#We all know what the best confession in history was and the trio is never going to top that lol

[findafight]

i like stonathan and fics where they're friends but i also feel like the cheating goes from bad to worse in those fics. like if they become friends after it's not quite so bad but then i do feel like there's more of an argument for jonathan having a moral/good friend obligation to tell steve what actually happened. but in fics where they're friends pre s2 it's honestly kind of evil of jonathan to do that then just let nancy lie and never say anything himself. i've seen both cases in fics and it always really bothers me.

ya like. i sort of see it as, if they're friends/interact friendly, maybe Jonathan thinks Nancy told Steve? It's not the best start to a relationship, and maybe they just don't talk about it really (they seem to avoid their issues together) So I see Jonathan, if they were friends, being super awkward about it and avoiding Steve(who wants to be around their girlfriend's ex that she cheated on with you?), but not realizing Nancy hadn't told Steve what happened. so that's how it slips out, if Jon talks to Steve after to apologize? and it causes more issues between the three of them and probably causes issues between Jonathan and Nancy too.

but if they are friends/friendly and Jonathan knows Nancy didn't confess.... gross and nasty and bad and on the verge of unforgivable for Steve. It's Nancy's responsibility but you're right there's some kind of obligation/morality in either encouraging her to tell Steve or doing it for her. Because if they were to try to form platonic relationships with Steve, the betrayal would be that much worse if he found out later.

Stonathan AND Stancy either romantic or platonic both require Steve to know what happened. Idk I think it'd fuck Steve up if he were to become Jon's friend post S2 only to find out later Nancy cheated with him. There's be a lot of confusing emotions and betrayal.

At this point in canon no one has told him and no one seems to feel at all guilty about it (because canon doesn't believe Steve was cheated on, even though getting together with someone less than two days after breaking up with your almost year long partner is still pretty hurtful). Nancy and Jonathan seemingly sometimes make fun of Steve behind his back (something I've only really done with friends exes who we don't see anymore, not someone who you still see pretty regularly. Nancy still at the very least sees around town but possibly more with him giving Dustin/max rides?) that scene with them at hop's cabin where Nancy says Steve has grown up doesn't seem like it's 'someome we both know does stuff that annoys us but it is kinda funny' complaining and more 'lets laugh about your stupid ex we don't like' (which is fine to do, just. Maybe I wouldn't do it about a guy who saved my and my sibling's lives separately at least twice that I'd see because he's still friends with my sibling's friends...) It's not like STEVE was the one that broke NANCY'S heart.

At this point I don't think the monster hunting trio will be able to have a good friendship, just because it would be too lopsided with Nancy and Jon not respecting Steve, Steve and Nancy having too much history, and Steve and Jon not liking each other.

[the-chihayafuru-landslide]

I wanted to address this because while I don’t think the ending was perfect by any stretch of the imagination (see my post on “In the Defense of the ending of Chihayafuru”) I don’t think the ending was at all incomplete. There seems to be some disconnect with the idea that all 246 of the manga didn’t contain Chihaya’s thoughts and her journey on becoming Queen or how she wanted to have Karuta be apart of her future going forward. I feel like it would have been rather heavy handed to have her give a speech at the end (or more internal narration) announcing the thoughts she had already had throughout the manga rather than the most important story beats - accomplishing her dream, Shinobu and her standing atop the mountain together (saving Shinobu from the loneliness she had almost experienced herself, Taichi “coming back to Karuta” thereby the trio would continue to be able to meet and be friends through Karuta, finally being recognized by her sister (the person who’s approval was always the most important to her), and despite not being the best student graduating highschool! **Bonus** - she even figured out her feelings and confessed to the boy she always liked since the beginning. So I’m not making this a grandiose essay like statement but I will pull some examples of the kind of closure we got to the story THROUGHOUT the final arc and not just needed to be contained in the final chapter. 1. Arata and Chihaya

Both of them accomplished their childhood dreams together. The “I’ve come for you” moment was essentially that. When they got the simultaneous Chihayaburu take it was like the whole story came full circle. 2. Learning more about the Hykunin Isshu

When Chihaya plays Karuta initially she believes that the poems don’t matter beyond their deciding syllables it is only in highschool that she explores beyond the surface level- learns about the history of the cards and their meaning. Not only does this knowledge help her in Karuta (it’s how she won the luck of the draw by knowing which card was connected hers) - it also has helped her be able to express her feelings as the 100 poems gives her something to relate to how she is feeling. Won’t everything that’s born into this world one day write a poem? Probably the most beautiful line I’ve ever heard. 3. The importance of Friendship

Chihaya would not have made it to the Queen matches without her friends and this is also symbolized how unlike Shinobu who sees the cards as little gods she sees them as 100 of her friends. They support her they are the wind in her sails. Of course Chihaya could not have done it without her own strength but it’s them who have also helped her be the best she can be. 4. Shinobu and Chihaya

I don’t even to say anything these pages speak for themselves. Shinobu spent the entire Queen matches reflecting on how her version of Karuta was lonely. You see her walking away from those tiny gods in the end. These are the ones I just pulled quickly from the top of my head so no I don’t think the ending was “incomplete” do I think we should have gotten some more epilogue? Sure I can agree with that. But needing more “heavy handed” reinsertion of the themes that have been built up throughout the final arc - nah boo completely and utterly unnecessary. However “becoming Queen” was never about the role that Chihaya would take as “becoming the best at Karuta” it was always about the journey there (and Suetsugu did give her a glimpse at her Queen speech in the end lmao). To me the story perfectly wrapped up Chihaya’s story - she learned what passion meant. It’s not a dream you have for someone else and it’s not something you do alone. Karuta in its nature is a game of pairs- you need an opponent sitting in front of you in order to play it. The cards are more than just things you slap away - they have a deep and meaningful history and the emotions captured within them are timeless.

one chapter was definitely not enough to wrap up a 15-year long story, especially not when it had to address the aftermath of the most awaited matches and the realization of two of the mc’s dreams, and it shows… not the greatest conclusion by any means but it’s buoyed up by the preceding chapters imo. like yeah i also wish it elaborated on many other aspects and that it didn’t offhandedly dismiss the trio’s connection, but it makes sense that they don’t have experience communicating outside of karuta. more than anything, i wish it had focused on chihaya’s introspection and her inner monologue about reaching queendom and her next steps heading into the real world. it’s a hurried ending, it’s lacking a lot, and it must surely be disappointing to those who have followed the story for its entire run, but #i, #me personally, i binged it so. the aggregate of the story’s themes and meaning is staying with me more than the ending is idk i have a great imagination. shrug

[just-like-playing-tag]

Here is something fun to think about, fullscore trio confession headcannons?

Pffft fun ask here we go!!

I already mentioned it, but I believe canon and modern au would take different routes: in canon I can imagine the proposal sequence to go like Emma + Ray → Norman, while in modern au it seems more likely to be Emma + Norman → Ray. I'm not 100% sure tho... Because they're still very young in canon (I'm talking about 2047), and it looks pretty early to me to enstablish a relationship... But they always act so adult and mature so it doesn't seem too far from reality? I don't know. The shipping discourse in tpn is complicate and I don't have enough energies for it right now.

I didn't really know how to organize this, so pardon the messy form,,, It's mostly ideas I'm just throwing there. Enjoy! Under the cut because it got l o n g

You see, Emma and Ray arrive to the Paradise Hideout already being pretty much together y'know? They keep acting as partners and they're all extremely affectionate towards each other, but they don't really discuss about it with Norman- hell, their closest friend they had spent one year and eleven months considering dead just turned out to be alive, there's so much to discuss and to catch up with!!! So at first they don't really think about mentioning their relationship to him: for Emma and Ray, it's like having suddenly returned to the happy times of their childhood. Yet, Norman definitely notices they're closer than they where at GF. He is happy for them- he really, genuinely is! They're his best friends, his greatest source of joy, the reason he goes on; he's obviously, sincerely glad they're happy together. But still, deep inside he does feel a little distressed? He's been alone for so long, he didn't want to be cut out of the special bond that used to link the three of them. He obviously already knew things would have never come back to be like they were at GF, yet he couldn't keep himself from mourning how their relationship had been irreparably changed. However, he pushes these feelings aside, not even allowing the thought to take shape in his mind: Emma and Ray are happy, and that's all that matters. That's everything he's been fighting for untill that day, and that's the reason he keeps fighting every day- to give them a bright future where they can be safe and happy. But his unexpressed anxieties are hard to suppress: he fears that things will not be like they where before, that something was lost forever; he fears he is now going to be sidelined in their relationship. He has been crushing on them since he could remember, so it's quite obvious deep down it was a bit upsetting for him to come up with the realization the three of them wouldn't have been together- even though he would have rather died than admit it to himself, or allow it to show. So I like to imagine we are at the end of chapter 121, when the trio is spending some time just the three of them, chatting and playing and forgetting about everything scary or painful. Emma talks and talks, trying catching up Norman on everything: it's almost like she's trying to make the time they've spent apart disappear, rewriting the narrative to make Norman fit in their (terrifying) adventures. She would have probably been overwhelming to any other, but not to Norman, who looked like he was having the best time of his life, never getting his glimmering, adoring eyes off her. Then at some point Emma goes:

Emma: Mmmhh what else... Oh, apparently me and Ray are together now? Dunnot at some point Gillian and the others said that judging from how we acted we where totally together-

Norman: W h a t.

Emma: Ahah I know, crazy right? Obviously you're in as well lol

Norman: W H A T ?

Emma didn't have the time to talk about it with Ray beforehand, but it was ok: for Norman to be included in their relationship felt like such a natural consequence to Norman being alive that they hadn't felt the need to discussing about it at all. Besides, at this point of the story, Emma and Ray are so much on the same page that they don't even need to talk about something to know what each other is thinking.

And you know how Norman is. He was too taken by overthinking everything and reconsidering his life choices, too distracted by his self loathing to even consider Emma and Ray would have asked him to take part of their relationship, no matter how obvious it sounds.

Ok now, I didn't plan this beforehand but PLOT TWIST Norman doesn't accept

He's like "No... I... *Dramatic pause* I can't."

Emma and Ray are sincerely surprised. Emma exclaims: "Why???"

Norman panicks and says: "There's... Another person". There is, in fact, no other person, and he's just making up excuses.

Emma and Ray don't believe him for one second but go along with it basically just to mess up with him

Ray, mockingly: Yeah of course... Wait don't tell me, the mysterious girl with the coral dress is back? [Reference to the first novel]

Norman, flustered: I'M SERIOUS GUYS

The true reason why Norman didn't feel like accepting their proposal is because he's self sacrificing and stuff, and because he believes he's going to die in a year anyway so he doesn't want to make them suffer.

In his head he's probably thinking "I'm sorry Emma... Ray... But I'm taking a path you can not follow... You don't know the horrible things I've done... You deserve better than me..." (Yeah he's just THAT dramatic).

(Ok tho I later realized that this is literally canon:)

Ray, in the meantime, knowing exactly what he's thinking because he just knows him that well (and can relate to his self-sacrificial nature), is like *rolls his eyes*

Ray, telepathically, to Norman: You know you can't escape Emma's love, right?

Honestly the thought of the trio being romantically involved is so funny to me because then the whole conflict for Norman's genocidal tendencies would be like:

Emma, talking to Ray: Ray I love our boyfriend BUT IS HE DUMB, ALWAYS TRYING TO SACRIFICE HIMSELF AAAAAAAAAAHHH SERIOUSLY WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU GUYS?????

Ray, remembering the times he used to be as sacrificial: *sweats*

I don't have much to add because the rest of canon pretty much does it without me having to change anything ahah. Norman tries to execute his genocide plan, stuff goes wrong, and Emma and Ray manage to talk to him before it's too late. I don't think much of any at all of their conversation from chapter 153 would change.

When this happens, Norman knows they intend both literally and romantically, and, as soon as he accepts, Emma and Ray understand he finally resigned to his feeling and accepted to stay with them forever. That's very sweet actually, this scene makes me soft 🤧🤧🤧 Still one of the best tpn moments ever!!!!

I'm reading the initial ask again and honesty... I'm not sure that's what Anon ment with their ask but I kinda got carried away /////////////

This got long enough and I don't want to make Anon wait any longer so I'm not going to write here how I think the modern au confession would go; however feel free to ask if you're interested in it and I'll try to summarize it! But I have just a vague idea of what it would happen so it would probably be shorter than this :)

[istanfluffycontent]

Hi ! Can you write a yeonjun best friends to lovers trope?

yeonjun best friends to lovers trope

Yeonjun has had a crush on you for as long as his memory goes. Yeonjun never realized that he fell for you until this morning. He was staring holes at the back of a the head of a boy you were chatting away with, feeling upset. “Heh, jealous much hyung?” “oh shut up Beomgyu, don’t you have something better to do?” “You’re just sad y/n’s not giving you her attention.” But Yeonjun wasn’t listening, he was already walking towards you and that pesty little boy that was stealing your attention, attention that he was suppose to have. 

His world lit up seeing you smile, but them dimmed again remembering that he wasn’t the one making you happy. But don’t worry, through all the daydreaming, he knew exactly what to do in this situation  he was going to handle this maturely, “Hey y/n! I need help with problem #21” “Oh of course you do! Come on, sit here.” And he did, but not where you pointed to. He shoved the boy who was also about to sit down next to you and sat right in his seat, “why are you looking at me funny? Help me with this.”

You knew that you’ve had a crush on your best friend Choi Yeonjun for quite some time now.. A couple weeks ago you told the boys, they acted like the ship as sailed and told you that Yeonjun had the exact same feelings. But.. you weren’t very sure if they were just teasing you. It all seems to make sense though- all of his jealous and protective behavior, how he never gets mad at you, and how he gives you special treatment even the boys don’t have. Today only reminded you of those thoughts, so you decided to talked to Taehyun about it during lunch.

Taehyun is lowkey triggered “Oh come on y/n! Are you blind? He would DIEEE for you! Friend?! Friend?! He literally lets you steal his sweatshirts and won’t ask for them back until it’s stained with your smell! I think he’s going to confess soon, he just needs a little push from you!” “Okay.. any ideas?” “Umm y/n he’s your future boyfriend, not mine.” You rolled your eyes at his helpfulness, but it’s almost as if the heavens were on your side, luck struck you in History class. 

“... about the foundation era, and the deadline is next Tuesday! Yes, you can pick your own partners and there will be NO TRIOS, I repeat, NO TRIOS. So get to work and if I hear complaining I’ll assign partners instead.” Obviously Yeonjun snached you before anyone else could and dragged you to his house after school. Taehyun’s words are still lingering in your mind, making it hard to focus on anything but the handsome boy in front of you. “.. y/n, y/n! Earth to y/n hello?” “uhh yeah?” “You’re zoning out, but thats okay cause I don’t wanna study either. Do you wanna go to a cafe or something with me?”

You took the opportunity to spend time with Yeonjun and clung onto it, staring at him the whole time. Not that he wasn’t doing the same “Uhhhhh y/n are you alright? Do you want to order anything else? It seems like there’s a lot on your mind today.” You almost blurted out “yeah you” but thankfully shrugged it off instead. Little did you know all he could think about was you. The peaceful moment was interrupted by someone tapping your shoulder, and to your surprise and Yeonjun’s annoyance, it was that boy you were talking to in study hall. 

“Hey Y/n! Its such a coincidence seeing you here! Thanks to you, I passed the mathematics exam. Do you.. Wanna hang out this weekend? I- I could use some help with the history project too and s-since you’re so smart I was thinking if we could go to my house and have a sleepove-”  Yeonjun was not going to have one. more. second. of this bullshit, “Ayo, you really think that y/n is your personal tutor don’t you? What, do you think she’s going to buy you coffee, take you to the parks, and propose to you too?” Scaring the boy was never his intention but it turned out that way. The boy turned on his heel and ran off. “Junnie, why’d you do that? I’m sure he didn’t mean any harm. Poor guy..” Yeonjun, on the other hand, did not feel bad at all. Another day of protecting his wife, he was feeling quite proud. 

He was tired of all these people hitting on you, and in the rush of the moment, he decided to shoot his shot. “Y/nahh, do you see this new shirt I’m wearing? It’s make of very special material.” “Really? What’s so special about it? Isn’t this just cashmere?” “No.” “Then what material is this?” “Boyfriend material.” You scoffed, “Stop messing around yeonjun, and you should go home now, it’s late.” “But it’s only 7 pm?” You didn’t answer him. Even in the dim cafe light, no matter how hard you’re trying to hide it, he could see that you were flustered. “I’m serious Y/n! T-taehyun, Soobin, they all told me so long ago that you had a crush on me and I thought they were joking but I can’t stand all- all these boys hitting on you! Why are you laughing? I’m serious I really am! All those things I listed before were things I wanted to happen to me, buying coffee and going to the park together and- and- yeah.” “Buying coffee and proposing, I’m not sure is something that can take place right now.. But we can go to the park-” “ And do other stuff later! I- Not the proposing, not now, o-or soon, but maybe one day.”

You laughed at how shy he seemed all of a sudden, and you two walked off too your favorite park, not as best friends, not as crushes, but lovers.

a/n: yall im back from my short break! i missed you guys so much. please take good care of yourself, drink lots of water and remember that you are loved!

[sohemotional]

Breaking Girl Code

Summary: Girl Code Rule #1: Don’t fall for your best friend’s sibling. Too bad Brittany has already broken it.

Or

Rachel and Santana are sisters but they couldn’t be more opposite in personality. Much to the preppy good girl’s confusion, Rachel’s cheerleader best friend Brittany has a huge crush on the brunette’s badass older sister and will stop at nothing to get her attention.

Pairing: Santana Lopez/Brittany Pierce

Genre: Alternative Universe, Romantic Comedy

Rating: M

Read on AO3

Part I

Rachel, Brittany and Finn were a trio of the most unlikely best friends. At least that was how it seemed to the rest of the McKinley High student population.

Rachel was a complete nerd who always scored at the top of all of her classes but was an outcast when it came to her social life while Brittany was a popular, charming dumb blonde cheerleader with her head perpetually stuck in the clouds who was rumoured to be the sluttiest girl in the school. Meanwhile, Finn was the star quarterback but an innocent boy who had never had a girlfriend before and seemed more interested in food than anything else, despite the many cheerleaders who were throwing themselves at him.

No one understood what the three saw in each other but they had been fast friends ever since the start of senior year when Brittany heard a recording of Rachel’s song “My Headband” on YouTube and begged the bewildered brunette to teach her how to sing it then had introduced her close childhood friend Finn to the short girl. The rest was history.

Finn and Brittany were like two very pale, Viking giants compared to the tiny, olive-skinned brunette girl who was walking between them as the three high school seniors made their way out of class when school ended that day.

“Can we go over to your house again, Rachel?” Brittany pleaded with her as she skipped along happily beside the short girl, wearing a tight skirt that was several inches too short according to the school’s dress code. “I really need help with the chemistry homework again because last time Mrs. Hagberg didn’t believe me when I said I was up all night because Lord Tubbington was fighting a rival cat gang.”

“Sure, fine but I know the real reason why you want to come over.” Rachel pursed her lips and rolled her eyes, while slow-witted Finn strolled along beside them with his typical clueless expression as if he didn’t quite register what was happening - but that was normal for Finn. The gigantic boy just blinked slowly at Rachel but didn’t argue when she grabbed the sleeve of his flannel shirt and pulled him along with them.  

“Whatever. Your sister’s really hot so you can’t blame me.” Brittany just shrugged, unfazed by Rachel’s disapproval.

It had all started a few weeks ago when Rachel invited Brittany and Finn over to her house to hang out after school as she had been doing for a while.

The Schuester house was more like a small mansion and the blonde teen girl was in awe as always as Finn pulled into the driveway. She knew the tiny brunette was rich but she hadn’t expected all this. Rachel had explained to Finn and Brittany that when she had been adopted by Will and Emma Schuester as a thirteen year-old, she chose to keep her original first and last name, which was why she had a different surname to her parents.

Rachel was excited to have friends, as she confessed to the two athletic teens that people had never really wanted to get close to her before so they were the first people who had ever accepted her invitation to go over to her house.

The small girl led her two best and only friends over to the kitchen table, pulling out an array of Finn’s favourites: pizza pockets, chips, string cheese and other snacks to share with the two. Finn was instantly delighted at the sight of food and began to chow down without a second thought as Rachel sighed at him stuffing his face.

Brittany was more interested in something else or rather someone else who had suddenly appeared.

“Fuck, Rachel, you seriously couldn’t warn me before you brought your dumb little friends over? I just got back from the gym!”

That was when Brittany first saw her. Her sexy angel - well, maybe demon would be more accurate.

The door to the garage slammed open and a gorgeous, raven-haired Latina swaggered in, wearing nothing but tiny black boyshorts that left barely anything to the imagination and a black sports bra with a towel thrown carelessly over her shoulders. She strutted arrogantly through the kitchen, cursing under her breath.

Her brown skin was shiny with sweat and her body was impressive. Brittany’s eyes were glued on her muscular ass, sculpted abs and the toned arms that were on full display. Her arms looked like they were strong and lightly muscular.

She had full, pouty lips, chiselled high cheekbones and the darkest, most haunting eyes the blonde had ever seen, that flashed dangerously as she turned toward Rachel and the other two, her plump, sexy lips twisting into a scowl.

Brittany’s lips parted and she couldn’t take her eyes away from the stranger. Her heart raced like it never had for anyone before.

The woman swept her long, straight, glossy black hair out of her face and crossed her leanly muscular arms over her chest as she glared in Rachel’s direction.

Though she was small, maybe even a few inches shorter than Brittany herself, her body was perfectly toned and she had a powerful, commanding presence.

“Sorry, Santana,” Rachel mumbled but just rolled her eyes, bristling at Santana’s tone. “Just leave us alone. We’re doing homework. And for goodness sake, put on some clothes!”

Even her name is pretty and sexy… Brittany thought. Finn hadn’t even looked up once, finishing his fifth pizza pocket and downing a glass of milk with his potato chips in the space of a few seconds.

“Hmph. Whatever.” Santana responded, tossing back her silky hair again flippantly.

“Hi…” Brittany husked in her most seductive, breathy tone possible with a little wave, and instinctively leaned forward to display as much cleavage as she could as she stared at Santana brazenly, with the flirty, fox eyes look she had perfected.

She dropped the pen she was holding, pretending it was accidental, bent over slowly to pick it up and then snapped back up quickly, just like Elle Woods had taught her. Legally Blonde was the one film she had memorized by heart and it came in handy at times like these.

It was the same technique Brittany had used to entice the entire football team into getting it on with her and it had always worked like a charm, so she figured it was worth a shot with Santana as well.

The blonde hadn’t been able to resist flirting with the stunning woman, who was probably somewhere in her early twenties if she had to guess her age. She had always had a thing for older men and women.

Judging by the reaction Santana had, Brittany could consider her technique to be a resounding success. Santana finally noticed the blonde and did a double take, seemingly speechless and bewildered. Brittany giggled as the black-haired girl momentarily forgot her tough girl act and walked straight into the nearest wall after seeing the tall blonde then nearly fell over on her own wobbly feet.

Once she had managed to right herself, she became flustered, embarrassed by her own dorky response, then she turned around fast and took off at full speed, slamming another door upstairs rudely.

“What a scoundrel, she is. Sorry guys, that was just my jerk big sister. She’s the worst!” Rachel told them apologetically once Santana had left.

Oh… Brittany thought, Rachel never mentioned having a sister before.

The short brunette noticed that Brittany still had a dreamy expression on her face and she thought that was weird.

“Brittany! Are you even listening?”

“Your sister’s really sexy. I’m going to marry her.” That was all Brittany got out in response, in a dazed voice.

Rachel made a sound of disgust and turned to Brittany with a grimace, as if she couldn’t think of anything more appalling.

“Ew you like Santana ? Why?”

“And you don’t think it’s the least bit inappropriate for you to have fantasies about a college student?”

Rachel frowned at the blonde as she flipped through her math textbook while Brittany lay on her back lazily on the brunette’s bed, staring up at the ceiling in a lovesick daze. Rachel’s parents, Will and Emma, were away on a business trip as they usually were, so the massive house was empty and Brittany had the feeling that Rachel was glad for the company. Rachel kept her voice low just in case anyone other than Finn, who was perched on the edge of the bed silently heard them.

“Far less one who happens to be my older sister who’s a complete beast ?! Goodness, this is so weird!”

“I like beasts. She’s just really hot and I want her.” Brittany said simply, undeterred. She didn’t understand why Rachel was being so dramatic about this. There was nothing more to it.

“No offence, Brittany, but I swear, you only ever think with your…” Rachel coughed and blushed when she remembered that an actual boy was right next to them and Rachel never liked saying inappropriate things. “Lady parts.”

Brittany just giggled, not paying much attention to Rachel and her dramatics. She went back to musing about Santana’s long, dark lashes, gorgeous, flawless caramel skin and those perfectly chiseled abs.

She’d make Santana Lopez hers, no matter what it took, even if the woman herself didn’t know that yet.

“Do you have any more of those pizza pockets?” Finn suddenly spoke up, cutting through the awkward silence. “I’m kinda hungry.”

Rachel sighed and threw down her pen violently in frustration. “Again, Finn? You just ate a full meal! Does anyone here even care about getting this assignment done except me?”

“Probably not,” Brittany replied honestly, twirling a ringlet of her hair that she had curled before coming over to Rachel’s house just to make sure she looked really cute in case Santana was there to see her around her pen. “Can I pay you to do mine?”

“Of course not! For goodness sake, Brittany Susan Pierce!” Rachel sighed in exasperation, throwing up her hands. “What would your mother think?”

“Um Rachel, I’m just gonna go get some snacks from your kitchen if that’s okay…” Finn looked up at the brunette girl sheepishly, holding his stomach as it growled loudly with a guilty look on his face.  

“I like snacks. Especially Dots,” Brittany remarked absently. “Do you have Dots?”

“Okay, fine, we’ll take a break since apparently none of us can concentrate, c’mon you two.” Rachel relented, sighing as she gestured to them to follow her like she would two fluffy, very large dogs. Brittany and Finn just smiled goofily at each other as they followed her, both excited at the prospect of food, though more so Finn.

Brittany’s eyes suddenly lit up when she thought about the chance of potentially seeing that sexy woman who lived with Rachel again. “Hey, is your sister home?”

“I don’t know,” Rachel frowned, annoyed at the mention of Santana again. “She’s probably skipping class and partying as usual. ”

“Oh…” Brittany sighed, disappointed.

She was dying to hear the unmistakable hazy, deep voice of Santana again. Rachel rolled her eyes skyward, knowing exactly what Brittany was thinking about.

“Hey Rachel, are these chicken sandwiches still good?” Finn asked, though he was already chewing on a mouthful of bread. “Mm, they’re delicious.”

Rachel didn’t hear him, too busy glaring in the direction of Santana who had just arrived minutes later and was wearing much more clothes than she was last time - how unfortunate Brittany thought - this time in a black leather jacket, high-heeled boots and super tight, black jeans. Still, the clothes were really flattering on her. Brittany’s insides felt like they’d turned to jelly, her cheeks growing hot and she was suddenly a little lightheaded.

“Nice of you to waltz in before four a.m. in the morning for once, Big Sister .” Rachel pursed her lips, crossing her arms.

Santana just narrowed her dark eyes and ignored the younger girl, sticking up her middle finger at her.

Rachel shrieked in annoyance, throwing the nearest item she could find at her sister, which happened to be her heavy chemistry textbook.

Her aim was terrible and the book missed her sister by at least four feet, bouncing off of the kitchen wall instead which made Santana laugh mockingly.

Santana made no attempt to acknowledge the presence of Rachel’s company, as if they were beneath her as she went to the fridge and spent a long time searching for something. Rachel muttered something that sounded very much like, “Big Shot, thinks she’s the queen of the universe…” under her breath.

Then the raven-haired woman whipped around fast, facing the three of them with a confused expression that quickly turned to fury. Her aggressive mannerisms reminded Brittany a lot of the moody, feral black cat she had recently adopted.

“Hey! What do you think you’re doing, Porky?!” She demanded, rounding on a fearful Finn who swallowed nervously, backing away from her slowly. “Are you eating my food?! What the fuck!?”

“He didn’t know! Don’t yell at him!” Rachel jumped up and stood in front of the tall boy defensively, wagging a finger at Santana.  

“Why not? Your dumb loser friend ate all my food!” Santana groaned, throwing up her hands dramatically then she lowered her voice threateningly as she rounded on Rachel. “I’m going to kill you for this, Pipsqueak!”

“Stop being so dramatic!” Rachel shouted back at full volume, her voice becoming shrill. “And don’t call him a loser!”

“Dramatic? Look who’s talking. Oh I’m sorry did I insult your boyfriend , Rachie?” Santana taunted with a smirk, using the nickname she always used to annoy Rachel since they were little.

Rachel just blushed and glowered at her. Finn had a petrified expression around the two sisters, collapsing into himself and looking like he was desperate to get away from the tense situation while Brittany just rolled her eyes, studying her painted pink nails in her boredom.

