A List of Seven

by weasleykingrocks

Scorpius Malfoy comes up with a list of seven goals to conquer over the seven years at Hogwarts to help him achieve what his bullied heart desires the most: popularity. But things are rarely as simple as making a list. A teen story trope salad; rated M for language and mature scenes.

7. Three of THREE

Alriiiiight. So this chapter was pretty much completed in Jan, but everything went to shit, and I never got around to posting it. But with some help, healing, lot of editing, and brand new energy, I'm back. *whoops in excitement*

But thank you - THANK YOU! - so much for all the love for the previous chapter, and for checking in. Fills me with joy! :)

Reminder - this story is rated M. Just saying.

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Disclaimer: Everything recognisable belongs to JKR. Copyright infringement is unintended.

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7. Three of THREE

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THREE: I will get ten Outstanding OWLs

(It is inevitable.)

---

"Have a seat, Mr. Malfoy."

Scorpius nods at Professor Boot who is seated right across him behind his table.

All fifth-years had scheduled a one-on-one Career Advice session with their Head of the House. They were well into April now, with the OWLs looming ominously on the horizon. Stories of fifth years having meltdowns had already started doing rounds, making the already nervous crowd even more jittery. Scorpius was not going to lie - he was feeling the heat as well. Rose had drawn up a schedule for all three of them, and between Quidditch practices, Magizoology project, and his OWLs revision, he barely had time to relax.

Sometimes, Rose would surprise him with chocolates if he started ranting about the workload. Sometimes he'd find message notes from her, ranging from 'You can do this!' tucked in his Numerology and Grammatica, to 'My dad told me to school your arse in grades. Put your best foot forward and fight me.' in his pocket, which often made him laugh and improved his spirits about the OWLs immensely.

The other way he could get a breather was if he was able to sneak out of his dorm in the middle of the night and catch a ten-minute ride on his broomstick. He'd been discreet so far and he sincerely hopes he doesn't get caught anytime soon. These midnight broom rides, of pure solitude with no one around, bring him a sense of calmness that he desires so terribly in these stress-driven times.

"There's nothing to worry about, Mr. Malfoy," says Boot, surveying him over his glasses, noticing his tense face as he sits down, "It's just a quick chat to help you choose your subjects next year."

Future plans, yes, of course.

One problem: Scorpius has no idea about it.

He'd thought that once he graduates, he'd be helping his father out at the apothecary they own. Scorpius loved working with Potions and had felt that he was a natural fit for a Potioneering role. But after seeing the passion with which Rose and Lysander talked about being an Auror and Curse Breaker respectively, he seriously wondered if being a Potioneer was really his calling.

Was he simply settling for a comfortable option?

"I haven't given it much thought," confesses Scorpius, "My family owns an apothecary, and I am expected to take over someday. But I'd also like to keep my options open. I haven't really decided though."

Boot looks at him inquisitively for a few moments before speaking again, "If you'd like to keep options open and want to take your time with your career options, I'd suggest you look at Transfiguration, Potions, Charms, Defence Against The Dark Arts, and Herbology at NEWTs level. With this subject group, you can cover nearly fifty percent of the career options immediately after Hogwarts. All teachers in these subjects demand Exceeds Expectations grade in the OWLs. You've been doing brilliantly so far in all your subjects, so I don't think that should be a concern."

Scorpius nods mutely, a little nervous. Boot hands him a bunch of pamphlets he knows he will have to read up before the sixth year begins so that he can choose his subjects.

"But maybe we can try narrowing down your choices a little," says Boot, straightening in his seat, "Among the other five subjects you currently have, are there any that hold your interest? Something that you would enjoy pursuing at an advanced level?"

"Care of Magical Creatures," replies Scorpius, almost immediately.

Boot cracks a smile. "Yes. I have also heard that you're in the final round of your Magizoology club contest."

"Yes," Scorpius gushes. He was so close to victory! "There are only two other competitors."

