Title: Chapter 1
Rating: T
Pairing(s)/Character(s): Andromeda/Rabastan
Warnings: None
Disclaimer: Don't own 'em - not making any money off 'em. Dern it.
Word Count: 791
Summary: Rabastan can be that for Andromeda.
Notes:

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry: Flying Lessons- Task - All relationships have to start somewhere, they don't just appear out of thin air! We need to make sure that we cover the beginning of the relationship before moving on to other aspects. We need to consider the beginning aspect and make sure that things work.Like with a broom on the first flying lessons, there are potential problems and this should be mentioned or considered. Your pairing might seem perfect but trust me, they're not. Prompt Used - (plot) someone bullying a member of your pairing

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft & Wizardry: Chocolate Frog - Andromeda Tonks (nee Black) - Silver - Write about Andromeda Tonks.

Ultimate Battle Competition 2: Matching Accessory Pack

Andromeda glared at Rodolphus and Bellatrix, unable to think of something to say in response.

"What Andy? Can't take the truth?" the oldest Black sister taunted.

Andromeda tried not to let it get to her, but part of her couldn't help but believe it might be true. "You don't know anything," Andromeda finally growled fiercely, hands clenched into tight fists at her sides.

Rodolphus smirked. "Don't pretend it's a lie. Everyone knows that Bellatrix is the seductive oldest sister, the one all of the wizards want. And Narcissa is the delicate youngest sister, the one that inspires protection and love. And what is Andromeda Black? The middle sister. The one everyone forgets. What does Andromeda Black possibly have that the other two Black sisters can't give? What proper Pure-blood wizard would ever want Andromeda Black when Bellatrix and Narcissa are options?"

Andromeda turned fierce eyes onto Rabastan, the younger Lestrange brother. "Do you have anything to add to that?" she snarled.

Rabastan stayed silent, avoiding her eyes.

She laughed bitterly. "Of course you don't. Somehow, I'm just not that surprised." Without saying anything to her tormentors and the silent bystander, Andromeda turned and left them in the Great Hall.

She heard steps going in the other way. "Come on, Rab."

Andromeda didn't turn around, even when she felt heated eyes on her.

"Rabastan! Are you coming?" Rodolphus asked, but it sounded more like a demand.

Andromeda stopped, still facing away, and wondered if he would finally stand up to his brother for her. Her eyes closed when she heard retreating steps, and her heart felt as if it was in a tight vise, one that wouldn't let go no matter how much she pled.

She would not cry. She would not cry. It became a silent mantra in her head. Not only was she a Slytherin, but she was also a Black. And she was trained to never show emotions in public. She wasn't about to forget everything she learned. Not for the likes of Bellatrix, Rodolphus, and... him.

She wasn't surprised when the wizard joined her on the bleachers over the Quidditch Pitch. He always knew where to find her when she wanted to be alone.

She could have told him to go away, but she decided he wasn't worth the effort. Instead, she ignored his presence, hoping he would just take the hint and leave. Of course, when had Rabastan ever done what she wanted him to do?

"I know I disappointed you."

Andromeda let out an inelegant snort even though she knew it ruined the effect she was going for.

"I know I should have stood up for you, but the truth of the matter is, I'm scared what Rodolphus would do to me if I went against him. It might be not very Slytherin to admit to that fear, but I trust you to not use it against me."

Andromeda closed her eyes. She knew Rodolphus was the crueler brother and Rabastan's fear wasn't unfounded, but it still hurt that Rabastan had allowed the ugly words to be aimed at her.

"And frankly, I knew you could handle Bellatrix and Rodolphus without my interference."

"It didn't mean the words didn't hurt," Andromeda quietly admitted. Like Rabastan, she trusted he wouldn't use the truth against her.

"You know they're not true, though. You're a very desirable witch who has many wizards after her. I'm just one of the many who is interested. And I hope I haven't lost my chance."

It was said like a statement, but Andromeda heard the question behind it. She finally allowed her gaze to meet his. "I need someone who I can depend on, someone who support me and will not let me flounder. I need someone who will choose me over their brother. And..." Here, she hesitated, but she swallowed and pushed on with what she had to say. "And someone who isn't ashamed of his feelings for me."

Rabastan slowly took her hand, as if to see she would allow the touch.

She did, and his warm hand holding hers sent warmth spiraling from her stomach throughout her whole body.

"I can be that man if you give me a chance. I need to learn, but you're worth it. Please, don't walk away from me. From us. Give me a chance to prove myself."

Part of Andromeda wanted to deny Rabastan's request. If she allowed him to, she knew he could break her heart. But another part of Andromeda, the larger part, couldn't say 'no.' He had invaded her heart, and she didn't think he would be leaving it anytime soon. "Okay," she whispered.

As his lips lowered to hers, Andromeda's eyes closed, and she allowed herself to just feel.