Out of nervousness, Finn who had finished both sandwiches began grabbing handfuls of popcorn and shovelling them into his mouth rapidly. Santana gave the massive high schooler a withering look, shaking her head in disgust. “Jesus Christ, do you ever stop eating, Manboobs?”

“That’s it! If you don’t stop picking on my friends, I’m telling Mom and Dad!” Rachel shouted, completely losing her temper with Santana.  

“Tell Will and Emma what? How you’re being a little brat again picking fights with me?” Santana countered, dusting off her shoulder and unfazed by Rachel’s shrieking. “They can’t do anything to me.”

“We’ll just see about that!”

As amusing as this was, Brittany had grown tired listening to them arguing, especially when Santana was wearing way too many clothes, so she decided it was time for her to cut in. What Brittany really wanted to do was score some alone time with the resident sulky bad girl in the Schuester family but she wasn’t sure how she was going to make that happen.

“Hi, I’m Brittany. Brittany S. Pierce,” The blonde purred seductively as she casually slipped in between Rachel and Santana’s bodies, fluttering her eyelashes as she met the taller sister’s gaze and ignoring Rachel who squawked behind her, bewildered by Brittany’s actions. “We met last time.”

Santana immediately became silent and then totally flustered as she noticed Brittany. A look of something like apprehension came over her as she swallowed hard at the way the leggy blonde was looking at her.

She took a step back a foot everytime Brittany came closer, putting plenty of space between them even as her cheeks tinged red.

“Um, hi!” Santana said in a much softer, more hesitant and awkward tone than the harsh, arrogant voice she had while arguing with Rachel. She was evidently alarmed by the way Brittany was looking at her even though the blonde wasn’t actually doing anything other than watching her adoringly. “I um… have to go now!”

Santana took off again quickly just like last time, leaving Brittany pouting while Rachel just shook her head in annoyance.

“She’s so weird!” Rachel groaned, covering her face with her hands. “I just don’t understand her.”

Brittany really wanted to ask Rachel if Santana was dating anyone.

It turned out she didn’t have to as they got their answer the next day when Brittany came over to Rachel’s place after school again.

There was an elegant black Porsche parked outside on the driveway and Rachel groaned when she noticed it. Brittany realized it was probably Santana’s car.

Rachel and Brittany walked closer and gasped, getting an eyeful of something neither of them had expected.

Santana was in the backseat with a tall, curvy woman with long blonde hair sitting on the darker woman’s lap and draped over her. They were making out with Santana’s tan hands running over her back then the dark-haired girl reached down to squeeze the blonde’s ass.

They were barely dressed, Santana just wearing a black bra and unzipped jeans while the woman was completely topless as Santana hitched up her pink mini skirt.

Both of the younger girls reacted at the same time but in opposite ways.

Rachel reeled back, screaming in horror and covering her eyes. Brittany simply let out a soft “Oh” , feeling rather turned on and flushed in the face, covering her mouth with her hand as she watched the scene unfold with great interest, not taking her eyes off of it.

This was much better than even the best porn she had seen.

Once Rachel was done screaming, she kept her eyes hidden with one hand, marched purposely toward the vehicle and knocked on the window loudly. “Excuse me! What on Earth do you think you’re doing on this suburban driveway?!”

As soon as Santana saw them through the car window and heard Rachel’s scream, she pulled apart quickly from the woman and got out of the car, adjusting her clothes. Brittany just gaped at her because…wow. So hot.

“Rude. The fun police have arrived. What do you want, Little Sister?” Santana just sounded annoyed rather but not remotely ashamed.

The tall, buxom blonde college girl she was with quickly fled the scene, awkwardly passing by Brittany and Rachel on her way out of the car, her lipstick completely smudged, hair askew and ignoring the contemptuous look Rachel was sending her way.

Brittany wondered how the woman managed to run so fast in those super high heels. “You’re a total cockblock as usual.”

“Good heavens! Must you be so crude?” Rachel reprimanded Santana and Brittany winced at the shrillness. The tiny girl sounded like she was on the verge of one of her signature Rachel Berry freakouts. “You’re corrupting me and my friend with your indecency! The least you could do is keep your…lady friends to the privacy of your dungeon-like bedroom instead of… fornicating with some hussy in front of innocent school girls like us.”

Santana didn’t seem to be paying any attention to Rachel’s rant. Instead, she looked over at Brittany skeptically, arching an eyebrow at the word “innocent.” Brittany just smiled at her sweetly, not even bothering to hide the fact that she was checking Santana out again blatantly the whole time.

“Yeah whatever, Pipsqueak. Just go play with your dolls or something  - I don’t need a lecture.” She muttered, adjusting her jacket and watching Brittany suspiciously with narrowed eyes, as if she knew exactly what kind of inappropriate thoughts were going through the blonde's mind.

From then on, it kept happening whenever Brittany came over, with or without Finn or one of the other girls from their class who wanted to study with them.

Santana was always with some new fling of the week and they all mostly looked the same, tall, femme and blonde. It was never the same girl twice.

To say Rachel didn’t approve would be an understatement. She was beyond fed up with her rebellious older sister and hated that she had no control over her. In fact, the more Rachel made a scene, the more Santana seemed to look for ways to outdo herself in more scandalous ways.

“It’s so wrong. She’s always… cavorting with anything that moves and never settles down with anyone.” The short brunette complained one night after school, while Rachel’s parents Will and Emma were away on some business trip.

She was lying on her stomach on the bed and going over some math equations while Brittany sat at her desk, chewing on the back of her pen as her mind drifted to Santana’s abs again, as it always seemed to instead of paying attention to her homework. “Brittany! Are you even listening to me?”

“Yeah.” Brittany replied absently, twirling a strand of her long hair. “Santana’s really hot. I should be her girlfriend if those girls don’t want to be. I’d be way better for her. I know it.”

Rachel shrieked. “Oh my goodness, have you been listening to anything I’ve been saying? My sister is a total…barbarian! She’s twenty-one years old, she’s uncouth, she smokes, she drinks, she uses foul language and she treats her lady friends like disposable objects!”

“Yeah I know, Rachel. You’re making her more of a turn on the more you talk,” Brittany sighed, biting her lip and crossing her legs as she fanned herself. “You don’t have to convince me anymore because I already like her.”

The short brunette groaned, grimacing in disgust. “I- I’m not trying to…I can’t figure out what goes on in that interesting brain of yours, Brittany. This is highly inappropriate!”

Before the blonde could respond anymore, the girls heard what sounded like a woman’s scream and a series of high-pitched shrieks.

It was late at night and the tiny brunette girl began to panic, jumping up and grabbing the nearest object, which happened to be a giant statue of Barbra Streisand from her desk.

“Oh my, Brittany…” Rachel whispered to her fearfully. “What could that be?”

The girls shivered and huddled close together, leaning up against Rachel’s bedroom door as they heard the weird noises again. It sounded like someone was being murdered.

Actually, Brittany thought it sounded more like…

Rachel took a deep breath, gathering her nerves before pushing open her door and the two girls crept into the hallway hesitantly.

They heard the continued moaning and shrieking which sounded unmistakably female. Rachel frowned when it became obvious that it was coming from Santana’s room.

“This is unbelievable. She better not be watching horror movies again so late at night.” Rachel mumbled, so much fury on her small face that it looked almost comical.

Brittany narrowed her eyes at her short friend in disbelief but she felt her own cheeks flush. Heat crept up her chest and neck to the tips of her ears.

“ Rachel, she’s probably just having sex.” She deadpanned.

“What?! Gross!” Rachel screeched, seeing a trail of bras and panties leading towards Santana’s room. She covered her ears and kicked one of the lacy bras out of her path violently. “No, she can’t be! This is so wrong! I can’t listen to this!”

Brittany couldn’t help but continue to listen in, feeling hot all over as she could easily visualize what Santana was probably up to in her room.

It was abundantly clear that Brittany’s intuition that Santana would be amazing in bed was proven to be right.

“Ugh she is just lucky Mom and Dad aren’t home tonight! Mom is going to ground her forever when she finds out about this!” Rachel fumed, practically stomping her tiny feet in her futile anger.  

Brittany was in a complete daze when Rachel finally grabbed her arm, trying to pull her away from the scene after a long moment then pouting in exasperation when the blonde girl didn’t budge. “Brittany, no! Are you just going to stand there and listen in on them all night?!”

Eventually the door slammed open when the short girl continued to screech in impossibly loud tones that only Rachel had the lung capacity to be capable of and an irritated Santana poked her head out, growling. “Rachel Berry, what the fuck are you doing?!”

“I could ask you the same thing, Santana Lopez!” Rachel shrieked back in response, hiding behind Brittany as if the blonde could protect her from Santana’s wrath and indecency. “You seriously brought a woman over? To do… that with?!”

Brittany just turned her head to the side, trying to see if Santana was wearing anything. She could see her bare shoulders but the door was blocking everything else. Damn.

“Yeah and what of it? Scram already, in case you haven’t noticed I’m a little busy with something here,” Santana smirked, putting her hand on Rachel’s head and shoving her out of the way lightly. “It’s past your bedtime, Brat.”

Then Santana noticed Brittany’s presence once again and just gave her that same dumbfounded, wary look she always seemed to get around the teen as the blonde girl never took her eyes off of her, shaking her head in exasperation at her.

Santana cursed loudly when the sheet she was holding around her chest loosened and slipped momentarily. Brittany’s eyes tracked the movement, gasping a little as she saw more of Santana’s body than she had hoped for in her wildest dreams. Brittany wasn’t disappointed in what she saw and licked her lips.

Santana noticed where Brittany was looking and pulled the sheet up quickly to cover herself.

“You- you - both of you smartass little girls - just go!” Santana yelled, slamming her door shut and locking it behind her from the inside. “Don’t fucking bother me again!”

“Language!” Rachel shouted back at her, grabbing a dazed Brittany’s hand and pulling her back towards her bedroom with its bright gold walls and stars as she began ranting to her friend in panicked tones.

“How could she want to make love with someone if she’s not married to them or in love with them?” Rachel shook her head, as if the thought alone was astounding and too depressing to imagine. “I don’t even think she’s dating that girl.”

Brittany lay on the other side of Rachel’s bed, listening to her loud snoring. She hadn’t been able to sleep that night during their sleepover, tossing and turning almost the entire time as her hormones went crazy. She spent the next few weeks fantasizing about the hot older girl.

Two months passed by quickly, with the teenagers being caught up in studying for midterms. Since Brittany and Finn were actually attempting to study for once, they didn’t spend too much time hanging out with Rachel for a long while.

Brittany breathed a sigh of relief when exam time was finally over. Studying just gave her a headache.

“Rachel, can I come over to your house after school again?” Brittany walked up to the small girl who had been having another awkward conversation with Finn, the two of them gazing at each other shyly. “We can hang around by the pool.”

Rachel beamed at her two closest friends, clasping her hands together enthusiastically. “Sure you can! I have an idea, Let’s have a movie night at my place! It’ll be so much fun! We can do a Barbra marathon!”

Brittany frowned, thinking for a moment. “Hmm, well I was supposed to go to this keg party with Quinn and the girls on our squad at some jock’s house but I mean it would probably be boring anyway. This will be way better.”

Plus, your super hot sister might be home…

Though Brittany had hooked up with a few guys since that time, they were quite mediocre and the sounds she had heard that night and the burnished, dark skin of Santana’s sculpted body still replayed themselves in her mind quite frequently whenever she was in that kind of mood. She was already thinking of ways that she could finally seduce the woman of her dreams.

They spent the afternoon relaxing in Rachel’s swimming pool, Finn still wearing a shirt the entire time to hide his pale, massive chest and trying to disguise the fact that he was sneaking glances at Rachel in the new bikini Brittany had bought her while the blonde frolicked around, splashing water at both of them.

That night, the three of them huddled together on a mattress that was set out on the floor of the massive karaoke room in the basement of the Schuester home where Rachel’s mom and dad always held parties. Rachel even had a stage set up to perform impromptu concerts with her parents because they were all into singing so much.

Brittany was in a purple polka dot nightie while Rachel was wearing pink, long sleeved silk pajamas, so it felt just like a slumber party for the girls except for Finn being there in a Power Rangers t-shirt and sweatpants.

Surprisingly, Brittany and Finn had managed to make it through two Barbra Streisand movies without being too bored even though Brittany thought they were way too long. She started braiding Rachel’s hair whenever her mind drifted.

They had switched to Dirty Dancing, another of Rachel’s favourite movies that Brittany also liked surprisingly, considering their taste was so different, when all of a sudden Santana turned up out of nowhere, making a big scene to announce her presence as usual.

She swiped popcorn from Rachel’s bowl without asking and mumbled greetings to the other two for the first time, even though she never usually acknowledged their existence.

“Oh no, what are you doing here?” Rachel hissed in annoyance, pausing the movie as she turned to Santana in anger while Finn looked terrified by Santana's presence and moved behind Rachel, as if he thought Santana was going to really kill him in revenge for the chicken sandwich incident. “I thought you weren’t supposed to be back from your cheerleading thing until Monday!”

Santana shrugged casually and smirked. “The tournament got cancelled. What are you watching?”

Rachel cringed. “You’ll just make fun of me if I tell you. Dirty Dancing.”

“Ha!” Santana snorted derisively, laughing in Rachel’s face while the short girl glared at her, cheeks burning. “Lame!”

“You’re such a bully.”

"You're such a bully!" Santana mimicked her in a high-pitched, nasally voice.

Santana hesitated in the doorway, looking like she was unsure of what to do with herself now that she had taunted Rachel about her movie taste.

Brittany thought it was endearing how the girl seemed rather shy now that she was alone with them, her cocky smirk disappearing when Rachel wasn’t looking and she didn’t walk away even though she could have at any time.

“Did you wanna hang out with us, Santana?” Brittany asked kindly, thinking that maybe Santana was too shy to admit that she wanted to hang out and wanting her to feel welcomed. “You can watch movies with us if you want.”

Santana faltered, scowling but her confident attitude dropped for a moment as she looked stunned that Brittany would talk to directly and so boldly at that. “Why would I want to watch stupid movies with a bunch of high schoolers?”

Brittany just shrugged, grabbing some M&Ms from Finn’s bowl. “Cause it’s fun and you’ll love it.”

The black-haired woman’s lips parted in shock, taken aback but then she switched to that hardened, devil may care attitude she usually kept up all the time around everyone.

“No thanks, hard pass. I have better things to do with my Friday night than hang out with my complete dork of a little sister and her little weirdo friends.” Santana sneered coldly, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Good because we don’t need your bad attitude and ego around here!” Rachel retorted, getting up to point her finger accusingly at Santana.

“Calm down, Rachel…” Finn whispered to her pleadingly, pulling her back before she lunged at her sister and another long argument between the two started.

“As if I care what you think,” Santana scoffed at Rachel. “Your movies suck and let’s face it, I’m way too cool to be here.”

“Okay, if that’s how you feel.” Brittany replied in a noncommittal tone and shrugged. She didn't really care if Santana was going to act arrogant and her harsh words didn't affect her.

The fact that Brittany showed no emotion and refused to argue with her seemed to frustrate her even more. Santana just marched off without a word, huffing in anger and the three teenagers continued to watch the rest of the movie in virtual silence.

Brittany rolled her eyes as Rachel and Finn would accidentally touch hands whenever they reached for the popcorn and then apologize awkwardly everytime.

It was more than obvious that they were into each other but both were way too innocent to ever make a move. It was hopeless and Brittany knew she needed to give Rachel some lessons on how to flirt properly sometime, but at the moment the blonde was too distracted by her own love life.

Ten minutes later, Santana returned to the basement and sat on the couch without explanation just as Brittany expected she was going to.

The older sister was grumbling under her breath the whole time, which Brittany thought made her even cuter and she had to stifle a giggle.

Rachel just shot Santana an infuriated look for a moment, not even bothering to ask what she was doing and just shook her head at her sister’s antics.

Brittany spent more time watching Santana than paying attention to the movie. She saw the way Santana’s dark eyes lit up and she smiled genuinely with the cutest dimples Brittany had ever seen deepening on her cheeks, invested during the dance performances, even though she didn’t squeal and fangirl over the movie like Rachel did. The younger sister constantly shrieked and grabbed a startled Finn whenever anything exciting happened in the movie.

“What?” Santana eventually snapped at Brittany. “Why are you staring at me?”

Finn and Rachel just turned around to see what the commotion was about.

“It’s a good movie, right?” Brittany asked. “You look like you’re enjoying it.”

“It’s old and corny.” Santana stated dismissively, pretending to inspect her nails… though by the looks of it, they were cut super short and practically non-existent.

“You take that back!” Rachel protested with an outraged gasp.

“Just not my thing, I guess,” Santana drawled casually, leaning back and drinking beer. “No need to get all worked up about it, Rachie.”  

Rachel wriggled her nose and made a disgusted sound in the back of her throat. “You’re seriously drinking alcohol? You’re not supposed to do that in this house. There are minors here, Santana, in case you haven’t noticed! You’re so irresponsible!”

“So what? I’m older so I make the rules.” Santana muttered, sticking out her tongue at her childishly.

“Mom said you’re not supposed to drink anymore!”

“What Emma doesn’t know won’t hurt her. Jesus, you need to live a little, Rachel.” Santana chuckled. “Do you ever do anything fun at all?”

Brittany jumped up from the mattress as the argument continued, bouncing onto the couch casually and scooting over until she was sitting very close to the older sister who was watching her every move suspiciously.

Santana froze then when she finally composed herself and she began to shrink away a few inches whenever Brittany attempted to lean in closer. She leaned back so far that she practically fell off the side of the couch, completely flustered by Brittany’s actions.

At least she’s not running away from me anymore… that’s progress, Brittany thought proudly.

“What do you want?” Santana eventually demanded and Brittany giggled because she was trying to sound so scary but really wasn’t.

“Can I have some of that?” Brittany asked, pointing at the beer. “I want one.”

“Brittany!” Rachel yelled in outrage. “You can’t do that here!”

“No way…” Santana moved the beer out of Brittany’s reach. “You’re what, seventeen? I’m not gonna be responsible for corrupting Rachel’s little friends.”

“I’ve been eighteen for a few months.” Brittany argued.

“Like that’s any better,” Santana snorted, mockingly. “You’re not getting any.”

“Hmph.” Brittany pouted and rested her chin in her hands as she watched the TV glumly.

Moments later, Santana swaggered upstairs and looked up at Brittany in irritation when she followed her into the kitchen. She yelped and stepped behind the kitchen table, putting plenty of space between the two of them.

“So is this like a game where you hide and then I have to find you or the other way around?” Brittany asked in a flat tone.

“W-what?” Santana sputtered.

“I think you’re hiding something.” Brittany said with a smirk as Santana watched her nervously.

“Oh yeah, what’s that?” Santana muttered, rolling her eyes.

“You’re not really as bad as you try to act and I know you wouldn’t hurt me or Rachel even though you act so tough.”

“Hmph.” Santana grunted, turning away from her.

“You really just wanted to come home and hang out with us, right?” Brittany quipped, glancing at Santana knowingly. “The cheerleading thing was just a lie to Rachel. We can be your friends if you want.”

“What? That’s…ridiculous. As if.” Santana grunted. She turned around and went up to her room, ignoring Rachel and her friends for the rest of the night because she had “better things to do,” even though Brittany knew she was miserable but her pride wouldn’t let her admit that.

To Be Continued

[amphxtrite]

george weasley x fem!reader

warnings: smut, oral (male receiving), swearing, spelling/grammar mistakes.

do not read if you are not comfortable.

summary: When the twins and the reader move into their new apartment in Diagon Alley, you finally confess to George about the feelings you’ve accumulated through the years, which eventually leads to more.

a/n: This was request from anonymous for a george weasley x reader, first time smut, thank you for requesting, I had a lot of fun writing this!

word count: 4k

enjoy <3

__________________________________________

“Give her hell from us Peeves!” Three voices cry before soaring away into the clear blue sky.

Everyone knows of the Golden Trio, Harry Potter, Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. The students who disobeyed every rule, every year to save the wizarding world.

In the Hogwarts walls there was another group of students, while not as heroic, were just as well known. George Weasley, Fred Weasley and Y/n L/n were the notorious pranksters of the school. You couldn’t walk ten feet without someone being a victim of their work. For years, the school was their playground, pranks ranging from covering students in feathers, slipping belch-powder in professors’ tea and making products of their own that would take the world by storm in the years to come.

Every student at Hogwarts knew their group by name, swiveling heads in alertness when one of your voices was about, or running the opposite way when a familiar laugh rang out. There was never one without the others, so when your grand scheme of fireworks and sparks flew through the air, no one was surprised to see three brooms zipping about, accompanied by laughter and the screams of the pink toad who had terrorized the school of magic. Your names would go down in history among the students and as you zipped away through the clouds, a giant ‘W’ in your wake. The joyous feeling of freedom breaks free and you join the twins in the life you’d been dreaming about since you met the two in your first year, and away from the hell you’d endured.

With the help of Harry’s generous donation, the three of you set up shop in Diagon Alley, making the most bizarre and far-out designs the three of you could think of. Working long and hard to perfect each and every one of your products for your grand opening in a couple months.

The three of you spent most of your time in the apartment above the shop, concocting your brews and relishing in the new-found freedom you had taken for yourselves. The three of you worked, laughed, high-fived and dusted each other off after bad days, you grew even closer to the twins and with the new atmosphere and life, and feelings you’d accumulated through the years came about that had your stomach erupt in butterflies around your best friend.

If you were to ask anyone in Hogwarts about the mischief trio, first you’d see their head swivel and panic cross their eyes, next they’d tell you. While you were all close and the twins were practically connected at the hip, George Weasley and Y/n L/n had an unspoken ‘thing’ between them, and it was quite obvious to everyone, but them, and although cliché it was one of the castle’s favourite subjects for drama.

While oblivious to the gossip, George had fancied you since the moment he met you in first year. Watching your eyes light up at him and his twins’ antics and then showing them some tricks of your own. He must’ve been blushing beet-red because at that moment he fell. He fell for your sarcastic remarks, your love for books and muggle movies, he fell for the way your nose scrunched when you were concentrating and the way your eyes lit up whenever it snowed. George could go on for hours about all the things he loved about you, but actually telling you was a whole other story. You were such a positive, bubbly person, he could hardly tell the difference between a romantic or platonic action. Did you mean to brush his hand like that? Was that little smirk for a reason? Did you know what you did to him when you bit your lip like that? Or when you walked with a little more swing in your hips.

George wanted nothing more than to wrap you into his arms and hold you close against him, murmuring every moment he fell in love with you into your ear, listening to your heartbeat and pressing kisses across your temple, but at the same time he wanted to make you squirm beneath him, make you scream his name and take away your ability to walk, leave his mark across your skin and taste you. He just wished he had a hint to how you really felt about him.

“Oi, George! Get down here, we need some help with this stand!” Fred’s familiar shout shakes the daydreaming red-head out of his daze, cutting his thought of you short.

“Alright ya twat, no need to yell!” George huffs, speeding down the stairs to the shop area and walking towards you and Fred.

“How can I be of assistance, my dear brother.” George smirks as he approaches. “Well this stand won’t fit in between the other displays, we just need help pushing it in.” You shrug, jabbing your thumb towards the empty display stand.

George claps his hands together and the three of you get to work. You did your best to pry one of the displays to the side while the twins push the stand into place. Everything was going well, you made great progress and the display case was starting to slide in. It wasn’t until the twins gave a final heave, that you lost focus, your eyes dropping to a certain twin’s toned bicep, peeking out from his skin tight shirt, and you failed to remove your finger from the crevice.

“Bloody Hell!” You cry as your fingers are crushed in the closed space. Quickly yanking your digits out of the gap, you hold them close to your chest, you double over in pain. “Fuck, that hurt.” You groan, examining your fingers to be lightly scratched and bruised. 

George can only just register your pained yelp before he’s fussing all over you just like his mother would. “Oh my goodness, are you alright love? I left my wand in my room, come on, I’ll fix you right up.” George gently takes your arm and hurries up the stairs leaving a confused Fred behind. 

“Hey it’s alright Georgie, it’s just a small cut!” You try to reason with the persistent ginger, but George doesn’t let go. “Nonsense darling, your finger is bleeding, I’ll heal it in no time.” He continues, sitting you on his bed as he picks up with wand from his bedside drawer and takes a seat next to you.

You extend your hands to George and without a beat he murmurs the healing spell. “Episkey.”

Your cuts begin to close and the bruises fade away, leaving no pain and no sign of injury. “Thanks George, you’re the best!” You giggle wrapping your arms around the tall Weasley and inching closer to him.

It had become something of a tradition for the two of you to heal each other if one of you were to get hurt back in school. Whether you’d scraped a knee or had come to the other bearing Umbridge’s scar, you’d done your best to help one another, learning new healing spells for this specific reason. 

A smile spreads across your cheek as you think back to the days you’d run to George with a burn or a cut, only coming to peace once he’d had a go at it, or at least wrapped it in a bandage.

“Do yo remember, back in Hogwarts, when we’d come to each other just to heal our little wounds.” You pull back from the hug and take George’s hand in yours. 

“Of course darling, how could I forget.” George grins, reminiscing of the days not so long ago. 

Back in your days with the pink toad, George would be the first person you’d run to after detention, small sobs racking through you as you showed George the first of many scratches in the back of your hand. 

‘I must not laugh in class’ 

George had helped you reduce it to a pink scar, but the pain remained with you for long after as the memories of that horrid quill raked your brain.

George was always your comfort, he’d stuck by your side and was there for you when you needed it the most. Long nights of star-gazing, studying, planning and laughing had also helped you come to terms with the love bubbling inside you for George Weasley.

“Thank you for everything, back in school I mean.” You sigh, leaning onto George’s broad shoulder, a light smile gracing your face.

“There’s no need to thank me love, if anything I should be thanking you for saving me from detentions.” George smirks, wrapping an arm around you. You begin to laugh a bit as you think back to when you’d trick filch into leaving his post before pulling the red-head through the long halls. 

“Feels like so long ago.” You murmur and look up towards George, finding him already gazing back at you. “Last time you did it was only a year ago love.” The younger twin smiles, leaning closer.

Your eyebrows knit together and your face heats up at the sudden closeness and a question that has plagued your mind for years spills from your lips. 

“Not to be nosy, but why do you always call me darling or love, Georgie?” 

This was it, George’s thoughts began to race. This was the moment he could finally confess to you, finally know how you felt about him. 

His lips turn up into a huge smile, as he pulls you closer to him and looks down for a moment, gathering courage. 

“Y/n, I’ve fancied you since the moment I saw you on the train. You immediately caught my attention, but once I really got to know you, I knew that I was done for. You’re so funny, beautiful and absolutely perfect, but you’ve never really showed me you fancied me and-” George pauses for a moment, trying to pick his words right. “Well, I just want to know how you feel.” He simply states, looking deep into your mesmerizing e/c eyes. 

Your smile widens as George finishes his confession, and tackling the red-head onto the bed you hug him tight against you. 

“I fancy you too idiot! Why else do you think I’d only go to you for my scars and bruises, why I’d save you from detention all those times, I’ve fallen in love with you!” A melodic laugh rings from your lips as George wraps his arms around you with a hearty chuckle, pressing kissing on your head just like he’d dreamed of doing. 

Rolling the two of you over, George now on top, the blushing ginger admires your laughing form beneath him. You were positively angelic and he couldn’t help himself from what came next.

George leans down and captures your lips in his, snaking his arm up to hold your hand against the mattress while the other cups your face. The kiss is chaste at first as George familiarizes himself with your lips, truth be told he hadn’t had his first kiss yet, only daydreamed of doing it with you. Now, with your lips finally against his, he wanted it to be perfect.

Running his tongue against your bottom lip, George wordlessly asks for permission to deepen the kiss, nipping lightly on your soft pink lips. Parting your lips you allow George to run his tongue around your mouth, as your teeth clash and your tongues swirl around each other. 

George eventually pulls away to catch his breath, never letting go of your hand and stroking your cheek with his thumb. “You don’t know how long I’ve wanted to do that love.” the prankster smiles, pressing a small kiss to your nose. 

“Oh I can imagine, especially with that pressure on my thigh.” Your eyebrow raises in a teasing tone as George goes a brilliant shade of scarlet, his freckles seemingly disappearing under the dark hue. 

“I- uh, I’m sorry. It’s just-” George begins to ramble, trying his best to explain himself to no avail. 

A small smirk plays on your lips as you capture George’s lips into a loving kiss again. 

“It’s alright Georgie, I want this too.” You sigh onto the gryffindor’s lips, circling your hips around underneath him.

George lets out a low moan at your action, squeezing your hand and looking back into your eyes, pupils dilated and dark with lust. “I’ve never done this before.” You admit, running a finger up and down George’s side, glancing down at his lip caught in between his teeth. 

“I haven’t either, but I’ve imagined doing this with you before.” George shrugs, removing his hand from your cheek and placing it on the waistband of your shorts. “That makes two of us.” You tease, running your free hand up the beater’s toned chest. 

