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kanene-yaaay · 5 months ago

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Bunny Fields

Kanene's notes: Hi hi hiiiiii!!! Good afternoooooon!!!! The fic is finally here, let's goooo!! This is a gift for @squeaky-n-blushy for being absoluetly incredible and almost making me scream out loud w her comments and hcs and fics. Tu é um arraso, mana!

Warnings: There's a bit of animals tickling someone, not sure if it counts as warning but besides that, nothing more! Just a light cheer up tickles <3. Ticklish!Jin Ling and Ler!Shizui. Around 7.000 words.

[~*~]

Lan Shizui smiled. His eyes closed as the cold wind caressed his hair and filled his lungs, muscles immediately relaxing, making his usual straight posture falter just a bit. There was the rustling sound of the leaves and birds singing nearby to help the calm, relaxed atmosphere that fell over him and confirmed his growing suspicion that it was going to rain later after the sun set. There was still plenty of time to enjoy and spend on his favorite place, however.

It took a few moments and no time at all for the feeling of something soft and fluffy graze his fingertips.

Shizui bit back a joyful giggle. Restrain was difficult when he felt so at home like this, but he was no longer a tiny child squealing and gasping in wonder at each new joy, letting instead delight and contentment be shown in his small smiles and the happy dance of his heart and soul.

As he opened his eyes, he was graced with the image of a small bunny hopping even closer, past his hand and right to his robes, smelling them before lovingly chining it.

An indignant sound ressounded behind him and the young boy quickly put the bunny on his lap before it was scared away, again, petting it with care and offering a slice of cucumber in an appeasingly manner. From a nearby bush, another bunny moved and looked at him, nose twitching with the promise of food.

“Why do they keep coming only for you?!” Jin Ling complained indignantly, his new round of protests only coming to a halt when a pair of fluffy ears perked just about his right.

His eyes zoned to them like an arrow to its target, robes twirling around him as he fastly turned to the animal’s direction and hastily offered the vegetable, one hand supporting him on the ground, keeping his expensive clothes away from the grass as the other stretched the farthest away as it was humanly possible in his attempt to attract the bunny. Initially it hopped a few inches away in a wary distance, making him have to stretch even more.

Even as impatience began nicking at his mind, Jin Ling kept his stance, until the bunny was back and staring at the food with interest, nose twitching and ears turned in his direction, its tiny mind clearly calculating the pros and cons of getting close to The Loud Human and having some free delicious snack or go back to its quiet safety but with no fresh snack. It was black with a big white spot on the base of his left ear and every time it moved the spot fluttered around as well.

After a few moments passed, the bunny hopped close.

A surprised, sharp gasp came out from the leader of the Jin Sect and both boys held their breaths, watching as it stopped momentarily with his noise before coming closer and closer. The slice almost trembled on his fingertips with his barely contained excitement when the animal stopped in front of it.

An experimental nibble was taken. Pride and warmth began filling Jin Ling’s chest and he prepared to crawl in its direction, already imagining how soft and fluffy that fur would feel when he finally got to hold and pet-

A white blur passed like lightning under him, not even faltering or stopping its dash even with the loud surprised shout from the young boy as he fell on the ground with the scare. It simply continued its path and barreled on the black spotted bunny, hopping like crazy around it and then running away in all its glory and speed, quickly being followed by the first one with energy.

Jin Ling watched as they went away, his eyes narrowing when he saw something suspiciously green and round in one of the bunnies’ mouth, only then turning to look at his hand and realize that his fingers were holding onto nothing, the fresh treat being successfully stolen away.

He felt his entire face burning with the knowledge that he just had been outsmarted by a tiny and fast bunny.

He turned around and laid on the grass with his arms crossed, pout evident on his face and growing stronger as he heard Shizui’s quietly concealed giggles of amusement.

“Stupids rabbits!”

Bunnies, actually, but the Lan didn’t think his friend would appreciate his correction at the moment.

Jin Ling stomped his feet once in frustration and for a moment the image of a small, round bunny wearing the yellow robes of the Jin sect and with a tiny red spot on his forehead, angrily stomping his feet on the grass flashed in Shizui’s mind, which didn’t really help him with the whole ‘not-laughing-at-your-friend’s-predicament’ thing. Jin Ling seemed to get even more energetic at this.

“That is why dogs are clearly superior! Even before being trained, Fairy already knew how to recognize a strong and trustful cultivator from a threat. Those rabbits are just scared of everything.”

Shizui did not point out who had just been scared by one of them not even a niàn ago, nor rolled his eyes at the other, knowing that even the half amused and half annoyed huff he let out in answer to his complains already tip toed the line of self control his sect was known and respected for.

“Do not bully the weak.”

“Weak?! Wasn’t you watching how it jumped on the other bunny and stole my treat? The only one bullying the weak here was it itself. Maybe you didn’t explain your rules to them well enough.”

Shizui felt his cheeks prickle with a small bound of heat. Since Jingyi told Jin Ling about his old habit of reciting the sect’s rules to the bunnies as a kid in order to better memorize them, the Jin haven’t left him alone until he showered said special place and bunnies to him (with Hanguang-Jun’s permission, of course).

Usually, and especially since becoming the First Disciple, Shizui shouldn’t engage in senseless banter. For a moment, he truly intended to ignore his friend’s clear provocation… but the need to defend his younger self was stronger. “They are good listeners.”

“And clearly bad learners.” Jin Ling grumbled, watching with envious eyes the bunny on his lap and the couple more surrounding him before turning around sharply, only to find the pair of black and white still jumping around the grass, the slice of cucumber now nibbled to half and in the other’s rabbit mouth.

He bit back a curse and turned to look at the sky. “Isn't it your obligation as the First Disciple to handle punishments? Go teach them something.”

A snort rang in the air and Jin Ling turned around just in time to see Shizui’s surprised smile for a flash before a long white sleeve ran to politely hide it.

“Maybe this one should ask shifu for some little brushes and paper? Before herding all of them to the Library Pavillion to copy the rules in handstands?”

Only then Jin Ling realized the absurdity of his words, the mental image of a bunch of bunnies following Shizui in line with tiny brushes and books as students with bad behavior eased his frown and thawed his moping into amusement.

He didn’t smile, but also didn’t snark back and instead turned back to the clouds, enjoying the scenery.

Soon enough his eyes began prickling with tiredness and he yawned, blinks getting slower and slower as the gray clouds continued to accumulate in the sky. Since becoming a Sect Leader, there was always something to do, some problems to resolve, a meeting to attend, emergencies that were of the utmost importance and needed his attention right now. Therefore, it was no surprise that his sleep became seriously affected by it, with little time to truly rest and even less time when his nightmares would leave him alone. It was rare to have… this. Time to just close his eyes and joy, to oblige his muscles to relax and let his mind drift away…

Something heavy lays on his robes and he jumps on the same spot with a shout, stopping himself from scrambling away when he sees that it was just Shizui by his side, now holding a bunny protectively against his chest as he petted it into calmness again.

“WHAT-” The bunny squirmed in the Lan’s hold and Shizui stared at him with a serious sharp gaze. Jin Ling frowned back, although his voice lowered, begrudgingly. He grabbed one more cucumber slice from the porch attached to his hip and offered to his friend to calm down the animal. Eventually, the bunny settled again on Shizui’s hold. “What do you think you were doing!”

Shizui watched him with such a neutral and unimpressed face that Jin Ling instectevely shivered with how similar to Hanguang-Jun he looked in that moment. In answer to this thought Jin Ling only scowled harder. If they are showing off their heritages he might as well prove his.

“Stay still.” With the corner of his eyes, he saw Jin Ling opening his mouth. “And be quiet.”

That only made his friend bristle even more, taking a deep breath in preparation for what could only be the start of a mix of threats, complaints and protests, so Shizui ran to lay the bunny again on his stomach, successfully shutting him up.

Interrupting was against the rules, but technically he was just finishing his previous comment and Jin Ling hadn't started to talk yet, so, with a lighter tune, he quickly continued before the other found his words again.

“They get easily scared with sudden noises and movements. We need to be careful.”

Jin Ling didn’t bat an eye at him and his words, currently too focused on the bundle of fluff that hopped to his chest and sniffed his fingers when he offered his hand, letting him pet it without a fuzz.

He let out a soft gasp when the bunny lifted itself to its hinder legs and began cleaning its face. Shizui was pretty sure that no emergency or obligation in the entire cultivation world could convince Jin Ling to move a single muscle now, his entire form melting back on the grass, completely attentive simply only to the cute animal on him.

Shizui could relate.

He watched the small smile blossoming on his friend’s expression and how clearer that made the heavy shadows under his eyes and his previous sour mood stood out.

Since he and lan Jingyi met Jin Ling, he had been energetic, grumpy and not afraid at all to speak his every thought in a way that Shizui could only wish to understand, going into dangers and ideas head first, defending what he believed with his entire being and bickering or even fighting with anyone who disagreed with him and tried to cross his path.

In those last months, however, it had been clear that the stress had been taking a toll on him. It was not as bad as the first seasons when his entire world came crashing down around him in a single night and he suddenly went from heir to leader of his sect.

Yet, lately he was still clearly jumpier and easy to startle than normal. His presence had became even more scarce than previously during their usual night hunts, his remarks more painful and his regretting silence after those louder.

Each and every one of those details accumulated and flashed in front of Shizui’s eyes like flaring signals, asking without words for immediate support.

To see him now, taking it easy, being full of excitement and softness, it only made Shizui’s determination to keep cheering him up like this even stronger. Quickly, he turned around, gray eyes fastly jumping around the field in search of more bunnies to bury the other under.

There was nothing better for lighting someone’s mood than being under a pile of cuteness and fluffiness, of that he was sure.

He had just successfully coaxed two more bunnies on Jin Ling and had just turned around to attract a fourth one when a barely concealed giggle froze him on the spot.

