A/N: Hello. This fic is a follow on / sequel of sorts to Denial Is My Friend. In DIMF I hint at Hugo's sexuality and his possible crush on his friend Jack. Well this fic is their story.
Chapter One
Hugo was pleased his mum had just told him that Al and Scorpius would be staying with them for a month. He always liked seeing those two, they were a good laugh and they never treated him like a baby. He may be two years younger than them, but they always included him when they could.
"Hugo, if you want to stay at a friend's house you can?" his mum had said to him as he was thinking over what to have for breakfast.
"Hmm what? Yeah that sounds like an idea. I will write to Jack and see if he can check with his parents."
Jack was his best friend, they had both been sorted into Gryffindor and they soon became very close. Now his mum had suggested it, he latched on to the idea. He always enjoyed his time at Jacks house, they had a laugh and it would be a nice break away from home.
Later that day he sent Jack an owl asking if he could maybe stay for a week. He didn't receive a reply until the next day, but it was good news. Jack said that his mum and dad said he could stay and he told Hugo about all the fun things they could do, whilst he was there.
(Time Skip)
Hugo was nervous, he always felt uncomfortable around other people's parents. Jack's family were really nice and so he soon forgot his nerves and relaxed. He just worried when he was a guest, whether he would like the food, or if he was an inconvenience and well he didn't like being a burden.
"Your being silly Hugo. Mum loves you and dad says you play a better game of chess than me, so he likes having someone around to challenge him. Also Gemma keeps to herself."
Hugo shrugged, "Yeah I know. Sorry Jack, you know me, I worry too much" Jack smiled, he did know Hugo, very well. If anything he knew him too well and Hugo was a bit oblivious to his charm some times.
"Well don't. Mum said we can go bowling tonight" Jack sounded excited, Hugo had no idea what he was on about. Jack was a half blood and his mum would take them out to do lots of muggle things.
Hugo's mum was also a muggle born but she didn't really get them to do many muggle things. "Its fun trust me" Jack said putting his hand on Hugo's shoulder, "You'll love it" and they got ready for the night.
Hugo actually really like bowling and knew he would try and convince his parents to take everyone again. The week at Jack's house was so much fun, even though he had to sleep on camp bed in Jack's room, he still had a great time. Jack had offered to take the camp bed, but Hugo couldn't explain it, he just didn't feel comfortable about sleeping in Jack's bed.
The rest of the holidays were just as entertaining, watching Al tease Scorpius over his obvious crush on his sister and Rose's drunken antics, was very entertaining.
(Time Skip)
Unfortunately Rose's douche bag boyfriend was also in Gryffindor and he had spent many nights listening to him slag off Scorpius, Al and even Uncle Harry and Draco. Jack would have to calm him down and talk him out of retaliating.
"But Jack, he needs to be knocked down a peg or two. I know Scorpius broke his nose the other day, but from what I hear the bastard deserved it."
Jack smiled at his friend, Hugo was pretty laid back, but if something bothered him enough, he could be very passionate and difficult to control. Hot tempered, Hugo had always said that was probably his dad's influence, but he didn't mind. He was normally pretty good at ignoring Rich and leaving him to his narrow minded opinions.
Jack had started to realise over the last few months that he didn't find any of the girls in the school attractive and he wasn't even remotely interested in them. He hadn't voiced any of this to Hugo, he was worried Hugo wouldn't want to be his friend anymore. Jack knew that was stupid, because well his Uncle Harry and Draco were gay and Hugo hated Rich for his homophobia. But Jack was worried that it would change their friendship and he didn't want to risk that. Besides he wasn't 100% sure he was actually gay – just not interested in girls. He's only fourteen after all, plenty of time to start fancying girls.
However to Jack's complete horror he soon discovered he was definitely gay. He had woke one morning after a very vivid dream about a boy – about Hugo. To his horror he had dreamt of kissing him, of shoving him against a wall and groping him. He was fully erect when he woke up and he felt utterly embarrassed and mortified.