George doesn’t hesitate to crash his lips onto yours again, rolling his hips against you. Your mouth parts enough for him to slip his tongue past your lips again and explore every inch of your opening as his hand pulls the waistband of your shorts down your thighs before promptly flicking them to the floor. George uses his long digits to tease your clit through your panties as he kisses down your jaw and collarbone nipping and sucking, leaving a path of pink marks down your upper chest. “So wet for me already love?” He smirks as his fingers find the soaked patch on your heat, eyes darkening as he pushes harder against your clit.

“Yes George, f-fuck, right there.” You plead softly as George continues to ravage your clit, hitting the sensitive bud perfectly and sending waves of pleasure through your being. The gryffindor obliges, rubbing your heat faster and harder as your eyes shut and your head falls back against the soft pillows, allowing George access to your neck, sucking dark hickeys onto your skin as you writhe beneath him from the stimulation from his fingers and lips were granting. 

Slowly inching your fingers up, you pull the beater’s shirt up to his chest, motioning him to take it off as your fingers move lower to the waistband of his trousers. George removes his fingers from your panties to teasingly pull off his shirt, sitting up a bit to show off his toned abdomen, taking his sweet time to throw the shirt aside and fix up his short hair, sending a wink down at you. 

Your hands seem to gain a consciousness of their own, slowly tracing down each muscle, drawing dangerously low before George leans down to push your shirt up your chest. Raising your arms, your shirt joins George’s on the floor. “You’re absolutely stunning love.” George praises as he reaches behind your body to unclasp your black bra, quickly throwing it away and pressing kisses across your breasts. 

You begin to run your hands up the toned red-heads chest when he takes hold of your hands and pins them above your head against the soft cushion, his grip soft, but firm, unabling you to move despite how hard you squirmed. 

“Don’t bother darling, now stay still like a good girl.” George smirks, lust evident in his low rasp as he kisses down your naked chest, swirling his tongue around your nipples and massaging them with his calloused hand. Your attempts to escape George’s grasp are forgotten as his teeth begin to nibble on your sensitive buds. Head falling back between your arms, you arch your back against George, silently begging for more. George grins into your skins and pulls back to admire your pleading form, reaching down to undo his belt with a small fumble, eventually pulling his trousers and briefs down completely. Your eyes fly open at the feeling of George’s hard cock brushing up against your inner thigh as George’s dark, brown eyes display a playfulness as he teases his tip against your clothed core. 

You begin to struggle against George’s grip again, wanting to take his throbbing length into your mouth and make him beg beneath you. Unfortunately, George has different plans and his clutch stays firm. 

“Ah ah ah, just let me make you feel good y/n, save that for another time.” George purrs, hooking his fingers into your panties and pulling them down your legs. Your arms grow limp as George uses his hand to spread your thighs apart and place himself between your thighs. Right in front of where you needed him most. “Please don’t tease me anymore George, I-I need you.” You beg shakily, desperately rolling your hips to gain any friction, your timid demeanor being overthrown by overstimulation and need. 

“Patience darling, you’ll get me I promise.” George smirks, closing the space between you to press another heated kiss to your lips and continuing to coat himself in your slick, sliding himself up and down. Bringing his free hand to your clit again, George pushes his thumb to your sensitive bundle of nerves, swirling it around with a light pressure, swallowing your loud moans into the kiss. Once you were squirming beneath him again, back arched and hips thrusting up for more, he finally begins to push himself into your soaked core.

A feeling of ecstasy and satisfaction runs through your veins, bringing a whole new feeling of pleasure and clouding all your senses as George pushes deeper into you, awakening an intoxicating new feeling you could get addicted too.

George pauses for a moment, pulling away from the kiss for a moment to check in on how you were. Your eyes are shut, your mouth agape in a small ‘o’ and with the loss of his lips, desperate moans spill past your lips, mixing beautifully with George’s name. 

The toned red-head begins to thrust in and out, incoherent groans falling from his lips as your core clenches around him and your hips buck up to greet him. Picking up the pace. You cry out George’s name over and over again as he continues to snap his hips in and out of you, your body growing limp and your eyes rolling into the back of your head with each thrust. George continues to pound deep into you using all his strength to go deeper and harder, reintroducing his fingers to stroke your clit as he desperately swirls and thrusts his hips. 

“Fuck, you make me feel so good darling.” George growls against your ear, peppering kisses to your jaw and burying his face into your neck to try and stifle his loud moans. 

With George whispering sinful praises into your ear you can feel a knot tighten in your lower stomach, and your hips begin to buck again and again, begging for release. “Oh fuck George, d-don’t stop, I’m gonna cum.” You mewl breathily.

George, fueled by your moans pushes himself even more, thrusting and swirling his hips until he feels your core clench deliciously against him and your shaky moan cry out.

As your coil snaps, spots flood your vision and your body tenses as shockwaves of euphoria shake your body and your hands beg to grip onto something, cries of pleasure mix with the sound of George’s skin hitting yours as the beater continues to snap his hips into your throbbing core, his cock twitching and pulsing deep inside you as you ride out your orgasm and his release builds up. 

George throws your leg over his shoulder in a desperate action for release, using the new angle to push deeper into you and feeling your core contracts to grip his cock, driving him absolutely insane. 

“Oh my Godric, George you make me feel so fucking good, please let me help you.” You look up to your constricted hands and back into George’s dark orbs, pleading with him to release you. 

George gives a couple more lazy thrusts before he releases your hands and pulls himself out of you. Despite your legs being unsteady, you lay George’s head down on the other end of the bed and begin to kiss down his sweat stained body, slowly making your way down his long body.

Licking a stripe from the base to the tip of his cock, you slowly take George’s length into your mouth, swirling the pulsing tip around your tongue and hollowing your cheeks before going deeper. George’s eyes shut once again as you take him, burying his fingers into your hair and helping you to guide your lips down. Taking what you can’t fit into your hands you start to bob your head up and down, using your lips and hands together as you lick and suck at the sensitive skin. George begins to spew profanities and buck his hips into your mouth, pulling your hair up and down a little more forcefully as you begin to gag lightly. George continues to buck and moan, your name being sobbed from George’s lips as he feels his orgasm taking over him and hot cum floods your mouth. You try your best to swallow every drop, only a couple beads sliding down your chin as you lift your head from George’s length. 

“God you look so gorgeous with my cum dripping down your face.” George smirks pulling you onto his bare chest and kissing down your cheek. Your only response is a blush as George continues to stare down at you as if you were his last meal, drinking in all of your post-sex features. Messy hair, flushed cheeks, heavy breathing and swollen lips. Sighing, he pushes those thoughts away as he pulls you up to see him face to face. 

“That was amazing love, thank you.” George grins, pulling you against his chest and playing with your soft hair.

“Of course Georgie, but Merlin my legs are sore.” You groan into George’s chest as his chest vibrates with a chuckle. 

“I’m afraid Episkey won’t cut it for that darling.” The red-head prankster teases, reaching down to caress your legs lightly. “That’s too bad, have you got any other remedies?” You joke, wrapping your arms around George’s torso, a smile growing on your lips. 

“Just lay here with me darling, Relax.” George sighs, pulling back to gaze into your eyes again with a growing smile. “Sounds good.” You respond, a small yawn falling from your lips.

“I-I love you y/n, I’ve fallen in love with you so many times over the years and the fact I still haven’t asked you this question yet is killing me, would you be my girl? Please?” George pouts, giving you his best puppy eyes as you giggle and cuddle closer to his chest. 

“I’d love nothing more, my love.” You sigh happily as George’s eyes light up and he peppers your face with butterfly kisses.

“Next time the two of you shag, at least put a silencing charm over the room!” A disgusted shout, causes the two of your to flinch. “Sorry, Fred!” You laugh at the older twin’s plea and turn back to your love. “Guess we were a bit loud, weren’t we?” You tease.

“Me? Oh no darling, that was all you.” George smirks. “And who’s fault was that?” You reason, pressing a gentle kiss to George’s lips once again. 

“All mine, I can say that with honor.” The red-head smiles victoriously and pulls you against him again with a chuckle.

“Godric, I can still hear you!” Fred’s annoyed scream rings through the room again.

The two of you only laugh at Fred’s interjection, too busy staring into each other’s eyes to care. The two of you had come so far, from pulling pranks in the Hogwarts halls, running to each other for a spell you could easily perform when you were hurt, to moving into the same apartment to follow your dreams and making love to each other after your confessions of love. You’d only dreamed of being able to hold the boy who’d stolen your heart with each Episkey and prank, and here you are lying in his arms with love bites scattered across your chest and legs too tired to move, slowly drifting to sleep as all your dreams came true.

[nnightskiess]

‧₊° 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐱 𝐬𝐥𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧!𝐟𝐞𝐦!𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫

‧₊° 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: 𝐲/𝐧, 𝐚 𝐬𝐥𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧, 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐝𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐝𝐨𝐫𝐞'𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐲...

ᴘᴀʀᴛ ᴛᴡᴏ

*.·:·.☽✧    ✦    ✧☾.·:·.*

“I’m going back, you guys.” 

Her Slytherin friends raised their eyebrows.

“I’ve gotta study.” She quickly explained.

Pansy let out a snort and took a sip of her butterbeer. Of course Pansy would be able to see through her, but Y/N thanked her silently for not speaking up about it when their eyes met. If only Pansy knew the real truth behind her lie. 

“Have fun.” She sang out teasingly, guessing Y/N was off to sneak around with someone she had a crush on.

Y/N’s feet dragged through the snow as she walked to the secluded part of Hogsmeade, to the Hog’s Head Inn. She crossed her gloved fingers, hoping she was on time and that they would actually let her in and let her listen to what Harry Potter had to say. Y/N didn’t fit the stereotypical Slytherin mould, but no matter how hard she tried to prove that, she seemed to always be considered like a bad guy. Sure, her choice of friends obviously didn’t help her case, but still, didn’t she deserve to not be judged because of that?

Y/N hoped this wasn’t just some way to make Harry believable after all that The Daily Prophet had said about him, or to share his stories to make him even more famous. But if Hermione Granger was there, then it must be serious. She didn’t know the girl personally but knew far too well how much the bushy haired girl detested Umbridge and her teaching as well— or the lack of her teaching, for that matter. 

So when Y/N heard Zacharias Smith being persuaded by one of his friends to go to the meeting, she knew she needed to be there, too. If it was bullshit, she’d be out of there in a second. If it wasn’t, she hoped they accepted whatever kind of help she could offer. So, deciding to give them the benefit of the doubt, she marched up to the front door of the Hog’s Head.

Y/N silently cursed to herself when all eyes suddenly focused on her. How could she have been so dumb? Of course she should’ve walked in long before the rest, now they would obviously not say another word, too afraid she was one of Umbridge’s spies.

Harry pursed his lips, stopping himself from continuing. Ron looked mad and Hermione seemed confused... intrigued... impressed? All of the fore-mentioned? Y/N couldn’t quite tell. 

“Bugger off, you!” Ron gave her a nasty look.

Y/N had been expecting this, but maybe not from Ronald Weasley.

When Ron noticed she didn’t make a move to leave and instead took off her green scarf and mittens, he stood up, his ears red from anger.

“Come on then, leave!”

Y/N tried to stay calm, not liking his approach, and held up her hands, taking a measured step closer.

“I’m not here to spy on you, trust me.”

He stood up, his fists balled up in rage, “I find it hard to believe a girl like you would just stop here to get a drink, on her own no less.”

“A girl like me?”

“Yes! Where are your bloody friends?” Everyone raised their eyebrows at Ron’s newfound hostility. No one knew, not even Y/N, but the hatred towards the girl was partially because her father had humiliated Arthur Weasley plenty of times at work.

“Ronald!” Hermione shook her head and pulled at his arm, trying to stop him. 

“No one sent me. I’m here because of the meeting.” She looked around the pub, saw the man bandaged up in rags, the weird bartender who was cleaning the filthy glasses with an even filthier rag and then looked back at Ron, “I wouldn’t go here voluntarily.” She let out a breathy chuckle but realised everyone was still on edge. She clenched her jaw at the many disgusted looks sent her way.

“What meeting? We’re just chatting with each other.” Harry tried to play dumb but Y/N immediately rolled her eyes. How pathetic. 

“I overheard some of you talk about it. You should really be more discreet, you know?”

Harry bit the inside of his cheek, cursing whoever had been so careless and also hating the feeling how he felt like she lectured him, as if he was some child. When no one said a word and when they kept looking at her in disgust, her anger rose.

“Do you think I would spy for the woman who ruined my mother’s career, who made me carve words into my hand for detention and who fails to teach us anything and ruins the school a bit more every week?” Her rambled confession caught everyone off guard. “I might be a Slytherin but no one knows me here so why is your first approach so hostile? You wouldn’t have treated me like this if I was sporting a yellow scarf instead of a green one. Would you, now?”

Hermione admired how she had so fiercely tried to prove her case and suddenly remembered that Y/N had bought one of her S.P.E.W. badges the year before. She had been one of the few who had and remembered being surprised then, too. It was weird, but Hermione believed the girl’s intentions were true.

“She’s right.” She spoke, “Besides, we need all the help we can get.” She gestured for the girl to sit down, who took a seat at the back, trying to ignore the many stares still sent her way. Meanwhile Hermione tried to ignore the glares sent her way.

A week later, while Y/N was sitting in the windowsill of the Hogwarts library, trying to study for Potions class, Hermione hesitantly approached her.

“Hi, there, um- excuse me,” The Gryffindor cleared her throat, making Y/N look up from her book. She leaned in closer after making sure they couldn’t be overheard, “The first meeting is this Thursday on the seventh floor. The door’s a hidden entrance opposite the tapestry of Barnabas the Barmy. Just think of the meeting and the door will appear.” Hermione rushed out in a whisper. 

Harry and Ron had both still been hesitant letting Y/N join, but after Hermione had scolded and lectured them about giving the girl a chance, they begrudgingly agreed. However, Hermione had to bring the news to Y/N. They still had their doubts about the Slytherin girl who was friends with the likes of Pansy Parkinson and Draco Malfoy.

Y/N smiled softly, “Thank you.” 

After a week of radio-silence, she had come to terms with the fact that they hadn’t been too keen on letting her join after all, so this was a pleasant surprise. 

“I don’t believe I’ve properly introduced myself— besides the awkward introduction at the pub.” 

Hermione smiled meekly.

“I’m Y/N.”

“Hermione.”

The two shook hands quickly before Hermione excused herself, “I should probably go again. It might raise questions if we hang out together.” 

Y/N furrowed her eyebrows. Because she was a Slytherin? Because she was supposed to be a mean girl who would never hang out with a mudblood like her? Though Hermione probably hadn’t meant it in a wrong way, it hurt Y/N more than she would like to admit.

“Do you need that?” Hermione pointed to the book discarded at Y/N’s feet. Y/N shook her head slowly. 

“Okay, then... let’s just pretend I came to borrow it from you. See you on Thursday.” 

With one last look over her shoulder, Hermione had disappeared again behind the many bookshelves.

Thursday night rolled around and Y/N was on her way to the seventh floor. It was a long walk from the dungeons, so she had left long before 9pm just to be on time. Two Ravenclaws who she had seen at the meeting, walked in front of but Y/N decided not to join them, they probably still hated her.

“Y/N!” 

Pansy’s loud voice echoed through the empty hallway, making the two Ravenclaws turn around. When they saw Y/N with Pansy, they immediately quickened their pace. She wasn’t sure if it was because they were scared of Pansy, or if they wanted to hurry and tell Harry Potter that Y/N was up to something, that they couldn’t trust her because she had been with Pansy Parkinson right before the first lesson. Contrary to popular belief, Y/N actually hadn’t told anyone and wasn’t planning on doing so either. 

“Sneaking off again?”

An arm wrapped around her shoulder and Pansy gave Y/N a playful nudge in the stomach. Y/N let out a laugh and pushed her off, 

“None of your business.”

Pansy gave her a look, the corners of her mouth lifted up into a smirk. “The dungeons are downstairs, you know? No need to slither your way through the seventh floor.”

“Look who’s talking!”

The raven-haired girl rolled her eyes, “I’m a prefect, remember? I’m allowed to roam the halls, even after curfew, and no one would be allowed to question a thing.” 

“I see you’ve been taking advantage of it.”

“And you wouldn’t?”

Y/N shrugged, “Maybe. I don’t know.”

“You didn’t seem to complain when I gave you ten points for doing my homework.” 

The two laughed, “Fine, okay. It’s useful. Though I still think I deserved 15 points for that. You know how much I hate History of Magic.”

“Then you should’ve just said no.” Pansy let go of her arm and stopped walking, “I’m going back. Have fun.” She smirked again and left Y/N.

The Slytherin received a few confused looks when she stepped into the Room of Requirements. No one had believed Y/N had been serious or that the Golden Trio had actually dared to give her a shot. Some students seemed less hostile around her but Y/N knew they were still being careful. So it came as no surprise to her when everyone had to pair together, which led to her standing alone, along with Neville Longbottom. 

The boy’s eyes widened in fear when he realised who he had to pair up with. He was already nervous enough, he wasn’t great at Defence Against the Dark Arts, and having to try and disarm Y/N lessened his shot at success even more. 

Harry noticed the boy’s panic, quickly realising Neville needed a friendly face in front of him so he could relax and try and do his best. He waved Ron over and then left to watch the others, without another look at Y/N who still stood alone, playing with her wand to feel less awkward. No one seemed to notice, and if they did, they probably didn’t even care. 

Hermione let out an irritated sigh when she realised what had happened and told the girl she was practicing with to join the Parvati twins. She made her way over to the Slytherin, still unsure how to approach her, but did so nonetheless. 

“You can pair up with me... if you want to, that is..” She quickly added the last part, unsure if Y/N hated mudbloods as much as her friends did, they seemed to hate Hermione’s guts because of it.

Y/N let out a relieved smile, which didn’t go unnoticed by Hermione, and followed her so they could have more space.

They practiced in silence for a few minutes, both girls impressed by the qualities of the other, before Y/N opened her mouth to talk.

“I feel like a freak show.” She let out a breathy but awkward chuckle, making Hermione stop her movements. Y/N felt all their eyes on her, even if her back was turned their way. Hermione smiled sympathetically, seeing everyone glance at the Slytherin girl every few seconds.

“Just ignore them.” Hermione immediately realised how cliché and stupid it had sounded and tried to better herself, “I-I mean- It’s a compliment really... They... they must keep staring at you because you’re obviously incredibly talented and they feel challenged by that.”

Y/N smiled softly at the rambled reply, “I doubt it’s because of that, but it’s a nice thought. Thanks, Granger.” She knew the girl was only trying to make her feel better. And she had, she was the only one who had tried to accept her, after all. Even if it felt off or if the rest of her friends were against it.

“I don’t know what they all told you, but I promise that I mean well.” Y/N cleared her throat. “I know my house and my choice of friends alarms some of you, but we don’t always see eye to eye on most things... I don’t care that you’re a mudblood, for example.” Hermione looked up, taken back. “If anything, it makes you special. I would like to know more about muggles but my father doesn’t want me to meddle with that world. I just think the unknown scares him.” She continued when Hermione was still searching for a proper reply. She was intrigued by everything Y/N was telling her. “There are more like me, you know? But they’re just too scared to show their true beliefs or to speak up. Some have done it though, but they’re seen as the odd ones out. They are being bullied every time they enter the common room, mostly by Draco.”

Hermione rolled her eyes— of course. Y/N took notice of her reaction and immediately felt the need to protect her friend. “He’s not that bad. I mean, I know he bullies you but... in reality, I think all of us are just pressured to be or think a certain way by our parents and the moulds the other students put us in. It’s not easy being good when everyone treats you like you’re the bad guy.” Y/N’s voice died down.

“That’s still not a reason to bully someone.” Hermione’s voice was soft.

“I know.”

“I’m guessing you were too scared to speak up, then?” She guessed, since it came as a surprise to everyone that Y/N had good intentions and was one of them.

Hermione’s harsh voice hurt Y/N more than she wanted to.

“I’m here, aren’t I?”

“But would you ever tell Pansy or Draco that?”

Y/N shook her head immediately, “No, of course not. I swore to never tell anyone about Dumbledore’s Army, everyone has sworn secrecy, right? Besides, they think I’m not serious when I say I don’t care about someone not being pureblood. They wave it away like I just made a sarcastic joke.”

Hermione looked down swiftly, realising she had lashed out for the wrong reasons.

“I’m sorry.”

Y/N waved it off with her hand, “It’s fine. I’m sure more people will attack me for it in the future. That’s if they dare to talk to me first... do I have a tail or something?” Y/N playfully looked behind her and wiped her bum, “Horns?” She combed through her hair. “They keep on looking!”

Hermione shook her head in amusement. “You look more than fine, there’s nothing wrong with your bum.” Her eyes widened immediately, her cheeks turned scarlet, “Or your hair!” She quickly added.

Y/N laughed heartedly, signalling for Hermione to stand tall again so they could continue practicing.

*.·:·.☽✧  

Y/N fumbled with the fake Galleon in her hand, waiting for the new date to appear. She was starting to enjoy the meetings of Dumbledore’s Army. Through the weeks, everyone had paired up with her at least once and they quickly realised she was no threat. She was finally at a point where they didn’t walk away from her. Instead, they now laughed at her jokes and smiled proudly when Y/N encouraged them. They still had to appear like strangers outside of the Room of Requirements. Y/N hated it. She had made new friends and wanted nothing more but to sit with them during lunch, or help them study. Hermione had done her best to make Y/N feel at home within the group, and Y/N couldn’t lie to herself— she had started to fancy the Gryffindor. Sure, she had found her very pretty before, when all she could do was sneak short glances at the girl during class, but she would have loved to sit in the library together, go to Hogsmeade and really get to know her. But that would raise too much questions, and she wasn’t sure if she could explain this one to Pansy, Draco or Blaise.

“That’s all, you guys. Have a nice Christmas break!” 

Everyone left the Room of Requirements in little groups, as Harry inspected the Marauder’s map, waiting for them to arrive in their common rooms before checking if the coast was clear for another group to leave. Y/N could’ve joined the Hufflepuffs to the dungeons but Harry had advised against it. Seeing Y/N with them would for sure raise questions with the other students who didn’t know of the existence of the Defence Against the Dark Arts class. He would never admit it out loud, but he too had warmed up to the Slytherin girl. She was skilled and could help out the others when he needed a hand. 

Hermione felt Y/N appear next to her, looked up and gave her a soft smile. They were waiting for the Hufflepuffs to arrive so that Y/N could go. 

“Um-” Y/N started, “Did you know Umbridge told her High Inquisitors to try and find out our plans?” 

This got Hermione’s attention. 

“I mean, I only assumed... That’s why she named them in the first place, right?” 

“Yeah, Draco, Pansy and the others talk about it all the time. How they want to catch you guys— especially Potter.” 

“Oh...” Hermione furrowed her eyebrows, realising that this might become a problem later on. Their luck would run out soon. “I’m sorry, it must be hard to sit there and lie to your friends.”

Y/N shrugged, “I knew what I signed up for when I joined.” She twirled her wand through her fingers, one of her habits, and hoped what she was going to say next wouldn’t be a wrong move, 

“I could tell you what their plans are? Inform you when they are up to something, maybe mislead them... and that kind of stuff...”

Hermione raised her eyebrows, shocked that Y/N had the guts to go that far, to betray the friends she’d had since first year. 

“I mean, that would be very useful but... Are you sure? If they ever find out-”

“I have to be careful around Pansy, she reads me like an open book, but I think I could get it out of Draco when he’s gloating about it again.”

“But when word gets out, you’ll be the only Slytherin, you’re the only one out of all of us who hangs out with them. They’ll know it was you.” 

“If we do nothing, we risk getting caught. Besides, it would finally rid all of the doubts the others might still have about me. You know they’ll point at me the moment Draco or the rest finds out about this. They’ll think I finally caved and told Umbridge.”

“It’s not worth it. You don’t have to prove anything, not to me at least. I know you’re not like that now.” Hermione started to feel bad. “Your friendships and relationships with everyone in your house, or with your parents, should not be put on the line for that.” Hermione had a feeling that Y/N’s father would most likely skin her alive if he ever found out.

“I insist.”

Hermione saw the persistent look in her eyes, knowing she was not going to let someone change her mind, not even Hermione. Y/N was after all a Slytherin, and if she wanted to go for something, she gave it her all until she reached her goal.

Harry called her name and waved with the Marauder’s map— it was her time to go.

“Alright, just... be careful about it. Please?”

One curt nod sent Hermione’s way and she left the Room of Requirements, leaving Hermione with a bad feeling in her gut.

*.·:·.☽✧ 

“You’ve got me really curious.” Pansy opened the drapes around her bed in a flash, startling Y/N. “You’ve been hooking up with this person for weeks now and you won’t even give me a single hint.”

Y/N shrugged. “I thought you liked riddles, go figure it out then.”

Pansy groaned in annoyance, falling back onto her bed as she stared at the ceiling.

“Can’t, got no time. Umbridge has us patrolling the seventh floor the whole night.”

Y/N froze immediately. Another meeting was about to start in an hour, they couldn’t be seen.

“Why?”

Pansy propped herself up on her elbows and looked at her friend, “To get Potter and his goons, of course?! Apparently this girl, Marietta Edgecombe, told Umbridge all about it.”

Y/N tried to mask her surprise and anger and realised she needed to do something quick to try and steer Pansy to a dead end.

“Are you sure it’s the seventh floor? I thought I heard gossips about it being near the Owlery, in one of the abandoned classrooms. No one goes there because Peeves roams the hallways.”

Pansy tilted her head, realising Y/N’s reply had been way too detailed. 

“Don’t tell me you have another romantic meeting in one of the broom closets tonight on the seventh floor.” Pansy examined the expression of her friend but continued talking, “Don’t worry, we’ll be looking for a hidden room. I reckon we won’t be checking any broom closets tonight.” She gave her a wink, but saw that Y/N still seemed on edge. 

“I need to go.”

“Go where?!” 

But Y/N had already left their dorm room and rushed out of the Slytherin common room, trying to reach Hermione. 

“Can you please get Hermione Granger? Or Harry Potter, or Dean or Parvati- really, anyone is fine!” Y/N needed to tell them or it was too late. But the Fat Lady pursed her lips and Y/N saw her eyes take a quick glance at her green Slytherin tie. She let out a huff and faced the other side.

“Please! It’s urgent!”

The Fat Lady started to sing to try and ignore her, but Y/N wasn’t going to give up so easily and started banging on the wall, hoping it would somehow be heard in the common room.

After half a minute of banging, the Fat Lady turned to her, annoyed. She was about to complain when a third-year Gryffindor student walked out. He looked taken back when he saw the girl stand there and was unsure of how to react. 

“Is Hermione Granger in there? Or any of her friends?”

He looked her up and down, trying to see if this was another attempt at pranking one of the Gryffindor students. However, he soon saw the honest desperation in her eyes and shook his head hesitantly.

“No, I saw them all leave a while ago. You just missed-”

Y/N bolted up the stairs, she needed to stop them. Part of her was hoping Umbridge wouldn’t be able to find the hidden room, but she knew better. The toad would just wait long enough until they all left eventually. Hell, if it were up to her, she would probably sit there for days if needed, just to get the satisfactory that she had caught them.

But when she rounded the corner to the hallway, she saw Harry and his friends being dragged away by Umbridge and her Inquisitors, Hermione included. Y/N saw Draco and Pansy and immediately ducked back around the corner, but the sudden movement had caught Hermione’s eye. When Y/N peeked her head around the corner to see where they were taking them, her eyes met those of Hermione. She shook her head in disappointment, which to Y/N, was much worse than if she had been raging with anger. Y/N realised what Hermione was thinking right now and wanted nothing but to round the corner and tell them she had been trying to warn them, not rat them out. Though she had always told them she was not like the rest, something in Y/N stopped her from stepping out into the hallway. The realisation of losing her friends and disappointing her parents suddenly weighed heavily on her.

The doubts Hermione had had in the beginning, the ones she had just as easily neglected after getting to know the real Y/N, suddenly hit her like a ton of bricks. This had been the bad feeling in her gut. Y/N had betrayed them after all, and Hermione had fallen right into her web of lies. What hurt even more than the tight hold Pansy Parkinson had on her shoulder and arm, was the realisation that she slowly started to develop feelings for the same girl who had now betrayed her.

*.·:·.☽✧    ✦    ✧☾.·:·.*

[weelittleweasley]

countdown (f.w.)

prompt: a new year on the horizon. new plans, new start, new love? maybe for some, but fred weasley is absolutely hung up on the girl he’s fancied since he graduated from hogwarts years ago.

pairing: fred weasley x fem!reader

warnings: drinking and just some cute fred fluff!

word count: 5.5k

a/n: honestly, the timeline of this is whenever fred and george graduated from hogwarts, but also the golden trio?? but also i don't know?? amuse me and pretend like you know what’s going on because i sure dont LMAOOOO anyway here’s wonderwall...