Jin Ling tried to scrunch his neck, but stopped mid movement when the rabbit just shoved its nose even more on the spot. It had spotted his brilliant red ribbon and got closer, wanting to give it a few experimental nibbles before the human quickly maneuvered the fabric away, hiding it under his head and hair from the curious bunny. Now, very much likely in a petty show of revenge, the small ball of fluff began sniffing his neck non stop.

As soon as the uncharacteristic sound was stolen away by the wind, Jin Ling turned around with wide eyes to stare at Shizui’s back, hoping that he hadn’t listened to the most embarrassing giggle he just let out.

(Look! He had been caught by surprise, ok? You try to contain your reactions when a stupid rabbit discovers your weakness and decides to start exploiting it as revenge for you trying to save its life!)

The Lan, however, seemed much concentrated to continue his mission of determinedly gathering more and more rabbits to absolutely submerge Jin Ling with them, for some reason. He would’ve sighed in relief if the moving ball of fur hadn’t just decided to start nuzzling right under his chin, resulting in a brand new round of giggles to bounce back and forth on his throat, being held back only by his lips being desperately pressed in a thin line.

“You dumb animal,” the heir of the grandious Jin sect refused to acknowledge the slight tremble in his voice, whispering his words so Shiziu wouldn’t realize the predicament he is in. If he, or even worse, Jingyi discovered about him being ticklish he would have to kill them himself in order to not die from embarrassment.

Besides, he was a sect leader, now. Sect Leaders simply were not ticklish.

As if actively contradicting him, the little tickly sensations continued to assault his nerves.

“Cut this off or I’ll break your legs!”

The rabbit continued being a rascal and ignored his warnings, pretty much like he himself when his uncle used that same threat with him, knowing he was all talk.

He bristled indignantly at being ignored and quickly lifted his arms, scaring one of the bunnies left on his torso to the ground

The other flinched and looked at his arms with suspicion, not far from following the other’s lead.

Swallowing a loud squeak - because the stupid little demon on his shoulder decided that his ear looked very interesting and began nuzzling it too - he changed his path to pet the second little fluffy ball on his belly because he wasn’t actually so petty - different of some animals as it seems - to scare the rabbits Lan Shizui left under his care just because of a few accidental tickles.

The animal quickly calmed down again and went dutifully back to search his robes for more snacks since the four slices of cucumber Jin Ling gave to it had already been devoured.

(What a greedy thing!)

It had just started to sniff his porch with curiosity when a tiny lick hit his neck and the one in yellow robes had to use all his self control to stop an honest squeal to leave from his mouth, transforming it into a yelp as his hands flew to grab the sneaky little rascal out of his shoulder. His cheeks burned from interrupting the silence with his uncontrolled reactions once again.

“I am going to roast you.” He brought the big, round thing next to his face, right in front of his eyes so he could glare at it better.

Once again, he must not have put too much heat on his mumbled threat because the rabbit only squirmed on his hold, obliging the grumpy, frowing leader move his hands to better secure it, supporting the torso and bun, before it went right back to to excitedly licking his face.

With a protesting and dramatic disgusted sound, Jin Ling pulled it away from him and made a face, showing off his tongue in what he knew was a childish move, but after so much blatant disrespect, he didn’t care anymore.

“Stupid rabbit, I will start licking you back, see how you like it!”

“Do not bully the weak.”

“Shizui!” The surprised expression made clear that the Lan had been successful in his attempt to not be discovered watching such a cute scene with the corner of his eyes, smiling fondly with drops of exasperation. Jin Ling’s face was slightly red and contorted in a scoff. “Shut up!I am not bullying anyone, this… thing here is the one that started everything. He hates me!”

Both boys turned to look at the bunny, still sitting comfortably in the other’s careful hold and totally taking advantage of his distraction to chin his cheeks energetically. Shizui very carefully did not lift one dubious eyebrow when he turned to stare at his friend again, but for the way that Jin Ling jolted on the same place and made a face, eyes staring back in defiance, he must have realized his true feelings anyway.

The one in golden robes opened his mouth to say something - probably a snapping remark - but immediately choked, his mouth quickly clamping shut as his entire posture became stiff as a board.

“Jin Ling?”

Said one looked at him with wide eyes, hands coming down to hurriedly drop the bunny in his hold back on his shoulders, which seemed to be trembling a little. His moves were forced and unnatural.

Immediately looking around to find the reason for his friend’s sudden silence, Shiziu found his gaze being promptly captured by his torso, squirming around and almost dislodging the other bunny on his stomach, who kept its unrelenting digging on the porch tied on his belt, missing the target most of the time and giving the sides and stomach under it the treatment of the soft, stubborn paws, uncaring for how the torso under it kept trembling and shaking under it.

His eyes changed their focus now to Jin Ling’s arms that jerked to his midriff. That was the moment the bunny he had just decided to put down began delivering licks and nuzzles back again on his neck, now free from any restraints and enjoying the opportunity present with the best of its ability.

Jin Ling's hands went up to his shoulder and then right back down, clearly not sure of each animal to take care of first, face getting even more red as the moments went by and the attack simply continued, lips pressed so firmly that they formed just a straight line on his expression, his cheeks starting to poof.

So it was true, Jin Ling definitely was…

Shizui tried to not smirk with mischievousness, doing his best to keep in mind and reflect in his body the sect’s rules.

(Do not bully the weak.)

However, Jin Ling was a very strong companion, a capable cultivator and admirable leader. No other word could be more unfitting to describe him than ‘weak’.

(Cherish your companions and friends. Value your family. Stay honest to your beliefs. Do not treat outsiders of the sect differently.)

He was here to help Jin Ling to relax and cheer up. If a new opportunity to do so presented itself so perfectly in front of him, it would be foolish to not acknowledge the benefits that resulted from it.

“Let me help you, then.”

Jin Ling could almost breathe in relief when he felt the rabbit on his stomach being lifted away, taking care of half of his attack. With mind and arms now free from the uncertainty, he moved to move the other one as well.

The moment of peace was soon over, however, when nimbly fingers took over its place and began digging and scratching on his sides with much more skill and precision than the animal.

He jolted with a squeal and the giggles that were already trapped on his throat spilled freely, seemingly to only encourage Shizui’s attack even more. The Lan focused in exploring every spot of sensitive skin, pinching and skittering everywhere those skillfully fingers could reach, finding the weakest spots and attacking them without mercy all while he kept evading without even a blink the clumsy dance of his own hands as they tried to stop him from his tickling and pulling the most embarrassing sounds from him.

A squeeze hit his hips and the initial giggly fit quickly grew to a loud laughter, his reactions seeing much harder to control when as soon as his barrier broke. With interest, Shizui’s hand latched on the spot, kneading the flesh and scribbling on the bone, very much satisfied with the answering guffaws that it resulted.

Such sensations spreaded like fire across his skin, a buzzing feeling that went from his hips to his entire torso in ticklish sparkles and funny tingles, mixing with the soft feeling of soft and fluffy nuzzles on his neck like a unbearable dance that made his smile grow wider and his laughter stronger.

“No!” He tried to growl in protest, but it came out more like a whine as he held the other’s wrist in reflex, briefly pulling it away from his torso when another high pitched squeak scurried away from his lips. In a flash, his friend’s other free hand (where was the rabbit?) had been quick to jump to the rescue, diving under the captured one and latching on his torso with energy. Fingers hopping from rib to rib, playing on each bone like they were the strings of a guqin until he was more focused in scurrying to hug himself than to keep the hand secure in his hold, squirming at every prodding and vibrating that attacked the spaces in between them as if the was dutifully tuning an instrument. “D-do not! Shizui!! Whahahat are you doing?”

“Helping you.”

“You are not! C-cut it out!”

Shizui’s next words were drowned by a shriek as another cold thing touched his neck. With a foreboding sensation Jin Ling realized that the other rabbit had joined the first one next to his shoulder, also sniffing and chinning him in a horrible, revengeful attack.

(What had he even done to this one?!)

“Get out, leav-eek! Leave my ribbon alone!” His voice wobbled and his words were completely taken over by plenty of snickers and chuckles, eyes closed from how much he was smiling, the sensations exploding behind his eyelids like flares. “Why do you keep licking me!”

He tried to scrunch his neck again in a poor attempt of protection, not really being successful since the bunnies simply deviated their attention and buried their stupid fluffy bodies and their stupid tiny, pink noisy noses behind his ears with energy and obliging him to move his face away, by instinct, which, of course, only opened even more places for them to explore, more tittering snickers and protesting squeals filling the air.

“Maybe it’s because of your… sweet personality?” Shizui cringed internally, then deflated, somehow glad that his friend was very much occupied laughing his heart out to point his thoughts out. Jingyi was much better at puns.

The fact that Jin Ling’s face still pulled into a frown, a quite weird one since there was a gigantic smile on his face, was still equally amusing, though.

“That was horrible! Bunnies do not eat sweets.”

“Fruits are sweet.”

“I am not a fruit!”

A twinkle appeared on Shizui’s gray eyes and for a moment he looked so much like Wei Wuxian that dangerous warnings began blasting on his mind. “Maybe they confused you with a red bayberry?”

Jin Ling felt his already blushing face be set ablaze with stronger flames. A series of offended and incoherent noises fell like a snowstorm from his mouth, legs starting to kick with giddy energy and his torso to more energetically twist away. The offending hands simply kept following him, although, no matter how much he turned this or that way, drumming quicker and stronger on his higher ribs for the trouble.

He prepared to string a completely cohesive and strong argument that may or not contain a few threats of breaking legs or imminent death when said worming fingers decided to climb and shove themselves in his armpits.

A shot cut across the air as Jin Ling arched his back. It took a few moments for him to realize that such inhuman sound had been his, especially as more and more shrieks continued to be fished from his lungs.

Shizui faltered for a couple of moments, surprised with his sudden stronger reaction, fingers stilling and trembling as he stopped himself from chuckling out loud in amusement at the reaction. Guffaws and snorts continued to fill the air and he gave the - as it seems - absurdly, awfully ticklish skin under his nails a quick, light series of scribbles.