He can deal with being gay, he kind of expected that – was just in denial really. But being gay and crushing on your straight best friend – not good.
The day after his dream, he was awkward with Hugo and he kept asking what Jack's problem was and that Jack could talk to him about anything. Yeah, right! That would be a good conversation. 'Hugo, I think you're fucking hot. I don't think so Jack thought.
Now that Jack had discovered himself and his true feelings regarding Hugo, he couldn't stop thinking about him and dreaming about him. Soon he wasn't as mortified by the dreams, he welcomed them – just to indulge himself, and he knew it would never become a reality, so he relished the dreams and fantasies.
Hugo of course seemed completely oblivious to Jack's inner battle, how Jack had to force himself not to straighten Hugo's collar if his shirt was crooked, or to run his hands through his hair, or to kiss him – No Jack. Stop it! Pull yourself together, He sternly told himself.
Ever since fourth year started Hugo thought his best friend had been acting strange. He seemed to day dream a lot and well would often look like he was someplace else.
Hugo was happy because Rose had finally dumped Nott, the bastard had beaten up Scorpius in the courtyard. He was being as annoying as ever, he was pissed off at being dumped.
They were working on their charms homework, when they heard Rich:
Weasley was nothing but a cock tease. Acting the slut and then getting all frigid when I tried anything. I just informed her that she was a common slut – she ought to watch her back. She might get into trouble teasing men like that!
Hugo had stood and Jack pulled his sleeve, "Hugo, he's not worth it" Jack tried.
Hugo pulled his arm free from Jack's grip, he looked down at Jack and his heart skipped a beat – Hugo looked so sexy when he was being all angry and protective of his sister.
Jack was too dazed by Hugo and his bloody gorgeousness that he hadn't realised that Hugo had marched over to Rich. Shit! He thought. He jumped up and walked over to give Hugo back up if needed.
The common room was eerily quite, most Gryffindor's thought Rich was a dickhead, he only had a couple of friends in the whole house. They were waiting to see if Hugo would stand up to someone who was two years older than him.
Rich laughed, "Weasley, you don't scare me. You're just a little boy, a little boy who doesn't want to face up to the fact that your sister is nothing but a dirty little slut" he sneered.
That was it, Jack could pin point the exact moment Hugo snapped, he saw his face transform and seconds later Hugo punched Rich in the face.
"You fucking piece of shit" and he hit him again.
Rich was in shock, he never thought Hugo would actually have the balls to hit him. He held his jaw, it bloody hurt. He stood, Jack thought he looked like he was about to retaliate. However the other Gryffindor's banded together and held Rich back away from Hugo and made sure he stayed there, whilst Jack ran to get Professor Longbottom. They needed to say their side of the story, with witnesses, before Rich spewed some false story.
Jack came in later and walked over to Hugo. Hugo gave him a breath-taking smile – Oh Hugo, what are you doing to me? Jack sighed, Hugo only had to smile and he was enchanted by him. "Your family are outside. I think Scorpius was on his way to do what you just did."
Hugo slung his arm around Jack's shoulders, he was taller than Jack – he had his dad's lankiness. Jack's shoulders fit perfectly under his arm, he smiled, "That felt fucking great" he beamed.
Jack laughed, "I bet it did" he added silently in his head, it looked fucking great too. He knew his dreams would be filled with Hugo's face just before he hit Rich, all determined, sexy and manly.
They exited the common room with the headmistress, Rich and Professor Longbottom. The teachers and Rich continued walking and him and Jack stopped and spoke to Al, Scorpius and Rose in the hall.
Jack couldn't help but smile at Hugo as he explained to his family and Jack knew it was because he was proud of him. He liked that he stuck up for his sister and that he wasn't scared that Rich was older – it added to his attraction and well Jack knew he was screwed. He had well and truly fallen for his best friend.