The Burrow was at max capacity, housing not only the majority of the Weasley family, but Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and you, of course. It was holiday break for Hogwarts and Molly insisted on having over all of Ronald’s friends as well as friends from Fred and George’s time at Hogwarts. The gesture was more than kind, but it did make for tight quarters having four more extra guests in the house. However, the Weasley’s always found a way to make things work; Hermione stayed with Ginny in her room, Harry in Ron’s room, while you delightfully stayed in Bill and Charlie’s vacant room. It was a full house to say the least. And a full house meant lots of hustle and bustle.

Today was a rather special day, more so to Hermione than anyone else. It was New Year’s Eve. The most exciting of all holidays according to the young witch Granger. The holiday was celebrated in the Weasley household, but Hermione insisted that there should be a large celebration this year. Lots of lights, fun games, and the suggestion of a fire works show peaked Fred and George’s interest a lot more...

You weren’t going to lie. It all sounded fun to you. The only thing that made your heart skip a beat was the proposal of the New Year’s kiss. “It’s a tradition that you have to kiss someone when the clock strikes midnight. It supposed to be for good luck and happiness in the new year,” Hermione beamed on the couch, a blushing Ronald Weasley next to her. “I mean, I’ve never had a new year’s kiss, but maybe this year things may change...” she trails off, side-eyeing Ron as he shifts in his seat, uncomfortable about all of the eyes on him. 

A new year’s kiss. How was this supposed to play out? Ron would surely kiss Hermione, Harry would kiss Ginny, and you? You were friends with Fred and George. Simply friends. Nothing more, nothing less. You became fast friends when you were at Hogwarts and kept in touch after your graduation, but nothing ever blossomed romantically from those friendships (unfortunately). 

Although you were mates, Fred Weasley always did something to you. You knew he had the reputation of being the boy who played around with girls until he was done and you knew he had a history of romance with your close friend, Alicia, but still your feelings for him remained no matter how many signs pointed to no. Fred was quite the catch; charming, funny, handsome, witty, and clever. He was nothing short of what you wanted. But you told yourself constantly whilst in school with him, “If he wanted to, he would have.” Since Fred never made a move on you in school, you decided for the both of you that a relationship or any kind of romance wasn’t in the cards for you. Your relationship was strictly platonic much to your dismay.

However, you weren’t going to let the thought of you not having someone to kiss on New Year’s get you down. The celebration would be fun. You had good company, good food, and you were certain the twins had something fun up their sleeves. 

New Year’s Eve rolled around quickly and preparations for nightfall were beginning. Hermione hung up shimmery gold and silver garland around the house as Ron blew up balloons, face growing red from blowing up so many. Harry tied strings to the balloons, laughing as Ron went red in the face from blowing them up. Ginny helped her mother in the kitchen, cooking dinner for the occasion. Fred and George on the other hand....

“(Y/N)! Could you come out here and give me a hand?” George calls from outside the Burrow as you follow the sound of his voice.

Outside, he stands around a troff of trunks, bags, and suitcases. Most of them labelled fragile or dangerous. Your eyes widen, “Woah, Georgie, where did you get all of this stuff?” you laugh, looking around at the mess of things in front of you.

George beams, “Storage from the joke shoppe. A bunch of this stuff is from overstock that Fred and I have. Lots of fireworks, gizmos, noise makers, etcetera. Fred is back at the shoppe gathering more things. In the meantime, I need you to help me sort through what we are using and what we can get rid of.”

You nod, knowing that you would certainly have your work cut out for you. George flings a trunk open which spurts out bright blue smoke and stinks of something absolutely rotten. The two of you exclaim, blowing away the smoke, coughing at its smell. “George, what exactly are in these boxes? A dead animal? ‘Cause that’s what it smells like,” you cough.

The tall ginger slams the trunk closed and turns to you. “Maybe let’s just work on the fireworks, shall we? Sort them by color and type?” he asks as you nod. “Brilliant. First pile,” he grabs a sack and dumps it on the ground as you two sit on the cold grass, sorting through multiple colored tubes of fireworks, each labelled differently. “So,” George huffs. “You looking forward to tonight?”

“I guess so,” you speak as you create a pile of fireworks labelled Big Ones Be Careful. “A new year. A fresh start. All very exciting I guess.” George laughs at your comment as he sorts other fireworks. “What? What’s so funny? Did I say something?”

George looks at you from under his eyelashes before shaking his head. “(Y/N), dear, I love you so much. But you are quite daft, aren’t you?” His comment makes you fling a firework canister at him as he yelps. “Careful with those! Don’t you see they are labelled Be Careful! Godric, you are daft...”

You groan, “Why am I daft? What’s the name calling for, you fatheaded idiot.”

Your best friend looks up at you. “Okay, first of all that was rude,” he states as you giggle, him soon joining in. “Second of all, you can’t tell me that you’re not excited about the new year and not the new year’s kiss,” he explains. You furrow your brows, confused about what he could be talking about. “(Y/N)...come on, you can’t be that blind.”

“Blind about what? There’s someone in that house that wants to kiss me on New Year’s? You’re out of your bloody mind,” you scoff, standing up to move to another pile of fireworks labelled, Fred--Do Not Touch. You laugh at the label before you sort them into colors. 

George mumbles, “Well, he isn’t in that house at the moment.” You flip your head to look at him, knowing he said something facetious. “Losersayswhat.”

“What?” you say.

George laughs, “Hah, works every time.” You groan as you continue to make your way through the pile of fireworks, not wanting to get distracted by George’s side comments. This news of someone wanting to be your new year’s kiss was getting on your nerves. Who else was there? Percy? And Merlin knows that you could not be paid enough galleons to kiss Percy Weasley. “I’m serious, though, (Y/N), you can’t be telling me that you don’t know that Fred hasn’t fancied you since forever ago.”

This comment makes you stop everything you are doing and turn towards George. You let the fireworks fall from your hands as you stare at him in disbelief. “Don’t play with me, George,” you warn him as he holds his hands up in defense. “We have been mates since we were eleven and all of a sudden you tell me that your twin brother, one of my best mates, fancies me?” you slowly encroach onto George.

He rises from his place on the grass and walks to you. “I’m just trying to say that good ol’ Freddie always thought you were cute and he might make a move tonight. That’s all. I’m being my brother’s wingman and your best friend. Can’t I just do that?” he explains calmly. 

You grab his arms, shaking him. “You cannot just drop a bomb on me like that and expect me to have a perfectly fine reaction, George!” you exclaim. “Don’t you know that Fred and I are just friends? I told you this multiple times! I told you that my crush on him faded as soon as we graduated from Hogwarts! That’s behind me.”

As you look at George desperately, he grabs onto your shoulders. “And you mean to tell me that you don’t fancy him right now? If Fred Weasley, my brother, came up to you right now and kissed you and told you that he’s fancied you for years, you would reject him?” George asks. Your face softens as you give his comment some thought. George was right. You would kiss Fred back with all your might and confess that you really liked him too and you were waiting for this moment for a while. Your silence explains everything that George needs to know. “Exactly. So when the clock strikes midnight and you see Fred next to you, don’t be a coward,” George teases you before walking back to his station of organizing fireworks.

You are left standing there, still processing what was happening. Fred Weasley was going to kiss you when the clock struck midnight. It was happening. This was really happening. And how romantic it would all be. New Year’s Eve, your first kiss with Fred, in the moonlight underneath a fireworks show. And then it struck you, “Hey George?” He hums in response. “The fireworks show tonight. You and Fred are putting it on still, right?”

“Of course we are. Who else would? Ronald? Could you imagine the disaster that would be?” George laughs at the thought of his childish brother trying to set off fireworks all while balancing himself on his broomstick. “Why do you ask?”

Taking a seat next to George on the grass, you say, “Then how is he supposed to get back down from setting off the fireworks to kiss me at midnight exactly?” 

George’s face twists in confusion for a second before thinking out the problem. “Huh,” he speaks. “I mean, I’m not sure, but I’m sure it’s going to happen,” he assures you. “Fred always finds a way. Come on, it’s Fred. When he likes a girl, he likes a girl. And you, (Y/N), my dearest, he likes. I wouldn’t worry yourself sick,” he nudges your arm as you exhale the breath you were holding. “Now come on, we still have much more sorting to do before Fred gets back with even more garbage.”

-----------------

Hours later and you’re in Ginny’s room, getting ready for the party. Hermione brushed through Ginny’s hair as she coated her lashes in mascara. You on the other hand stood in front of multiple skirts, dresses, and tops, struggling to decide what to wear. You groan in frustration as you peel off a glittery gold top of Hermione’s and toss it on the bed gently. “Nothing looks right,” you huff as Hermione turns around.

“I thought that one was lovely on you!” she exclaims as you flop on Ginny’s bed, staring at the ceiling. It may have been lovely, but it was perfect. If tonight was going to go the way George had described, you needed to make sure that you looked outrageous in the best way possible. You wanted Fred counting down the minutes until midnight. “Something’s wrong, I can see it on your face,” Hermione points out as Ginny turns to look at you. “You can tell us if you’d like.”

You offer them both a small smile as you run your fingers over your face and through your hair. “It’s honestly stupid,” you chuckle. “George has, um...informed me...that I might be receiving a new year’s kiss this year...from Fred,” you confide to the girls in a hushed whisper. 

You expected both of them to freak out with excitement or exclaim how exciting it was. Instead they looked at you, confused as to why you were just figuring this out now. “Well, yes, we all knew this. Fred’s had a massive crush on you for years,” Ginny simply states before sailing back into the mirror, reapplying her mascara. 

Mouth agape, you exclaim, “Does everyone know about this and not me?!”

Hermione sadly shakes her head, “Even Ron knew about it. And that’s saying something.” You groan and flop backwards again on the bed in frustration. How come everyone knew about this and you didn’t? How come you had to surprise and hide your feelings for Fred for years when in reality he felt the same way about you all this time? “Well, we didn’t know for sure if you fancied him too since you were always so adamant that you two were just friends...so that’s good news!” Hermione tries to lighten the mood, unsuccessfully doing so as you still remain on the bed. “Alright, well, enough of that. It’s exciting, (Y/N)! You and Fred’s first kiss!” she sits on the bed next to you. “Now I see why you are so nervous about what to wear. Let’s raid the closet and luggage, shall we?” 

You let out a light laugh and sit up, watching Hermione raid Ginny’s closet and your luggage, trying to find something for the occasion. “Hmmm,” she peels back hangers, pulling out pieces before putting them back, sorting through the clothes to find the perfect outfit. Suddenly, something catches her eye in your suitcase. “Oh!” she exclaims as she picks up a white and black plaid mini skirt. “What do we have here,” she laughs as you blush. You had bought that skirt on a whim on a shopping trip with Angelina. The skirt was a little short, but cute nonetheless.

Ginny takes a look at the skirt and chuckles, “Naughty, naughty.” You shake your head and roll your eyes. “I might have the top to go with it,” she speaks, rising from the chair and pulling a black, shimmery, long sleeve cropped shirt. She held it up to the skirt. Perfect match. “I’m not saying that you should dress up for Fred because that’s just gross,” Ginny states as you laugh with Hermione. “But...you’d look hot as hell with this on.”

You get up from the bed and huff, “You two are trouble.” The girls laugh as you begin to change, trying on the clothes to see how it looked. 

As you straightened out the shirt and skirt, you looked in the mirror in front of you, Hermione and Ginny hovering over your shoulders. It was perfect. The top hugged your feminine figure perfectly and the skirt hung from your hips like a dream, falling just above mid thigh under your bum. The material of the top glittered in the light as you twirled in the mirror. It wasn’t too much, it wasn’t too little. It was simply perfect. “If you don’t wear that, I am,” Ginny speaks as you laugh. “You look incredible.”

“Breathtaking,” Hermione adds. “If Fred doesn’t kiss you tonight, damn it, we will.”

--------------

Another few hours pass before the sun sets and the music starts. It was 9pm and the festivities were just beginning. Everyone was dancing, drinking, and laughing in the living room, celebrating the holiday. Slowly, you, Hermione, and Ginny all joined the party, earning a few stares from the boys. “Nicely done, ladies!” Ron smiles as Hermione rolls her eyes. “You all look lovely,” he retaliates as he looks at his friends, eyes landing on Hermione. “You look lovely,” he repeats quietly to Hermione as she blushes, holding onto the skirt of her pale blue dress. 

Ginny pays no attention to Harry’s gawking eyes as she passes him, wearing tight black jeans and a silver cowl neck top. Ginny had every intention of making Harry a murmuring mess. And it was working.

You on the other hand, poured yourself some punch (that the twins had most definitely spiked) and happily stood around your friends. But you couldn’t help yourself wanting to look at Fred. There he stood in the middle of the living room, blue jeans and a navy blue thermal t-shirt. He was dressed simply and plain, but Merlin, he looked good. You let yourself sneak a peak at him, but you catch his eyes. You stand there frozen as he smiles as you cheekily. “Nice skirt,” he compliment.

You can feel the blood rush to your cheeks. “Thanks,” you simply state as George just smiles and sips his punch. Clearing your throat, you start, “Alright, we got three hours to kill. What’s on the agenda?” 

Hermione shoots up, “Yes! Okay, so I thought to start we could play Never Have I Ever that way it’ll loosen us all up and we can make it a drinking game if we want.”

“Hermione Granger suggesting a drinking game? New year, new Hermione,” Ron laughs as Hermione rolls her eyes. “Sounds good to me. Everyone circle up.”

Everyone sits on the floor in the living room around the small coffee table, drinks in hand. You were sandwiched between Ginny and Hermione, clutching onto your cup, mind racing a thousand miles a minute. You could feel Fred’s eyes on you but you didn’t want to look at him. It felt like you had a dirty secret when clearly his plans were not a secret to anyone except you. 

Harry begins in the game, “Never have I ever broken someone’s arm in a game of quidditch.” Everyone laughs and looks at Ginny and Fred as they roll their eyes. 

You remember during one of Fred’s games when Gryffindor played Slytherin, Fred knocked someone clear off their broom and they fell on their arm, a clean break. You remember Fred proudly walking the halls, knowing that he broke that poor bloke’s arm. Even though it got him suspended from the game, Gryffindor still won the match. Many people thought that Fred’s move was unfair or stupid of him, but when you watched it happen, you couldn’t help but think about how attractive Fred looked as he flexed his muscles and literally threw the Slytherin player off of his broom. 

Ginny sips her drink and then says, “That was completely targeted, Harry.”

Harry shrugs, “No rules to the game. I say we can be as blunt as possible.”

Everyone looks around at the group as you just sip from your cup, needs the effects of the alcohol to give you a confidence boost. Was it hot in here? George claps his hands as Fred oooohs, making you sweat. “Alright, Potter, now he’s playing with the big boys,” George pats Harry’s back. 

“It’s all fun and games now,” Ron laughs. “You’re up, George.”

George rubs his hands together, concocting a statement as your heart races. George was going to be ruthless you knew it. There was so much he could say right now that could make you embarrassed. George was your best friend, he had so much dirt on you. Especially after today. Finally, he was struck with an idea and your heart sank. “Never have I ever had an intricate plan to kiss a girl I’ve fancied since fourth year on New Year’s Eve,” George simply sates.

As soon as the words fall out of his mouth, Fred’s cheeks turn bright crimson red and you almost spit out your drink. You cough a little bit as Ginny and Ron laugh wildly at their older brother, George smugly sitting there, watching the mess he created unfold. 

Fred glares at his brother and shakes his head. Slowly, Fred grabs the cup and takes a long sip from it as your heart races. This just got very real. “You’ve made a grave mistake, brother,” Fred states as George laughs. “Grave.”

You uncomfortably shift in your seat as Fred looks at you from across the table a little smirk on his face. Without anyone seeing, he drops his left eye into a wink and then goes back to the conversation. Your heart skips a beat and your face turns beet red. Tonight was going to be a night to remember for sure.

----------

Time flew by and it was a quarter to midnight. The twins had evacuated the house and ran to the backyard to get the fireworks ready. “We’ve got it all settled, not to worry!” Fred called out when Molly expressed her concern for the boys’ safety. 

The twins darted into the backyard, laughing happily as they jumped on their brooms and set off into the sky. The rest of you made your way into the backyard slowly as your race was beating a mile a minute. The time was approaching. Fred was going to kiss you in ten minutes. It was all happening so fast, you couldn’t keep up.

“Ready?” you feel Hermione’s hands on your shoulders as you roll your eyes, running your fingers through your hair. “It’ll be great, I just know it.”

You give her a hopeful smile as you stand next to her the backyard, wrapping your arms around yourself to keep you warm from the brisk January air. “I still don’t understand how Fred’s going to pull it off. Going from the fireworks in time to come down here and kiss me? I don’t know,” you ponder.

Hermione smiles, “It’s Fred. He finds a way.”

You nodded your head, smiling. She was right. Fred would find a way. He always did. 

Disrupting the silence, Ron speaks, “A minute and thirty seconds, everyone!”

Hermione gasps in excitement. “Already? Alright everyone! Get ready we’re going to start the countdown soon!”

Your heart is still racing as you look around you and up into the sky. No sight of Fred or George. Where were they and what were they doing? “Don’t over think it,” you whisper to yourself as you look around at your friends. Everyone stood around, looking up at the sky, waiting. 

And then, “In 10! 9! 8!” Hermione starts counting down.

“7!”

Your heart is pounding against your chest, you feel like your heart is going to leap out.

“6!” 

Your mind is reeling and racing with so many thoughts. You are in overdrive. 

“5!”

Was Fred going to kiss you? Or was this some sort of sick prank that he and George were in on?

“4!”

Where in the bloody hell was Fred? He had four seconds!

“3!”

Your mouth goes dry.

“2!”

Ron looks at Hermione, Harry to Ginny. It was happening. And Fred was nowhere to be found.

“1!”

Times up.

“Happy New Year!”

And with that, bursts of multicolored lights erupted in the sky, popping and blasting off. It was so bright and colorful, starting off the new year in a decorative display. As you watched the fireworks, you turned around and saw the couples all in each others arms, sharing sweet kisses as the fireworks went off in the background. And you stood there, no Fred. No George. No one. 

Your heart sank into your stomach as you realize what was happening. Fred wasn’t coming to kiss you. Not now. It was too late. You both missed your chance. Did George make this up? Was everyone in on it? Did Hermione lie to you? They wouldn’t dare toy with your emotions like that. Or would they?

Instead of dwelling on the questions, you just stared up at the sky, small tears welling in your eyes, but you quickly swallowed them away, feigning happiness. “Happy New Year to me,” you whisper to yourself. 

The fireworks blast off in shades of red, blue, green, and orange, illuminating the sky with such joy. You had to admit, Fred and George knew what they were doing when it came to things like this. No matter how much you wanted to scream at the two of them, Fred especially, you kept it in. You were supposed to be happy right now.

As the couples pull away from their embraces, you feel eyes on you in excited anticipation, hoping to see Fred holding you and kissing you. But instead, they see you, looking up at the sky alone. “What?” Hermione whispers. She starts to walk over to you, but Ron stops her.

“Give her a second,” he speaks. “Maybe Fred will come down in a second.”

The couples return their gaze to the sky, but the fireworks don’t stop. They keep coming. Which meant Fred had no intention of coming down anytime soon. 

You know that your friends are looking at you, but you refuse to look at them, far too embarrassed. Fred made a fool of you tonight. And that was something you weren’t going to forget. 

Slowly, the fireworks stop as you sigh. “What a show,” you try to lighten the mood as Hermione stares at you sadly. You couldn’t look at her she just made you feel bad. “Happy New Year!” you smile to your friends.

Ron is the first one to embrace you, picking you up and spinning you around as you giggle. He always did know how to make you feel a bit better. You held onto him tight as he spun you around. Slowly, he placed you back on the ground. “Happy New Year,” Ron whispered in your ear as he squeezed you. “My brother has always been a moron, no need to worry.”

He pulls away and gives you a smile and a wink. You just shake your head knowingly and shrug. “It is what it is. My resolution is that I’m going into this year with no expectations at all. Even if someone tells me something, I’m not going to expect it. I’d rather be surprised,” you sigh as Hermione hugs you tight.

You walk inside, arm in arm with Hermione, small chatter entering the Burrow as you walk in together. “Are we going to stay up a bit more a play another game?” Ginny asks.

“You all can, but I’m actually quite tired. I think I’m gonna head to bed,” you tell the group as they all protest, wanting you to stay. “I know, I’m a party pooper, but I am. I’m usually not up this late,” you lie through your teeth, knowing damn well you were up until sunrise yesterday with Fred and George talking about the shoppe and the future for it. “Goodnight, everyone. Happy New Year.”

The group watches you as you ascend the steps to the room you were staying in before they all look at each other, disappointed in tonight’s events. Before anyone can say anything, Fred and George come bumbling through the door, laughing and holding onto each other. “Brilliant! Absolutely brilliant!” George laughs. “The fireworks looked insane from up there! How did they look down here?” 

Everyone just stares and doesn’t say a thing. “Geez, tough crowd,” Fred laughs before Ron slaps him upside the head. “Ow! What the hell was that for?”

Ron scoffs, “Didn’t you forget something? You proper git!”

Fred looks at his younger brother confused. “I didn’t forget a thing! I mean I wished I could see what it looked like from down here, but oh well...anyway, whose up for a game?” Fred asks as everyone looks baffled. “What? You guys look like you saw a ghost. And where’s (Y/N)? She’s missing.”

And that’s when it hits him.

George is just as shocked as everyone else, covering his hand with his mouth. 

“Oh, bloody hell...” Fred trails off. “I planned a whole fireworks show for the girl and I forgot to come back down to bloody kiss her.” Everyone just shakes their head and disperses throughout the house, Ginny and Hermione disappearing into Ginny’s room, Ron and Harry trudging up the stairs. “Wait, wait, where did she go? I need to explain what happened to her.”

Ginny groans, “If you had just stuck to your plan like before and not got distracted by the shiny lights, you wouldn’t have to explain anything to her!” This just makes Fred feel worse as he should. He made a promise and convinced everyone to tell his crush about it only to not follow through. “She’s back in her room. You better have a good explanation for all of this.”

Meanwhile, you stood in the bathroom, brushing your teeth in your pajamas shorts and jumper, getting ready for bed. Your glasses hung on the bridge of your nose as you stared at yourself, disappointed in how the night unfolded. Tonight was supposed to be special, but it ended up extremely ordinary. But this is what you should have expected. 

You spat the toothpaste in the sink as you stared in the mirror. Huffing, you shake your head, “He’s just a boy.” That’s all Fred Weasley was. A dumb boy. A dumb idiot boy. A cute, funny, sensitive, witty, charming, flirtatious dumb idiot git moron boy. You groan, knowing that the feelings you have for Fred were stronger than ever at this point after the hype of today. “Why me, Fred Weasley?” you groan. “Why me.”

Swinging the bathroom door open, you step outside, unknowingly bumping into someone. “Oh,” you look up and there he was. The culprit. The man of the hour. Fred. “Oh.”

“Can we talk?” he asks as you just stare at him.

He looked at you with such guilt in his eyes, it was palpable. His face turned downward, feeling so stupid in this moment. He disappointed the girl he cared for most since they were children in school. It was embarrassing for him more so than you. 

You snapped back into reality and simply said, “Talk about what, Fred?”

With that, you made your way down the hall to the room you were staying in as Fred followed you. “Oh, don’t play this game, (Y/N). We both know exactly what this is about and I just want to apologize,” Fred pleads as you enter the room quickly, attempting to shut the door on him, but he stick his foot in the doorway. “Not so fast, tiger. I need to talk to you.”

“And I need to go to bed. It’s late,” you reply, but Fred forces himself inside the room as you groan. “Fred, it’s not a big deal. All is forgiven. Blah, blah. I’ll see you in the morning. Go on,” you shoo him away.

Fred grabs your arms, “No, it’s not alright. (Y/N), what I did was wrong and no one should ever leave someone alone like that after I promised you, and everyone else did, that I would come down and kiss you. I got caught up being an idiot with my brother and I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean for the night to go like this for either of us. I wanted it to be special.”

Fred’s words make your heart flutter, but you don’t let your heart get in the way of this situation. “You made me look like a fool,” you cooly speak, maintaining direct eye contact with Fred. 

“And I feel like a crap person because of it. I’m so sorry, (Y/N),” Fred grabs your hands as you huff. “I’m sure George already flapped his big mouth about it, but I’ve fancied you since we were in fourth year and you sneaked into George and I’s dormitory to tell ghost stories to Lee. I thought you were the coolest girl I had ever met. I still do. And when we graduated, you were so ready to help George and I start the joke shoppe and help us get on our feet. You have been so supportive and loving and kind to me. And I want you to know that I think you are the most incredible woman I have ever met. You’re smart, kind, generous, and good Godric, you’re the most beautiful creature I’ve ever seen,” he sighs as you blush gently. “I wanted tonight to be a memory that we could have forever. Because I care for you so much, (Y/N). I wanted to do it so badly. And I still do.”

Your heart is racing again and you feel your mouth run dry again. But you muster up enough confidence to say, “Do what, Weasley?”

A small smirk appears on your lips as Fred lightly chuckles, “Cheeky.”

He wastes no more time, wrapping his arms around your waist, pulling you close and dipping his head down to connect your lips in a gentle kiss. His lips are warm and taste of cinnamon. You sigh into his touch and wrap your arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Fred smiles into your kiss as he holds onto you tight, not wanting to let go. He missed his chance once tonight. He wasn’t going to make that mistake again. 

Gently, you pull away and look at Fred who is smiling from ear to ear. “Worth the wait?” Fred jokes as you roll your eyes, him kissing your lips again swiftly.

“Well worth the wait. Only four years late,” you tease him as he laughs. “Happy New Year, Freddie.”

“Happy New Year, darling.”

[macandriley]

5x06 - A Very MacRiley Analysis

Obligatory post to answer the age-old question: What do you see in MacRiley?

I’d like to start this off by saying, like a lot of you, I had very minimal hopes for this episode. I really didn’t expect anything to happen on the MacRiley front—especially not something that would significantly impact that storyline. 

But...I do enjoy being wrong.

Full transparency: this is not an episode review. If it were, I’d have to talk about the glaring plot inconsistencies and strange timeline. And I feel like I’ve already talked myself hoarse over that. 

So, without further adieu, let’s get into the long-winded analysis. 

The Cold Open

Absolutely irrelevant to the overall story and to this analysis. I just really like the way Mac says, “Riley, take the wheel,” and I thought it deserved an honorable mention.

“2020 Is Gonna Be Awesome”

Here, we cut to quarantine shenanigans. It’s cute. Fun. To see Riley and Bozer interacting like siblings again after so long just felt right.

Now, this is the pandemic, so of course conversations of toilet paper shortages arise. So Mac, in true MacGyver fashion, throws out some fun alternatives like newspaper and pine needles. And Riley shoots them all down, as she should. 

Because in the immortal words of Desi in 5x04, “Ew.”

This is when Bozer mentions that they could use the cardboard from Riley’s moving boxes. A seemingly innocent suggestion on the surface. If you don’t pay much attention to it, it goes right by without any fuss. 

However, at this point in canon, here’s what we know:

Bozer knows about Riley’s feelings for Mac

Riley has verbally told him that the reason she’s moving out is because of MacDesi. (Though her exact reasoning might’ve been intentionally misleading on her part)

So what does this mean? Well, to put it simply, Bozer is encouraging her to embrace living with Mac. To unpack her bags and stick around a while. A suggestion that Riley seems to ignore, as she says she’s dead set on getting out of there the second the pandemic allows.

Of course, the second she mentions moving, Mac picks back up with his beautiful Fauci song. Could it be that Himbo Barbie doesn’t like talking about Riley leaving? That’s open for interpretation.

Bonus points: Mac (incorrectly) blames Riley for not doing the dishes and it’s just adorably domestic. 

Getting Fed

Again, this scene is insignificant. The OG trio sit down to dinner, with Desi and Matty on video chat. It’s cute. 

But there is definitely something to be said for the way Riley looked at Mac when he mentioned having a private chat with Desi. My heart really went out to her there, because it must seem to her like she’s constantly being overlooked. 

After dinner, Riley and Bozer share a brief conversation. She expresses a disinterest in discussing her feelings, and reaffirms her choice to move out.

But Bozer reminds her that she’s only moving out so she “doesn’t have to watch Mac and Desi together,” and that “At this moment, it doesn’t seem like they are.”

This scene is important for two reasons: 

Bozer is clearly more supportive of MacRiley, which makes him honorary ship captain (as far as I’m concerned). 

it reaffirms the fact that her feelings are still very real, no matter how hard the lady doth protest.

Kitchen Floor Confessional

You all know this one from promo. After a tense conversation with Bozer, Mac heads inside to do the dishes. Riley, being the helpful person she is, offers to lend a hand. 

One thing leads to another, and the two wind up sitting on the floor by the sink, side by side. Just talking. The conversation comes to an end when Riley, who looks as though she wants to say something else, decides against it. (This “something else”, of course, would have been her confession). 

Cue the somewhat longing, emotionally charged staring from both parties. 

At this point, Mac says he’s going to go for a jog and abruptly leaves Riley alone in the kitchen. It’s clear by the look on her face that she feels, in some way, rejected. And the viewer is, at least for now, left to ponder why Mac seemed to cut the moment off so strangely. 