Another screech left Jin Ling’s lips and he jumped on the same place, giddy, anticipatory giggling escaping from him even when the other stilled his fingers again. The first disciple of Gusu Lan felt his own mouth twitching into a grin.

“Shizui!”

Humming in lieu of an answer, Shizui started once more his skittering, now trying to add some stronger pressure as he scratched every available patch of skin. He watched as Jin Ling’s legs began kicking again with a new kind of fervor, moves growing quicker and more frenetic the longer he went.

His eyes squinted a little bit in thought. Freeing one of his hands, he pulled one of Jin Ling’s arms upwards, ignoring the yelp (and more tittering) that this resulted.

Making his touch light and soft again - not unlike the quick tracing of brush on paper or the quick plucking of a guqin’ cords -, the Lan ran the tip of his fingers on his inner elbow, watching as the other descended back to a hysterical snickering, kicks going from trashing to a steady pace of stomps.

(Lan Shizui tried to wash away all his smug thoughts of how hard it would be to hit such a sensitive place when wearing all the layers required by the mountains' weather. Such a pity the Jin’s golden robes weren’t as thick and numerous as Lan’s, truly.)

Then, with no warning he dived back to his pits, clawing them until another round of shrieking started anew together with, to his immense delight, energetic and quick kicks that continued to follow the speed of his tickling.

It was almost impossible to distinguish the red Vermillion’s mark in Jin Ling’s forehead with how red his entire face was. “Stop playihihihing!”

Jin Ling clasped his arms tight on his torso, trying to protect himself way too late and succeeding in only trapping his hands closer and looking one step closer of completely losing his mind.

“Get out of there!” But the rabbits also kept him let out the most embarrassing yelps and squeaks and Jin Ling no longer knew to whom his order was directed to.

“Lift your hands up and I will.”

The sect leader scoffed. It came out sounding like a snort. “I’m not falling for that!”

With a sort of amusement, Shizui watched as his friend’s reactions began fluctuate once more, according to the kind of tickles he delivered, going from a hysterical, loud giggly fit when he wormed his hands a little down low and decided to poke and prod his higher ribs, - quickly jumping from one spot to other to hear those funny, lovely squeals that appeared each time Jin Ling was caught by surprise, - to an uncontrollable round of crackles and screeches when he decided to vibrate non stop on his pits, making him kick and squirm and arch his back with no real way to escape the ticklish feeling that flooded his nerves in a fun kind of electricity that would put Zidian to shame.

(May his uncle never hear this.)

It took several tánzhǐs before Jin Ling’s mind stopped screaming and the next words of the Head Disciple of Gusu Lan finally sank.

The fact that the rabbits finally got tired from (all the movement and decided to look for food somewhere else) messing and attacking him might have helped.

“Lying is forbidden in Cloud Recessess.” Shizui reminded, watching him with an unusual playful gleam that didn’t inspire a lot of confidence in his words.

But Jin Ling wasn’t a little, easily tricked kid anymore. He had grown up with plenty of… experience to know a trap when he saw one.

“You’re just going to-” His voice disappeared in a loud squeal and he tried to give the boy in white robes an annoyed glare before it faded in the smile on his face, especially as Shizui continued to focus on that spot between his armpits and ribs, pulling more and more squealing laughter.

However, he was the nephew of Jiang Cheng and Wei Wuxian, and no one could shut him up when he had something to say!

He took a breath and spilled everything before the other could stop him again.

“You’re only going to tickle me more!”

Instead of the surprised face of someone who was caught breaking his sect’s main rules by being a dirty liar, Shizui only smiled calmly at him.

“I assure you. If you put your hands up, I will not tickle your armpits anymore.”

Then, he kneaded on the flesh and digged his fingers, as if reminding him how absolutely unbearable and insufferable the tickling truly was, taking all the breath he had just gotten away in a wheezing crackle. “Which I can not promise if you keep me trapped here.”

For a while Jin Ling was too lost in laughter to concentrate, arms trying to go up only to go crashing right back down as the Lan just didn’t stop tickling him.

The sadic Lan he called a friend continued to soften his touches to a light, maddening scribbling just after each attempt, only to go back to full on drumming on his poor pits the moment he managed to lift his arms the tiniest bit, cutting off all his progress.

“Why are you doing this!”

“Doing what?”

“Tickling m-” He cuts himself just as his mind caught his words, again, he turns a (non effective) frown and a glare (without heat) to his friend, who now loses the battle against himself and begins to softly snicker.

Jin Ling frowns harder at how warm that makes him feel. It is still a funny image with all the smiling and laughing. “I already said I am not falling for that!”

“You only need to put your arms back up, Sect Leader Jin, and I will not tickle your armpits anymore.” His tune had… something. If it wasn’t Shizui, it would almost sound as if taunting.

Still, it made Jin Ling bristle and, with all the strength he could gather, shot both of his arms up at once. They shook and trembled with plenty of laughter frolicking across the grass, yet they were kept high up.

Shizui stopped immediately and Jin Ling waited, anticipation prickling on his skin, for the moment those tormenting fingers would go back to assaulting his pits.

With wide eyes, he watches, instead, as the other simply pulls his hands away with a tranquil, almost knowing look in his face.

“Lying is forbidden in Cloud Recessess.” Shizui, once more, reminds him.

There is still… a kind of light in his eyes that keeps titters falling from the leader’s lips and a tingling to run across his nerves.

A breeze of air passed through them, making the hair on his neck stand up and him to prepare for another attack. He quickly pulls his arms right back down and Shizui adjusts himself so he is sitting on his legs, watching Jin Ling as if he is as silly as the big smile that is still plastered on his face.

Jin Ling begins to relax.

That is when, in a beautiful, blurring and fast flash of white, two hands latch on his stomach and started clawing with energy, scratching any and everywhere, kneading up and down, spidering all around, scribbling and pitching from side to side.

“No, no, no! Not the tummy, not the tummy! Shiz-” Another high screech was out of his lungs, a surprised, belly laughter (ha-) following right after. His voice got completely taken over by the force of the sound, totally unrestrained and unstoppable.

Lan Yuan really couldn’t help it.

He kept on tickling, kept looking for the spots that brought the most high pitched reactions, the cutest sounds, the sensitive places that made him bang his fists on the ground and try to roll away from the ticklish touches only to feel sneaking fingers swiping across his spine and dancing on his back over and over again until he was back to pressing his back on the ground, kindly putting his stomach right back at his tickly attention again and again.

It took him three tries, but soon Jin Ling was able to pass coherent words in between his slow, giggly and continuous descent into madness.

“I already commanded you to stop!”

And, just like magic, the tickling actually stopped.

Jin Ling kept feeling the ghost of the scribbles and tickles jumping excitedly across his muscles and nerves. He hugged his belly and tried to squirm away, but a firm touch on his torso prevented him from doing so, pulling his attention back to his friend as he kept trying to reign all the snickers flowing from him.

His smile dimmed a little when he realized that the other was frozen, as if stuck in a daze.

What was that about? Did he just get hit by a curse? Was someone approaching? Maybe Hanguang-Jun? Was that why he stopped all of a sudden? Jin Ling supported himself on his elbow and looked behind Sizhui, trying to see any hint of white robes, a guqin or Wei Wuxian.

When nothing besides a bunch of bunnies and trees catches his eyes, he goes back to stare at his friend, brows furrowed in confusion.

“You didn’t.” Lan Sizhui replies, as if this explains something.

“What?”

He jolts on the place when his strong, watching gaze falls on him, looking determined. “You didn’t.”

He starts to smile, something bright and happy. Jin Ling squints his eyes.

“You didn’t ask me to stop.”

With a shock, this time the leader of the Jin Sect was the one who froze, eyes widening with realization, mind running across the moments since the attack began. He surely would… I mean, it wasn’t as if Jin Ling actually still liked… Shizui simply must have been confused!

The blush on his face grows darker and darker.

“That doesn't mean anything! Besides, I shouldn't even have to! I- I-” His tune is as squeaky as his laughter, words jumping out of his throat before he can think too much about it.

Instead of giving up of whatever he was planning to do, however, Shizuis's face only continues to get fonder and fonder, transforming into something so utterly joyful and glad that it has Jin Ling stumbling to erase it before the other can start getting ideas. More sentences tumbles out of his mouth as his arms try to push him clumsily away. “You Lans shouldn’t even… We aren’t kids anymore!”

Shizui’s grin continues unchanging, shining in fondness and playfulness and Jin Ling continues to feel his neck getting progressively more and more hot.

“Animals still play as adults, especially bunnies.”

“What does that have to do with anything, we are not bunnies!”

“There is no age to have fun, A-Ling.”

Then his gray eyes got wide and panicked and the sudden change left Jin Ling so confused that, when the other hurriedly jumped in his direction, he only managed to defend himself in their wrestle battle for some moments before the mischievous hands were burrowing themselves once again on his armpits. Just the slight graze of the ticklish feeling was enough to turn his body into well cooked noodles until the other was able to bring him right back to the ground, kicking and laughing non stop as the drumming was right back.

“You said you wouldn’t tickle them anymore!”

His entire body shook with the peals of laughter, head being thrown back with the force of it. There was nothing else his senses could feel except that it tickled. It really, really tickled, even more now that Shiziu seemed to catch on just how much he didn’t truly mind the playful attack at all.

There was still mercy in the world, as it seems, though.

“That is true.” The digging stopped and Jin Ling barely had time to breath before his sides began to be attacked with some light and energetic spidering, rare pinches appearing here and there and making him buckle from one side to another with surprise.

The sudden change caught him out of guard and his belly laughter to fall back to a series of his embarrassing snickery giggles. His shoulders hunched up and he pressed his face on them, trying to at least muffle a little bit of such undignified sounds.

Lan Shizui must have some kind of mind reader amulet with him because in the very next niàn the soft tickling went back to an unmerciful kneading that made him squeal and squirm uncontrollably until his face inevitably came out of its hiding place. He began kicking his legs with all his might, making the other one turn around to look at them with a critical eye.