(Time Skip)
Hugo and Jack were at Hogsmeade Christmas shopping, they had enjoyed a snowball fight on the walk to the village. Jack had called it to a stop abruptly as Hugo had pinned him on the floor, and straddled him, ready to throw snow in his face. Jack stared up into those god damn crystal clear baby blues and he was so tempted to reach up and kiss him.
He had surrendered and Hugo climbed off, satisfied he had won the snowball fight. Jack was annoyed, Hugo was completely unaware of the affect he had on him. His red hair was wonderful and he wanted to feel what the hair felt like, when running fingers through it, he also had such beautiful eyes, eyes which Jack spent many hours dreaming of.
He loved Hugo's freckles and often wondered what it would be like to place a kiss on each one. Some days he dealt well with his unrequited love, but today it made him feel a bit depressed. Why couldn't he like girls, or at least like a boy that was gay and liked him back.
Fair enough he didn't know for sure if Hugo was straight, most likely was. But he hadn't really shown an interest in any girls in particular and when he did speak about girls and other teenager things with the other dorm mates, Jack though he sounded false. But then maybe he was just reading into it, hoping and clinging onto that hope, like the sad loved up fool that he was.
Hugo watched as his friend once again retreated in on himself, obviously deep in thought about something. Jack seemed to be keeping something from him lately and he hated not knowing everything that was in his mind.
Hugo had plenty of friends, both male and female, but he would always gravitate to Jack. He enjoyed his company the most. Jack always knew what to say and he could read Hugo's moods perfectly, knowing when he needed quiet, or someone to talk to, or a joke and a laugh. Jack was the perfect friend to Hugo and he felt bad that he couldn't speak to him about what was on his mind.
Hugo felt a bit weird himself, he couldn't pin point it, just the atmosphere around them changed after the snowball fight.
They were having a great time, he loved making Jack laugh and smile, he had managed to pin Jack to the ground and was about to rub snow in his face. When he noticed Jack was staring up at him, looking deep into his eyes and he momentarily paused.
Jack had Hazel eyes and Hugo had spent many hours over the years looking at them. They changed colour, depending on what colour clothes Jack was wearing or what light he was in and even his mood. His eyes contained glints of many colours. Their predominant colour seems to be a pale- to medium-golden brown, especially radiating out from around the pupil. So his eyes had a brownish-green appearance. Hugo thought when looking down at Jack, in the snow that his Hazel eyes were very beautiful.
He was pleased when Jack broke the trance he was in, and he climbed off him. He couldn't understand why he only just noticed how wonderful Jack's eyes were. He didn't tell Jack, he didn't want him to think he was being sappy or, well he didn't know what else, he was trying to come to terms with the discovery of Jack's beautiful eyes.
"Are you sulking because you lost the snowball fight?" Hugo joked, trying to get Jack's previous good mood back.
Jack gave a small sad smile, "No. Just thinking about Christmas. Got lots of shopping to still do" he replied and Hugo knew that wasn't the real reason, but he sensed Jack didn't want to talk about it, so he didn't push it.
Hugo had always envied Jack, he was fortunate looking, with good features and nice eyes and hair colour. He had fantastic Hazel eyes, lovely light brown hair, he wore his hair shorter than he did, but it suited him and he had such a happy go lucky face. His smile was natural and his teeth were white and straight, so when he smiled it lit up his whole face and the whole room. He had small dimples when he smiled, which the Hogwarts girls would moon over. Hugo just let his red hair fall however he wished, but Jack had cut and styled his hair, using gel to help it spike up and it really suited him. Hugo knew he would look stupid if he tried that, so he just grew it slightly and let it fall naturally into a style.
Thinking this over as they silently walked to Hogsmeade Hugo was surprised and admitted to himself that Jack was a good looking boy, very handsome and he had the cheeky chap look about him. He wondered why Jack hadn't shown any interest in the girls, they fawned over him and many tried to get his attention.
Hugo envied Jack as he hated his bright red hair, his ghastly freckles and his boring blue eyes. He disliked the silence between them and blurted, "You're so lucky"
Jack turned to him and frowned slightly, "How so Hugo? Give me a clue here, that was a random and broad statement" he smiled at Hugo's shocked face expression, he obviously hadn't meant to say that out loud.