Though one could hypothesize that, just like Riley’s being packed and ready to go, Mac’s running has a little more to do with the emotional distancing than physical. 

The Parking Lot

Here we see Mac run off to speak to Desi. A scene I will not discuss at length, because the idea of playing footsie makes me cringe in the deepest recesses of my soul.

A little ways away, Bozer asks Riley if she told Mac about her feelings. She tells him she didn’t and that she’s glad, because she doesn’t want to be the thing that comes between them and their “happiness” (happiness is in quotes here because it seems like “anger” and “annoyance” are more common for them).

The dialogue in and of itself is not what I want to focus on here though. It’s the way the scene is framed.

Outside of the close-up shots for MacDesi’s conversation, much of the camera angles are from Riley’s perspective. Distant. Detached. The standpoint of an outsider looking in—of a girl watching the man she cares about being happy with someone else. 

The camerawork here makes this more of a Riley-centric moment than a MacDesi one.

Which is important because, from a narrative standpoint, there is no reason to frame it that way unless her emotions are going to be focal later on. This entire exchange implies that, in some way, Riley’s feelings are, were, and will be important to the plot. 

Yay for directorial story telling. 

A Moment

What to say about this scene? 

Mac has a heart to heart with Bozer and promises to be more present in his life. Bozer thanks him and begs him to finally clean the damn kitchen.

And agreeing, Mac turns away to do just that. Only, he stops himself short and tells Bozer he has one more thing he’d like to discuss.

The quote went as follows: “Kay, so...in the kitchen here a couple nights ago with Riley, there was a, uh...I don’t know, a moment.”

As I’m sure every MacRiley knows, him acknowledging that scene as a legitimate moment between them was incredibly unexpected. They’ve arguably had “moments” before, but only Riley ever seemed to notice them. Mac never mentioned having feelings, or even seemed like he might be aware of them.

This scene is the first time we’ve ever had direct confirmation that he feels—at least, in some capacity—the same way. 

To make it even better, this scene happens directly after MacDesi’s footsie match in the parking lot. Which means that, even when he’s got positive momentum with Desi, he’s still got Riley on his mind. 

Side note: I personally think this explains his behavior in 5x03. He doesn’t see Riley reciprocating, and he’s probably incredibly worried about screwing up all their history—an issue he doesn’t have with Desi, since they didn’t have much of a friendship first. 

So he throws himself back into that in an attempt to smother his feelings. Will it work? Only time will tell.

Ending

After cleaning up the kitchen, Mac picks up the piece of glass he’d left on the floor and, surprise surprise, finally gets an idea for his ventilator. Some fans say this is Riley’s influence, which I can honestly see. 

Especially given the quote Mac says at the end:

“When the world feels like it’s so turned upside down that it’s impossible to fix, it helps to look at things from a different angle. Because no matter how broken something appears—whether its your grumpy neighbor, your terrified best friend, your estranged girlfriend, or a shard of glass—that broken thing could inspire something new...Maybe even something better than before.”

I believe this is a direct foreshadow to MacRiley. Somehow, his fractured relationship with Desi will make him see what he COULD have with Riley. This “new angle” might even help him see that he’s better off as friends with Desi (something new), and that he might be happier in a relationship with Riley (something better).

And if you still don’t buy that, well...the scene transition seems pretty damning. 

There was absolutely no reason the camera couldn’t have faded to Bozer. Or to a shot of all three of them. This feels incredibly intentional, no?

In Conclusion

“Codex Adrenaline” and “Quarantine Cabin Fever” are cop-outs. Riley still likes Mac. Mac now likes Riley. And we are 100% going to see more development on that front. So is this a win?

I think so.

But I wanna hear from y’all. What did you like about this episode? What did you hate? Do you feel like they’re leading up to something bigger for MacRiley?

I’d love to hear y’alls thoughts. 

[fa-headhoncho]

Unlike The Rest: The Burrow

George Weasley x Reader

Prompt: The QWC attack leads you to the Burrow.

Word Count: 1522

Reader: Female

Warning: talking bad about the Malfoys, lol sorry

Masterlist Series Masterlist

=====

The group of you land on the ground with a thud. After waiting a few moments for the Golden Trio to appear, the sky filled with a dark haze. The green illustrations in the sign showed the Dark Mark and that was enough to send the five of you to grab the old boot.

No one says much as you make your way back to the Weasley's home. You have spent enough time at Cedric’s to determine you were going in the complete opposite direction of where his house was. You start to fall behind, your mind racing.

The situation at home is going to be an interesting one. Over the years, you’ve slowly learned the history of your family and their place in the First Wizarding War. They were strong supporters of the Dark Lord, your father being high in the ranks. It made sense, seeing as most of the values your parents have taught you were about the importance of blood purity and prejudice against muggles.

To your parents’ dismay, though, you didn’t latch onto those beliefs. You tried to fake it as much as possible at home or around Draco but it seemed to get harder and harder as the years went on. But, what if the years lead to another Wizarding War?

Before you could fall into that hole in your mind, a warm hand slipping into yours grabs your attention. You look up to see George has fallen back to keep you company. He sends you a small smile which causes butterflies to erupt in your stomach. Both of you continue to walk in comfortable silence, your mind slowly calming down.

=====

Entering the famous Burrow was everything more than you could’ve imagined. It’s better than what Fred and George have described to you. More magical than Hermione has told you. There’s a lot of organized clutter, some boots by the doorway, a lot of dishes hanging around and above the sink, the chairs at the dining room table where mismatched but it overall gave a homely feel. It was lived in and you could tell that each piece of furniture had a story. The Manor compared to this seemed like a cold, abandoned mansion.

“This place is amazing.” You whisper, gawking at the home. If you lived in a place like this, you’d never want to leave.

George shrugs, smiling slightly at your reaction, “It’s home.’

“What are you guys doing home so early?” A voice questions, a short plump woman comes walking out of the kitchen. You knew exactly who it was, Molly Weasley. You’ve seen her in passing during trips to Diagon Alley and at the train station, but you’ve never got a chance to meet the woman herself.

Mrs. Diggory soon comes up behind her, a teacup in hand. They must’ve been spending some girl time together with both of their families gone. “(Y/N), sweetie, what’re you doing here?” With that, you give a shy smile. Molly’s eyes trail down to George’s and yours intertwined hands and George immediately let's go.

“There was an attack,” Cedric announces, the mothers’ faces drop.

“It was the Death Eaters,” George says causing Molly’s eyes to snap to you. You move closer to George, knowing what she was probably thinking. As we all know, the Malfoys’ and Weasleys' history isn’t the best, making it very evident what she was thinking.

Cedric and Fred continue to explain what happened, how the Irish cheers turned into screaming and pleas for help. Fred tells how Arthur told the group to come back to the portkey and how they lost Harry, Ron, and Hermione on the way there. Cedric elaborates about Amos doing the same for him.

“Well, how did you end up in all this, (Y/N)?” Mrs. Diggory asks, a concerned look on her face.

“I snuck off from my family to see the twins,” You explain with a quiet voice, “it seemed my father and brother were focused on something else.”

Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Diggory share a look, knowing what this means.

“Could you four give a moment while we speak with (Y/N)?” Molly commands, gesturing for you to come over to them. They all nod, Ginny going up the stairs while Fred takes Cedric outside. George goes to follow them outside but you grab his hand to stop him. You look up at him with pleading eyes.

“You’ll be fine, love.” He assures you with the nickname he always uses when you’re upset. “I promise my mother doesn’t bite… well, she doesn’t bite guests.” He jokes, trying to light up the situation. You smile a bit at him, he squeezes your hand before leaving you with the pair.

Molly watches the whole exchange with a small smile on her face, the twins have told her a lot about you. George being the more vocal one about it, trying to convince his parents through the years that you were nothing like your family. She’s even asked the Diggory’s about you seeing that you were a big part of their sons’ life at Hogwarts. At this point, she knows enough to determine that you had nothing to do with the attack.

The pair of mothers lead you to the table. It has a kettle sat on a hot pad with a half-full teacups sat nearby

“Sit down, dearie.” Molly gestures to the chair at the head of the table. “Would you like a cup of tea?’ She offers as they both take their own seats. You shake your head no, the events of today not making you have an appetite for anything.

“Tell us what’s going on.”

Looking down, you fiddle with your hands. You were still a bit shaken up. “I…” Finding the courage to finally speak after a few moments of silence, “Father didn’t want me to come but my mother said they had to take me seeing as he didn’t want me going with Cedric… Draco and my dad were whispering all day about a meeting place but I didn’t know what they were talking about… well until now.”

“I’ve heard the stories about my parents during the first war.” You admit, finally looking up at them. They both have a solemn look on their face, their motherly instincts kicking in. “I know my family’s history and I know what my last name means in this world but, I swear I wasn’t involved with the attack.”

“We didn’t think you were.” Mrs. Diggory says in a matter of fact tone, “Just because you have the Malfoy name, doesn’t mean you have to be like them all.”

A sad smile appears on your face, “I know but I don’t have a choice in the matter.”

“Rubbish.” Mrs. Weasley exclaims softly, “Fred and George for years have been talking about you and I know at this point you aren’t like them.” She confesses, “I know a great wizard on your mother’s side that stands for everything that they don’t believe. You don’t have a choice on who your family is but you have a choice who you are.”

You take a moment to process their words. Molly’s right. You’ve been trying to prove yourself for years but your last name has been keeping you back and it was finally time to not let that get to you.

“I don’t want to go home.” You quietly admit.

The mothers share a look as if silently communicating with each other.

“Well, that’s the dilemma, dearie,” Molly sets a hand on top of your own, “As much as we would both like for you to get out of that situation, your parents are… well,” She struggles to find the right words.

“Privileged and ignorant.” You finish for her, she lets out a light chuckle.

“They’re your parents.” Mrs. Diggory continues, “we can’t take you away from them. As much as Amos and I consider you a daughter to us, you aren’t legally ours. They’ll fight for you to come back home, your mother will fight for you to come back home.”

“But if they’re Death Eaters.” You start, your confidence coming back to as you beg. “Their loyalty to the Dark Lord trumps all and you both know that.” They share another look, remembering years ago. They both fought and lived through the First Wizarding War and have seen what it can do to people. “I don’t want to become a Death Eater, I refuse to even if that means never seeing my family again.”

“How about this?” Mrs. Diggory sighs, “When this school year ends, you can come live with the three of us.” She offers, you can’t hide the smile that blooms on your face, “You’ll be an adult and they can’t legally come after you... or us.”

You grin from ear to ear, “I would greatly appreciate that.” You sigh out, a heavyweight lifted off your shoulders. She returns the smile but you can’t help the excitement that bubbles up in your chest. You stand up and hug her, squealing a bit causing Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Diggory to laugh. “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

[official-weasley]

Love, William (Bill Weasley x OC) - Chapter 11

WARNINGS: nothing I can think of 🤔

Chapter 11 - Theodora's Confession

“How is everyone? Are you nervous?” Angelina stood up from the bench in the Quidditch tent.

Theodora, Harry, and Katie nodded while Fred and George swung their hand as if it’s just another game.

“I’m nervous too, it’s okay!” Angelina smiled faintly.

That made Theodora feel better because ever since Angelina became captain after Oliver left, she had a feeling nothing could disturb Angelina from her calm composure. Apparently, playing the final game of the year did the trick.

“We might not be playing against Slytherin and we have beaten Hufflepuff plenty of time but for most of us this is the last Quidditch game.” Angelina looked at Katie, Fred, George, and Theodora.

“Harry, you’ll probably be captain next year.” She smiled gently at him but that didn’t make Harry’s nervousness disappear off his face.

“So, I am not going to make this long. We had a lot of practice matches in the past two weeks. It has been an honor to play with all of you. Truly, you are the best team a captain could ask for and I finally understand why Wood was so excited every time to play.” Angelina said with tears in her eyes.

“He was excited to play because all he can think and talk about is Quidditch.” Fred giggled.

“Also that, probably.” Angelina couldn’t fight back a chuckle.

“No matter what happens on that pitch today, know that I am proud of you and wish that we could play together some more.” Angelina took a deep breath, trying to appear strong in front of her team.

“We got this! It’s only Hufflepuff!” Fred threw his hands in the air.

“Are you lot ready to listen to Lee being on our side and thus get glared at by McGonagall one last time?” Angelina extended her arm and the rest put their hands over hers.

“We’re ready!” The whole team shouted.

They all turned their heads when Madam Hooch stepped inside their tent.

“The game is about to begin.” Her golden eyes sparkled with excitement.

Each of the team members took their broom and followed Madam Hooch out of the tent. The second they flew on the pitch, their ears were filled with Lee’s voice.

“Witches and wizards, teachers, heads of house, and Headmaster!” Lee shouted into his microphone. “Today is the last House Cup match of this school year. Gryffindor vs Hufflepuff and it’s going to be emotional!” Lee pretended to sob.

“Five members of the Gryffindor team are never going to be seen on this pitch again after today’s game. The same goes for three members of the Hufflepuff team! I bet you are all curious to see who will be taking their place next year!”

“Remember Madam Hooch’s whistle sound, seventh years, as you won’t be able to get to hear this amazing melody again!” Lee heard McGonagall sigh behind him while it sounded like Professor Flitwick was sobbing next to her.

“The game has begun! The Snitch is out, the Quaffle is in Theodora Cork’s hands and the Bludger is already searching for its first victim!” Lee clutched the microphone with excitement.

“And Cork scores! 10 – 0 for Gryffindor. Not really a surprise there! It’s a miracle this girl isn’t considering playing Quidditch professionally.” Lee shook his head.

He understood and supported his favorite Quidditch trio to open their own joke shop but he couldn’t help to think how amazing it would be if they all continued to play Quidditch. Perhaps, he wasn’t ready to let go of his current job as a commentator just yet.

“The game is getting intense and it seems it is not going to end any time soon! Maybe neither of the teams want it to end and we’re all going to be here for days!” Lee said excitedly.

It was now 100 – 70 for Hufflepuff and Harry still couldn’t spot the Snitch. The day was beautiful for their last Quidditch game of the year but the sun shining so brightly also didn’t help him to see where the golden ball could be.

“What’s this now? Did the Hufflepuff Seeker finally spot the Snitch? She is moving rather fast across the pitch. Harry, go check it out!” Lee waved his hand at Harry.

“Mr. Jordan, do I have to remind you to stay neutral for the last time?” Professor McGonagall put her hand on Lee’s shoulder and tried keeping her voice as gentle as possible.

Of course, she couldn’t deny she wanted Gryffindor to win the game but since Lee wasn’t even trying to hide the fact that he was on the side of his house, she had to step in.

“I apologize, professor, but this is our last game, the last time you are hearing my sweet voice.” Lee made puppy eyes at professor McGonagall who only sighed and sat back down.

She couldn’t hide a small smile painting her face. She knew very well this was their last game and no matter how many years she spent teaching, she always felt sad when another generation left the school.

“Both of the Seekers are now after the Snitch! It’s 100 – 90 for Hufflepuff and whoever gets that Snitch will win the game!” Lee yelled into the microphone more than ever before, now standing up and ready to jump if his house wins.

“Of course, I hope that Gryffindor wins! And Johnson scores! We have a tie!”

“Mr. Jordan, what did I say!” McGonagall leaned toward Lee again and raised her voice.

“My head of house is about to murder me with her stare...but I am simply too excited professor!” Lee forgot to put his hand over the microphone so everyone heard what he said.

Pomona Sprout and Filius Flitwick started laughing as they found his commentating amusing. Severus Snape, however, pinched the bridge of his nose, hoping that the match is going to end soon.

“It seemed that the Chasers have stopped trying! This truly is an unbelievable sight. Both teams are now hovering on their brooms and letting the better Seeker win!” Lee was leaning over the fence of the commentator stand, trying to better see what is going to happen.

He couldn’t believe his eyes. The players of both teams just stopped – observing their Seekers – while the Beaters were flying around and trying to keep the Bludger as far away from anyone as possible.

“Hufflepuff and Gryffindor are making history today and to everyone watching this, you should know that you are very lucky to witness such an occurrence!”

Hufflepuff players were waving and smiling at the Gryffindors. The latter were doing the same and laughing at Lee’s commentary.

The Beaters of Hufflepuff’s team were passing the Bludgers to Fred and George, simply having too much fun.

“I think it’s safe to say that the real legend here is Madam Hooch as she isn’t doing anything to stop this game, non-game, whatever you want to call it at this point!” Lee was shaking, now sitting back down.

“Should we do something about this, Minerva?” Professor Sprout said to McGonagall who simply shook her head, her hand over her mouth to hide her smile.

“Potter flew past his opponent and is now flying after the golden ball with his left hand extended!” Lee stood up so abruptly that the microphone almost fell out of his hand.

“And...and Potter caught the Snitch! Gryffindor wins 250 – 100! Look at the Hufflepuffs cheering for Potter and congratulating the rest of the team! No doubt they would be happier if they won the game but second place isn’t that bad either!” Lee cheered.

“Only Hufflepuffs can put their ego aside and show how the winners should be treated! Everybody roar for the Hufflepuff Quidditch team!” Lee roared into the microphone and the other stands followed his lead.

Professor Sprout cupped her mouth and cheered for her team then stood up and congratulated professor McGonagall for her team winning.

“This has been a pleasure everyone but sadly, I have to say goodbye. It has been an honor and I hope I didn’t damage your eardrums with all my shouting during the years. Thank you for cheering, for being the best, and thank you Professor McGonagall for not throwing me off the stand! My name is Lee Jordan and it’s time to party!”

McGonagall shook her head behind Lee and wholeheartedly laughed as she couldn’t deny that she will miss Lee’s inappropriate comments.

—

“Lee, mate, your commentary today was spectacular!” Fred hugged his friend over the shoulder.

“I knew McGonagall wouldn’t be able to do anything about it,” Lee chuckled, “if it was up to me, it would be like that every time.”

“It will be, once you have your own radio show.” George nudged him with his shoulder.

“And talk about the game, what in the bloody hell happened!” Lee laughed.

“We honestly don’t know. We were playing normally, Chasers trying to score, Beaters keeping everybody safe, the Keepers looking out for their hoops and then we all simultaneously stopped when we saw the Snitch.” Fred shrugged.

“That little ball was nowhere to be seen for such a long time!” George sighed.

“It was probably due to the sun.” Lee rubbed his chin.

“Yeah and then we all just watched. We had the same amount of points there was no point in playing, really.” Fred said excitedly.

“If you were playing against Slytherins that would not happen.”

“You can say that again, Lee.” George took a sip of his drink.

“George, is that boy hitting on our Theo?” Fred asked his brother while nodding his head to Theodora who was talking and laughing with a fellow Gryffindor on the other side of the common room.

“We’ll celebrate with you later, mate. We have to go and see what’s going on.” George lifted his glass and clanked it against Lee’s.

Lee nodded and kept his eyes on the twins until they reached Theodora. He then turned around, poured himself another glass of punch, and walked to Angelina and Katie.

“Excuse me, what do you think you’re doing?” George put his hand on the boy’s shoulder, making him turn around.

“Theo, is this guy bothering you?” Fred asked his best friend.

“We’re just discussing the game, Fred.” Theodora rolled her eyes playfully knowing exactly what was coming.

Whenever Fred and George saw her talk to a boy they didn’t recognize, they went full-on protective mode and tried to get rid of him for her. It usually put her in an awkward position, especially if she fancied the boy.

“You can do that with us and you,” George turned from Theodora to a now annoyed Gryffindor, “can go discuss the game with someone else. She has a boyfriend.”

“What?” Theodora chortled. “I do not.”

“Do you want us to tell Bill you said that?” Fred gasped dramatically.

“Not this again.” Theodora rolled her eyes and crossed her hands on her chest.

“I’m sorry, they just get a bit overly protective but they are harmless.” Theodora tried explaining to the boy.

“It’s okay. I didn’t know you have a boyfriend. I didn’t come to you just to talk about the game.” The Gryffindor’s cheeks turned red.

“Oh.” Theodora put her hand over her mouth surprised by what he said.

“See, we got you covered.” George winked at Theodora the second the boy left.

“I was doing just fine.” Theodora pursed her lips. “We were just talking and you have to stop saying to everyone that I have a boyfriend!”

Theodora didn’t know what to do with her two best friends ever since they found out about her letters to Bill. Even though they promised they were going to stop with the teasing they were both doing a rather poor job and they have been telling everyone willing to listen that she has a boyfriend.

The second they spotted her talking to any boy, even if it was a first-year, they intervened immediately and made them back away. At first, Theodora found it annoying but at this point, it was simply amusing.

She would never admit it to the twins, but she loved how protective of her they were and she couldn’t help but hope that their teasing meant that they would approve if she and Bill ever start anything more than friendship.

“Speaking of you having a boyfriend.” Fred wiggled his eyebrows.

“Did this party make you drunk enough to finally tell us how you and Bill started to get all lovey-dovey?” George followed his brother’s lead.

Theodora didn’t have a clue but this was their plan all along ever since they knew they were going to have a party. They might’ve been with Lee for most of the night so far but every time either of them saw that Theodora’s glass was empty they quickly filled it up.

They were hoping to get her drunk enough for her to start talking about Bill. George suggested that they ask Bill about it but they didn’t know if Theodora told him that his brothers knew about their correspondence and with how angry Bill was when they and Charlie locked the pair in the broom closet they quickly changed their mind about asking him.

“First of all, I know what you two are trying to do – getting me drunk to tell you all my secrets,” Theodora giggled, “and second of all, we are not lovey-dovey.”

Theodora knew she would have to tell her two best friends sooner or later. But if she could do anything about it, she would rather it be later. She looked down at her half-empty glass, hoping the twins were not observant enough to see how much just thinking about Bill made her blush.

“Yet.” George made a kissy face. “You’re not lovey-dovey yet.”

“Why do you two care so badly, anyway?” Theodora bit her lip, trying to hide that she was nervous.

“Is it wrong if we want to know what is happening between our eldest brother and our best friend?” Fred sounded offended.

“I told you we are just writing letters to each other.” Theodora defended herself.

“So you will never meet up?” George lifted his eyebrows.

“We might.” Theodora shrugged as if it’s not a big deal.

“A-ha!” Fred pointed his finger at his best friend. “I knew it. Pay up, Georgie.”

George sighed and reached with his hand in his pocket. He took out 3 Galleons and put them into Fred’s revealing palm.

“What is this?” Theodora watched their exchange.

“We made a bet,” George explained.

“You made a bet about what?” Theodora narrowed her eyes.

“George said that you are only going to stick to letters and that Bill will never gather up the courage to ask you out while I had a bit more faith in our brother,” Fred smugged.

“You bet on our relationship?” Theodora slammed a hand against her forehead.

“Your relationship? So you are in a relationship?” George exclaimed.

“No, no. That’s not what I meant!” Theodora buried her face in her hands.

She felt like sitting down so she leaned against the wall and slid down until she felt the floor underneath her bottom. The twins cornered her and she said too much already. She wasn’t lying to them – she didn’t know what she and Bill were and she found it weird to talk to the twins about it because, despite all the sweet things they said to each other, she didn’t know what it would lead to.

“You said what you said, Theo.” Fred sang as he and his brother sat on the floor, one on each side of Theodora.

“C’mon, tell us.” George prodded.

“Fine!” Theodora sighed. “What do you want to know?”

“How did you start sending letters to each other?” Fred asked the first question.

“He sent me a letter and a gift for my birthday,” Theodora answered casually.

“He sent you a gift?” George asked surprised.

“I bet he got her flowers.” Fred giggled.

“How did you know?” Theodora asked with a surprised expression on her face.

“Because Bill’s a romantic and a gentleman,” George smirked.

“Right, so what was in the letter?” Fred continued.

“I’m not telling you that,” Theodora scoffed playfully, “it’s enough that you read one already.”

“He was so sweet from the beginning?” George said incredulously.

“No,” Theodora shook her head, “at first we just talked about school and his job.”

“And then?” Fred wanted to know more.

“And then we started talking about other things.” Theodora pulled her legs toward herself, crossed her arms over them, and buried her face in them.

“Why are you holding back so much?” Fred asked puzzled.

“You never hesitated to tell us about a boy before.” George agreed.

“Because this is not just a random boy, it’s your brother,” Theodora said nonchalantly.

Fred and George exchanged looks as if they both got the same thought.

“And because, as I told you for the 100th time, nothing is going on between us.” Theodora continued as the twins didn’t say anything.

“Theo,” George tilted his head, “are you trying to hold back because of us?”

Theodora looked up at him, biting the inner side of her lip.

“I’m telling you the truth,” she whined.

“And we believe you but we can see that you are hiding your excitement and I can feel you shaking,” Fred said gently, putting his arm around Theodora’s shoulders.

“Fred, Charlie, and I didn’t tease you and Bill all summer just to have a laugh. We genuinely want you two to be together.” Theodora looked up at George as he said those words.

“Yeah,” nodded Fred, “we reckon you two would be great together.”

“You do?” Theodora whispered.

“What did you think?” Fred gave out a silent laugh.

“I don’t know,” Theodora shrugged her shoulders, “perhaps you would find it weird if I was involved with your brother.”

“Theo, you fancy Bill since our second year,” George smirked.

“We knew it was going to happen sooner or later and we can’t protect you from boys your entire life.” Fred chuckled.

“Okay.” Theodora swallowed her nerves.

“So, can you loosen up now?” Fred ruffled her hair.

“And tell you what? How shocked I was when I got his letter and a birthday present? How happy each letter he sent me made me? How surprised I was when he wrote that he missed me and not just as a friend? How I was pacing up and down my dorm, beating my head when he started signing his letters with Love, William instead of Bill? How he started sending me roses and how all of a sudden we didn’t talk about our lives but how much we want to see each other and be together? How my heart starts to beat faster by just thinking about him or how I am in love with him? Is that what you wanted to hear?”

Theodora buried her head in her hands again. She felt her cheeks burning and she thought that her heart was going to escape her rib cage any second now, reminiscing on the last few months. She couldn’t stop the tears gathering in her eyes.

She felt great finally talking about Bill to Fred and George, especially now that she knew that they wanted them to be together. But she hated how she got her hopes up – how their words made her hopeful.

“That’s all very sweet,” Fred said gently.

“And as much as we would like to read all those letters and start planning your wedding,” continued George, “why do you sound like all of that isn’t exactly what you want?”

“Because,” Theodora sniffed, “we didn’t see each other since last summer and as much as the whole thing is great, it’s too good to be true.”

“What, why?” Fred wiped the tears off her cheek.

“Oh, come on. You really believe Bill feels the same about me? About me?” Theodora pressed her hands against her chest.

“He clearly thought that I was too young last summer and now all of a sudden he changed his mind and wants to be with me?”

“Look,” George pulled Theodora in a hug, “I don’t know what Bill wrote to you in those letters or what he promised you but I know that our brother is not a liar. So if he, at any point, said that he wants to be with you, you better believe him.”

“George is right, Theo. Bill wouldn’t lead you on or suddenly change his mind when he would see you if that’s what’s going through your head. He might’ve been stubborn during the summer but we wouldn’t tease him if we thought he doesn’t fancy you.”

“Why is it so hard to believe that you two could be in a relationship?” George lifted Theodora’s chin so that she looked at them again.

“I don’t know,” Theodora sighed, “because I never felt this way about anyone. Because he understands me on a completely different level. Because he treats me like an adult. Because I get this warm feeling of belonging when I think about him.”

“And what, you think you don’t deserve that?” Fred lifted his eyebrows.

“I guess.”

Now that she was talking about it – about the thoughts that were dwelling inside her mind for months – the whole situation did sound kind of silly. When did she become so pessimistic?

“Rubbish!” George said with a cheeky grin.

“Bill’s great and so are you, so you’re a match made by Godric Gryffindor himself.” Fred sent Theodora a wink.

“I am so lucky to have you as my friends.” Theodora put her arms around Fred and George and hugged them.

“Of course, you’re lucky. If you weren’t friends with us, you would never get a chance to kiss Bill.” Fred made a kissy face.

“Yeah, you’re welcome by the way!” George laughed.

Theodora playfully rolled her eyes, wanting to smack her two best friends over their heads but since they have been nothing but amazing throughout this conversation she decided to let them mock her, just a little bit.

[dumblydork]

Wasn't expecting to be back as a writer so soon but I just absolutely CANNOT get enough of writing headcanons and AUs and JUST BEAR WITH ME OKAY

Also I feel like this is super long but it might not be idk

Some more Hinny, with a bit of Romione! So this one is set in the modern magical world. Hope you enjoy! And don't forget, if you have absolutely ANY Hinny headcanons you'd want to see written, please drop me a message or an ask anytime and I'll do my best to write one 3>

~~

"This class just CANNOT get any worse." Ron muttered, drawing lazy lines with his pen on the History of Magic textbook they were reading.

"We literally live in 2020, do we really HAVE to study all this old age crap?" He continued, now shifting to drawing circles as the teacher droned on.