“Very well.”

And, as if they just had an entire conversation and arrived to some sort of agreement, Lan Sizhui freed one of his hands to squeeze on his right knee, summoning a loud snort, more and more of them being successfully mixed with his now wheezing fit to Shizui's happy delight.

The leader of the Jin Sect got stuck in a playful, tickly cycle of extending his legs in a poor and unsuccessful attempt to escape from the tickles, shaking them from a side to another since Shiziu discovered that scratching on the underside of his knees will get him wiggling and letting out an unending ‘eee’ sound and then getting his sides teased and scribbled on until he was a mess of giggles, pulling his legs up to another round of kicks only for his knee to receive even more squeezes.

Every step of the cycle kept being repeated over and over again, as thoroughly and carefully as possible, making him wheeze, yelp, squeal, snort (there was so, so much snorts, Jin Ling is never surviving this if Lan Jingyi ever finds out), snickers, guffaws and temporary barks of laughter that makes his shoulders bounce, his head to shake and his mind to go completely crazy with such a funny, unbearable sensation.

His core spinned and twirled with each moment, sending warmth and adrenaline across his every meridian, making every light touch, every poke and spidering much more ticklish than before. His smile is so big and there are so many memories of his childhood passing through his mind and he wants to pull and push the sensation away and…

And he giggles and giggles and giggles.

Finally, the tickling stops and Jin Ling just… melts on the grass. His mouth is still twisted in a smile longer after all his tittering and hammering heart calms down. Feeling so dizzy with adrenaline, giggly in joy and relaxed only highlights how much tense he was before.

He closes his eyes and just stays there, catching his breath, enjoying the breeze and wondering if he should get his revenge right now or wait to first bribe Jingyi into spilling all of Shizui’s best tickle spots and then get him, perhaps even with his help.

When his eyes open, his friend is there, petting a bunny that got close with one hand and holding a porch with the other. Jin Ling moves to sit and glare when Shizui turns with a calm, happy face to offer him water.

He opens his mouth to say something - a promise, a threat, a complaint - but no words come out so he simply gets the poach and drinks the water greedily.

Stupid noisy bunnies.

Stupid attentive Lans.

“Are you feeling better?”

Shizui at least has the sense of sounding a tad apologetic. As he should! Attacking someone (and a Sect Leader no less!) with such a… childish, unbecoming tactic. His uncle, Sect Leader Lan and not even Sect Leader Nie would be found fooling around like this in his place. Jin Ling almost bristles at him in answer.

The warmth and fact that he is the most relaxed he had been in days stops him. But still!

“What are you talking about?”

Shizui looks around and then at him, eyes catching his without fear or mockery and holding his gaze. They spend a moment like this until the other looks away with a soft sigh.

“You seemed stressed, lately, so I-”

(-thought to bring you to my safest space, where no worries can find you or matter.)

(-decided to tickle you until you looked and sounded so carefree that no problem would try to keep haunting your mind.)

(-remembered how easy and effortless it is to be playful around you.)

How silly would he sound should he say any of this. Words weren’t usually a problem for him and yet Shizui found himself not knowing exactly how to explain his motives.

“I wanted to show you the bunny fields. They’re always very effective to be calming and joyful.”

He decided to go with that.

“And since when do I need your help?” Jin Ling sniffed, “I am fine!”

Shizui blinked, stared at him, face showing no strong emotion. His eyes narrowed just the slightest bit.

He lifted one of his hands in a clawing motion.

“Wait! D-don’t! I just said that I am fine.” he made a noise between a scoff and a snickery sound. “Lying is prohibited here, isn’t it? As a sect leader, it would be unbecoming to disrespect your sect by not following them.”

He crossed his arms and their eyes found themselves again. Without even meaning to, Jin Ling’s voice softened. “I am fine.”

(Thank you.)

Shizui huffed, sounding both amused and relieved, smiling a little back. “Then I am glad.”

#Decided to put the fun facts on the next day's rb! It's just a few interesting points about reactions and a few choice of words #This isn't a very teasy one because I can't really see Shizui being like super teasy but! I tried mixing a little bit of wwx tricking-#-and teases together with Lan Zhan's more direct and attentive approach because I thought it would be fun if our lil a-yuan #mirroned his fathers' techiniques (at least how I hc them jugfgh) when tickling someone #mdzs tickles #mdzs tickling #sometimes I blinked and saw Lxc and Jc in the place of their nephews. ops.#Ticklish!Jin Ling #Lee!Jin Ling #Ler!Lan Shizui #Ler!Lan Yuan #Kanene's fics #Kanene's fanfics #If you found any big mistake or incoherency have mercy i am. so sleepy. lkijugtghjklmnbvvbnm #you all hype me so much to post my fics kjhgfghj i am really excited with this one. thank you so much <3

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hphmseojunglee · 2 years ago

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‘deed i do [2/4]

read on ao3

wc:

more info about this fic in this tumblr post

— — —

“Alright. I’ll do it.”

Five sets of eyes whip towards you. It’s the middle of breakfast on Wednesday morning. They’ve not said anything about Tonk’s idea last night, but you can tell that they are dying to know.

“You’re okay with it?” Penny’s blue eyes shine with anticipation and excitement. She spoke earlier about how tired she was of being approached. Luckily, since she started telling people that she was going with someone else, less brave souls tried. However, there were some older students with massive egos who thought they could change the Hufflepuff’s mind with chocolate or flowers. As you well know, some men believe the world revolves around them.

You nod. “I’m in.”

Tonks rubs their hands together. “Excellent! Now, we have to get your story straight.”

“There’s nothing straight about this story,” you mumble quietly into your tea.

Only Penny hears. She snorts and slaps you lightly on the thigh. “Shut up.”

Rowan picks up where Tonks left off. “Right. When did you two start dating?”

“I think last year would be good. You wanted to keep it a secret in the beginning, as a new relationship.” Chiara suggests as she takes a bite of her toast. “You did spend a lot of time visiting Penny in the Hospital Wing after she got attacked by that Dementor, Seojung.”

“She’s right… you visited her more than I did, and that’s saying something.” Tonks rubs their chin. “And I walked in on you two sharing a cot more than once.”

“It wasn’t my idea! Penny hates hospitals. She asked me to sleep with her so she doesn’t get nightmares. Who was I to refuse?”

Skye rolls her eyes. “Married.”

You flick a crumb at her. “Shut up.”

“This is good. Okay, so you shacked up after P’s Dementor attack, and you’ve been dating in secret ever since. You’re not fond of PDA, which is why you haven’t kissed or anything. On your first anniversary, this year, you decided to be less secretive. But you aren’t about dramatic gestures, which is why you didn’t do some stupid public ask to the dance.” Tonks lists off the details. “Any objections?”

Everyone shakes their heads.

“Great. Next, speaking of PDA… do you want to step it up, or keep it as-is?”

“What do you mean, ‘keep it as-is’?” You are perplexed. What is Tonks talking about?

“You really have no idea?” They raise an incredulous eyebrow.

“No…what?”

Rowan answers kindly. “You guys are so touchy, it could be interpreted as dating.”

“What! No!” Surely Rowan is exaggerating. But as you look around the table, everyone else nods in agreement. Except Penny.

“Pens, is this true?”

She shrugs. “I don’t think so, but we’re in the minority.”

“Alright. Well, I think we should add stuff like hand-holding, maybe kissing on the cheek and head?” You feel your cheeks heat up as you talk about kissing, but you steamroll on and hide your face in your mug.

“I agree. What do you think of pet names?”

You love terms of endearment. Perhaps to an unhealthy extent. But you probably should say something more acceptable. “I think that would help with the illusion. I wouldn’t be opposed. I’m partial to terms like ‘darling’, ‘honey’, and ‘yeobo’. How ‘bout you?”

Penny is practically bouncing in her seat. “Oh, I adore pet names! I can use ‘babe’, ‘love’, and ‘dear’.”

“Penny can start coming to your Quidditch practices and you can start walking her to classes.” Chiara smiles. “Maybe you can even share a bed? That’ll be the quickest way to get the rumor mill running.”

You nod, looking over at Penny. This is fine. You went as friends to the Celestial Ball and had a great time. The added “dating” things aren’t really a departure from how you two normally act. At least you don’t have to kiss her. Because if you had to kiss her, things would get really messy, really fast.

“Just make sure to cast some Muffling charms before you go to sleep. Seoj snores.” Rowan scowls as she eats her oatmeal. “Loudly.”

“I do not! Chiara, back me up.”

The silver-haired girl shakes her head. “Sorry, Seojung. Rowan and I cast Silencing and Muffling charms every night on you after you fall asleep. Luckily, you turn in much earlier than the rest of us.”

Tonks scoffs. “You’re such an old man.”

“I’m going to un-seam all of your robes again, Tonks.”

They stick out their tongue and return to their steaming stack of pancakes.

“I’ll be the judge of whether or not Jung snores badly.” Penny smiles brightly, much too cheerfully, considering the time of day. “I’m sure it’s not bad!”

“Perfect! May Operation Swandive commence!” Tonks whoops and raises her goblet.

“Operation Swandive? What the hell, Tonks?”

They shrug. “What? Swans mate for life.”

“Fine.” You roll your eyes at Tonks’ shenanigans. “So, girlfriends?” You stick out your hand to Penny.

Skye groans. “A handshake? Come on, at least hug her, you dork.”

“Oh. Right.” Opening your arms, you smile in what you hope is a comforting way. It seems to work. Penny practically jumps into your arms like she always does. And just like yesterday in the Common Room, she pecks your cheek.

You make a mental note to talk to Penny about PDA and new boundaries later. You’re not sure what she’s comfortable with. For the moment, you follow her lead, playing the loving girlfriend and twisting Penny’s body so that her legs are resting on yours perpendicularly. Chiara asks you a question about Muggle jazz musicians, and you’re lost in the world of Ella Fitzgerald, Blossom Dearie, Sarah Vaughan, Keely Smith, and Billie Holiday. Otherwise, you would have noticed Tonks smirking at Penny, who is staring at you in admiration.