"Maybe Magizoology is your calling. If you win the contest, the summer would be a good time to explore your interests in this field. For Magizoology, Charms, Potions Care of Magical Creatures, Herbology will be the subjects to look at. There are also higher studies options around the world where you can study the wizarding wildlife in detail. It can take anywhere between three years to seven years. Most Magizoologists go into either teaching and research. Many in research also specialise in healing. Here -"

Scorpius raises his eyebrows as Boot hands him another pamphlet on educational institutions for Magizoology.

Was teaching something he wanted to do? And maybe publish books about his discoveries? And what about being a Healer for magical creatures?

He's not too sure. But the idea of studying for another couple of years sounds fun!

"With Potioneering, it's tricky," says Boot sitting up straighter in his seat, "The best way to advance in this line is to apprentice because Potions is highly experiential. You have the pure healing sector, and then there's criminalistics, a recently established department in Law Enforcement. And then there's the beauty and cosmetics line that has a lot of demand. I understand your parents' apothecary focuses more on the healing line?"

"Yes."

"Is that something you wish to pursue or expand upon?"

Scorpius shifts in his seat. He didn't really know the answer to that.

"It's okay if you can't comment on that, and simply want to explore your options in Potioneering. In that case, Care of Magical Creatures, Charms, Defence Against The Dark Arts, Transfiguration, Herbology would be your relevant subjects, along with Potions. There are a few apprenticeships around the world that can you truly bring out the best in you. One of them is with Aline Jigger-"

Scorpius starts; he knows that name very well, of course! She was the author of Magical Drafts and Potions: Volume 2, and the granddaughter of Arsenius Jigger, the author of the first volume of Magical Drafts and Potions. She was known for her work on Dragon Pox. She'd been working on finding its cure for well over a decade now. He remembered writing to her when he was younger; she was his idol! But he never received a reply. She was also a notorious recluse.

"She has internships?" he asks breathlessly. It would be the best thing - EVER!- if he has the option of interning with her. He wouldn't have to look at anything else at all if he gets through.

"It's been a while since she took anyone in from Hogwarts. The last time she took an intern from here - I think some six, maybe seven, years ago - he'd tried to steal all her work. Was a bit of nasty business really."

Yes, Scorpius remembers that story. The ten-year-old in him was absolutely horrified for his idol.

"But she is expected to resurface to the wizarding world in the next couple of years, hopefully bringing in some positive news about her work. So keep an eye out for her. Other than her, there are a few others - Mortmorency, Ozols, Winikus -brilliant people. I would also highly recommend you speak to Professor Urquhart about your further interest in potions. He would positively help you mold your work in the next two years."

Scorpius exhales. The session was supposed to help him have clarity on his future, not make it murkier. "Well, I think I am more confused than before about what I want to do."

Boot lets out a hearty laugh. "You would be surprised to hear how common that dilemma is, especially among Ravenclaws. The thing with us Ravenclaws is that we are highly curious about the world around us, and have always felt we can do so much because we are that talented. It's absolutely fine to feel confused about your future right now - you aren't the only one in your year. Sixteen-year-olds being crystal clear about what they want to be years from now - now that's a rarity! At this stage, I would recommend simply focusing on your upcoming exams and the Magizoology project. The summer's a good time to ponder over your subjects for next year, and I am quite sure, Mr. Malfoy, that you would eventually figure out who you want to be. OWLs are not the end of the world, and neither are the NEWTs. You can always take up supplementary classes later."

Scorpius shoots him an uncertain grin.

"Goodness heavens! It's already past curfew," exclaims Boot as he notes the clock on the wall behind Scorpius, "I think you should head to your dormitory immediately - we can always continue this discussion later on some other day when you're ready. If any prefects or teacher find you, you may ask them to speak to me."

Considering this a polite dismissal, Scorpius bids him goodnight and walks towards the door. He sure had a lot to think about now.

He is, however, surprised when Boot calls out his name just when he was about to close the door behind him.

"Yes, Professor?"

Boot is regarding him curiously, a light amusement on his face, "I was honestly surprised that we never came around to discussing this. But since we are discussing different career options after Hogwarts and you seem open - have you considered playing Quidditch? Professionally?"