Hugo chuckled, "Sorry. I meant you were born with such natural good looks, effortless. You don't even have to try. Girls just love you. Whereas I take a lot to get used to. People have to get over the shock of seeing the flaming red hair and freckles and well, not many people like ginger hair and freckles" he whined.
Jack took a moment to digest what Hugo had just said. Firstly he had said he was good looking, his heart rate sped up at that. Hugo thought he was good looking. Then he mentioned the girls loving it, he couldn't give a rat's ass if the girls loved it, he only wanted Hugo to notice. Then Hugo shocked him, by putting himself down, Hugo honestly thought he wasn't good looking. Well that wouldn't do would it.
Jack smiled up at him, Hugo was taller than him, "Don't be ridiculous. Your hair is unique, not boring brown. I like your hair, it looks wonderful when you're sat in front of the fire or when the sun is beating down on it, and it's hypnotizing. There is nothing wrong with ginger hair, and if the students of Hogwarts cannot appreciate that, then more fool them. As for your freckles, again they make you unique. My dimples are just dimples, same as anyone else's dimples. Your freckles are unique, even other people with freckles won't look the same, as the formation of the freckles will be different on each person."
He took a quick breath and continued, "Why the sudden downer about your looks? You're an attractive boy Hugo, don't dwell on it. Besides its not all about looks, you have the best character and personality I have ever come across" and then he blushed and turned away, thinking about his dreams where, he had did just that, and come across Hugo.
Hugo laughed, "No need to blush Jack. Were best friends, I can take a few compliments from you, even if you're only trying to make me feel better, and I do – feel better. Thank you" Hugo had actually thought the blush looked lovely, but he was still reeling from his brain bombarding him with thoughts of Jack and how he was attractive.
Jack hadn't even got started on all the compliments he could bestow on Hugo, he hadn't even mentioned how wonderful his eyes were, but he didn't want to embarrass himself further and kept those thoughts to himself.
"Did you hear that the sixth year girls made a list of the sixth year boys? Scorpius got hold of it, apparently he's top of the list. Figures, the bloke is a walking talking sex symbol" he hadn't meant it like that and watched as Jack looked surprised by the statement.
"You think Scorpius Malfoy is attractive?" he wasn't sure what to feel about that, happy that Hugo found a boy attractive, it was a hint that maybe he liked men. But then he was jealous that he liked Scorpius, yes he was an attractive man, Jack couldn't deny that, but he was too attractive, too perfect – he liked Hugo because he was good looking, but also normal, he was perfect, a good balance. Scorpius Malfoy was just weird, no one should be that good looking, it wasn't natural, too much of a pretty boy.
Hugo blushed, "No. Well yes but no. He's like a brother, gross. But I'm not thick enough to think he is ugly. The guy just oozes sex appeal, just good genetics I guess. Just because I can admit he's attractive, doesn't mean I fancy him. That would be weird, for one he's Scorpius, like my brother or something, then he's basically in love with Rose and they will eventually get together and finally I'm straight" he should of maybe said the last one first, being straight was probably the most important one.
Jack allowed himself a small satisfied smile, maybe Hugo wasn't 100% straight after all. He had used the 'I'm straight' excuse last and well he obviously noticed Jack's looks and Scorpius too, he must have been looking.
"Don't Worry Hugo. I won't take the piss, I too think Scorpius Malfoy is rightfully placed at the top of the list. That guy is like a male model or something" he joked.
Hugo felt weird. It was nice that Jack was making him feel better by admitting he too thought Scorpius was attractive, but he also felt a weird stab of jealousy. Why had Jack noticed Scorpius' looks in the first place?