Harry for one, wasn't listening to the professor (though he did vaguely hear him mention 'Goblin War' but that was about it) and neither to Ron. Harry was busy staring out of the window onto the busy streets of London below their high classroom, thinking about a certain redhead.

A certain redhead who also happened his best friend's sister.

"Hi!" Hermione's voice came in an excited whisper as she started taking out her textbook, the dull grey of it made slightly happy with all the colourful muggle stickers (once affronted, she had told Harry that they were called 'Post Its' but Harry just could never bother with the name), full of notes and extra bits. Hermione was careful not to let the professor know that she was suddenly here, a thought which hit Harry when Ron exclaimed almost loudly before Hermione kicked his foot under the table to shut him up.

"I swear to Godric you weren't here literally a minute ago how- Harry?" Ron wondered, calling his best friend.

"Yes it's very odd Ron." Harry almost sighed, back to his brooding. Hermione was doing weird things always- it was nothing new.

"Please be like Harry and stop looking so surprised. Let me focus." Hermione sneered at Ron and whipped out her pencil, furiously noting down from the board whatever the professor had been droning on about for the past 45 minutes.

"And that, is all on the Goblin War of 1785 today. Make sure you finish your homework- remember, 4 pages on the magical strategies used by the two goblin sides to win the war. I need it handed in on Monday. Class dismissed." The professor walked out with his nose in the air, as if he had imparted the knowledge of a lifetime in one single lesson. He waved a lazy hand at the board which wiped off all the notes, releasing a few cries from the back where some kids were still making notes.

"Thank Godric that's over!" Ron could almost cry. Harry was back to paying attention, especially after Hermione slapped his hand. "Earth calling whatever planet Harry Potter is on!" She laughed. The three of them got up and walked out into the corridor.

"What lesson do we have next?" Harry asked absentmindedly.

"What's up with you today? You've been like this since we returned from the Burrow well over a week ago." Ron said thoughtfully, an arm slung carelessly around Hermione's shoulder, who was surprisingly okay with it.

Harry snapped back to reality. If Ron found out, it would be Harry's head and nothing else.

"And what about the two of you? Care to explain," Harry looked at the Ron's arm, "whatever this is? You two have been just finding ways for touching each other, don't think I haven't noticed." Harry finished with a whistle, knowing this was the nerve he had hit. He almost grinned to himself.

"That," Hermione shrug off the arm around her, blushing furiously, "is just two friends being friendly." She finished, but there was a considerable change in the pitch of her voice.

"Yes yes whatever." Harry flicked a lazy hand at the two, knowing fully well they had gotten up to something in the Burrow which was only between the two of them.

The trio had reached the cafeteria where they sat down on one of the empty benches, having half hour free before moving on to Harry's most despised class- Chemistry, or Potions as it was called in the older ages.

Harry let his thoughts move back to the Burrow (courtesy this couple who were now sitting with their sides practically touching). The Burrow was Ron's house, and the trio's favourite hangout. They were there for the summer break, which had ended a week ago, but the memories were still as old as yesterday.

"Oh please, I will kick your ass at Quidditch." Ginny, Ron's younger sister and the youngest Weasley piped, her fiery red hair pulled back into a ponytail.

Quidditch was the one thing Harry really enjoyed- it was rare to have Quidditch matches in school now with so much course load, so these summers were what he lived for.

Particularly this one summer where Ginny had turned up looking just gorgeous, something Harry had failed to notice in the 6 years he had known her. It wasn't as if she wasn't gorgeous before- it just struck him differently this time. Maybe it was the heat. Maybe it was the fact that she could make Harry laugh almost always. She was not only gorgeous- Ginny had developed a sense of humour and sarcasm quite unlike her brothers- they were fond of practical jokes, whereas Ginny was more of the sharp tongued type who could make an entire room laugh without as much as waving a hand. And it was absolutely fabulous. Harry had found himself staring at her practically everyday of summer since he came to the Burrow three months ago.

The way she tied her hair up, or how she bit her lip when exasperated with her Math homework and the way her lips opened slowly first when she laughed. The slight, barely perceptible crook in her teeth and the generous sprinkling of freckles all across her face. It was all suddenly very endearing to Harry.

And hence, midway through his last week at the Burrow, Harry had come to the conclusion that he had started fancying Ginevra Weasley, his best friend Ronald Weasley's younger sister. Not to mention practically Hermione's best friend, despite being an year younger.

So that was why Harry was barely able to keep his impulses in check when he saw Ginny in her Quidditch outfit, wearing a red and gold jersey with cream coloured bottoms. But when he thought of how he could have his ears boxed in by Ron, he could very much focus back on the match and not on a heart-achingly stunning redhead.

"Language, Ginny. This girl," Ron's mom, Molly, muttered under her breath, currently putting up laundry by swishing her wand back and forth. All of the Weasley siblings were back home at the Burrow, except for Percy and Bill, who were both busy working.

"Sorry mom! As I was saying Harry, I will definitely kick your bottom in this match." Ginny corrected herself.

"Please, we shall see." Lately it was getting increasingly difficult for him to produce coherent responses in front of the woman he had come to consider as practically a sarcastic goddess. But he was proud of this response- he should continue thinking about Ron's punches.

"Okay, positions, and go!" Harry heard Arthur, Ron's father say and the match began in earnest. Hermione was sitting this one down with a novel, but at the moment was preparing a jug of lemonade the Muggle way.

Ron and Harry were one team, whereas Ginny, George and Fred were another. The game lasted for a good 40 minutes before Harry and Ron won the game by obtaining the 'snitch' (which was actually just an enchanted flying ball, kindly given to them by Arthur who had an obsession for all things Muggle).

"What happened to all that talk of kicking ass, huh?" Harry laughed, almost falling into one of the reclining chairs. Molly was handing out cool glasses of lemonade. "I think mine needs more ice." Harry said, sipping from his glass.

"Oh I totally forgot the ice! My wand is in the kitchen though." She said sheepishly, not wanting to give up her spot on the recliner. Or rather not wanting to get up from her spot next to Ron, who had decided to perch himself on Hermione's recliner despite there being an extra empty one.

"That's okay, I'll get some myself." He grinned. "I'll come too- I need to change out of this." Ginny added. They walked back inside the Burrow which was empty, with the entire family outside in the garden.

Harry waved his wand which was lying on the kitchen counter into a bowl and ice appeared, shining in the sunlight but not melting. Magic.

He added a few to his glass and leaned on the counter, sipping lazily on the drink. It was good to be away from the noise for a minute. Ginny reappeared downstairs, having changed into a pair of shorts and a t-shirt and unholy thoughts came rushing back into Harry's brain.

"I'll get some ice too, now that I'm here." Ginny took out an empty glass and filled it with ice, presumably wanting to fill it with lemonade later. But the way she took the ice gave Harry goosebumps- she leant across him instead of asking him to move and picked a few pieces of ice from behind him. Harry was frozen in his place- Ginny made no move whatsoever to stand behind. She stood inches away from Harry, just a few centimetres shorter than him.

"Oh for goodness sakes Harry, kiss me already." She rolled her eyes but the tip of her ears went red.

"What?" Harry spluttered- it was something he had been wanting to do since the start of summer but putting it into words stunned him of sorts. Was he THAT readable?

"Don't think I haven't seen the way you've looked at me all summer, Harry. It's not that difficult to know that you fancy me. A lot. And just so you know, I do too. A lot. Have done so since Ron introduced us.* She whispered, but stepped back after her confession.

Harry was still stunned, but could anyway notice the distance she had put, now slightly unsure after her brazenness. She still stared at him, her lips shaped into an imperceptible 'O', begging to be kissed. So that's what Harry did- he pulled Ginny back towards him by her waist and placed his lips on hers, almost tasting sunlight but with cherry swirled in it. His hands remained at her waist but Ginny moved hers to lock around Harry's neck, slowly playing with the curls at his nape. She smiled into the kiss, parting her lips were slightly, just so Harry could taste her; it was sinful but decadent. Very much like a good bar of chocolate. More than good. An absolutely unbelievable bar of chocolate.

When they finally pulled back after what could have been a lifetime, or an eternity, or a few seconds, Ginny grinned at Harry. "Do you not have anything to say?" She stood there's suddenly a bit shy, with her arms still around Harry's neck.

"You said all of it for me. I do fancy you- maybe way too much." He said, feeling as if Ginny's brazen confidence was transferred into his veins.

"That's a relief, because I might or might not have been looking to get you to kiss me." She said, her eyes twinkling mischievously.

"You what?" Harry stared at her incredulously, before breaking out into a wide smile.

"Don't worry, the bit about me fancying you is real. Have done so since I was 10." She added seriously.

"So are we a thing now?" Harry raised an eyebrow, quite enjoying the small circles he was making on Ginny's side.

"Keep dreaming on, Potter." She removed her hands from around his neck and disappeared like she had reappeared after changing, what felt like ages ago. Harry smiled to himself before walking outside again, his lemonade glass forgotten.

---

"Really Harry, one would think you're in love the way you're zoned out." Ron stared at him, as Harry snapped back into the real world.

"Huh? Oh yeah." He agreed absent mindedly, still reeling a bit from that summer afternoon.

"You're in love?" Hermione asked, an eyebrow raised as she looked up from what looked like homework.

"Forget me, but you do seem to be." Harry glanced at her notebook, which had R+H scribbled messily on the margins. He grinned as Hermione and Ron blushed furiously.

"Okay fine, me and Ron might have kissed at the Burrow." Hermione said, snapping her book shut as Ron stared at her longingly.

"How interesting, because me and Harry did something similar." Ginny suddenly appeared from behind and sat beside Harry, pressing her lips to his cheek.

The two boys stared back and forth. Ron's eyes widened but returned to their normal size, as Ron slung an arm around Hermione again, except this time she actually leaned into him.

"What? Is happening?" Harry looked around, first at the couple in front of him and then at Ginny. This was all extremely confusing.

"Did you think you were the only observant human to ever exist? Hermione Granger is my girlfriend, Harry. Nothing escapes her. Not when one of her best friends kisses another one of her best friends." Ron laughed.

"Wait so you're not mad?" Harry was still shaken. Was his worrying all a waste? If he'd known, he could have spent more time with Ginny, locked behind doors, his lips on hers-

"Why would I be? I'd rather Ginny end up with you rather than some other git from school." Ron's voice cut into his thoughts breezily.

"Oh. Okay." Harry settled before smiling at Ginny and weaving his hand through hers.

They sat in silence for a few moments before Harry's eyes widened.

"Wait. Hermione Granger is your girlfriend?!" The typical Potter late realisation. The three people around him laughed heartily before Harry joined in, shooting Ginny an endearing look, making the tips of her ears turn red.

[moosoobi]

Confessions

In the night: Chapter 2

T.Jeff- Hamilton: the musical 

Y/N can’t hold all her secrets. She’s tired of hiding. The people deserve the truth. Here’s her confession: the one she should’ve told us long ago

I started to write this chapter the day after I finished chapter 1, yet before the first chapter was even published (time management queen). As I’m typing this message, I’m currently distracting myself from finals LMAO. Anyway, I wanted to finish this chapter as soon as possible to give some explanation of the events in the previous chapter, so I hope I do exactly that. I’m still manifesting that I articulate through this story smoothly, please give me feedback <3 

MC (aka Y/N’s) POV 

Modern au 

Word Count: 5.4k

A few unrealistic realities, but I’m working with what I got

This chapter will most likely answer many questions about chapter 1 

THIS CHAPTER OCCURS AT THE SAME TIME AS CHAPTER 1! all events in this chapter line up with the events of chapter 1

Disclaimers: 

TW: violence, abuse, mentions of blood, themes of injury, itty bitty angst?

photo not mine <3

If you have any questions/concerns about this story, DONT BE SHY TO ASK ME! This is my first time writing a whole series, so I apologize if the plot gets confusing. 

-Now Playing: Broken Clocks by SZA-

Where to start… 

My attention was taken from Professor Washington’s lecture the moment I felt a pair of eyes attempting to pierce a hole in the back of my head. As I look back, I realize that it’s no one other than Thomas Jefferson, the spoiled francophile, or so people like the whisper, but gossip’s not my thing.

Upon being called out by Professor Washington, I couldn’t hold in my giggle as Thomas’s head ducks down in embarrassment. I suppose he sure knows how to lighten the demeanor in the lecture hall; It was a nice excuse to take my eyes off of Washington’s low-quality power-point presentation, but I appreciate that the man is trying. 

This class feels like it’ll last forever, and I contemplate if I could just perish in my seat at this very instant, yet Thomas’s presence seems to make it worthwhile. I don’t know him that much, or maybe at all for that matter, but since he’s been seen with a Schuyler, the locals around here can’t seem to keep their mouths shut about him. 

From what I’ve heard, he’s another silver-spoon raised boy representing Virginia up here in New York. A few scholarships here and there, as well as a trip to France for a semester. I don’t see what all the fuss is about; He seems like a pretty cool person, probably has an exciting life, and isn’t throwing away his shot. It’s odd, even with parents to piggyback off of, Thomas is very similar to a certain orphan I know. 

“Class is dismissed” Is all I heard from Professor Washington’s mouth before that obnoxious but relieving bell sounds off. 

Desperate to get out of this class, I hurry to put my stationery items into my burgundy-magenta backpack. You’d think after those turbulent years of high school that college would motivate me for fancier bags, but I can’t say no to my favorite color. It’s simple, won’t bring attention to my presence, unlike every other decision I’ve made in my life. 

After I finally finished packing up, I can’t wait to take a breath of the fresh, polluted air of New York City. I quickly spotted my roommate's car within the crowd of vehicles next to the sidewalk. He’s on time, as always, to pick me up from class, and I’m grateful that he sacrifices his time for me, but it’s not like he had a choice. I toss my bag into the trunk, surely crinkling a few important papers. Upon reaching the door of his expensive car, my roommate greets me with joy to see me. 

“How was class, Cherie?” 

Lafayette, my roommate, shoots a smile at me, his white teeth are almost blinding, but he always says I’m exaggerating. 

“Boring as always, but I’m still here, sadly” I say as I hop into the front seat of Lafayette’s car. He pouts in my direction 

“Ahh, c’mon, don’t be like that.” Once he acknowledges the buckling of my seatbelt, he begins to power up the car. “C’est la vie, Y/N” I roll my eyes, my hatred for him grows just a little more every time he says that. 

“Can we get McDonald’s?” I attempt to change the subject, earning a small chuckle from him. He prepares to drive off “You know I can't say no to you and your American junk food” 

And so we begin to drive off  

Lafayette and I indeed have a bit of history together. After I got mistakenly involved with Alexander and his clique, Lafayette was the next best (or worse) person to walk into my life. He’s sweet, charming, probably all the things Americans are not; the gentleman hails from France. Yet he’s so much more than that. 

Ever since I caught his eye at that obnoxious high school party, he and I hit the ground running. Disclosing the events which took place in his-

our bedroom won’t solve the problem, but the stubble on his jaw and the way he holds the steering wheel with one hand nearing my thigh reminds me of the unresolved sexual tension between the both of us. 

I’ve only been living in his apartment for a few months, an idea he proposed when I mentioned my dreadful rent. A nice view, nice coffee maker, and nice bedsheets were more than enough to convince me, but I know there’s more to that “nice” list that I shouldn’t disclose. 

Though I know his intentions were good, I’m sure he invited me into his abode to protect me from Alex. 

Since I began to band with Alex and his gang, Alexander’s been strict about getting me home on time. It wasn’t only because I was a helpless high school student, but also to prevent me from ratting him and his group out to the authorities. 

Upon joining Alex's posse, a strict curfew has been placed on me, only to ensure I stay safe at night, or perhaps to make sure I don’t betray them. 

Moving in with Lafayette made following this time limitation easier for me, especially since he volunteers to drive me home or takes a stand for me. If the unfortunate event of my arrival past my ‘bedtime’ timer occurs, Alexander ensures I pay the price.

Speaking of arrivals, Lafayette passes me a box of hot, salty fries and a smile spreads across my face. His eyes visibly soften as my entire demeanor changes.  

“Have I ever told you that you’re the best person ever?” I spilled my thoughts while stuffing my mouth with fries. He lightly chuckles, watching me. 

“Maybe a couple of times..” He prepares to drive off again “...too many times, actually.” he shot a wink at me. 

Blood didn’t have any time to rush to my cheeks before I could slap the side of his shoulder, causing him to whine in discomfort. I sigh before returning my focus to the steaming fries in front of me. The tension grows, and so does the silence between us. Eager to break the tension, I propose an idea. 

“Let’s go home?” we turn to each other at the same time 

“Oui.” 

---

I enter Professor Washington’s lecture hall and my attention is driven to the two curly-headed Virginians. I watch in secondhand embarrassment as Thomas Jefferson and his friend playfully argue in front of the entire class, seemingly a heated debate of the greatness of Mac and Cheese. One argues on behalf of the gooey pasta, while the other simultaneously retorts with a mix of “you’re so stupid” and “God help me”. 

Feeling a rush of confidence and suaveness, my brain urges my body to intervene in their conversation. Maybe it was to make new friends, or perhaps to stop the class from staring at their dumb dispute, but I swiftly walk over to them. The next few words to come out of my mouth fell into place oh-so-perfectly. 

“Hey, can I sit here?” 

Upon sitting in between the two Virginians, they introduce themselves. The calmer, self-collected man among the two introduced himself as James Madison, while the bolder, upbeat man introduced himself as no other than Thomas Jefferson. Both of them seemed happy that I interrupted and decided to reach out to them, maybe one was a tad more excited than the other. 

And ever since then, Professor Washington can’t seem to split up our trio. From childish jokes and a few inappropriate inferences, Thomas and James make great company. The idiotic smile that spreads across Thomas’s face whenever he’s capable of making James and I break our silence during class would become more annoying than Lafayette saying “C’est la vie” whenever I make a poor life decision. 

Nevertheless, Thomas and James dangerously remind me of Alexander and his goons. The abundant amount of self-praise and cocky remarks said by both Thomas and Alexander is almost astronomical. In the case of Thomas and Alexander’s meeting, I’m sure they’d be the best of friends. But likewise, I could also envision the two attempting to tear each other's heads off, the chaotic clashing of two powerful minds. 

They always know what to say and when to say it. I’ve never met anyone as clever as Thomas and James, and they’re even worse when they’re together.  

“‘ ‘s Adams here today? Washington told me to turn in my papers t’ him.” Thomas whispers as he eases into his chair, Washington’s booming voice seems to become background noise to us 

“Is he ever?” I reply, attempting not to giggle at my own response “I haven’t seen him since Washington initially introduced him to the class.” 

“Maybe he’s jus’ sick or somethin’. Kinda reminds me of you, James'' His head of curls turns to stare down James, in which James replies by rolling his eyes 

“He can stay home, he does the same amount of work there anyways.” James cleverly retorted. 

And that seemed to be our last straw before bursting out in laughter. Thomas’s body flung forward as he laughed his head off, James ducking his head to hide his glee behind his laptop, and I quickly slap a hand over my mouth to prevent anyone around us from drawing suspicion. But apparently, Washington wasn’t having our disguises. 

“Can the three of you even tell me what I just said?” Washington turns around from the board to scan the crowd, his eagle eyes find us quickly 

The silence was all we could emit, and soon enough, He turned back to his lesson. I sigh with relief; the last thing I need is to get kicked out of a class I don’t even pay for. 

…

...

“Washington sure got a shiny ass head. D’you think he uses shampoo and conditioner?” Whispered Thomas as he leans over to me 

And just like that,  we’re faced with the same struggle all over again.

—-

Lafayette adjusted the hot pan, erupting a few sizzles. The wall clock ticked, the hour arm froze pointing to the “11” written in roman numerals. Lafayette and I decided to agree on a home-cooked meal, and although it’s too late for an average dinner, yet too early to be defined as a midnight snack, I’m sure Lafayette’s cooking will satisfy me for the night. 

“Y/NN, would you prefer salt on your omelet? Or did you decide to be healthy tonight?” He said holding a salt shaker in the air to steal my focus from the swirling red liquid in my glass. 

My head lifts to meet his eyes. I tilt my head, the wine causing me to ponder for a little longer than I should’ve. He continues to stare at me, holding in a laugh, before I force myself to nod. 

“Yeah.. a little won’t hurt” I hear him chuckle at my drunken dialect, but I know the French man isn’t about to lecture me about English “Your wish is my command.” 

I watch as he conducts the kitchen perfectly. He knows where everything is, exactly what to add into the sizzling pan, maybe even the exact second to take the meal off the flame. 

“I thought you weren’t a fan of monarchy?” the sarcasm was evident in my tone “but I appreciate the submission” I shot him a playful wink, to which he responds with a pompous smirk

A few sips of wine later, I recognize notification that has been staring back at me for hours. 

1 Message from Thomas

A text from Thomas? And I’m barely seeing this now? I silently scold myself for giving into the wine before opening the message.

“Thomas: Hey this is Thomas from class, wanna come study with us at the library sometime?”

My eyes become glued to my phone. It was certainly necessary for me to reread Thomas’s text, I was unsure if the alcohol was beginning to make me see odd things, but I assured myself I was correct.

I could feel the blush spread across my face. Maybe it’s just the wine taking control, or maybe it’s the butterflies in my stomach forming every time I reread his message. A harmless invite, perhaps evoked from Thomas due to James stroking his ego, but I know James’ wouldn’t promote such a bold, straight-forward message. Though Thomas is known for his meticulous confidence and certainty, a message this simple could be notably deceiving. 

But a little socializing won’t damage my self-respect. “Be bold, Y/N” is what I used to tell myself at the beginning of the semester, and what do I have to lose? I begin to type my reply.

“Y/N: yeah I’m down :) just send a time and place and I’ll be on my way”

Sent.

 My introspection was soon interrupted by the screeching plate being slid in my direction by Lafayette, the steam circulating the meal 

“Y/N, Mangeons.” My head comes up from my phone, my eyes meet his eyes momentarily. 

“Thanks, Laf.” I reply before taking a fork from him and digging into the steaming meal ahead of me. Lafayette’s cooking never disappoints. Ever. 

My body couldn’t help but pick up my phone every few minutes to respond to Thomas’s messages, Though they were just the details of the hangout-offer he previously proposed, I felt enclosed in my little bubble while texting him. Those few moments of interaction with him somehow made my day better. I’m sure even Lafayette could see my radiating energy, but I’m not sure how he took it.

We’re technically not a couple; a few hookups and moving in together don't make us an official couple, right? 

“Merci, Laffy.” I watched as he visibly cringed at my poor attempt at french. “Let’s just stick to our mother tongues, angel.” He retorted. I laughed it off, yet inside his reply left a scratch on my pride. 

--- 

Another class of absolute foolery and childish inferences, and I can’t help but laugh as Thomas, James, and I exit the lecture hall. The New-York cold hits us harshly, but being about a month into this semester, students already know what to expect. 

It was indeed embarrassing, running to Lafayette’s car to remind him of your library study session. 

“Alright, I’ll pick you up before your curfew, okay?” He asked with one hand on the wheel. His faux-leather jacket contorting around his toned arms made it difficult not to remember the moments they shared around midnight. The imagery of their candle-lit room appearing in her head as he sat at the wheel stopped her from replying for a moment. 

“Y-Yeah sounds great. You’re the best, you know that?” She thanked him for sacrificing his time to make sure she arrives home on time. 

“You remind me all the time.” He sneaks in a small wink between his sentences “I’ll see you tonight, Cherie” 

Y/N smiled before turning around to prance over to her friends. Y/N heard the faint sounds of Lafayette driving off, sighing in relief

After briefly explaining my situation to the boys, we quickly head over to the library. 

A woman in a coral-pink blazer and pants set is waiting impatiently at a table she rented out just for us. “What in the world took you guys so long?” She pressured for an answer 

“C’mon Angie, that wasn’t even ten minutes.” Thomas rolled his eyes before removing his backpack and opening a chair for Y/N. Real smooth, Thomas, I can’t lie. He looked over to me, seeing stars in my eyes as I realize I’m standing next to the oldest Schuyler.

 “You’re-” She interrupted me with a smile, sticking out her hand to shake mine

“Angelica Schuyler. And you?” I swear her name sounds familiar. I’m sure I’ve heard it around but I just can't place it. I do see her on my social media feed from time to time, and I must admit, she looks even more heavenly in person. 

“Y/N L/N.” My hand meets hers in a firm handshake. 

“Nice to meet you.” 

—-

At first, I thought nothing of it. 

Though Lafayette’s text at 7:30 (on the dot) did push me out of my zone, I did appreciate his promise to me. 

Thomas on the other hand seemed disturbed by my sudden leave, but it’s not like he’d understand. Alexander would literally kill me if I were home late.

But Thomas and I would continue to hang out. His evening texts would slowly become a weekly routine. Whether it was a scary movie or an ice cream date for just the two of us, he always found a way to spend time with me. 

“Don’t tell me that mint chocolate chip is actually your favorite flavor, darlin’.” He adjusted his position on the park bench and raised an eyebrow, his gaze focused on the green ice cream atop my ice cream cone “You might make me regret takin’ you out tonight” he chuckled and I couldn’t help but smile 

“You know you love me” I jokingly retorted, scooping part of my ice cream with my tongue, and relaxing against the bench.

It’s very rare to get to relax like this. Not only am I a fully-fledged college student, but also one of Alexander’s goons. The weekends are merely just ‘weekdays: the sequel’, but add forbidden literature and alcohol to that equation.

I look back up to Thomas, seeing his disgusted face. “Wait.. are you actually against mint chocolate chip ice cream?” I cocked an eyebrow towards him

He shrugged before chuckling “I recall telling you of my unfortunate arguments while visiting England..” 

“..so what does mint chocolate chip ice cream have to do with your political upheavals in a foreign country?” 

He smirked in an ‘all knowing’ manner. “Well, Darlin, if you did your research—“

“—You’ve got to be kidding me—“I start to wonder why I even asked 

“—you’d learn that the monstrosity in your ice cream cone, mint chocolate chip, originated in England.” He completed his statement with triumph “Ever since my disagreements in England, I swore to despise such a concoction until the day I die.” 

I looked at him like he was crazy. “I can’t believe you did your research on English creations. You’re so dramatic sometimes” I respond 

“Hey, I wouldn’t be a Jefferson if I wasn’t.” He stared back to his cone, the mesmerizing ice cream almost reflecting himself back at him. 

We shared silence for a moment. Words were unnecessary when we were together. 

“I suppose..” Jefferson started “...I might be able to tolerate mint chocolate chip ice cream, but only for you, though.” He turned towards my direction 

My eyes soon met his. “Well, I’m honored to be your exemption, Jefferson.” I smile with triumph, recognizing my effect on him. 

He swiftly takes my hand, his skin feels burning compared to mine. Our eyes remain connected as he dips his head down to kiss the back of my hand. I attempt to hide the fact that my heart stopped beating for a moment, but the breath hitching in my throat wouldn’t help me at all. 

“Let’s drop the formalities, Darlin, you can call me Thomas now.” My hand remained between his. I try my best to keep my hand still, wanting to marinate in this moment forever. 

A new feeling courses through my body. Something unfamiliar. Perhaps it’s the charm of a Southern Gentleman. Maybe the feeling of being treated right for the first time, something I’ve never experienced from anyone.

What have I ever done to deserve this chivalrous kindness? 

‘What a gentleman’ I repeat to myself in my mind. What makes him so different from the others? 

From a simple kiss, I suddenly crave more.

More than the unresolved sexual tension between Lafayette and I. 

More than I was ever granted the opportunity to. 

Maybe ‘more’ is what I deserve. 

My mind bleeds with the thought of Lafayette, but Thomas seems like he has so much more to offer. What if I do deserve to be happy? I may not have earned it, but who gets to declare my right to happiness? I was once happy with Lafayette, but the times have changed

He’s just not him. He’s just not Thomas.

---

But no matter how much I enjoyed spending time with Jefferson himself, I was always the first one to leave. I had to. 

I remember the way his smile would fall at the sound of Lafayette’s car horn. 

The way his jaw tenses whenever my phone vibrates across the table 

Whenever Lafayette came to pick me up, I also can’t help but feel a part of my soul crack within me. 

“I’ll see you this weekend?” He kisses the back of my hand once more in an attempt to savor this moment, continuing to maintain eye contact.

“I’ll try, Thomas. Not sure if I’m busy.” I sigh with fatigue. “But I’ll let you know.” 

“Alright. Get home safe, darlin’” I hear him stand from the park bench as I wander to Lafayette’s car, his eyes following my figure. 

I hop into Lafayette’s car before taking one last glance in Thomas’s direction, watching as his figure begins to walk in the opposite direction that our car was heading. 

“Ahh, Y/N. Don’t tell me you’re cheating on me” his sarcastic tone wouldn’t pierce deep enough. 

I speak without thinking. “I do recall you claiming that you and I were never a couple, remember Laf?” My change in demeanor was certain to shut him up. And he did. 

He’s just not him. He’s just not Thomas. 

I remained turned away from Lafayette as we drove through the city. The memories built between Lafayette and I constantly falls like a house of cards, but I prefer to avoid the subject.

Lafayette felt otherwise, yet respected my choice. 