Now that takes him for a wild surprise.

"P-professional Quidditch?!" Scorpius splutters.

That thought was absolutely fucking wild.

He never believed he was that good. The team lost their opener against Hufflepuff for Merlin's sake. Could he-?

"Scouts often come to matches played between January and June, and they start recruiting students in their sixth year and beyond for trials, often held during the summer months. As you already know, James Potter was recruited last summer before the seventh year for Chudley Cannons. If Quidditch has your interest, maybe we can tell the scouts that you're interested."

"You think I can make it?" asks Scorpius. He is rather aware of how dazed he sounds.

This easily overwhelmed idiot was the fucking captain of the Ravenclaw team. Merlin!

"Personally, I think you're extremely talented. One of the finest players I've seen in the recent years." Boot smiles warmly at him.

Scorpius inadvertently puffs out his chest, feeling proud. He can almost picture Rose tumbling out of her chair in laughter if she ever saw him right now. She would surely have some peacock-related comments on the same.

But this was a phenomenal career choice, wasn't it?

"So let me know. We can always discuss this when you rejoin school next academic year."

Scorpius bundles back excitedly to his dorm where Lysander is up completing his homework.

Ten minutes later, Lysander is seated at the end of Scorpius's bed, listening to him wide-eyed. "That would be bloody brilliant, innit?" Lysander grins, "Scorpius Malfoy, beater, Bats. Or Magpies? I'll mooch season tickets off you. You have to give me season's tickets!"

"Let me first be even considered by a team. All this excitement is premature," interrupts Scorpius hurriedly, a slight nervousness rumbling his stomach.

The whole - Scorpius can't even come up with a word for the same! - felt so unreal. He was still digesting it.

It felt like such a big deal. Playing Quidditch for a profession.

Lysander looks even more pumped now, "Not all of us have the Head of our house recommending us to try out for professional quidditch!"

Just then, Alex lets out a snore in the bed next to them, and something deflates within him.

"What's wrong?" frowns Lysander, "You know you'll be excellent at it!"

"But doesn't it seem too farfetched?" asks Scorpius, almost desperately.

Lysander looks taken aback. "Why would you think that?!"

Scorpius doesn't know if the doubt that's arising within him has anything to do with his talent, luck, or the worry that his surname may not help things.

"I'm no one to call someone's dream too far-fetched," says Lysander looking at him rather seriously, "What I know is that you can get things done if you set your mind to it. Remember how you sailed through Quidditch trials in your third year after being rejected in the second year? And now, you're the fucking captain of the team! That's growth, bud, and you will only grow better and stronger."

Scorpius surveys his best friend who's pretty much looking at him as if he's being ridiculous.

There's one more thing that he believes may able to help him shortlist his career choices.

"How did you know that you want to be a curse-breaker?" asks Scorpius, leaning back against his pillows

"Me?" Lysander looks highly surprised at the change of topic.

"Yeah."

A dreamy look takes over his face, "I just did. I first heard about it from Rose's uncle Bill. He used to tell us all these tales about his adventures when he was young and when he'd started out after Hogwarts - he'd been employed with Gringotts. There are certain dangers that are involved, absolutely, and the life of a curse breaker is rarely what we call stable or comfortable, but I want that thrill, the job of decoding and breaking dark curses. And then, of course, there was the travel-"

Scorpius smiles. He could relate to the excitement over travel - kind of.

"I used to travel a lot with my parents when we were much younger. While my brother fell in love with the animals and communicating with them, I fell in love with discovering new sights and meeting new people, you know?" Lysander lets out a happy sigh, "Sometimes, travelling can really make you realise how big the world is. It can humble you."

"Why Scamander, such a profound thing to say!" guffaws Scorpius, "But yes, I see what you're talking about. Have recently discovered the love for travelling."

Lysander's eyes light up. "How about you and I go on a trip before we graduate?"

"Are you serious?" Scorpius stares back blankly at Lysander.

"Yes! Why not?"

Scorpius is taken aback, and yet -

Really, why not?

"Done," grins Scorpius, "Summer before the seventh year then? We'll officially be adults by then!"