Before you know it, breakfast is over. The six of you pack up and head over to the Greenhouses.

You offer to carry Penny’s books the way there. Skye and Tonks make kissy noises behind the both of you, Rowan sighs, and Chiara giggles.

“Don’t make me hex you, Tonks.”

“Just focus on being a good girlfriend, SJ!”

—

When you and your friends arrive at Greenhouse 3 for Herbology, Penny thanks you for carrying her books with a sweet peck on the cheek. “Thanks, babe!”

“It’s my pleasure, honey.”

It has the intended effect. Instantly, all of your classmates, fellow Hufflepuffs and Slytherins, shut up and stare. You find Barnaby and Liz among the group. They’re both smiling. Liz gives you a double thumbs-up and mouths “Congrats”, throwing in a wink.

You ignore the many pairs of eyes drilling holes into your back as you arrive at your desk and set up the class supplies. No doubt there are a few boys who are insulted by the fact that they got turned away in favor of a girl. And many more students who would kill to be in your shoes.

Even if the circumstances are unconventional, you’re glad to be where you are. The fact that you are means that Penny trusts you very much. And the thought of Penny’s deep trust makes you smile.

Tonks huffs out a sigh as they stare at their leather gauntlets. “So, how are you going to save the Ball from being an awful clanger?”

“I have no idea how I’m going to try and change Pince’s mind.”

“Sounds like the first thing you need is an excuse to talk to her about the dance.”

“Yeah…” Your brainstorming is interrupted by Professor Sprout’s arrival. She bustles into the Greenhouse with an excited gleam in her eye.

“Good morning everyone, it’s time to begin today’s instruction. As you know, Professor Dumbledore announced the Valentine’s Day Ball yesterday. To help with the joyous occasion, I thought it would be helpful to grow flowers as decorations for the event!” Her wand seems to jump from a pocket on her coat into her hand.

“As some of you may recall, on Valentine’s Day in the past we used the Herbivicus Charm to grow roses. This year, however, we’ll be adapting the charm to grow this romantic bloom again as a bouquet.”

The instruction is pretty short, considering it is basically a review. Sprout teaches the spell and the wand movement within half an hour.

“Now, you try.”

Up and down the long tables, you can hear students attempting the spell. Penny attempts it before you do. The pot in front of her blooms into several pretty roses.

“Nice one, Pens!” You raise your hand for a high-five. She beams and gives you one.

“You should try next!”

“Alright. Herbivicus Duo!” Green light shoots from your wand. Not only does the pot sitting in front of you bloom, but the extra pots behind it bloom as well.

“Look at these! So lush and vivid! Filled with color, life, and romantic possibility! Well done, Miss Lee, five points to Hufflepuff. I believe these are the best in the class.”

You feel your face heat up again at the praise. “Thank you, Professor Sprout.”

Penny leans on your side and kisses you on the cheek in congratulations. That definitely doesn’t help with your blushing, but you find yourself wanting more. Before you can daydream about sappy things, Professor Sprout turns to the rest of the class.

“We should keep going. I’m sure Madam Pince will want to fill the room with flowers for the ball!”

Tonks smirks, charming another pot. “I’m not. Flowers can get messy, and that’s something I can’t see Pince appreciating!”

“But surely she’ll want a romantic mood. And what’s more romantic than lush bouquets of roses?” Trust Penny to be the sweet optimist. You want to give her a hug, but a thought pops into your mind, stopping you.

“Hold on…that’s it.” You address Professor Sprout. “Professor, Perhaps I should bring this bouquet to Madam Pince for approval?”

The head of Hufflepuff claps her hands. “Grand idea! Do so at your first opportunity!”

“Looks like you’ve got your chance to talk to Pince. Which means you’ll be the power couple at the Ball before you know it.” Skye joins the conversation and winks at both you and Penny.

“Only if I can turn Madam Pince around on the dance details.”

Sprout’s voice rings out on the other side of the Greenhouse. “Well done, everyone! Class dismissed. And have a happy Valentine’s Day, dears.”

As your classmates pack up and file out the door, they throw you and Penny a varying array of looks. Happy, envious, disapproving, supportive—they’re all there. Chiara’s suggestion seems to work perfectly.

You sling your satchel over your shoulder and address your friends. “I’d better get going, see you guys later. It’s time to confront Pince and maybe even get to help plan the Ball.”

Penny slides her hand into yours. “I’ll join you. Come on, Jung. We’ve a ball to save!”

Sure, you look a little stupid, holding a bouquet of roses with one hand and Penny’s hand with the other. But you don’t care. Penny’s hand fits perfectly in yours. All too quickly, you arrive at the Library. Reluctantly, you break contact with your best friend and go find the Librarian—you both figured going alone would be best. She’s at her desk, holding a rather large stamp and looking at a long list.

“Excuse me, Madam Pince. Professor Sprout asked me to bring—”

“Shh! Lower your voice, please.” Without looking up, she carefully presses the stamp down on a card.

“Sorry, Madam Pince.” You internally roll your eyes. Your voice wasn’t even that loud!

As she puts the stamp down and finally looks up, she speaks again. It seems you’ve caught her in one of her bad moods. Her eyebrows are turned down spectacularly low. “Miss Lee, you should know that plants in the library are prohibited. You will need to leave immediately.”

“Actually, the flowers are the reason I came to speak with you. Professor Sprout hoped you’d like to decorate the Great Hall with them for the Valentine’s Day Ball.”

Madam Pince’s forehead wrinkles lessen imperceptibly. “I didn’t realize she went through the trouble… But flowers only remind one of what they don’t have on a holiday, and this dance isn’t meant to make anyone feel more alone.”

“Why would flowers make anyone feel alone on Valentine’s Day?”

“Nevermind about that. It’s not my way to discuss such matters with students.” Immersing herself back in her bookkeeping, she attempts to dismiss you. Unfortunately for her, you’re incredibly stubborn and don’t care about

“It’s just- this ball is meant to be a celebration. And there are some concerns amongst students that…”

“Yes?” She looks up sharply.

“Well, that perhaps you might not have the same vision in mind for the ball as the students do.”

“Perhaps you’d like to enlighten me about the type of ball ‘the students’ would like to see.”

“With pleasure.”

You tell her what your friends have said. With every sentence, her mouth gets thinner, rivaling Professor McGonagall’s.

“So your classmates would like a loud, sugar-fuelled night of happy connections with your dates and friends. Bathed in flowers and bright lights, even. Is there anything else you can think of? Perhaps one more request?”

You probably shouldn’t push it, but you cheekily do anyway. “Certainly Butterbeer should be present. And then the night you just described sounds perfect.”

“There will be no floral arrangements at this dance. No sugary refreshments either, and the only sounds I want to hear that evening is a lonely classical Fortepiano.”

That sounds absolutely miserable, but you’re smart enough to not say that to Madam Pince’s face.

“As much as I love books, I don’t intend to force storybook romance on myself or others. No matter how much we all might want to believe in it.”

“But, Madam Pince—”

“No buts. Professor Dumbledore hand-picked me for this responsibility and asked me to do as I see fit. If you have issues with how I’m planning the event, I suggest you take it up with him.”

You sigh in disappointment, but nod quietly and walk away. Clearly, you have someone else to speak to. Heading back to Penny, you fill her in on what the Librarian told you.

“I better go see the Headmaster, because if I don’t, there might not be a Ball worth attending.”

“But first, we have Charms with Flitwick.”

There is no instruction during Charms. Everyone is so excited about the upcoming dance that no one is able to focus on the topic at hand. So Flitwick calls it a free period. You ask him to send a message to Professor Dumbledore. You need an appointment.

“Professor Dumbledore will be happy to meet with you. The password is Chocolate Frog. And, Miss Lee?”

“Yes?”

He smiles. “Good luck.”

—

After class, you and Penny walk together to the Headmaster’s office.

“I’ll wait out here. You’ve got this, babe.”

You’re pretty confident that Professor Dumbledore will be on your side. As you walk up the circular staircase, you run over your lines. At the top of the staircase, there is a large wooden door. Knocking thrice, you wait for an answer.

“Enter.”

The door silently moves without your doing, revealing Professor Dumbledore at his desk. He stands as you enter the expansive office.

“Professor Dumbledore, thank you for seeing me. It’s about Madam Pince and the Valentine’s Day Ball.”

“I trust that you and your friends are excited for the event?” There’s a twinkle in his eye as he gestures for you to sit down in a comfy chair. He takes the one across from you.

“It’s all anyone can talk about. And we’re especially excited to spend time connecting with friends, and about the prospect of choosing who to take to the ball. But I’m worried Madam Pince’s plans for the event are a bit…rigid.”

“You are not the first student to tell me that Madam Pince is set in her ways. It often serves her well.”

“Perhaps not this time. I’m not sure the students will appreciate the event she’s planning.”

Professor Dumbledore smiles and inclines his head. “What has Madam Pince planned for the ball that has you so worried?”

“No roses, no lights, no sweets, and only soft, sad piano music. I just can’t understand why anyone would want a party like that!” In your passionate rant, you shake your head so hard that your glasses almost fly off.

“The party the students want certainly sounds festive. And Madam Pince may have different ideas for the ball… So perhaps a compromise can be reached.”

A compromise? You doubt that will happen. Madam Pince seems to be a very stubborn and convicted person, much like yourself. You put your head in your hands. “I don’t know about that. Madam Pince said flowers would make people feel lonely. Who doesn’t love flowers on Valentine’s Day? And she doesn’t want to quote-unquote, ‘force storybook romance on people, even if they want to believe in it’. It doesn't even make sense. How can I reason with logic like that?”