Hugo gave a shaky laugh, "Yeah, Rose says he's like a Ken or Barbie doll. He shaved his hair once because he got fed up with the attention. Uncle Draco when mental. Never seen him so mad – I think it traumatised Scorpius, he will forever have long hair, just to appease his dad." And he laughed a genuine laugh, Scorpius would keep his hair long, because Rose loved it.
Then Jack had to rein in his emotions as Hugo said, "I bet if the fourth year girls started a list you'd be number one, or top three at least."
Jack managed to stop himself from throwing himself at Hugo, but he couldn't stop the smile that spread across his face.
Hugo was smiling also, Jack had smiled and it had lit up his whole face. The mood had been lightened and both boys were now happy once again.
They returned to their dorm room many hours later and spent the time before dinner wrapping up their gifts.
"So are you looking forward to Rose's Christmas party?" Hugo asked Jack. Jack looked rather cute – wait what! Since when has he described Jack as cute? Well he did have tape in his hair and was struggling to wrap a present for his sister.
Jack huffed and threw the present, unwrapped on his bed. Hugo shook his head and picked it up, wrapping it effortlessly and handing it to him.
"How did you do that?" He was in ewe.
Hugo chuckled, "Mum used to let me help wrap presents and dad was useless so, Rose or I would have to wrap mum's Christmas, birthday, anniversary presents from dad." He offered as an explanation.
He leaned forwards and Jack swore his heart stopped beating, Hugo was so close to his face, but then he tugged a piece of tape out of his hair and moved away. He waited for his heart rate to return to normal, for one wonderful moment he thought Hugo was going to kiss him.
"So are you looking forward to the Christmas party?" he asked again.
Jack was, all the students invited were looking forward to it. Rose had set up a secret Santa and he had drawn Hugo, the odds were very unlikely. He even wondered if Rose had tampered with it somehow, so he was sure to get Hugo – but then he couldn't be sure.
"Yeah, should be fun. Might get to taste some alcohol and the girls are planning spin the bottle and other various games" he told Hugo.
Hugo smiled, but really didn't feel like smiling. Merlin he hadn't considered the party games, most people will be expecting him to get all excited over some girl and he might get dared to kiss one. He didn't dislike girls – no. He just was scared he guessed, he felt nervous and sick at the thought of having his first kiss in front of everyone and maybe being humiliated as he might kiss badly.
Jack placed his hand on his leg and he relaxed under the familiar gesture, "Hugo, it's alright. You don't have to participate in any games if you don't want to and well they can't force you to do anything" he kindly said.
Hugo frowned, ever since their Hogsmeade trip he had been thinking of Jack in ways that a friend shouldn't think about a friend. Especially a friend that was a boy. He was confused and worried and maybe even scared. He wasn't gay, he can't be gay. "I'll play. Besides I want to get my first kiss out of the way and the girls will be more confident at the party" he defiantly said.
He watched as Jack's eyes held a flicker of hurt and then Jack removed his hand and continued his wrapping in silence.
Jack was hurt by his words, he didn't know what he was expecting. He knew Hugo would want to experience normal teenage milestones, first kiss, and girlfriend – merlin forbid sex. But what hurt was Hugo's defiant declaration, strongly and firmly saying he wanted his first kiss with a girl. Jack knew he was being ridiculous, Hugo wouldn't save his first kiss for him. But now Hugo had openly confirmed that, it stung.
"What about you? Got your eye on any girls?" Hugo asked, not even realising he was way off.
Jack laughed, "No Hugo. No I don't. Now if you'll excuse me I, I have your present to wrap and I want to do it in private." He picked up a bag and wrapping paper and left the dorm room. He just needed to get away from the oblivious and sometimes hurtful friend. He knew he didn't do it on purpose, but blimey is sucked.
He has actually got Hugo two presents, one from him as his secret Santa, but Hugo wouldn't know that was from him. Then the second present was from Jack, and Hugo would know it was from him.
Hugo was left feeling guilty and he didn't know why. He hadn't done anything wrong and he was only trying to cheer Jack up, with talk of girls, kissing and the party.