"Done," says Lysander, extending a hand to shake, which Scorpius grabs onto immediately.

"Well then; looks like my summer trip is more sorted than my future," Scorpius says weakly.

"Oh come on Scorp!" Lysander says, propping his chin on his palm and looking at him, "You can choose to be a Magizoologist or a Potioneer or a fricking Quidditch Player because you are that good. Believing that you can get shit done is half the battle won."

"Well, let's see how that pans out."

Maybe he just had to wait for his "moment" of clarity.

---

Scorpius loves flying.

If someone had asked him a few years ago whether there was anything he loved as much as Potions, he wouldn't have been able to come up with an answer. But Hogwarts allowed him to explore an interest, and over the last three years, he'd grown to love flying just as much as he'd loved Potions. He'd won the internship with Neptune Egwu in Greece and would leave for the same three weeks into their summer break. He's very excited about it. But Scorpius knows he loves flying more!

Ever since Professor Boot had given him the idea that he could possibly consider Quidditch as a potential career option, he simply couldn't get the thought out of his head. It felt like his entire world had changed! The idea of playing his favorite game for a living makes him unbelievably thrilled.

Scorpius Malfoy, playing professionally for Magpies or the Wasps, or Puddlemere, or even representing his country!

It was crazy overwhelming.

But at the same time, Scorpius is skeptical about his chances of making it through to the big leagues, of whether he'd be good enough to even make it to the junior leagues, forget sticking around for long to achieve international fame.

Ravenclaw had lost the final against Gryffindor and heartbreakingly so. They played well, one of their best games really, but in the end, Gryffindor was just better. James Potter got to have his last hurrah in his final year, having been taken back to the castle on his housemates' shoulders while carrying the Quidditch Cup. Scorpius had half expected his house to axe him as the captain, but to his incredible surprise (and gratitude), no one from his team even raised an eyebrow and simply focused their attention on the upcoming exams.

Scorpius zooms around the Quidditch pitch on his broom in silence, loving the rush when he increases his pace. At a time when his peers were cooped up in the library or their common rooms, cramming up everything since the OWLs were just about three weeks away, he was flying around on the pitch calming himself down.

It was around eleven in the night when he decided to catch a few laps before the lights dimmed everywhere. Fifth and seventh-year students were allowed to use the library till midnight and were often found revising together in small groups outside their common rooms.

Just as he'd predicted, Scorpius was in demand now that the OWLs were round the corner. He was tutoring his fellow classmates in Potions; Rose did the same for Charms and Lysander did for Ancient Runes and Arithmancy. To Scorpius's (not-so-secret, as per Lysander) amusement and thrill, Gracie Jones was one of his pupils. Lysander, the utter dick he was, often dropped by during these study sessions to attend when Gracie was there in the study group. He'd then later tease him about Gracie and Scorpius would come back to him about Justin (who also came with her), effectively shutting down his quips. Scorpius was amazed at himself being utterly confident in front of her, talking to her smoothly without barfing even once.

Maybe he had moved on from the tall-legged beauty, even though she had absolutely grown into her looks. He didn't remember much of her face as he spoke to her as he did of what he said (Asphodel's properties, and the right way to weigh nettles). That was certainly not the case before.

Scorpius starts when he spots a familiar redhead in the Ravenclaw stands. Even in the dark, he can make out her hair. It also helped that she'd cut her hair shorter just around New Year and often tied it up in a bun that was held together with a pencil. It made the curve of her neck stand out more often than it did before.

This is simply something he observed, yes. Nothing more.

He flies towards her; she is frowning at him, he can tell by the way she is standing.

"Geez Weasley, if you frown harder than that, your eyebrows will fall off!" he exclaims, hovering in front of her, "Shouldn't you be off completing the chapter on the first Muggle World War? What are you doing out here?"

"What are you doing out here?" Rose shoots back, crossing her arms, "I wanted to quickly check with you on the seven topics in Herbology you'd listed for us to cover over the weekend. But Lysander said you'd stepped out for a fly. It's well past midnight, Scorp!"

