The Chain

Past

It was after one of their first shows when everything was still new and exhilarating and none of them wanted the night to end just yet, that Phoebe decided to test her luck — with Sirius Black. They got on to a rough start: Sirius wouldn't spend much time socialising with the band unless it was with James. He preferred to go out clubbing with strangers. Phoebe didn't mind, except any time she would initiate a friendly conversation she was always met with monosyllabic responses that cut any warming up to him short. But tonight, Phoebe didn't care. It was their first sold-out show of the tour. The venue had been jam-packed with crazy and eager fans, not another soul could fit inside lest they kick The Marauders out of their own gig. And Phoebe and Sirius had great chemistry on stage. Weirdly enough, they always managed to, thanks to their professionalism. Still, tonight it had been electrifying to be singing beside each other and at times, at each other, under the bright lights of centre stage. So, Phoebe decided to sit next to Sirius at the afterparty because she didn't care if it would be awkward or futile, it would be an attempt nonetheless and she was feeling optimistic.

Her mouth wasn't even fully open when Sirius said, "You did great out there, y'know."

Phoebe blinked a couple of times before responding, "Oh um. Thanks. I was just about to say the same about you."

"The fans seemed to love it. Your... presence on the stage really livens up the crowd."

"I-I couldn't have done it without the rest of you. I mean, they all adore you. You're the new mysterious rocker guy on the street."

Sirius let out a bemused grunt and they both fell silent. She was glad she hadn't said anything that might embarrass her now that they seemed to be making progress.

When a waiter came around with drinks and other familiar substances Phoebe stopped herself halfway from reaching for the tray after she caught sight of Sirius's abstinence. Perhaps, she could enjoy the highs of their thrilling performance without any assistance for one night — and still have a recollection of the events in the morning.

Sirius's brows quirked up when she denied the waiter's offer.

"What?" She slunk back on the couch.

"Since when are you one to pass up a bump?"

Phoebe hoped her cheeks weren't betraying her internal embarrassment. Was that really how she was perceived? And she thought he never noticed her before now.

"I'm trying something new for a change, actually. I didn't take it you were one to object to self-improvement."

"I've just never heard of a rock star who doesn't drink or do other things."

This time, Phoebe raised her right eyebrow.

Sirius laughed, out loud and clutched his stomach, when he caught sight of her expression.

He clarified, "I guess neither of us has made it — yet."

Phoebe hummed in agreement. But an uneasy tension lingered.

"It's the feeling you get. It's... warm," Phoebe whispered.

"Warm?"

Sirius leaned closer to her. She could smell his cologne and see the stubble growing around his lips. She hadn't noticed how full and pink they were. He looked good. As much as she hated to admit it, she was aware there was definitely a reason why Sirius Black was adored and fangirled over by the majority of their fanbase. Sure, quiet Remus had some people gushing over him and Lily was beautiful behind the keys, but Sirius Black had a certain allure no one else did and Phoebe had fallen for his charms much like the majority of their fanbase.