Dumbledore smiles, steepling his hands in front of him. “It sounds like Madam Pince shared more with you than you realize. Sometimes listening to what someone is really saying requires more than using one’s ears. Perhaps you should listen with your heart. Do that, and I think you’ll find the answers you seek.”

“If you think that will help, I’ll try again.” Internally, you don’t think it will help, but maybe Madam Pince has more respect for the Headmaster than she does of you.

He rubs his chin. “Perhaps it would help to share why you care so much about this Ball.”

“We need something positive and celebratory. It would be nice to have something nice lift us up.”

“I’m happy to know there is a student who cares enough about this ball to ensure its success. Just listen with your heart and consider another way… and you and your friends will have a Ball to remember.”

“Thank you, Professor Dumbledore. With your advice, perhaps I can still save this ball.”

“And you may yet show Madam Pince the true spirit of the day we will be celebrating. Have a good day, Miss Lee.” Dumbledore stands and runs a hand over Fawkes’ head. It’s a clear dismissal, so you thank him quickly and make your way to the door.

As you walk back down the circular staircase, you mull over Professor Dumbledore’s suggestion. Time to call in reinforcements. Starting with the most optimistic witch in the entire school, Penny Haywood.

Luckily, Penny is still at the foot of the stairs, like she promised.

“How did it go?” She loops an arm around yours as you make your way back to the Library.

“I’m… not sure. I tried talking to Dumbledore about Madam Pince’s plans for the event, and he suggested I listen to her with my heart rather than my head. I don’t do that!”

“I know, love. But if the advice came from Dumbledore, it’s sure to help us solve our Pince predicament.”

You chuckle at the alliteration as the both of you cross over the threshold to the Library.

“I think so, too. But to really listen, first we need to get her to talk to me again. How are we going to do that?”

“Shhh!” Speak of the devil. The Librarian appears seemingly out of nowhere.

“Sorry, Madam Pince. Penny and I were hoping to talk to you about the Valentine’s Day Ball?”

“Not this again. I told you, everything is under control. And it’s frankly insulting that you continue to stick your nose in matters that the Headmaster put me in charge of.”

Your immediate instinct is to snap back. However, you remember the conversation you just had with Professor Dumbledore. Taking a calming breath, you swallow your annoyance and try a different tack.

“You’re right. Professor Dumbledore assured me that you want to make this a wonderful event. But he also thought we should try and collaborate with you in an effort to make it a grand ball for all.”

That stops her ire. “Well, if the Headmaster took the time to suggest it…”

“I think Penny and I would be able to help if we understood why you want the ball to be so simple.”

“I simply don’t want to create a storybook version of romance at this dance. Such fairy tales don’t end happily. In fact, they can leave one feeling more on the outside than ever. I don’t want anyone feeling excluded or lonely.”

“No one will be lonely, Madam Pince.”

Penny agrees with you. “Valentine’s Day is about connections of all kinds, including friendship!”

You give her a lopsided smile as the warmth in your chest grows stronger. You love Penny so much. She’s simply too good for this world.

“It’s simply a matter of controlling expectations and avoiding disappointment. Some people may feel out-of-place at a romantic event where they aren’t with someone they care about.” Madam Pince’s voice shakes you out of your thoughts.

You and Penny share a look. There it is: the crux of the situation. Before you can say anything, she speaks again.

“Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a serious matter to attend to. Good day, Miss Lee, Miss Haywood.”

With a curt nod, Madam Pince turns and walks away, leaving you and Penny to think about the conversation.

“Well, Jung, I think we both listened with our hearts.”

“Mine says Madam Pince might be lonely and doesn’t want anyone else to feel like that, either.”

“It’s understandable. Being with someone who makes your heart feel as warm as a freshly brewed potion, well, that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about. And, truth is, you make my heart feel like that, Seojung.”

“That’s really sweet, Penny.” You open your arms and raise an eyebrow. “What are you waiting for?”

She barrels into your arms without a second thought. You’re much less likely to initiate contact than she is, so she takes full advantage of every opportunity she is given when you do take the first step.

“You definitely need to sort out this Valentine’s Day Ball business first or there won’t be a ball worth going to.”

“Out! Out!” All of a sudden, Filch’s rough tenor can be heard near the entrance. A poor first-year Gryffindor scurries out the door with his proverbial tail between his legs, sufficiently scolded for eating in the Library.

“Oh, Madam Pince! Sorry about that, I didn’t mean to cause a ruckus in your library.”

“It’s quite all right, Mr. Filch. I’m sure you were taking care of a disturbance so I wouldn’t have to. Such a gentleman. I actually wanted to thank you for helping me with the dance preparations.”

“Why, of course, Madam Pince!”

You can’t believe your eyes. Madam Pince is actually smiling. At Mr. Filch, no less. It’s an unlikely pairing, but the more you think about it, the more you can see how it works. They both like rules and the simpler side of life. They seem to enjoy scolding students and handing out punishments. Both are fiercely protective of the things they love. Yes, Filch and Pince.

“Look at that. Perhaps Beauty isn’t the only one who can tame the Beast. Pince can, too!” Penny winks at you.

“Wait, that’s it, Pens! We need to make Madam Pince believe in fairy tales again, and show her the true meaning of Valentine’s Day by cheering her up with her own valentine!”

“Oh, how adorable! That’s brilliant, babe!” You resist the urge to kiss her, right there in the library.

“If I can make the two connect, then maybe Madam Pince will finally listen to our ideas about the ball.”

“You’ve got to get Mr. Filch’s attention if you want to talk to them. And to do that, you might need to get in trouble. Not that you have a hard time with that.”

“Hey!” You push her gently.

“You know I’m right.” Her bright blue eyes glimmer with amusement. You can’t bring yourself to disagree, because it’s true. Penny is usually right. That’s just how life is.

“Alright, fine. But there’s someone who knows better-Merula.”

“She’s in Astronomy with me. I’ll let her know you want to chat in the Courtyard, if that’s okay.”

You nod in agreement. “Hey, if you want to ask her, I won’t complain. Thanks, Pens.”

“Meet me in the Common Room later?”

“Sounds like a plan. I’ll get some studying done here first.”

“Catch you later, Hero.”

With a light peck on the cheek and an easy smile, Penny is gone.

You mean to do your History of Magic assignment, you really do. But you can’t stop thinking about Penny and her casual touches. It’s driving you insane. You’re surprised you’ve managed to hold it together this long. If you two are going to share a bed tonight, you might just die right there.

Someone snaps their fingers under your nose. It’s Rowan, who looks quite concerned.

“Oh, hey Row. What’s up?”

Your best friend rolls her eyes. “Don’t even bother trying. You’re a horrible actor. I tried calling your name five times! What’s biting you?”

This time, you smile and chuckle at Rowan’s attempt to use an American phrase. “That’s ‘eating at you’, but… I think you know.”

“Penny?”

“Penny.”

She takes out her schoolbooks and cracks open her Potions textbook. “How are you doing with that?”

“I wish it was real.” The words fall out of your mouth before you can stop them at your teeth. You pause. “I love her. A lot.”

Rowan pushes her glasses up her nose. “Have you considered telling her?”

“Yeah… I’m worried how she’ll react. What if she doesn’t want to be friends anymore?”

The dark-haired girl snorts. “As if Penny Haywood would ever do that to you. You don’t have to worry about her cutting off your guys’ friendship.” She lays a hand on your forearm. “For what it’s worth, I think you should ask her to the ball as actual dates. Let her know how you feel, for real.”

You nod slowly. You’ve known Rowan even longer than you’ve known Penny, and you know she wouldn’t lead you wrong on purpose. She knows both you and Penny very well. “Thanks, Rowan. I’ll think about it. If the Ball preparations go right, maybe.” Pulling out your silver pocketwatch, you pop open the cover and look at the time. “I’ve got to go. I need to go convince Merula to help me get Filch’s attention.”

She raises her eyebrows. “Tell me about it over dinner?”

“You bet. See you, Row.”

—

“All right, Lee, what do you want? Haywood said it was urgent.” Merula stands near the fountain with her arms crossed, not caring that you can barely catch your breath.

You roll your eyes and clutch at your sides. Running was not your strong suit. You need to work out more often.

“I need your help getting Filch’s attention so that I can cheer up Madam Pince and save the Ball.”

The Slytherin raises an incredulous eyebrow. “I’m not sure I understand why one grump helping another grump plan a ball is even remotely a good idea.”

“I just saw them in the Library earlier. The two of them looked happy talking to each other. She seems to want to believe in storybook romance. So perhaps Filch could be Madam Pince’s valentine? I’m hoping I can get Filch to think my ideas are the same as Pince’s, then the ball might be a success.”

“That’s quite the nefarious plan, Lee. All right, I’m in. And I want this Ball to be a good time. What if… we did something to Mrs. Norris? That’s sure to get him to react.”

“That’s a good idea! What’s something easily reversible?”

She sniffs. “That’s easy. Colovaria.”

You take a second to think about it. “I like it. You’re really on a roll today.”

“It’s a brilliant idea. I’m the Most Powerful Witch at Hogwarts, and I have the best ideas. You wish you had thought of it.”

You don’t bother to respond to her preening. It’s incorrect. Obviously, McGonagall is the Most Powerful Witch at Hogwarts. Instead, you change the subject.

“So, why are you so invested in helping Pince?”

“Because I don’t want the Ball to be a bore. You heard her plans.” She rolls her eyes. “Still, Pince and Filch. What a strange couple.”

“It might be strange, but they’ll get no judgment from me.”

“Suppose we could be an even odder couple if we were to show up together. Of course, you’d be the odd one. The Most Powerful Witch at Hogwarts isn’t odd. She’s awesome.”

You sigh. “Honestly, Merula, I’m still not over all the abuse you gave us the first few years we were at Hogwarts. I’d barely even call us on good terms. You still have a lot to make up for. So even if I was available, I wouldn’t want to go with you. But I’m going with Penny, so I’m not available anyway.”

She nods, looking like she sucked on a bad lemon. “You know what? Forget I said anything.”