"Would you look at that? Rosie's breaking curfew!" he teases. Rose defying school rules was an extraordinary event, so this was really funny to him, "Such a rule-breaker. Wild soul on a roll. I am honestly honored that you did this for me!"

"Oh shut it you," she rolls her eyes. She then looks around nervously, "We need to leave before we're caught out here. There are teachers doing extra patrols, punishing those who are abusing the rather lenient curfew rules for exam time. Just last week, they caught eight couples engaging in activities-"

"What kind of activities?" teases Scorpius, mostly to see Rose splutter and blush as she gapes at him in surprise.

"Well, you know things!" she spits out, her face now shining red.

"What things exactly?" He waggles his eyebrows at her, trying to coax her to speak, but she only glares at him in response.

"Oh come on Scorpius! You know about what goes on around here. You can always refer to your own escapades during the summer." she says exasperatedly. Rather than feeling awkward about Rose bringing up his summer romance (because the only time this was discussed was when they'd caught up on each other's summer), he is amused at how cute she looks while she is flustered.

So he laughs. Loudly.

The sound echoes in the empty stadium and they hear a cranky, piercing "Who's there?!"

"Fuck, it's Filch" Scorpius hisses, lowering himself on his broom between the bleachers immediately, "How is the old toad still up?!"

Rose behind him lets out a groan as she too drops to the bleachers.

"I'd gone nearly five years without receiving single detention or losing points," she moans "Can't believe this is about to happen just when the OWLs are nearby. What if they penalised my grade during the OWLs? Filch being the sadistic tool he is might just go for detention. This is the worst thing that could happen to me!"

Scorpius rolls his eyes hard. This girl was such a lunatic at times. Obviously, nothing would happen to her grades.

But then, this was Filch. He was in fact sadistic and may not hesitate in giving them detention for being out past curfew or strike out hefty points from Ravenclaw. Filch couldn't care less about the fact that the OWLs were round the corner.

Just as he hears Filch calling out threateningly, asking the students to reveal themselves, Scorpius finds a narrow pathway between the stands, right ahead for them to escape from. But they'll have to be extremely quiet.

"Hop on," he hisses at Rose.

"What?"

"Onto the broomstick. I can take us out undetected."

"Do I look like I have a death wish?! I can't fly." she hisses furiously. Scorpius gapes at her.

"I'll fly us out. Sit behind me!"

"Scorp!"

"This is not the time to cry about your fear of flying! Would Prefect Rose Weasley really jeapordise her house's points as the year is about to close?"

There's a moments' silence before they hear Filch calling out again. Scorpius senses he is much closer than before.

"Rose!"

"I can't-"

"Do you trust me?"

"What?"

"Do you trust me?"

"Ye-yes!"

"Hop on and hold tight. I've got you."

The moment he feels Rose's arms wrap around his waist, and her timidly mumbling, 'Go', he shoots forward, turning sideways and escaping from the gap between the stands. Rose's grip on his waist tightens and he can feel her face buried in his shoulder. The cool air of the night hits his face as he soars high into the sky, definitely away from Filch's line of sight.

He is immediately distracted by the view from up from here. The view of Hogwarts against the night sky is simply magnificent.

Surely, surely, Rose would enjoy this view!

"Alright there, Weasley?" he calls breathlessly. The night sky was clear; stars were happily twinkling away, and the castle stood majestic against the landscape. He just flew around on most nights, rarely stopping to enjoy the view, "Like what you see?"

He senses Rose's lips mumbling something into his shoulder blade. He can practically feel the heat of her mouth burn through the jumper he was wearing.

Goosebumps erupt on the back of his neck.

He does NOT like how his body seems so sensitive around girls. And Rose, of all people.

He should not be reacting like this to her - it was wrong on so many levels!