Hugo had picked some random Ravenclaw for his secret Santa and he just picked an equally random gift, a boring and useful homework planner. Rose loved them and she was a Ravenclaw, he couldn't be bothered to think too hard about his gifts.
He felt a bit sick thinking of his first kiss, when he was younger he always imagined it would be perfect and with someone he loved. But he had no interest in anyone and he didn't want to be the only person to not kiss anyone. Besides hopefully he would have had some alcohol or something and he can get the courage to go through with the kiss.
He hadn't thought about kissing anyone – well no, that was a lie. He had spent ten minuets staring at Jacks lips the other day, they are so full and plump, really big soft lips and he was mesmerised by them. He wondered what it would be like to kiss them – but he then stopped that train of thought and shoved it away. He was angry at himself for allowing his thoughts to stray that way. Jack was his straight best friend and he, well he was straight too. He did NOT like boys, no.
Come to think about it, Jack hadn't kissed anyone either. But then that was normal, there will still a few fourth year boys and girls who hadn't had their first kiss. Hugo just didn't want to be the last one to kiss someone.
The evening of the party, and the student population from third year up were very excited. Hugo was nervous but wanted to enjoy the last evening with Jack and his others friends, he wouldn't see Jack much over the holidays. They had arranged for him to go to Jacks and join his family Christmas party, as Rose, Al and Scorpius were going to James' Christmas party, but he was too young and wasn't invited. He didn't mind he got to spend another Christmas party with Jack – bonus really.
Hugo was a bit clueless when it came to fashion, but Rose and his family had helped him out and he was wearing a pair of smart dark blue jeans and a nice long sleeve, dark green, plain V-neck, cashmere jumper. It was a gift from Draco. He'd never wore it as it was too expensive and a bit posh, but as it was a special occasion he had put it on.
Hugo turned and was shocked to see Jack staring at him, "What? Do I look stupid or something?" he asked, feeling less confident now.
Jack couldn't believe how a simple expensive jumper could make Hugo look so stunning. He definitely didn't look stupid, is was definitely the or something. "No not stupid. You look really good, I've not seen that jumper before. Its nice." He told Hugo.
Hugo shrugged, "Draco got it for me, what with being gay I guess he has good taste in clothes" he off handily replied.
Jack was frowning at him, he looked annoyed too. "What?" he didn't know what he had said to annoy him?
"That's a bit stereotypical don't you think. Just because Draco is gay doesn't mean he must be good with fashion. Yes he is, but not because he is gay, because he was raised in a wealthy family, that were used to the best of everything. Your Uncle Harry's gay and his dress sense is rubbish. Draco clearly dresses him." He was a bit annoyed at Hugo, generalising all gay people like that, it was stupid.
He himself knew he was gay, he had no interest in girls and he wasn't particularly fashion aware. He wasn't oblivious but he didn't have natural talent like Draco or Scorpius, when it came to dressing.
Hugo put his hand on Jack's shoulder. He looked like he needed to relax, "Chill out Jack. Sorry I didn't mean it as an insult. I'm not homophobic or anything, just I guess, there are a lot of misconceptions around gay people and I just didn't think about it" he squeezed his shoulder, wondering why he had gotten so worked up.
"Come on lets head to the party" he said in a soothing and calming voice.
Jack smiled at him, "Sorry. I just thought you were being a bit unfair to gay people. I guess I knew you didn't mean any harm by it" and they walked to the shared common room together.
The place looked great and lots of students were already there. From third years, right up to seventh years. They put their secret Santa presents on the table marked 'fourth years' and went to get a drink.
Hugo saw that Finnegan had poured something into the fruit punch – most likely alcohol. He wasn't going to complain he wanted to taste alcohol and enjoy the night of firsts.
Soon Rose was bossing everyone around and telling the students to gather in groups, corresponding with their year they were in. Michelle the popular Gryffindor girl was nominated present giver and she picked up the gifts, called the name and handed it to the relevant student.