“Done.” You shrug. “Okay, I need to get Filch to see things our way. Oh, there’s Filch and Mrs. Norris now.”

Merula turns to where your head is tilted towards. She pulls out her wand and grins devilishly. “Ready?” At your nod, she fires off an enthusiastic Colovaria! at the Maine Coon.

It’s a little concerning how much pleasure Merula is deriving from this, but you have more pressing matters. Mrs. Norris turns a bright neon pink and yowls indignantly.

“Gamey goblin bogies! Who’s responsible for this?!” He looks around, making eye contact with you. “Lee! You’re coming with me!”

“Looks like you got his attention. Now, let’s see what you do with it. Good luck, Lee.”

You roll your eyes as you walk away. “Thanks, Merula.”

—

Upon opening the door to Filch’s office, he explodes on you.

“How dare you do such a nasty prank to a poor, sweet, innocent creature like Mrs. Norris!”

Sweet? Innocent? You barely hold back a scoff. Mrs. Norris is anything but.

“The next words out of your mouth better be an apology, Ms. Lee.”

“I’m sorry, Mr. Filch.”

“Not to me, to Mrs. Norris!” The caretaker growls, spittle flying from his mouth.

“Oh! Sorry, Mrs. Norris.”

You take out your wand and reverse the spell.

“Why would you do this to a magnificent creature like Mrs. Norris?”

“It was for the ball. Speaking of which, I was really hoping to talk to you about the Valentine’s Day Ball, Mr. Filch.”

That certainly gets his attention. A brief look of worry crosses his face. “Why? Has Madam Pince said something? Is she upset with how I’ve been stacking the chairs?”

“Not…exactly. But you really do care about what she thinks, right?”

“No! I’m just helping set up the ball for Madam Pince as she has enough on her plate.”

“Oh, because I happen to know that Madam Pince is looking for more help. Someone to discuss her ideas and truly collaborate with her.”

“Is that so?” Filch takes Mrs. Norris into his arms and starts stroking her head.

“I thought perhaps you might want to be the one to talk to her about the ball?”

“What, no! How could I help? I don’t know anything about planning dances!”

Mr. Filch unwittingly opens the door for your persuasion. “Actually, I happen to know some of the things Madam Pince wants to see for the Ball.”

“You do? Might be useful for our next event planning meeting later today…”

“It certainly would. Perhaps I could help you get organized for your meeting?”

“All right, you can help me. But no funny business!”

With a few white lies and half-truths, you fill Mr. Filch in on what “Madam Pince” would like to see at the Valentine’s Day Ball.

“So Madam Pince wants sophisticated refreshments and refined music and elegant flowers.”

“Yes, and she also wants the party to be fun. But something people of all ages will enjoy. I think she really needs a peer she respects to confirm all of these notions. So perhaps you could tell her you like those things, too?” You give him your sweetest smile.

“But I don’t like those things!”

“Are you sure, Mr. Filch? Because Madam Pince sure does. In fact, I think she really wants to believe that the night could be romantic and special for everyone, but is afraid that people who don’t have someone special in their life might not enjoy it as much.”

He shakes his head quickly. “I wouldn’t want such a marvelous woman as Madam Pince to feel she isn’t getting the ball she wants. And I suppose those things might suit a dance like this.”

“It seems Madam Pince wants this night to be like a storybook romantic ball right out of a fairy tale! Perhaps you should dress the part when you go to the meeting? To show you truly understand her vision.”

“Dress the part? I wouldn’t even know how! I’m not magical like Madam Pince, I’m just Squib.” He spits the last part out like it’s a terrible affliction. Part of you feel bad for him, surrounded by such wondrous magic and unable to partake in it.

“I bet Madam Pince likes you just the way you are, Mr. Filch. Magical or not. But, if it would make you feel better, I know someone who could give you a makeover!”

“A what?! Out of the question. You kids and your new-fangled ideas…”

You ignore him and continue. “Looking your best is always a good idea. Sprucing yourself up will feel great! And Madam Pince might like it, too.”

“Well, let’s be quick about it! I’ve still got other duties to attend to.”

—

“Andre, I need a favor…” You poke your head into the Transfiguration classroom.

“This better be good, Seojung, I’m already busy enough making outfits for the Ball!” Andre Egwu, the most stylish person you know at Hogwarts, is currently surrounded by random patterns and many manikins.

“Trust me, the Ball won’t be worth your effort unless we get your help right now.” You step fully into the classroom, Mr. Filch right behind.

“Excuse me? It will be a proper event, with or without your contribution, Miss Lee. Remember we’re here to help Madam Pince achieve her vision for a romantic ball and for nothing else.” Mr. Filch snaps at you.

Andre’s confusion is clear on his face. “Her vision? I thought that Pince’s boring ball ideas were the problem in the first place.” Oh, Andre. You want to clap a hand across his mouth, but it’s too late.

Filch glares at you. “Boring?! What is he going on about?”

“Andre, Mr. Filch is going to help Madam Pince have a storybook Valentine’s Ball just like we all want. I was just explaining she wants fun and lights and romance, she’s just having trouble seeing that. But as she seems to very much respect Mr. Filch, he’s agreed to talk to her about it.”

His eyes clear up. “Now I understand what we’re after. That’s proper brillant, Jung. So how can I help?”

“Well, any romantic storybook Valentine’s Day features a dashing, well-dressed suitor for the ball’s host…”

“I see. So we’re thinking a full makeover?” He scans Filch from head to toe, gears already spinning in his head.

“There’s that ridiculous word again! I never agreed to anything of the sort.”

You grin and pull the Madam Pince card again. “Remember you’re giving your colleague a happy Valentine’s Day!”

“We all really want this to be a magical night, Mr. Filch, and you can reflect that with how you dress.” Andre pipes up, waving at the many half-finished project scattered around the room.

Mrs. Norris meows languidly and stretches at Mr. Filch’s feet. For once, she is at ease.

“See? Even Mrs. Norris agrees!”

“All right. I’ll let you try your hand at it, but I don’t want anything too frilly. Or colorful. Or uncomfortable.”

You step back and watch as Andre takes Filch’s measurements and quickly throws together a formal, ball-worthy outfit for the custodian. Before long, Mr. Filch is behind the partition, trying on the clothes. When he steps out, it’s like there a whole new person has replaced the man you know.

Mr. Filch is wearing a handsome pinstriped three-piece suit, complete with the long tuxedo tails, spats, and a tophat. All he needs is a cane, and he could be the front man for a tap show.

“I cannot believe what I’m seeing…” Andre’s jaw hangs open.

“It’s horrible, isn’t it?!?”

“No, you look quite handsome, Mr. Filch. The question is, will Madam Pince like it?”

The fashion whiz regains his footing and collects himself. “I believe she will. If it weren’t for Filch’s scowl I’d almost mistake him for a gentleman.” You wince at the dig. Andre seems to really want to piss Filch off. Thankfully, Mr. Filch is too busy looking at his boutonniere to hear him.

Mrs. Norris comes out from behind the partition as well. She is dressed in a matching bowtie, cuffs, and tophat. You think she looks adorable, for once. Andre is a genius.

“So, do you feel ready for your meeting with Madam Pince, Mr. Filch?”

“Wait a second, my tie is crooked…” As the Caretaker fiddles with his bowtie, you turn to Andre.

“Thank you for helping me. The ball wouldn’t be the same without your stylish eye for clothes.”

“Oh, please say more. It was my pleasure, Curse-Breaker. Good luck with Pince.” With an impish wink, he returns to his work.

“We’d better get a move on, Miss Lee. Can't keep Madam Pince waiting, now can we?”

You agree and together head out. The Library is a short jaunt up a few flights of stairs. Unfortunately, Madam Pince is nowhere to be found. You scan the aisles and find a familiar face.

“Hey, Talbott. How’re you?”

Tallbott Winger gives you a small smile. He’s reading a thick textbook in another language you can’t understand. “Fine, I suppose. And you?”

“On a mission. Have you seen Pince?”

“Madam Pince is putting jinxes on some of the new books.”

Mr. Filch suddenly comes up next to you and Talbott. “Here to cause trouble, Mr. Winger? I bet you are!”

“Keep your voice down, Mr. Filch. Madam Pince wouldn’t want us to disturb the quiet of the library.”

“Fine, but only because Madam Pince wouldn’t appreciate it.” Mr. Filch looks down at his outfit again. “I can’t believe you convinced me to wear this ridiculous outfit.”

“You look handsome, Mr. Filch, not ridiculous. Just as I said before.”

It seems that Mr. Filch is unable to take compliments. His face twists into a scowl. “Bah! I’m going to go find Madam Pince.” With a swish of his coattails, he walks to the Forbidden section of the library.

Talbott raises his eyebrows as he watches Filch leave. “I’ve heard you’re trying to save the Valentine’s Day Ball.”

“Yep. I’ve enlisted Mr. Filch to help persuade Madam Pince to make it a lot more fun. And maybe even be her valentine.”

“I’d like to help.”

You have a double take, looking quizzically at the introverted Ravenclaw. It seems rather unlike him to care about this sort of thing. “Really? I didn’t realize you were interested in the Ball.”

“A lot of things you don’t know about me, Lee. But it would be worth it if you were there. I wasn’t planning on seeing you here, but now that I have, I want to ask you to the Ball.”

“That’s really kind of you, Talbott… I’m already going with Penny, sorry.” It doesn’t surprise you that Talbott hasn’t heard the gossip flying around the castle. He keeps to himself very well. A small part of you hopes he’s okay with it, because he’s close friends with Penny. Not that you’re looking for validation.

The quiet boy takes it in stride. He nods slightly and gives his signature quirk of his lips. “That’s all right. You two make a great couple! And don’t worry, I’d still like to help. First, you definitely need to talk to Pince and save the dance. Now we really need to make sure it’s a great night.”

“Thanks, Talbott. Speak of the devil…” You both fall silent as Mr. Filch and Madam Pince near you. That way, they couldn’t possibly lecture you. But, as it turns out, they wouldn’t have heard you anyway. They are in the midst of a conversation of their own.

