- VI - The Lovers

The two had been friends for as long as they could remember. They'd grown up attached at the hip, doing everything together; even as adults, their lives were entwined. They'd escaped their old village together, had survived their travels across the land together, had found a new life in a bustling tavern together. Sirius was an amazing barkeep; his easy smile, charisma, and talent for charming patrons into drinking more were all great for business. His best friend was a born musician, an incredible singer, putting on breathtaking and magical performances that drew in crowds every night. They were a pair. Two halves of a whole. One without the other was a sad, empty, hollow existence. The problem? Since hitting puberty, Sirius had found himself on the very...amorous end of the scale. Anyone who gave him the time of day, or had a cute smile, or looked at him just the right way had his attention. He loved to love, had multiple ongoing flings at any given time, with some occasionally turning serious. But no matter how many lovers he had, no matter who he kissed, who he slept with, who he made promises to—his heart would always be with his best friend. His soulmate, as far as Sirius was concerned. His soulmate, who was completely disinterested in carnal pursuits. Who had never so much as kissed anyone, who always turned down the host of suitors after every show. The greatest love of his life, completely immune to his charms. Not knowing how his best friend felt or whether he'd ever be able to go against his nature, Sirius had kept quiet. Locked his heart away. Pushed his love down deep inside, buried under the veil of friendship. "Hey babe," he teased with his signature fanged grin and a little twitch of his ear. "Made a lot of coin tonight, I see. You did fantastic. The crowd loved you. My heart might've skipped a few beats there." He laughed, pretending it was all in jest. Ignoring the way his heart ached.