius teased.
Remus rolled his eyes. “I don’t live in a cave, you know.” He grinned when Sirius chuckled. “I learnt a decent amount.”
“Don’t believe everything you read,” Sirius cautioned.
“So food colouring in the water supply of that American hotel…”
Sirius flushed. “Well…maybe some things.”
“Christ,” Remus said, shaking his head. “Well it was definitely clever, if not a little terrifying.”
“We’re not as bad anymore,” Sirius said, still grinning. He was warming to Remus rapidly, and he noticed Remus had stopped holding himself so tightly. “Either way, a lot of people have come into this thinking it’s going to be some great threesome, orgy type thing. That we’re mad rockstars who like to party and fuck and be careless. But when we’re not on tour, we crave this.” He waved his hand round the quiet flat.
“But you’d be gone a lot,” he said softly.
Sirius nodded. “And jumping ahead to hypothetical, if you did want to be with us. Properly like a relationship, you’d be invited to come. Any time. All the time. Some of the time. Whatever you’d like. We’d…we’d miss you. We’d want you there.”
Remus licked his lips and dropped his hands away from his middle completely. “Can I ask you something?”
Sirius nodded. “Anything.”
“Why me?”
Sirius blinked. “I dunno what you mean.”
“I mean…well you’re you. The two of you are very good looking and very outgoing and I’m sort of…me. Quiet. Reserved. I’m not like either of you.”
“No, you’re not,” Sirius admitted. “But James isn’t exactly like me, either. And you’re really lovely. There was something about you the second we saw you. James felt it just as much as I did.”
Remus licked his lips, then looked down at his feet when he spoke. “I know what you mean.”
Sirius felt his stomach lurch and a blush creep into his cheeks. “Have you ever been in a relationship like this?”
“No,” Remus admitted with a laugh. “I’m not even sure how I’d handle it. But there was something about you I just…well…here I am.”
Sirius shifted closer, and when Remus didn’t pull away or flinch, he moved even closer. “Go on a date with me this week.”
Remus blinked at him. “Just us?”
Sirius nodded. “Just me and you. And then you and Jamie.”
Remus bit down on his bottom lip, smiling through the gesture, and he nodded. “Yeah alright. I…yeah.”
Sirius fought back the urge to touch him or kiss him, but that could come later. Instead he sat back and they continued to talk about everything until James arrived with food.
***
The evening went well, and Sirius was pleased to see that James and Sirius got along really well. In fact, James seemed far less reserved than he ever had with a potential third. By the end of the night, he was his usual self, finding small ways to touch Remus on the arm or the small of his back.
The three of them stood round the kitchen with drinks for a while, telling stories about being on the road, and Remus entertaining them with his worst customers he’d ever had, but eventually the night wore on and it was getting late.
“I should go,” Remus said, glancing at his mobile. “You two are probably exhausted.”
James shrugged. “Bit early to invite you to stay, but you are welcome.”
Remus flushed, but shook his head. “Thanks, but I should go. Only…we’ve dates, right?”
James nodded fiercely, then abandoning propriety, reached out and took Remus’ hand pulling him closer. Sirius watched through careful eyes as James cupped the side of Remus’ neck, pressing a slow, careful kiss to the side of his mouth.
“I can’t wait, you know?” James murmured.
Remus was flushed, but he was grinning and nodding. “Me too.”
Sirius felt elated all over, and he set his drink down. “Can I give you a lift home?”
Remus turned to him. “It’s a bit far.”
“I could do with the drive. Only I’ve got a motorbike so if you don’t fancy…”
“Oh no I…that would be lovely.”
James shot Sirius a small grin as he backed away. “And that will be my cue to selfishly enjoy the bath whilst you’re gone. I have my favourite bath bomb waiting.”
Sirius rolled his eyes. “Hands off mine, Potter. I’m not even kidding.”
James passed by Sirius, grabbing him gently and giving him a soft, lingering kiss. “Don’t be too long, alright?”
“Promise,” Sirius whispered back.
James turned his head and gave Remus a careful smile. “And I’ll see you in a few days, yeah?”
Remus, who was watching the encounter, nodded. “Count on it.”
When James was gone, Sirius fetched his leather jacket from the cupboard. He shrugged it on, then held out his hand for Remus to take. When their fingers intertwined, Sirius felt a tingling up his arm and he clung onto it. They took the stairs down to the back exist where Sirius’ bike was parked, and he swung one leg over the side.
“You been on one before?”
Remus chuckled. “Like I said, I don’t live in a cave.”
Sirius pulled a face, but felt Remus climb on behind him, and warm arms came round his middle, hugging him tight. Sirius took a moment to bask in the feeling, hoping against hope—though terrified to let himself want much more than that. He didn’t have it in him to be crushed again.
“Ready?” Sirius asked.
“Very,” Remus said, and there was the hint of double meaning in his voice which sent Sirius’ head spinning.
He distracted himself by switching on the bike and revving the engine. He pulled out carefully, letting Remus give him quiet directions in his ear. He didn’t live far, which made Sirius feel better about potentially dating him, but it was a slight disappointment when after only ten minutes he was pulled up along the kerb to Remus’ flat.
It wasn’t nearly as nice as James and Sirius’ was, but it was very Remus and for that, Sirius loved it. He switched off the bike and let Remus slide off before he twisted round, letting his arse rest against the seat.
“Well,” Remus said, shuffling his feet nervously. “Thanks.”
Sirius grinned, reaching his hands out, and sucked in his breath when Remus took them. “Tomorrow night? After your shift?”
Remus nodded, taking a step into Sirius’ personal space. He removed one hand from Sirius’ and carefully reached out, his fingers tracing along Sirius’ jaw. “I’ve never felt this way about two people before. It’s…interesting.”
“Good interesting?”
Remus laughed and nodded. “At least I think so. Wanted to snog the pair of you a few times tonight, if we’re being honest.”
“Neither of us would have said no,” Sirius clarified. He reached up and cupped his hand round Remus’, pressing the man’s hand into his jaw. “But I’ll settle for a little one before our date.”
Remus swallowed thickly, then brought his face in, brushing his lips past Sirius’ and then nuzzled Sirius’ cheek with his nose. “Goodnight. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“I’ll be there,” Sirius breathed, and felt the loss almost physically as Remus turned and walked away.
He didn’t get back on the bike until Remus had disappeared, and he made the drive home in less time. Hurrying back up the stairs, he was glad to see James had kept the bath short. He was in their bed with a book propped up on his knee, and he smiled as Sirius quickly rushed to undress and climb beneath the covers.
Opening his arms, he took Sirius to his chest, holding him tight. “That went well, yeah?”
Sirius nodded, pressing a soft kiss to James’ collarbone. “I think so. He gave me a kiss. Not a snog but…it was nice.”
James buried his face in the top of Sirius’ hair and breathed there for a minute. “I think this could be something good, love. I do.”
Sirius let that warm him as he settled in for the night. “I do too, Jamie. I really do too.”