“My, you’re looking quite dapper, Argus.”

“Thank you, Irma. I was hoping to try something different today…though I’m now worried I look like a Hippogriff’s behind.”

“Nothing of the sort. I think it looks very nice. And I won’t hear anything different.” Madam Pince smiles elegantly at Mr. Filch. It shapes her face quite nicely, turning her into a different woman. But just as quickly as it came, the smile drops at the sight of you.

“I see you’re back, Miss Lee. This time with Mr. Winger, it seems. Can I ask why?”

You turn to the caretaker. “I’ll let Mr. Filch fill you in.”

“Miss Lee here was helping me get organized for our meeting.”

Madam Pince nods. “Very well. Let’s start our meeting, then.”

And so the meeting happens. You, Mr. Filch, and Talbott outline your suggestions. Finally, Mr. Filch does what you asked him.

“I think your Valentine’s Day Ball vision would be even better with tasteful sweet refreshments, smart music, and beautiful flowers fit for a woman such as yourself, Madam Pince.”

“Oh, I don’t know, Mr. Filch… it’s all a bit much.”

You quickly speak up. “Madam Pince, you should know that Mr. Filch worked really hard to come up with ideas that fit your vision. We talked about string music to liven up the mood but keep it classy, delicious treats and tasteful, red flowers. Mr. Filch has your best interests at heart, Madam Pince.”

Talbott pipes in. “And isn’t that what Valentine’s Day is about: heart?”

You continue. “We just want to make sure that you and Mr. Filch get the Valentine’s Day Ball you both want.”

“Me and… Mr. Filch?” Your words seem to have an effect on the librarian.

The caretaker removes his tophat and worries the brim with both hands. “Well, not- I don’t mean to presume or nothin’… but, well, you deserve a fairy tale ball, Madam Pince. Something right out of one of the story books you have here in the Library, even.”

“And Mr. Filch will be right by your side making sure everything turns out just as you like!” You use your best Penny smile to inject as much optimism as you can into your words.

“He will?”

Talbott nods sagely. “He will.”

“Well… yes, it would be my honor, Madam Pince… If you’ll have me, that is.” Mr. Filch bows his head slightly.

“I suppose I may have been a little too utilitarian with the festivities. Adding some tasteful flair may be in order. What Mr. Filch has described sounds simply wonderful. Magical, even, like a fairy tale, just as he said. Perhaps people of all types can enjoy connecting on Valentine’s Day, after all.”

“I wholeheartedly agree, Madam Pince.” Yes! Success. You did it!

Talbott smiled. “I agree, too.”

“The only problem is that now there’s so much to prepare with these new ideas!” There is a new light in Madam Pince’s eyes as she considers the new tasks.

Thankfully, Mr. Filch rises to the opportunity. He pledges his assistance. “Don’t worry, Madam Pince, I’ll help you.”

“Talbott and I can help too! And our friends, of course.”

“All right, Miss Lee, get your friends together to help. We’ve a romantic storybook ball to plan. Don’t forget that this should still be a classy sort of fun, even the music.” She sternly reminds you that she is still in control.

“Don’t worry, Madam Pince. I know just the person to talk to about romantic music.”

Bidding farewell to the Librarian, Mr. Filch, and Talbott, you make your way to the Hufflepuff Common Room. Talking with Chiara will have to wait for tomorrow. You have a study session with Penny to prepare for. You make a mental note to ask Chiara at dinner tonight or breakfast tomorrow.

Penny greets you with a big hug and another kiss on the cheek. She seems to like it as much as you do. “How did it go?” Grasping your hand earnestly, she steers you over to an empty table in the corner of the Common Room.

“Really good. I managed to change Pince’s mind with a little help from Filch. Andre gave him a makeover and everything. He cleans up well. How was Astronomy?”

“Utterly boring. I wish you were there.” She pouts. “Stuff isn’t fun if you’re not around.”

Penny always seems to know just what to say. That weird feeling in your chest grows again. Spending time with the blonde Hufflepuff is one of your favorite things to do.

You bump her shoulder with yours. “I missed you, too. And I really need help with my Potions essay.”

“I see how it is. You only talk to me for my brains.” Penny crosses her arm in faux-anger. Her fond smile gives it away.

“Not true! You also compliment me a lot.”

She shoves you in the shoulder. “The nerve!”

You grab one of her hands. “Seriously though. I’m glad you’re my friend. You’re important to me for much more than just homework. I promise, I’ll always be around.”

All your worries about saying the wrong thing are wiped away with Penny’s embrace. She smells like roses and patchouli, and the scent fills your lungs.

She cuddles close to you as she explains the potion Snape covered in lecture today. Her ability to break down complicated concepts into simple terms is what’s keeping your ass afloat in Potions.

With Penny’s help, you finish the essay for Potions and move onto the DADA one you started the day before. With renewed focus and the help of your best friend, you manage to scrape together the right words for that assignment as well. In exchange, you offer help with Transfiguration, Muggle Studies, and Charms.

You lose track of time, realizing that afternoon has turned into evening only when you glance out one of the windows.

“Damn, it’s night already?”

Penny laughs kindly. “Yes, we missed dinner. Are you hungry?”

Your stomach joins the conversation, growling like an old automobile.

“I guess that answers that. Come on.” She stands and offers a hand. “We can get something from the Kitchen.”

You’re thankful that the Hufflepuff Common Room is right next to the Kitchen. It makes getting midnight snacks easy.

Despite the late hour, the Kitchen is still thrumming with energy, its numerous hearths still roaring away. A house elf, Dory, approaches them. “Good evening, Misses. What can Dory do for you?”

“Good evening, Dory! Seojung and I missed dinner, we got caught up in our studies. We were wondering if there were any leftovers?”

Dory grins and pops away with a snap of her fingers. She reappears with a tray of steaming sandwiches and two covered bowls. You gratefully take the tray from the elf. “Thanks, Dory. We appreciate it.”

Dory curtsies. “Dory is happy to help. Enjoy!” She snaps her fingers again, leaving you and Penny alone.

“Come on.” Holding the tray carefully, so as not to spill the precious goods, you lead the way back to the Common Room.

Over the late but scrumptious meal, you chat about upcoming exams and the younger students Penny had to reprimand. You don’t envy her position at all. Being a Prefect seems too stressful for you.

Pretty soon, the other students retire to their beds. One by one, until it’s just you and Penny sitting in the quiet room.

You remember the note you gave yourself at breakfast. “Hey, Pens?”

“Hm?” Penny smiles in response to your nickname for her. It’s something only you alone are allowed to use. Tonks might call her Penne from time to time, but they usually just call her P.

“I wanted to ask about PDA and boundaries… and other stuff. Just making sure we’re on the same page.”

“Of course. What’s up?”

“How much PDA are you comfortable with? Anything that’s completely off-limits?”

She wrinkles her nose. “I hate when people snog in the hallways and in front of other people. Could they have a little more class? Definitely nothing like that will fly with me. But quick little kisses as greetings, I’m fine with.”

You nod, taking everything she says to heart. “I feel the same way. The sounds people make when sucking on each other’s faces make me sick. But I… really like when you kiss my cheek, so you can definitely do more of that.”

You don’t look at Penny as you speak, too embarrassed to make eye contact. Instead, you pick up a pen and spin it aimlessly. But Penny has other ideas. She reaches forward and gently cups your face, turning it so that you’re facing her. She leans closer, never once breaking eye contact.

“You promise me you’re telling the truth?”

“I promise.”

Her lips touch your cheek and linger there. When she pulls back, she searches your eyes for any pushback. “Is something like that okay?”

You feel your lips curl up before you can even tell them to move. “More than.”

The clock above the fireplace chimes, signaling the new hour, making you jump. It is ten o’clock, your bedtime. You stretch, hearing the bones in your neck and upper back pop and crackle. Your sitting posture is a bit poor. Okay, a lot poor.

As you pack up your schoolwork, you look over at Penny, who is doing the same. “Do you want to sleep in my bed tonight?”

“Sure. I’ll get washed up and come over.” She yawns and raises her arms over her head, stretching her sides.

You give her a thumbs-up and go to your room, changing into pajamas and washing up in the bathroom. As you’re finishing up a diary entry, Penny comes into the room. She’s wearing a light blue t-shirt and light grey sweatpants, quite similar to your sleepwear. The only difference is that your top is dark blue.

“Look at us, two Hufflepuffs wearing Ravenclaw colors. A disgrace to the house.”

Penny snorts as she climbs under the covers and closes the curtains on her side. “It’s not our fault that blue is our favorite color. Though the Sorting Hat did consider putting me in Ravenclaw.”

“Same. But I wanted to be in Hufflepuff, because Jacob was in Hufflepuff. I felt like I had to prove that I could be in the same house as him and not turn out the same way.” You slip your glasses off and toss them lightly onto your bedside table, clicking off the lamp and closing the curtains. Casting a muffling charm, you turn back to the other girl. “My biggest fear is turning out like him.”

“You won’t. You have your friends to keep you from turning out that way. And you have me.” It’s dark now without the light from your nightstand, but you can hear the smile in Penny’s voice as she calmly encourages you.

“Thanks, Pens.” You’ll probably regret it later, but you pull her close so that her head is resting on your chest and shoulder. You cross your fingers and hope that she can’t hear how fast your betraying heart is currently thumping inside your ribcage.

She gives you a tiny kiss on your collarbone and snakes an arm around your waist. “Goodnight, Jung. Thanks for everything.”

Throwing caution into the wind, you lean forward and press your lips on the part of Penny’s forehead you can reach. Lying back, you feel the blonde’s breathing deepening and slowing down. Pretty soon, she’s out.

The constant weight on your right side is comforting, but you are hyperaware of the closeness. It makes your skin prickle. You tell yourself that it’s worth seeing Penny so happy.

But yeah. It’s going to be a long night.

— — —

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