He was the first to speak.

“Alexander needs me for a transport this weekend.” He stated, “I’m not sure when I’ll get back, so it’s very important that you get back from whatever plans you have before your curfew.” He takes a glance over to me and briefly meets my eyes 

“Don’t test the waters, Y/N.”

Ah yes, the monthly literature transportation of Alexander’s gang. 

The Notorious Sons of Liberty. 

A popular group roaming the streets of New York. But instead ironically of selling drugs or performing homicide, they produce and sell illegal, banned literature and disperse them to the highest bidders. 

How else do you think I pay for college? 

Although gang violence isn’t really their thing, that doesn’t mean they’re not in possession of such weaponry and devices. I’ve never seen anyone take literature as seriously as they do.

They’re also known for their bold publicity stunts, which are indeed fun to watch from a nearby coffee shop. Watching Alexander, Lafayette, and some other friends, John and Herc, run from the authorities on a Sunday afternoon, accidentally laughing at the sight of John tripping over his own feet, Lafayette mouthing ‘help us out’ in my direction. Very entertaining. 

On the contrary, their security on me has become tighter and tighter. I know they worry for the gang’s reputation over my safety, but it feels nice to imagine having a battalion of book-worm gang members watching over you. 

“I know, I know. You guys can stop treating me like a kid” I attempt to contain a giggle to portray my seriousness. 

He takes a glance at me before returning his attention to the road. “You cannot say that until you have another way home other than me.” He sighed rather loudly 

“Be careful, or I might do just that, Lafayette.” 

---

I sipped on wine and ate cheese at Thomas’s place without a care in the world on a Saturday night. Of course, I had to accept Thomas’s offer, I never knew how to say no to him. 

Jefferson has sure been taking his sweet time to put a title on us. Now, I’m no philosopher when it comes to dating, but Ice cream at the park, fancy dinners, and wine and cheese sure sound romantic. 

My night was going well. All until the 7:30 alarm on my phone rang, and before I knew it, everything began to go downhill

[events of chapter 1]

And next thing I knew, the cold New York air slapped my face, following the harsh slam of the apartment door. 

As my adrenaline began to settle down, panic rushed through my body. 

Fuck. At this rate, I won’t be home until after my curfew. Although my immediate instinct was to sprint my way home, those thoughts were quickly followed by the idea of passing out within five minutes. My apartment isn’t too far, but being fueled by wine and cheese doesn’t sound like the best idea. 

“Don’t test the waters, Y/N” echoed throughout my head. 

I begin to walk down the street before whipping out my phone to contact an Uber. 

The small talk produced between my driver and I worked a bit to calm myself down, but that would all change the moment I walked through my apartment door. 

Once I turn back around from locking the door, I’m met with exactly what I didn’t want to see at this very moment. 

Lafayette stood staring at me, his lips pursed with anxiousness, recognizing my significantly late arrival. 

Hercules, another good friend I’ve met through the sons of liberty, stood beside Lafayette. His mouth hung open in shock as he also recognized my mistake. 

John, the group’s smallest yet mightiest, leaned against the wall, perhaps planning my fate right in front of me 

And none other than Alexander Hamilton himself, sipping scotch on my couch, similarly to how I was not too long ago at Thomas’s place. The glare on his face quickly reminded me that I was in big trouble. 

“Y/N, I thought I told you—“ Lafayette began but was quickly interrupted 

“You’re late.” He swirled his drink before standing up. The clock ticked, and the hour hand notably passed the 8:30 symbol. I was not getting out of this one. 

Although I feared for the following moments, I attempted to contain my emotions within myself. I kept my straight face for the time being. I could feel everyone’s eyes on me. 

“I’m well aware.” That came out of my mouth  a little too harsh for my liking 

“May I remind you that being out past your curfew could severely damage our image.” 

I saw John look over to Alex from the corner of my eye. The air became thinner if that were even possible, and I refused to meet his eyes.

“And I do recall reminding you of your consequences.” He walked towards me and I felt my heart froze. “Having you out so late could raise some suspicions among our competitors, L/N.” 

I couldn’t find the right words and resort to nodding instead 

“I always fucking told you—“ he harshly slammed his drink onto the table beside him “—not to test the waters—” 

“—I-I know—“

“So why the fuck are you stumbling in here past your curfew?”

 At this very moment, I wondered if I had pulled the last straw. 

I couldn’t speak. God forbid I spat out the wrong words. Contained within my thoughts, I didn’t acknowledge Alexander closing the distance between us. 

“Ow!--” I watched as Alex shoved me to the wall, the moment playing in slow motion in my head. 

Lafayette’s throat grew dry “Hey, Alex, Calm dow-” 

He was interrupted by the sound of Alexander harshly slapping me across the face. My hands quickly went to soothe what felt like fire burning my cheek. 

“We do so much for you, Y/N.” Alex growled 

The sharp pain in my side grew, almost echoing throughout my body. I could feel my body giving up on itself. I mean, this wouldn’t be the first time Alex has acted like this. 

Occasionally, Alex would stop by Lafayette and I’s apartment just to ensure I was home before my curfew, and he wasn’t the most forgiving. 

--He owns an apartment key and has every single one of his gang member’s location tracked on his phone. Sometimes I wondered what was so special about us to have to keep all of us in check 24/7--

One time Hercules and I went shopping a little too late after sunset, part of me felt like a reckless teenager, probably because I was. I still remember Alexander’s face when I entered my own apartment, he looks identical every time. 

In an attempt to shelter me, my body curled into itself against the wall. I shrunk to the floor, feeling his shadow intensely stand above me. 

“Arghh!—“ the sound spilled out of me when I felt Alexander’s shin connect with my rib cage. 

My lungs felt punctured under the pressure.

My arms felt like they could give out any second.

Part of me had wished I’d stay at Thomas’s place tonight, even if it meant telling him the truth. 

What a predicament I’ve gotten myself into. 

I looked up, wondering if my torment was over until I was met with a —Crack— Alexander’s knee encountered my face. 

It was only a moment before I could hear the shuffling of the others’ shoes. I prayed they were coming to help me out.

Alexander lifted his glass of alcohol, previously forgotten, and hauled it towards me

Crash! 

The piercing shards of glass combining with the stinging alcohol were the last thing I needed on a Saturday night. I didn’t notice the tears falling from my eyes until now, and the way my heart felt like it was just on a rollercoaster. 

I kept my head low, watching blood drip down my face and onto the floor below me. And apparently, I wasn’t the only one to notice. 

“Alex! What the fuck?!” I heard Laurens yell

“Are you trying to kill her?!?” I recognized Lafayette’s scream

Before Alex was able to make another blow, Lauren and Lafayette were quick to hold him back, attempting to calm him down. 

Hercules swiftly knelt beside me, the guilt was obvious in his gaze. I hated the pity in each of their glances towards me. He attempted to wipe away the blood from my forehead with a paper towel. 

Alexander fought back against the two, trying his best to prove his point. There’s the Hamilton we all know, unwilling to stand down no matter the cost.

Hercules turned back to me, his words were ready to leave his mouth from the moment we reconnected eyes. 

“Y/N..” He pulled me up and shoved me out of my apartment door. “..Run.” I almost stumbled into a nearby pole, but I began running, if running in my condition was possible, back to Thomas’s place. 

—-

[events of chapter 1]

The next thing I knew, I woke up in Thomas’s bed beside him. I took a moment to soak in the feeling of his satin sheets. Part of me can’t recall the events before I passed out in front of Thomas’s apartment, or maybe my mind refuses to remember them. 

The sun hasn’t risen yet. 

I turn to my side and reach for my phone, wincing from the pressure applied to my rib cage. 

The bright light of my phone hitting my eyes felt like I was transported to another dimension. 

54 notifications: 

12 calls from Lafayette 🥐

24 texts from Lafayette 🥐

1 text from Alexander 💡

3 calls from Mariah 💋

14 texts from Mariah 💋

“oh fuck..” I sigh, wondering how things will play out. 

Out of curiosity, I open the message from Alexander. Perhaps it’s an apology? Maybe a reminder? 

Alexander 💡: I know where you are, Y/N. Don’t drag your friend into this. Because I can.

Where I am? I ask myself

My heart dropped, remembering that Alexander tracks my location 24/7. He knows where I am at this very second. 

By escaping to Thomas’s apartment, I’ve just dragged him into this mess I’ve made. If my worlds collide, it would all be because I ran to this exact apartment. 

Panic once again rushed through my body. 

I need to get out of here. I need to leave. 

I slip out from under the sheets and grab my belongings. Unprepared for what’s to come, I steal one of Thomas’s jackets from his cluttered desk chair. I’ll give it back eventually, I thought to myself. 

After I put on my shoes I take one last glance toward Thomas. 

He seems so peaceful when he’s asleep, tangled in his blanket, not to mention his name-brand Mac and cheese pajama pants. 

I’m sorry if I drag you into this, Thomas, you just wouldn’t understand.

Taglist <3: @kenmacrumbs @strayblades  @laic2299 @ohsoverykeri

[flutteringdreams-matw]

Out of Time 2/?

Sam closed her locker forcefully, spooking the poor freshman down the hall. Her parents had tried, again, to put her in some stupid beauty contest with a ridiculous amount of pink on the poster. Apparently, entering a beauty contest (even if it was to make a statement) and then winning meant more exposure for 'someone in her social standard.' She tried to argue her case, but apart from telling them it was all a ploy cooked up by an evil ghost trying to find a wife (which she couldn't do), she had to promise to at least consider it. Besides, it did have a decent scholarship that she could donate to Jazz if she managed to win (rather…. participate). Some good had to come out of her wearing that unholy colour. One thing was for certain… if this happened… the secret was going to her grave.

"What's got you in a mood?" Tucker joked as he walked toward her. A lot had changed for the trio in the past year; Tucker now stood a good few inches taller than her, but still quite lanky. His love of technology had evolved into more than just hacking, even creating a few hologram machines and working directly with the Fentons on new technology. She herself was a little taller, still very much interested in black apparel, but did try to change her wardrobe up a bit. It did irk her a bit that the boys now towered over her; she had to go to more extravagant lengths to mess with them. Tucker leaned against the lockers smirking, waiting for the Goth girl in front of him to answer.

"Parents," she said, shrugging. "Finish the homework for Lancer?"

"Which one?" Tucker asked drily. "History, English or Science?"

Sam scoffed. "Still can't believe Lancer is teaching 3 out of 4 courses this semester. Let alone having him last semester and most of last year."

Tucker sighed dramatically. "Well Sam, when you live in the most haunted city in America, people tend to pack up and leave. I still can't believe Ishiyama is teaching the Juniors now that most of the teachers quit."

Sam hummed in agreement as she looked down the hall. "Any sign of the clueless one?"

"Why, anything important to confess?" Tucker asked suggestively, wiggling his eyebrows at Sam. She frowned as she pushed the teen into a set of lockers, looking slightly red. "Geez Sam, I'm only kidding. He texted saying he'll be here soon – something about emptying the thermos." Sam nodded absently as they moved down the hallway. Tucker followed her with a frown. "You know I'm not pushing you to do anything right?" he asked, uncharacteristically genuine in his teasing. "Tell Danny whenever you want, but you can't just repress your feelings forever, no matter how Goth you think it is. I just want you guys to be happy."

Sam smiled gratefully at her friend. "Thanks Tuck." They walked in silence, observing Dash and his football cronies tag team putting a couple freshmen into lockers.

Tucker rolled his eyes as he adjusted his beret. "I definitely don't miss that," he said.

"Shame, I'm sure it would be a fun experiment to see if you still fit into one of these little metal boxes," Sam joked darkly. Tucker elbowed her.

"Hey! I'm just glad Danny's ghost fighting muscles made Dash wary about picking on us. I mean, it still sucks for them but I'm glad I only have to worry about ghosts beating us up now."

Sam rolled her eyes at that. "Your priorities astound me," she said sarcastically.

"Sam! Tuck!"

Both teens whirled around to see Danny bounding down the hallway, backpack half open as he ducked past some students. They watched, half amused, as he tripped slightly, regaining his balance and came to a stop in front of them, breathing heavily.

"Morning," Tucker said flippantly. "Good to see you made it before the bell. Long night?"

Danny smiled wryly. Standing to his full height (which Sam only vaguely noticed was almost the same height as Tucker's), he grabbed his backpack and brought it forward, zipping it closed. "Yeah, I overslept and needed to empty the Box Ghost and Skulker into the zone. I can't believe I made it in on time!"

"I'm sure Lancer will say the same thing," Tucker quipped.

"I resent that!" Danny retorted. "I've been on time 4 out of 5 times a week this school year. Gonna end the year on a high." Danny had been grateful to his parents on taking most of the ghosts during the day while he was at school to avoid the amount of absences he racked up. He still handled most of the big ghosts or attacks nearby, but it was nice to have a backup that didn't involve someone trying to waste him.

"So why'd you oversleep anyway – ghost trouble?" Sam asked. The trio used their lack of popularity to speak openly enough in the halls.

Danny shrugged, not quite meeting her eye. "Just a nightmare," he said as they started to head for homeroom. "Didn't get back to sleep for a while so I did Lancer's homework instead."

Sam and Tucker both frowned worriedly. "Another one?" Tucker asked.

"Yeah," Danny said. Sam noticed that he was trying to push through the topic; her brow furrowed as she recognized his tell. "I remember bits and pieces mostly, but nothing concrete." Out of nowhere, Sam grabbed him by the collar and put him up against the lockers. Bewildered, Danny looked down into the accusing violet eyes of his best friend. "Sam!? Wha-"

"Liar," she accused, pointing her finger threateningly. "Was it like the others?" Danny started to make excuses, but she moved her finger in front of his nose and poked him. "Don't play hero right now. Was it like the other dreams?" Some passers-by stopped to watch the commotion, but once seeing it was Sam and Danny, they shrugged and walked by.

Danny looked at Tucker for assistance, but found that he got no sympathy from his best friend. Tucker was also watching him carefully, concerned but fully supportive of Sam's current interrogation technique. Tucker tilted his head, silently repeating the question.

Danny sighed heavily, making Sam release the boy from her vice grip. "Different images this time," Danny admitted, "Felt the same when I woke. Didn't feel like a dream."

"Dude, you need to tell Ethelwulf," Tucker told him.

Danny shook his head. "Not yet," he said, confusing his friends. "It was definitely just a dream. I'm just thinking about it too much and it's making it worse. I'll tell him eventually."

"Once is a dream. Three times is a coincidence."

Sam looked at him worriedly, before sighing in defeat. "If this happens again, I'm telling Ethelwulf myself," she said, walking into Lancer's English class in a huff.

Danny frowned at her demeanour as he watched her go. He glanced at Tucker who shrugged in response. "She's just worried," Tucker told him. "We both are. The last time you thought you were facing him, you almost exploded with power- literally. These dreams- it's starting to be a pattern Danny. It isn't like you've had dreams that predicted battles before."

"Yeah, but that was planted by Fear," Danny said frowning. Tucker gave him a pointed look. "Okay, I see your point. If it gets worse, I'll let him know."

Tucker smiled. "It's all we ask," he replied. Both boys walked into the classroom and headed to the back of the class where Sam was sitting with crossed arms. "Besides, best not to worry Sam. Her fury is enough to give us nightmares for eternity."

Sam's eyes narrowed darkly, but held a bit of humour to them. "And don't you boys forget it," she said menacingly.

:-=-:

Danny floated in front of a darker part of the Ghost Zone, frowning. He was sure this was the way to Clockwork's tower – now, however, it seemed to have distorted, not having a clear sense of direction. "Weird," Danny muttered to himself. He looked down at the map he was currently holding, trying to regain his place. "I'm definitely in the right area." He floated down closer to the Far Frozen, staring at the large swirling vortex in front of him. It shifted again, showing part of Pariah's Keep and Walker's prison instead of the Observant's Headquarters.

Crossing his arms, Danny sighed. He didn't want to admit how much his dreams were bugging him, but Tucker was right. He couldn't ignore them anymore, and if he was worried about his future self escaping, there was really one ghost to ask before he talked to Ethelwulf. Rather… attempt to ask – Clockwork was never one to come out and say anything directly.

"Great One?"

Danny turned at the voice. Frostbite was floating behind him, worry etched in his features. In his thoughts, Danny had floated close to the edge of the Far Frozen's mountainside, where the yeti leader could easily see him from the main gates. "Hey Frostbite," Danny said in greeting, floating towards him.

"I sensed your core as you approached," Frostbite told him, "You've been floating here for a while."

"I had hoped to visit Clockwork," Danny said, looking back at the darker part of the Zone. "Do you know why that area keeps changing?"

Frostbite frowned, looking to the area that Danny was indicating to. "I see you've noticed," Frostbite said seriously. "While the Ghost Zone is constantly shifting, Clockwork's realm shifts more frequently. It's to ward off any unwanted guests."

"But it's always shown the same path for me," Danny argued. He showed Frostbite his map and pointed to where they were. "Past the Observant's Headquarters, through the valley of gears and then his lair."

Frostbite frowned, looking at the map before turning his attention to the young ghost. "Then perhaps the Time Guardian does not wish to see you, Great One."

Danny frowned at that. Clockwork never prevented him from visiting. Annoyingly refuse him help, sure. Perhaps there was something more going on.

"You seem uneasy, Danny," Frostbite probed. Danny looked at him quizzically, recognizing his name rather than the titles Frostbite usually called him. "Our cores are kin; born of a frigid cold that generates from our birth. I'm able to tell when something is bothering you."

"Is it that obvious?" Danny asked drily. They floated for a moment, staring out into the Ghost Zone in silence. "I've been having dreams," Danny admitted. Frostbite said nothing, giving Danny the invitation to continue. "I faced this ghost – an alternate version of me – who was by far the worst ghost I've ever fought. Worse than Pariah Dark even. For a long time, I was afraid of… well… a lot. Facing him. Becoming him. Sometimes, I catch myself checking if I look like him as I get older."

"These dreams you speak of… do you dream of becoming him?" Frostbite asked.

Danny shook his head. "They don't feel like dreams," he said softly, before he could stop himself. "They feel like glimpses of the future."

Frostbite was quiet for a long time before responding. "What do you see Great One?" he asked.

"Battles mostly; at least three different ones. But last night, I saw him. Or I was him? Either way, he was escaping." Frostbite nodded. Danny shifted in his stance, waiting for Frostbite to say something. "It's probably nothing," he added half-heartedly, not wanting to worry his friend. "The last time I really gave him any thought was over a year ago. I'm probably just stressed or worried or something and it's bringing this back up."

"Perhaps," Frostbite mused, still looking out into the Zone. The larger ghost turned to the teen beside him. "Do you remember what I said to you when you were worried about facing Undergrowth?"

Danny nodded. "Fear is natural and charging into battle despite it is what makes you a hero," he summarized.

"It's alright to fear your dreams," Frostbite continued, "But you should not let it consume you Great One. Dwelling on the unknown has caused many a ghost to fall."

"So, you think I'm overreacting?" Danny asked, a tad hopeful.

"It doesn't matter what I think," Frostbite responded quickly. Danny looked down, crestfallen. "It matters what you think. You're discovering new powers daily, focus on the here and now, not the could haves or what will be. Charge into these battles – these dreams – and see what you find. The answer lies with you."

Danny sighed, frowning. "And if they turn out to be just nightmares?"

Frostbite chuckled. "Then you have your answer." Frostbite's small smile fell as he observed the boy in front of him. "Though, I have a feeling you already know the answer."

Danny at looked at him, confused. "What makes you say that?"

"Would you be looking for Clockwork if you truly believed they were only dreams?"

:-=-:

Papers scattered across the Fenton's kitchen table, making Jazz frown in thought. She only had a few more weeks before the deadlines to accept and she still had no clue where she wanted to go to college in the fall. She had no idea how popular her ghost envy paper would be when she wrote it, but to get accepted to all the schools she applied to? She couldn't believe it. Then again, with the appearance of ghosts in the last year and a half, she assumed there were a lack of applicants in the field. Add her last name into it? Yale, Wisconsin, Cincinnati, Fort Eerie, Harvard came knocking at her door.

Jazz turned her attention to the one in her hand, the modest logo of Amity University staring back in the top left hand corner. It was the obvious choice – close to home, she could help out with the ghost fights, study with two pretty amazing scientists and would probably learn more about a ghost's psyche through her brother and his friends than any professor.

"Make a decision yet?" Jazz turned at her mother's voice. Maddie watched her daughter proudly from the top of the basement steps, a small smile on her face.

"No," Jazz whined, shaking her head. "I thought it would be easy to have all the choices laid out in front of me. It's pretty overwhelming."

Maddie nodded knowingly as she walked to the table to join her. "I remember that feeling. You know Jazz, there's not a wrong choice here. Each one of these schools will give you a top notch education. The question you should ask yourself is if you're really choosing the school that's best for you."

Jazz frowned. "Of course I'm picking the best school for me. I'm the one choosing!"

Maddie raised an eyebrow at her daughter. "Then why do you have all these letters on the table, but one in your hand?" Jazz looked down at the letter in her hand with wide eyes. "Sweetheart," Maddie said gently, "While I'd love for you to stay here with us, you need to do what's best for you. You're smart, capable and all of these institutions want your brilliance. Don't choose what you think is best for us. We want you to be happy. Danny included."

Jazz sighed. "I know," she said softly. "Danny's said the same thing. I just… I don't want to miss anything. I worry."

"Didn't you argue that your brother is more capable than we give him credit for?" Maddie asked skeptically.

"Well… yes," Jazz agreed.

"And wasn't a large reason you didn't want to leave was cause you were worried about Danny not confiding in us readily?"

"Yeah, I mean, he usually keeps things close to the vest-"

"And that you're just making all these excuses because you're trying to avoid how scared you are to leave?"

Jazz sighed. She looked at the letter to Yale and then back to Amity University, conflicted. "What if I deferred a year? Learned a bit more about the family business?"

Maddie sighed, then smiled gently at her daughter. "Choose your own path Jazz; we'll support you no matter what." Jazz smiled back and engulfed her mother in a hug.

They broke apart as Danny flew through the floor and landed on the kitchen floor with a soft thud. "Again?" Danny joked, looking at the table full of acceptance letters and mirroring the tone she had used the day before.

"Ha ha, you're hilarious," Jazz said deadpanned. Danny transformed into his human self and walked over to the table, looking over his sister's and mother's shoulders. "Where were you anyway?"

Danny shrugged, eyes darting across the table. "Fort Eerie too? Wow Jazz, that's amazing!" he congratulated. Jazz beamed at her brother. "I was in the Ghost Zone."

That got the attention of both Fenton women. "I didn't know you were going there today?" Jazz said.

"Did something happen?" Maddie asked, confused. "Your next training session with Ethelwulf is next week isn't it?"

Danny shook his head. "Nothing's wrong," he assured with a smile. "Went to visit a friend, but he wasn't home. Stopped to chat with Frostbite instead."

"How is Frostbite?" Maddie asked. She had only met the yeti ghost once, after Jack insisted on doing an ice training session in the basement. It took a week for everything to defrost.

"He's good, didn't chat much about him though," Danny said, frowning slightly in anticipation. "I mentioned the dreams to him. Wasn't much help but he gave me something to think about."

Jazz turned to him expectantly. "Which was?"

"Just to trust my instincts," he told them. "Said it wasn't good to dwell on what could have been or what will be and just trust myself. Gonna mention them to Ethelwulf next week if I can't see Clockwork." He turned back to the table full of paper. "Speaking of could haves, have you picked one yet? The suspense is killing me."

Jazz simply glared at her little brother. "No," she retorted, choosing to ignore his pun. "But I love the pressure you're putting on me. A real motivational speech."

Danny picked up the letter from Yale and handed it to his sister with a sigh. "I would have thought it was a no brainer," he said, giving her the piece of paper. "It's always been your dream to go to Yale. There's nothing stopping you! Just say yes."

Jazz smiled softly at her brother as she locked eyes with Maddie. Their mother nodded encouragingly at her as she looked at the two sheets of paper in front of her. "Thanks," she said to both of them.

Danny hugged his sister tightly before transforming back to his ghost half. "I promised Sam and Tuck I'd meet them after I visited Frostbite – you mind if I miss dinner Mom?"

"Just don't be out too late Danny," Maddie reminded him. With a small wave indicated he heard her, he went intangible, flew up and out of the house. Maddie chuckled softly and shook her head. "That boy never sits still."

Jazz watched her brother go with a smile, before looking down at her hands once more. She was ready to make the decision. She looked back to the table and sighed as she glanced at her choices again. Maybe.

:-=-:

He couldn't remember what he was dreaming about – it was lovely and warm - but he was very aware when it shifted. Danny fell with a thud, ungracefully hitting the ground face first. Groaning, Danny looked around in the darkness around him. "Ow," he muttered, picking himself up from the ground. It was pitch black…the only other light source coming from…

"Phantom?" Danny asked, spotting his ghost half sprawled out in front of him. The ghost in front of him opened his green eyes quickly and scrambled upright, staring back into the blue eyes of Danny Fenton.

"Fenton?"

"What are you doing here?!" they asked at the same time. Phantom groaned in annoyance.

"Here we go again. Mindscape?" he asked, looking around.

"Looks like it," Danny agreed. "But why now? Last thing I remember, I was very much asleep."

Phantom nodded. "Could be a dream?" he speculated.

Danny shook his head. "Doubtful, I definitely feel awake. So why are we here?" Fenton waited expectantly as Phantom looked around. The white haired ghost sighed exasperatedly as he crossed his arms.

"No idea."

"Great," Danny replied drily. "Just what I need; you annoying me while I'm awake and while asleep."

Phantom scoffed. "Like we have any time for that," he said with a frown. Phantom lit up a hand with green ecto-energy, trying to illuminate their surroundings a little more. There was nothing else there. "Our core must have split us for a reason," he said. "The last time we were here, we were using too much raw energy on the shields."

Danny frowned. "But we aren't using any energy now," he said. "Raw or otherwise. We're asleep. We're not using-" Danny trailed off, realizing what he was saying. He turned to Phantom, deadpanned. "Oh hell."

"What?" Phantom asked. It took him a second before he realized it too. "Damn," he swore. "I guess Frostbite was right."

The world lit up around them, various images and battles swirling around as if they were in the eye of the hurricane. When the images settled, both teens found themselves in a large tower, with many clocks and gears hanging from the green castles. Viewing screens with similar images of the battles they had just witnessed danced across it, giving a more ominous presence to their new setting. The sounds of many ticking clocks worked overhead.

"Clockwork's tower?" Danny questioned, looking around the room. Phantom walked around, observing their surroundings. Danny followed suit, exploring what he remembered from the last time here was here. The walls were bare; where many time medallions hung now was empty at the top of the tower. "The medallions are gone."

"No sign of Clockwork either," Phantom called back. "Wonder where he-" Phantom cut himself off, gasping. "Fenton, back up. Slowly."

Noticing the quick change in tone, Danny turned to Phantom in confusion. The ghost was staring at something in his direction with a hard glare. His body was ridged, almost on edge; Danny could feel the anxiety building up within him. Turning back, he gasped as he saw it; the old thermos, battered, dented and most noticeably - cracked.

Danny took a couple steps backward to be side by side with his ghost half. "This can't be real," he whispered in horror.

"Can't it?" Phantom quipped back. "We knew Clockwork had the thermos; Clockwork never told us what he did with it."

"But he just left it there. All this time?"

The thermos rattled, making both boys jump in response. Another crack appeared, this time going down the centre of the thermos. It hissed as a blue light shone from within.

"No," Phantom whispered in dread.

"We gotta go," Danny said, worriedly. "Dream or not, this isn't going to end well if we start fighting."

"We need to know," Phantom argued back. "Frostbite said to trust our powers; we need to know if this is real." Danny felt the onslaught of emotions coming from his ghost half and realized that he was right; if this was a new power, they needed to know if they could trust it.

Danny swallowed as the thermos crackled this time. After a few tense moments, the thermos exploded in a whirl of white and green flames. Phantom quickly put a shield around the two teens, still waiting in anticipation for what was to come.

Danny?

The light from the explosion was blinding even through the shield. By the time it died down, Danny blinked back stars to see the figure in front of him.

Danny!

His white and black cape billowed around the flames as white boots touched the ground. Flaming white hair ignited menacingly as Dan Phantom walked out of the flames, laughing. His red eyes turned to the two wide eyed teens under the shield, a sadistic grin plastered across his face.

Danny, wake up!

"Hello Danny," Dan drawled, raising his hand toward the shield, lighting it with green ecto-energy. "And goodbye." The ectoblast hit the shield and the world exploded with pain. A scream… or was that his scream? The pain was getting almost unbearable. It was almost as if his core was imploding…

They were fighting now, the wails colliding bouncing off each other as they were locked in combat. He felt himself fading but there was no way of knowing for sure…

Son! You need to wake up!

He was tired… run ragged from the battles before. Whatever he managed to heal was definitely not healed anymore. The raw energy in front of him flowed through his veins as it battled against the dark red eyes of his worst enemy. It intensified now, all consuming. He couldn't take it….