She smiled coyly at Hugo when she handed his over and she battered her eye lashes, Hugo was oblivious and Jack had to lock his jaw, to fight the scathing comment he wanted to throw in her face.
Jack had never really liked Michelle, she was a huge flirt and was working her way through the fourth year boys. She had sat next to him once at breakfast, Hugo was busy talking to Rose at the Ravenclaw table. She was arrogant and cocky and had the gall to place her hand very high up his thigh and then slowly move it towards his cock.
He snapped at her, told her she should be ashamed of herself and to have a bit more self-respect. He told her that her disgusting actions may work on the more desperate and horny boys, but he had standards and wouldn't touch her with a ten foot barge poll. She was a pure blood and had no idea about that muggle term, but she got Jack's meaning and she hated him ever since.
Jack tried to ignore the blatant flirting she was doing with Hugo, instead he concentrated on Hugo's reaction to his secret Santa, as he had got it for him after all.
Rose had made sure that all gifts had the same wrapping paper and gift tags, also the same handwriting – so there was no way of telling who got Hugo his present.
Hugo smiled and shook the present, "Just open it" Jack laughed, Hugo always delighted in trying to guess things before opening them.
Hugo tore of the paper and was presented with a medium sized rectangle box. He opened it and found a wizards chess piece, it was hand carved from Rosewood and it was a knight. Anyone who knew Hugo well, knew he loved wizard's chess and he was currently building a collection of different chess pieces and themed chess sets. He has remarked that he wanted a Rosewood set as they were beautifully carved and had a nice colour to them. Hugo enjoyed collecting piece by piece, instead of buying the whole set in one go.
Whoever got him this knew that he loved chess, that he was collecting rosewood pieces, they knew he didn't have a knight yet and they obviously spent over the allocated secret Santa budget? Hugo was speechless, he couldn't believe someone in his year would go to all that trouble to find that much out about him.
He swallowed, and quietly said, "Thank you. Whoever got me this, its perfect and words cannot say how happy I am with it" and he carefully put it back in the box, shrunk it and put it in his pocket.
Jack blushed but made sure he wasn't facing Hugo, he didn't want him to know it was from him.
The present giving was over and everyone was mingling and socialising. Hugo was still a bit shocked at his thoughtful and wonderful gift.
Rose came over to him and asked if he was enjoying the party. He suspected she was checking to make sure he hadn't drunk too much alcohol, being the protective big sister.
"It's a great party Rose, well done. My secret Santa gift was lovely. I was surprised, I was expecting a practical joke or something. Instead I got a beautiful and personal gift, way over the allocated budget." He honestly told her.
She smiled that knowing smile of hers, patted his back, "Well someone obviously likes you very much Hugo, maybe you should try and find out who it was" and she left to go dance with Scorpius.
Hmm well he had no idea how he was going to find that out. Rose was such a know it all, she was so perceptive and just knew everything. Well apart from the obvious and huge infatuation Scorpius had with her – she was aware of everything.
Instead of stressing over the gift he had a few more drink and chatted with Jack. Jack always made him laugh and he couldn't help but be relaxed and happy in his company.
Michelle declared it was spin the bottle time and Hugo shrugged and sat on the floor cross legged, next to Jack. Whilst everyone was getting ready and sitting down, Hugo glanced around. Al was snogging Natalie Longbottom's face off, Scorpius was hiding from some tarty girl and Rose wasn't around.
Michelle started the game and various people were forced to kiss, Hugo could feel knots in his stomach. He didn't want people saying he was a lousy kisser, but he was fed up with stressing over his first kiss, he wanted it out the way so he could move on.
Eventually the bottle stopped at him and he sucked in a breath, then it was spinning again, he watched as it went around and around, whoever it stopped on Hugo was going to have to kiss.
It stopped and Hugo thought he heard Jack groan next to him. It had landed on Michelle, she pushed up onto her knees and walked on her knees to the middle of the circle. Hugo steadied his nerves and copied her, meeting her in the middle.
He was aware that everyone was watching them, he awkwardly placed his hands on her hips and she put her arms around his neck.