"We need to be standing vertical as soon as possible! I need to feel the ground underneath my feet!" she whispers in his ear, sounding terrified. Her chin is resting on his shoulder and her lips dangerously close to his ears. He doesn't entirely hate the feeling right now, but he does hate how fucking hormonal he is! Stupid. Fucking. Hormones. "Do you even have an idea about the mountain of revision I have with me -"

"Weasley, take a moment out and breathe. Just enjoy the ride-"

"Scorpius!" she growls. Her grip around his waist tightens, "Let's please get back? I'll fail the exams if we don't get back on time."

Scorpius, however, has been feeling rather rebellious of late, and thus decides that Rose should experience how enthralling flying can really be. She's been worrying too much about the OWLs off late. It's time she let's go!

"Your every wish is my command, Rosie," he grins.

And then he dives.

Rose may or may not have screamed when that happened, because the noise had gotten muffled as she screamed into his shoulder, and he simply laughs, enjoying the sound of wind rushing by ears. The weather is perfect for a fly, the skies are clear, and there's no one to bother them.

"Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy! You sodding arse-" she screams into his ears, as they take a sharp turn towards the castle. He lets out another hearty laugh as Rose lets out another set of expletives.

Would Ron Weasley be impressed with her vocabulary at the moment? Yes, he would. Rose had mentioned that her father was quite the potty mouth in her family, but Scorpius feels that Rose can compete ably with him right now

Scorpius turns towards the Astronomy tower, very well knowing they could have a landing comfortable enough for Rose to dismount.

The wide balcony is thankfully unoccupied by rendezvousing couples. He lands smoothly on the balcony, his feet now touching the floor such that he can stand upright. Rose unmounts rather ungracefully, almost tripping on her feet. Her face is as white as fresh parchment as she looks at him in shock.

"Are you bloody mental?" Rose screeches. Scorpius is distracted by her hair, which was falling out of the bun she'd tied it up in, "I could have died if I had fallen!"

"No, you wouldn't have. Not with that grip," he replies, now nudging her to walk forward towards their common room.

Rose mumbles something under her breath that Scorpius assumes isn't something kind.

Their walk to the common room is brisk and quick with Rose always moving two steps ahead of him.

Alright, she was pissed. He does feel nervous - did he push it too far with her this time?

Scorpius catches hold of her arm as soon as they enter the common room, and blurts, "I'm sorry, alright? I thought it'd be fun and maybe you'd forget about the OWLs and just take a moment to enjoy this time. You've just been so stressed of late, I thought it could help you relax."

Rose looks stumped at his words, a far cry from the fury that had been radiating from her the entire journey back to their common room.

"Fine. I forgive you. But don't ever do that again!" she says softly.

"Fine!" he shrugs.

"Fine," she says conclusively, now turning away from him and heading towards the girls' dormitory, "Goodnight Scorp! Let's never speak of this night ever again!"

There's a tinge of disappointment, or rather annoyance, as Scorpius watches Rose walk upstairs to her dorm.

Flying, with him, was not that insufferable, was it?

---

Scorpius barely has time to ponder over Rose's dissatisfaction over flying with him, because OWLs are just three weeks away. Exam fever reaches its peak, every fifth year and seventh year pondering over notes judiciously wherever and whenever possible. Students are constantly talking, whining, and even crying about exams, and Scorpius feels that his brain is going to explode soon; there's just not enough time to get the revisions done!

Why the fuck did he ever decide to get ten Outstanding OWLs? Who the fuck was he trying to fool?

But he also knows he can't let himself down - he knows he's good at academics.

He fucking has to get to ten Outstanding OWLs. He won't settle for anything less.

So, he studies his arse off. He practices Transfiguration and Charms with Rose, goes over Defense spells with Albus, revises Astronomy in the night, plays Arithmancy flashcard games with Lysander, and Muggle studies flashcards with Rose, and revises Potions, Herbology Care of Magical Creatures with his study group attendees. And then there's History of Magic - well, Scorpius crams whatever is possible.

Two nights before the Charms exam, the first OWL, Scorpius is cooped up in the library with Rose and Lysander, furiously going over his notes. Rose excuses herself to pick up a book on unicorn blood, and Lysander is scribbling rapidly on a parchment, attempting to finish a Charms practice paper within a pre-decided time.