:-=-:

Danny sprung upright, eyes shooting open and gasping for air. He's out. He's back. There was a loud clattering noise around him and jumped, hitting whoever was shaking his shoulders in the chest. They put the arms around him tighter. Thinking he was still in danger, Danny tried to transform, but nothing happened, his panicked breathing getting quicker.

"Danny it's me," his father whisper shouted, trying to get Danny to look at him. "It's okay, it's just me."

Above the sound of his breathing, Danny relaxed slightly as he heard his father's voice. Jack breathed with him, trying to get him to calm down. They sat there for a few minutes before Jack spoke again.

"I came to check on you," Jack said quietly, watching Danny apprehensively as he continued to stare wide eyes at the wall gasping for air. "You were making things float around the room, kiddo. It took me a while to wake you. Must have been some dream."

Danny shook his head and swallowed. "That," he said breathlessly, "Was no dream." He pushed away from his dad's grasp as he got out of bed. He was halfway across the room when he tried to transform again. It failed again, this time sending a series of white sparks through his form, causing the boy to fall with a shout.

"Danny!" Jack yelled running to his side. "What's wrong?"

Danny shook his head again. Gritting his teeth, he focused his energy and finally transformed through the sparks into his ghost half. He heard his father yell for Maddie and Jazz, but Danny could only focus on one thing. He's back. Protect the town. He flew up to the Ops Center, ignoring the cries from his father as he left. Protect your home.

Standing at the edge of the Ops Center, Danny stood firmly in place, ignoring the sparks coming from his core. Protect the town. Focusing on the energy within him, his right eye turned blue as an emblem of light appeared at his feet, his logo shining brightly beneath him. The light turned green as energy shot out from the circle. His body glowed as energy flew straight up out into the air. Hitting its mark in the sky, the energy started to encase the town, creating a large dome overtop. The dome continued, widening to the limits of the town. The circle at his feet connected with the dome overhead, trapping the town inside. Danny continued to pour as much energy as he could into the shield, until finally he faltered backwards and collapsed onto his knees, panting from the effort.

He's back. Dannyheard his family shouting for him as they reached the top of the Ops Center. Stamina finally giving in, Danny reverted back to his human self as they came around him.

His father came in front of him, kneeling down and locking eyes with him. "Danny," he said with concern. "What is it? What did you see?"

Still panting, Danny turned to his sister, who looked at him with fearful eyes. "He's out," he whispered hoarsely; dread pooling in the bottom of his stomach as the reality of his words finally sank in.

Jazz gasped, their parents looking at their children in alarm and concern.

"Who's out?" Maddie demanded. "Danny what are you talking about!?"

"Danny, are you sure?" Jazz asked worriedly. "Couldn't this all be a-"

"No," he grunted. White sparks again awakened at his chest. He closed his eyes tightly as he tried to weather the overuse of his powers to explain. They were all in danger. "He's back Jazz. He's coming." More sparks went through the boy's frame making Danny groan in pain. He tried to battle through it, but eventually Danny pitched forward into Jack's arms, unconscious.

First

Read on AO3

[hyunsracha]

now or never — bang chan

word count: 4.5k

summary: liquid courage lets you jump at your last chance to tell him how you feel.

one.

Han Jisung might just be your least favorite person on the planet. You think this when he leans over your shoulder, your thumbs paused above your phone’s keyboard. Your phone was open to Instagram as you struggled to think of a caption for this particular post. It wasn’t anything special, just a picture of you and Chan at the annual fair over the weekend. The two of you had gone together every year since you were little kids. It was one of your favorite traditions.

“I have an idea.” Jisung took the phone from your hands, his fingers quickly getting to work as you yelled protests at him, “Relax! It’s nothing bad.”

Oh, but it was.

“We look like a couple here?! Jisung, are you serious?” You cried out, yanking the phone back from him and editing the post before anyone (hopefully) saw. The boy next to you cackled. 

“It’s not like anyone would be surprised. Everyone already thinks you’re together.” He nonchalantly shoved fries into his mouth as he spoke. Jisung ate like a pig, but you didn’t complain about it anymore. Last time you did that, he got all up in your ear and started chewing with his mouth open. Disgusting.

“Shut up, Han.”

“Yeah, shut up, Han.” You don’t even flinch when Chan and Changbin take their seats across from you. You could practically sense when one of the three boys was going to appear. Changbin said it was because your friendship was so strong, but in reality, they all wore such strong cologne, you’d be an idiot not to sense them. 

“I literally did nothing and you’re attacking me.” Jisung whined, kicking Chan’s shin under the table. Chan gasped, kicking him back with more force. They would do this for hours if you didn’t stop them.

“Guys-” You started, but you stopped yourself. Jisung deserved to be kicked. 

The four of you were hardly quiet when you were together, so you ate your lunches and talked about your day. Jisung got the chance to tell Chan and Changbin about him spilling folic acid all over his crush in chemistry, which he told you about on the way to your shared history class.

“It was mortifying! He’s never going to want to talk to me again!” He cried, hiding his face behind his hands, “I was even planning on asking him to prom! Now what am I gonna do?” 

Suddenly, everyone’s attention was on Jisung. 

“Prom?” Changbin yelled, his eyes wide.

“Yes?”

“We were supposed to go to that together, you dick!”

“It’s my senior year! I wanted to shoot my shot!”

“Yeah! Senior year! That’s why we were going together!” Changbin shook his head, false disappointment evident on his face.

“Well, since we’re asking people to prom now,” Chan started, folding his hands on the table. He bit his lip, darting his eyes around the room, “Y/N...do you maybe...wanna go to prom with me?”

You felt your heart drop to your stomach. Your fingers twisted themselves around each other as you pulled your lip between your teeth, willing yourself not to smile like a lovestruck idiot. This was your best friend, asking you to prom as his best friend. You pulled yourself together, heaving a sigh before you replied,

“Yeah, totally. It’s a date.”

“IT’S A DATE? Have I lost my fucking mind?” You fell back onto your bed, staring at your ceiling in disbelief. Jisung cackled from his seat at your desk, obviously very pleased by your choice of words at lunch. He invited himself over to your house, wanting to discuss prom plans with you, but you two were getting nowhere. As soon as you got home, you ran to your room to wallow in your own peril. You remembered how Chan had smiled at you when you accepted his proposal, his eyes managing to sparkle even under the shitty fluorescent lights the cafeteria provided.

“I’ve only been waiting four years for one of you to slip up. I’m glad it was you so we can talk about it. That asshole Chan still hasn’t confessed his undying love for you to me. But I bet he told Changbin. Fucking traitor.” He started to ramble, his eyes drifting across the paintings on the wall, “Hey,” he pointed to one in the corner, “this one is new.”

You nodded, gazing at the painting yourself. You had only hung it up a few days prior. You smiled, remembering the night you painted it. Chris was at your house, taking up all the space on your desk with his laptop, portable keyboard, and hard drive. He was working on a 3RACHA song, like he usually was. You always found those days with Chan so relaxing. The two of you didn’t need words to communicate with each other, you had your art. He would make music and you would paint, and your art would always end up reflecting the other’s. The song he was working on that night, Alchemistry, showed itself in your painting, swirling clouds of grey in a fading sky of purple and black. 

“Since we’re not going as a group anymore, I need to find a way to ask Hyunjin to prom.” Jisung sulked, opening up one of his one thousand notebooks. Jisung was a notebook kinda guy. He wrote every little thought down, just in case something could be used in a future song of his. And if he wanted to find something specific? Get ready for notebooks being tossed at your head as he sifts through every single one because he doesn’t label or organize anything. 

“Write him a song.” You suggested, gaze still trapped in that painting. Now that you were thinking about it, most of the paintings on that wall had something to do with Chan. It was like he had seeped into every corner of your life, including the darkest and most personal ones. 

“That’s your answer for everything I do.”

“Because your songs are good?” Not that you were lying. Your three best friends made up the rap trio 3RACHA. Were you a little bit jealous that they didn’t even ask if you wanted to be part of it? Yes, but you designed their album covers, so you forgive them.

Jisung was silent for a second, pondering your idea. Then he nodded, flipping to an empty page in the neon green notebook. He started scribbling, and you can’t really tell if it’s lyrics or drawings. But you looked away, letting Jisung do his thing. Pulling yourself up from the bed, you made your way to your closet, flinging the doors open with a huff. You scanned the rows of clothing before deciding that you definitely needed to go prom shopping. 

“I need something new, something that screams-”

“Please date me?”

You scoffed, “Han Jisung, you’re going to be the death of me.”

two.

Your room was an absolute disaster. Clothes were strewn everywhere, makeup and hair products settling on every surface. You hardly noticed the mess, you were so...excited? Anxious? You didn’t really know.

It was the big day.

Changbin was laying on your bed, no doubt texting Chan about how dramatic you and Jisung were being. Jisung was three inches away from your mirror, sucking in a breath as he applied a line of dark brown eyeliner. You were on the other side of the room, running your hands through your hair as you decided what to do with it.

“Just leave it how it is, Y/N, who cares that much?”

“I care that much, Changbin!” You huffed, deciding to leave it how it was anyway. 

The only reason Chan wasn’t with you guys is because he was now your date. Jisung had banished him and Hyunjin from the room as soon as you started getting ready, claiming that he wanted your looks to be a surprise.

“I’m giving you guys ten minutes before we leave, alright? I’m getting a fucking drink.”

“Your favorite juice is on the bottom shelf.” You called out as Changbin was leaving the room.

“I know where the juice is!” He shut the door firmly, leaving you and Jisung alone.

“Y/N,” he sighed heavily, having just finished his wing, “I think I’m going to piss myself.”

“That’s a rented tux-”

“I didn’t mean it literally! I’m just...really nervous.”

You nodded, moving from your spot to go comfort the boy, “If it’s any consolation, you look super hot. And I’ll make out with you if Hyunjin doesn’t.”

He laughed, and you could feel the nervous energy around him dissipate a little bit.

Once the two of you were ready, Jisung opened your bedroom door, calling out to the boys below. He linked arms with you before walking out the door and down the stairs slowly.

Chan turned around when he heard movement on the stairs, his eyes nearly popping out of his head. His face turned bright pink as he adjusted his tie. He cleared his throat, extending a hand for you to take, “You look...um...really...n-nice, bunny.”

You breathed out a nervous laugh, feeling your stomach churn at Chan’s nickname for you since you were children, “Thank you. You look...nice, too.”

Jisung unhooked your arms and wandered over to Hyunjin, and you could hear them mumbling soft compliments to each other, both of their faces tinged pink.

The car ride to the school seemed to be the most normal feeling part of the night. You all talked to each other, awkwardness temporarily thrown out the window. You laughed at Jisung’s impressions, trying to avoid the weight of Chan’s hand in yours. It felt nice; right, even. His grip was tight, but in a comforting way. Every once in a while, his thumb would gently graze over your skin, causing goosebumps to appear on your arms.

Once you got inside the gym, it all changed again. Now, Chan wasn’t just your best friend. He was your date, and you got all dressed up for each other, and everybody was looking at you two. He sent a charming smile your way, half bowing and extending yet another hand for you, “May I have this dance?”

And it was okay again, for a little while. The two of you danced, all worries about keeping face and feelings out of your mind. Your friends joined you for some of the songs, and you finally got to see Hyunjin dance. For months, Jisung would rave about how amazing he was. And you agreed; he certainly deserved his spot as co-president of the dance team. 

An hour or so into the dance, a slightly sweaty Chan pulled you away from the dance floor and over to the refreshments. Confused, you asked, “What’s up?”

“Oh, nothing. I just want some punch.”

“And you had to take me away with you. Felix was just about to throw it back!” You whined, feigning disappointment. In reality, you were kinda glad to be out of the dance circle. High school kids really didn’t understand the concept of personal space when it came to these things. And besides, you wouldn’t mind some alone time with Chan.

“Let’s go outside,” You suggested to him, “we’re both sweaty. We could use some air.”

He nodded, taking your hand again. Pushing open the gymnasium doors, the two of you were met with a cool spring breeze. You sighed, letting your eyes shut for just a moment. In that one moment, Chan’s eyes were trained on you, fondness practically seeping from his pores. He took you to his favorite spot on campus, the music hallway. It was his favorite place to study, and the acoustics were dope, just in case he felt like bursting into song. Jisung did that sometimes.

The two of you sat on the cold cement floor, giggling at each other like little kids. You weren’t worried about what your friends inside the gym would think. You were just thinking about Chan. Chan and his dimpled smile and his sparkly eyes and his calloused but still gentle hands and how he was getting closer and why he was getting closer and - oh, his lips tasted like peach. You always liked peaches. So you kissed him back, because he tasted like peach. Not because you’ve been head over heels for him since the 7th grade. Absolutely not. Although, to be fair, 7th grade you would be absolutely geeked at how good of a kisser Chan was. How those calloused hands still managed to hold your face like it was made of porcelain while he sucked on your bottom lip like he would die without it.

He pulled away first, the popping sound of your lips disconnecting making you blush.

“That was - I - I’m sorry-”

“Sorry for what?”

“I just kissed you!”

“I don’t mind.”

“Oh,” He gaped, awkwardly rubbing the back of his neck, “it’s just that, yanno, I dunno. The prom...energy...got to me...haha.”

You stared at him, running your tongue over your bottom lip, trying to push the feeling of his lips out of your mind. You forced a smile, “Totally! And we...don’t have to mention this to anybody if you don’t want to.”

“Yeah...that would be best...let’s go back to the gym.” He stood and pulled you up with him. How he can stand to still hold your hand after crushing your heart like that, you couldn’t understand. But you let him.

You would always let him.

three.

It only takes two weeks for you to tell someone about the kiss. Granted, you’re drunk. And it’s Jisung. And he’s offended it took so long.

“I said I wouldn’t tell anyone!”

“I’m not just anyone, Y/N! Let’s not forget, I told you about my first kiss with Hyunjin when it happened!” He was practically yelling.

“You guys are dating! Chan and I are not dating!” You cried out, your grip on the plastic cup in your hand tightening. You weren’t really sure what was in the cup. Changbin had brought you one of his concoctions, promising to get you fucked up. And you just graduated high school, you deserved it! Thank whatever higher power that Choi Lia’s parents were on route to Canada right now. 

“You guys still aren’t together? That’s so embarrassing.” Jisung hiccuped. He had the lowest alcohol tolerance you had ever seen, and you knew Lee Felix. You smacked his arm, apparently harder than you thought, because he yelped in pain. Or maybe he was just being dramatic. You pouted, staring at the neon green liquid in your cup. Sighing, you downed the rest of it, your face contorting at the awful taste. You figured you needed to be wasted to deal with Jisung’s bitching for the rest of the night. You loved the boy to pieces, but he sure had a mouth on him. 

Seemingly out of thin air, Hyunjin appeared next to Jisung, immediately slinking an arm around the shorter’s waist. Jisung giggled, “Hey, handsome.”

“Don’t do this in front of me.” 

They couldn’t hear you, “I’ve been looking for you all night, babylove. Should’ve guessed I’d find you with Y/N.”

“Was the glittery silver blazer not enough for you to spot him? He looks like New Year’s Eve in May.”

Still ignoring you, Jisung poked Hyunjin’s chest teasingly, “Sounds like you missed me.” He bit down on his lip, and that was the last straw for you. You huffed, making your way to where Changbin was in the kitchen.

“Hey, Y/N! How was the drink?”

“Absolutely horrible. Make me another one.” 

Changbin took the cup from your hands, pouring random amounts of various liquids into it. He handed it to you with a sly smirk, warning you to drink slowly. Not that you ever listened to Changbin. You pulled yourself onto the kitchen counter, sipping on the horrible substance while making conversation. You ignored the dark cloud seeping into your mind while he spoke about college. Chan, Changbin, and Jisung had all made it into the same university, as they had submitted 3RACHA songs with their applications. You weren’t a musician, so you were going to a different university that focused more on your kind of art. It was only two hours away, but that was two hours farther than you had been from them in years. 

“Hey,” You interrupted his tangent, your voice barely above a whisper, “You guys aren’t gonna...forget about me, right?”

His smile dropped, “Of course not. We’re still gonna be best friends, aren’t we? And we’re gonna see each other every weekend, and when we come home for holidays, we’ll be together all the time.” He closed the gap between you two, wrapping his arms around your waist and resting his chin on your shoulder. It was awkward positioning, but Changbin’s hugs always made you feel secure. You swallowed your tears, mumbling a shaky, “thank you,” into his ear. 

When he let you go, you quickly finished the rest of the drink and tossed the cup into a nearby trash can. Your last drink was starting to hit you, big time. A sudden determination filled your veins, “Hey, Binnie?”

“Mhm.”

“Have you seen Chan lately?”

“He’s probably with Seungmin somewhere.”

You nodded, jumping off the counter and starting your pursuit. It shouldn’t be that hard. How many guys did you know with fried blond hair?

After a few minutes of searching, you found him sitting on the couch with Seungmin like Changbin had said. Seungmin made a joke, and Chan threw his head back as he laughed. God, he was so...stunning. A gasp escaped your lips as you watched him. You felt your determination wither for a second, but you pushed through. This is your last chance, Y/N, you thought to yourself. It’s now or never.

“Can I talk to you?”

A look of alarm crossed Chan’s features as he nodded. He sounded unsure as he spoke, “Yeah, totally. What’s up?”

“I mean,” You glanced at the boy sitting next to him, “alone.”

A soft oh left Chan’s lips as he stood. He nodded to Seungmin before gripping your hand like he’s done so many times before. You could just barely hear Seungmin’s laughing as Chan pulled you away. Wait, you were the one who asked him to talk, why was he dragging you around?

To be honest, Chan didn’t know either. For him, taking your hand and leading you to secret places just seemed...natural to him. He led you up the stairs and into the first room he found. Lia’s room. Lia wouldn’t mind; she was a good friend. He closed the door behind you two, locking it just to be sure. 

“What’s up, bunny?” 

Your heart began to pound in your chest as you sat down on the bed. You sucked in a breath, making eye contact with Chan as you folded your hands, “I’m in love with you.”

He just stared at you, not even blinking. You watched his chest rise and fall with his breaths. An excruciating minute passed, which felt like hours to you, before he made his way across the room and next to you on the bed.

“Y/N…” He had hardly finished saying your name before your heart shattered, “we’re going to different schools next year. You’ll be focusing on your painting and I’ll be producing probably non-stop. I...wouldn’t be a good boyfriend to you.” 

You tried to hold in the tears, you really did, but you were drunk and the boy you’ve been in love with for like 5 years just rejected you and you’re cold. So you couldn’t really help the choked sob that comes from your throat, and you had to restrain yourself from throwing yourself at him for comfort. He started to stutter, “N-No that’s not what I meant! I mean, it is, but don’t cry!” He clasped your shoulders and pulled you to him, allowing your tears to flow freely on his nice black shirt, “Y/N, you know I have feelings for you. I just...won’t be able to be there for you like you need me to. I want to be with you, I really do. It would just end in heartbreak. I would rather still be your best friend and only that than have you hate me as a boyfriend, okay?” 

“I’ll wait for you.” You barely managed to get those words out through your cries.

“No, you won’t. Please don’t. Please move on, bunny.” You removed yourself from his hold, scrunching your nose up to sniffle the tears away.

“Can we just...go to bed?” 

The smile that he gave you in that moment broke your heart again; so sad and sincere.

“Of course.” He laid you down, holding you close enough to hear his heartbeat. He was so warm. 

God, how you wished you could stay like that forever.

four.

Chan couldn’t tell if he was more excited or nervous to see you. Your group hadn’t seen each other as much as you had hoped. At the beginning of the semester, you met up every weekend, excitedly chatting about your new classes and the new people in your lives. But as life continued, it got in the way. You hadn’t seen each other face to face since October, opting for texts and FaceTime sessions instead. And he missed you terribly. Distance makes the heart grow fonder, right?

He found himself thinking of you often. Even during songwriting sessions with Jisung and Changbin. They laughed at him when his lyrics became sappy, threatening to pull their phones out and text you Chan’s adoration. He regretted what he told you back in May; that he wouldn’t be good to you. 

He sat in the living room of his childhood home, fidgeting in his seat. Changbin was scrolling through channels on the TV, a bored expression on his features. Jisung and Hyunjin were in the kitchen, making hot chocolate for the third time that night.

He couldn’t focus. You were going to knock on that door any moment, your parents in tow, and he didn’t know what he was going to do. Cry? Run into your arms? Fuck, try and kiss you? He stood abruptly, scaring the boy next to him. 

“I-I’ll be right back.” He excused himself, hurrying to lock himself in his bedroom to breathe.

Changbin opened the front door, his eyes lighting up at the sight of one of his best friends, “Y/N!” 

“Is Y/N here?” Jisung yelled from the kitchen, the pitter patter of his feet telling you that he was running your way. Two pairs of arms wrapped around you. They walked you through the door, with Changbin yelling something to your parents about where the other parents were. You felt your mother’s hand on your back, a way for her to tell you that they were going. When the boys finally released you, they noticed one other figure in the room.

“Oh…” Jisung gasped. Changbin just stared, his eyebrows furrowed.

“Um-” You coughed, trying to relive some of the tension, “where’s Chan?”

“In his room.”

You nodded before heading that way, lightly tapping on the door three times, “Channie? It’s Y/N.”

The door swung open, a breath-taking smile on the boy’s face. He wrapped you up in his embrace, swinging you around as he yelled your name.

“How have you been? How are you? Wow, you look so pretty!” His hands cupped your face, lightly dragging his thumbs over your cheekbones. You placed your hands over his, a dull heartbeat in your chest as you watched him speak. 

Chan’s heart was pounding in his chest. He thought you could hear it, and that’s why you were looking at him so...analytically. They’re right here, he thought. You lost your chance last time, but maybe it’s not too late. Now or never, Chan.

“Listen, Y/N…” He sighed, “about what I said after graduation, at that party-”

“No, don’t-”

“Please just let me say this.”

You nodded, allowing him to continue, “I was wrong, okay? I shouldn’t have rejected you like that. I should’ve just...given us a shot. I can’t stop thinking about you, Y/N. You can ask the guys, all my lyrics have been about you, and they’re ridiculously cheesy. I know I told you to move on but...maybe I still have a place in your heart? And...maybe we can...try this?”

You couldn’t breathe. You shook your head, pulling away from him, “Chan, I-” 

Seven months ago, you would’ve jumped for joy at his confession. Taken him into your arms and kissed him until you were dizzy. But now…

“Baby! How long were you gonna wait until you introduced me?”

Chan froze. Baby? Who the hell was calling you baby?

You took a few steps back, glancing over at the boy next to you, “Channie...this is my boyfriend, Minho.”

Boyfriend. You had a...boyfriend. You went and did exactly what he told you to do, but his heart still shattered. But he plastered a smile on his face anyway, shaking Minho’s hand, “I’m Bang Chan. One of Y/N’s best friends. Welcome to her second home.”

And the night continued like that. Your best friends focused their attention entirely on you and Minho. They asked him an endless amount of questions, from where he grew up to his favorite kind of bean. Sometimes, you would notice Jisung or Changbin giving Chan a sympathetic glance, but you ignored it. Minho was a good boyfriend, and you were genuinely happy with him. You didn’t expect your feelings for Chan to leave you so quickly, but distance doesn’t always make the heart grow fonder.

The five of you spent most of your winter break together. The only day you didn’t see each other was Christmas, which was spent with your families. The next day, you had your own Christmas, like you did every year. 

The hardest day for Chan was New Year’s Eve. You had a party at Changbin’s house, with as many kids from your graduating class as possible. It reminded him of that night after graduation. Jisung still wore that ugly silver blazer, drunk and attached to his boyfriend all night. Changbin still made horrible, hangover inducing nightmare drinks that he persuaded poor college students into drinking. You were drunk again, too. But instead of crying into Chan’s chest like before, you were giggling up a storm with your new boyfriend. Chan watched from afar, jealousy pumping through his veins at the way you draped yourself across his lap, and how he looked at you like you hung the stars in the sky. That should’ve been him.

10 seconds before midnight, he felt sick. Everyone around him was so giddy, so excited for a new start. He couldn’t peel his eyes away from you two. Your hands were locked together, staring into each other’s eyes as you counted down the seconds. The TV at the front of the room screamed, “Happy New Year,” as he watched Minho’s lips crash against yours, a smile evident on both of your faces. He stalked out of the living room, making a beeline for the bar. 

He had to get over you, the way you had so easily gotten over him. And he had to get over you now or never.

[raayllum]

One thing I really like about Rayllum is how they listen to each other. When one side is telling the other something that's bothering them, instead of going the "hey it's gonna be okay* route right away, they wait patiently, then offer comfort. It feels so healthy because the one talking can get part of the problem off their chest and not have to bottle it up while the listener can understand and try to help.

I think that’s part of the reason i love the scenes between them in 2x03 and 3x08 so much. Both times, the trio has holed up in a bit of a safe haven, even if there are complications of being there and questions of what they should do: Trust Soren and Claudia? Leave the spire and go on the run? These are issues that separate but connected to the emotional kick in the teeth: parental baggage.

When Callum first learns about Harrow, Rayla doesn’t do a very good job handling the aftermath. She’s understandably stressed and worried, desperate not to lose him. But look at the dialogue:

R: Callum, I’m sorry. I tried to tell you the king was dead. C: My stepdad. He was more than just the king to me. R: Your stepdad, I know. I really tried, but I could never find the right way. And whenever I tried, I messed it up, and the next time it was harder, until—

In her explanation and initial apology, Rayla makes it about her fear of losing their relationship and her attempts to repair it. She focuses on explaining her behaviour — not Callum’s feelings. And again, this is more understandable! Rayla doesn’t have a lot of close relationships. We know from her conversation with Lujanne that “[she’s] afraid of hurting him” but was going to tell Callum the truth herself, to at least lessen the blow (and hopefully gain his trust so that Soren and Claudia couldn’t hurt him and Ez further). But Rayla’s feelings are a decidedly different topic as Callum grapples with the first of his grief, and he makes that clear.

C: Rayla, just stop. I can’t talk about this right now. All I can think about is how I’m going to tell Ezran our father is gone.

And Rayla lets him go. And later, when he approaches her when he’s ready, she waits for Callum to speak, and he confesses that he couldn’t tell Ezran. Rayla looks at him, pained. She knows that he’s felt both the grief of losing a parent and the same gut wrenching feeling she’d felt about not being able to tell him, too. Even when Callum makes it clear he not only forgives her but understands her, Rayla puts the focus on his feelings.

C: And I understand why you couldn’t tell me. When you care about someone it’s hard to hurt them. Even when what you’re telling them is the truth. R: I still should have told you. You had the right to know.

And that allows Callum to do so as well.

C: I think maybe I did know. Deep down, I knew. I just hoped, if I didn’t think about it, maybe somehow it wouldn’t be true. But he’s gone. He’s really gone.

And this time when he breaks down in grief, Rayla is there to catch him and focus on him, too.

Then in 3x08, Rayla has to confront the shame of her parents too. Rayla and Callum have a pretty nasty fight in which they both say some out of line things, but Callum’s temper gets the best of him and keeps him from communicating what he was actually trying to say: what Harrow’s letter had passed down to him.

C: Don’t let your parents’ mistakes drag you down. I know you feel guilty, but you’re not thinking straight! Rayla, you have to let it go! VS. H: Reject the chains of history. Do not let the past define your future, as I did. Free yourself from the past. Learn from it, understand it, then let it go.

Rayla runs off in tears and Callum is similarly frustrated, yet when he approaches her next time? They’re very calm and quiet, even if Rayla is firm.

C: I know what happened. R: Callum, I don’t want to talk about it. I won’t change my mind. C: No no no, I—I did a spell to see what happened back then. When Viren took the egg. R: What are you talking about? That’s impossible. C: It’s true. R: That’s them. My parents. You really did see them.

He hasn’t gone there to change her mind, evidenced even more by, “I don’t know. But it’s your choice. No one else’s,” just to give her the key to understanding the past so she can learn from it and let go, and make her own decision. Which is then to include him, because their relationship is healthy and they’ve been partners long before then, even if this makes it particularly official. But like Rayla had to let go of her fear in the first scene in 2x03, Callum had to let go of his temper before they could move forward and prioritize the feelings that needed to matter most in the resolution. 

On a side note: Rayla, even when disgruntled and wounded and hearing something that sounds impossible, ultimately hears Callum out, just as Callum knows the exact means needed to convince her that what he’s saying is true. 

And we see this in 2x02 as well. Callum has understandable reservations about Rayla’s less than stellar view of Soren and Claudia, but every time he hears her out or asks for clarification / to understand her better — and when the time comes, ultimately sides with her.

Rayla and Callum each offer the other hugs of support and room to process and it’s beautiful to behold. It’s similar, too, of how Rayla approaches him in 2x07 knowing he’s up late because of magic and lets him talk through everything before she softly urges him to come back to him, or of how Callum follows her out to the antechamber at the beginning of 3x08 and she freely opens up for once and he just holds her hand and is there for her, because that’s all he can do so he’s going to do it.

They just care so much and so thoughtfully about each other it never fails to bring me to tears.