"Don't worry Hugo I won't bite. Not this time anyway." And she giggled.
Jack snorted, she was insinuating that she would get the chance to kiss Hugo again. Well I guess she hadn't had Hugo yet, one of the few boys in Gryffindor who she hadn't scarred for life.
Hugo laughed nervously and then tilted his head the opposite way to Michelle and they both moved forwards, locking lips.
He didn't want people to think he was nervous or chicken and he wanted Michelle to tell people he as a good kisser. So he made the effort and didn't pull away immediately. Instead he deepened the kiss and put more into it.
Someone wolf whistled and one of Michelle's friends said, "alright enough you two. Get a room!" and they broke apart.
Hugo returned to his position on the floor and had a silly smile on his face. He caught Jack rolling his eyes.
"What?" Hugo asked him.
Jack stood and said he wasn't interested in playing the game anymore. Hugo apologised to the group and stood also, to go after Jack.
He grabbed his wrist and pulled him back. "What Jack? What's your problem?" he snapped.
Jack shook his head, "You. You go on about how you want your first kiss to be special and then you go and share that with, Michelle, the sixth year bike, everyone rides her" his voice was low but clear and angry.
Hugo frowned, "What do you care? I can kiss whoever I want Jack. So what if it was Michelle, it's not like I'm going to date her. It was a silly party game. Why don't you just relax and come play. Maybe you can have your first kiss? There are plenty of girls that would love to kiss you" he hoped being complimentary would soften Jack up.
No it made it worse. He yanked his wrist free – Hugo wasn't aware he still had hold of it.
"I don't want to play that stupid game. No one in that circle deserves my first kiss." And he stormed off.
Hugo felt awful, he didn't want to fight with Jack, He looked around for Scorpius or Rose. Maybe they could offer some advice. He couldn't see them anywhere.
About ten minutes later Professor Longbottom came in, declared the party over, told people to go back to their common rooms immediately and to avoid the corridor on the left. Something had obviously happened. Hugo felt dread, he knew it involved someone he knew, he could feel it in his gut.
Out of nowhere Jack appeared at his side and took his hand, he didn't question the gesture, it felt comfortable and it calmed him.
Professor Longbottom come over, "Hugo, go pack your trunk. Your dad and mum are here and they want to take you home tonight, instead of going on the train tomorrow" something about Neville's voice told him it was serious and he wasn't to argue.
He nodded, "W-where shall I go once I'm done?" he stammered. Jack squeezed his hand and he managed to finish the sentence.
Neville gave a small sad smile, "To the hospital wing. Your family will explain when you get there. Try not to worry too much" and he left.
Hugo and Jack left together. Jack held his hand all the way to Gryffindor tower, but released it once they reached the portrait of the fat lady. Hugo missed the warmth of his hand, but didn't have time to question why Jack held it in the first place, why it felt so nice and why he missed his hand once it was withdrawn, he was too busy worrying.
He went on autopilot and packed his trunk, in silence.
Jack helped him carry it to the hospital wing and they paused outside the doors.
"I guess this is goodbye. I'll see you at my Christmas party. That is, if you still want to come?" Jack asked.
Hugo smiled and pulled him into a gentle and friendly hug, "Bye Jack. Thanks for helping me. I'll write to you, I promise. And yes if I'm allowed I will love to come to your party still. I'm sorry about earlier, I didn't mean to upset you."
Jack smiled and hugged him a little tighter, he enjoyed the feeling of being in his arms, and then he pulled back. "Go Hugo, your family need you" and he watched as Hugo pushed open the door and dragged his trunk inside.
Then he slowly and reluctantly returned to the common room. Everyone was questioning what happened, they had worked out it had something to so with Hugo and his family. Someone also pointed out that Rich hadn't returned and maybe something happened with Rose and Rich.
Jack said he didn't know what happened, and that they shouldn't gossip and he went to bed. Worrying about Hugo and hoping he would be alright.