"I may just burn a hole through the parchment by the time I'm done with an exam," groans Lysander, shaking his right arm and flexing his fingers. He looks closely at his parchment and grimaces, "Good luck to all the professors who try to read my answers. My handwriting towards the end does not make any sense, even to me, anymore! Like what have I even written here?!"

"Where did you even get these questions from?" asks Scorpius, peering over a sheet that listed ten questions on Charms, before chuckling at Lysander's paper. He'd started off writing legibly, and the last few sentences had indeed become his words had become barely understandable scribbles.

"Lizzie from sixth year. She'd said these questions had come in last year," exhales Lysander, before resting his arms on the table, "Hell, I need a break." Saying so, he rests his head on his arms.

Scorpius sighs when he realises that Lysander is taking a short nap. He decides to wake him up in ten minutes, as he'd done previously many times in the last few weeks.

He gets up from his chair, looking to walk around for a bit and letting his limbs breathe as he'd been sitting for two hours straight. The library is sparsely populated, now more people looking to revise in their own dorms.

But just as he crosses the section on Wizarding Creatures, he spots Rose between the shelves, seated on the floor. She's buried her head in her arms, and to Scorpius's horror, shaking with silent sobs.

He is frozen in his spot. Should he go and talk to her or just let her be?

But then, he can't let her be all alone like this.

He walks quietly towards her and sits down next to her. Rose raises her head in alarm and her teary eyes widen at the sight of him.

He pulls out a Mars bar mini from his pocket (he had a personal stash of it by now) and offers it to her. She quietly takes it, mumbling, "Thanks."

"Do you want to talk about it?" asks Scorpius cautiously.

"Oh, it's the usual. No biggie. Just letting all of it out," laughs Rose thickly, a visible strain in her laugh. She wipes her nose, "The pressure to do well, and the fact that there is so much to do and so little time."

"Yeah the time is rather less," nods Scorpius in agreement, "But would any time be ever enough?"

"Yeah, you're right. I'd still be a hot mess even if the OWLs were three weeks or three months from now-"

"You will not be a mess!" he interrupts hotly, "You rarely allow things to take you down, Rose. And you will try your best to not let it happen this time as well. You know why? Because you're Rose-fucking-Weasley! If you ever fall, you'd also get back up and take things head-on because you're Rose fucking Weasley!"

"Really now?" croaks Rose, letting out a bark of laughter.

"Oh absolutely," says Scorpius, stretching his legs in front of him, "Rose Weasley gets up every day to achieve what she wants, right from showing some love to treacle tarts to kicking my arse in Charms."

"I do that, don't I?" A smug grin takes its place on her face, and Scorpius knows he is able to make Rose feel better.

While Rose giggles next to him as he lists off reasons why she can get what she wants, Scorpius decides that her laughter fills him with joy.

What makes it even better? That it's him making her laugh.

"How do you do this?" she sighs, bumping his shoulder with hers.

"Do what?" he asks, nonplussed.

"Stay so calm? Everyone's losing their shit right now! I know you also have your moments, but you still seem so well put together. And you have ten subjects with Quidditch and Magizoology club."

"Those Mars bar minis and notes really help," says Scorpius truthfully. Rose flushes pink, pleasing him a lot, but then he adds, "But there's flying as well. Gives me that breathing space I need. For those ten-fifteen minutes, I forget about the OWLs, and it's frankly quite liberating."

Rose looks so softly at him that Scorpius feels his cheeks turning hot.

Stupid. Fucking. Hormones.

"Can we fly tonight?"

Scorpius's eyes snap back up at her. She looks nervous. And shy. Did she really say that?

"You want to fly?" he asks blankly, "Like you want to fly with me?"

Rose's face turns pinker. "Yes, you honestly can't expect me to fly on my own! And last time wasn't actually that bad."

Scorpius's chest expands at the embarrassed grin that makes its way to Rose's face.

She had enjoyed flying with him.

"Lies, you really liked it," he smirks, and she simply rolls her eyes, her smile only becoming bigger, "Fine then, let's do it."

"Great." she beams slowly as she raises her eyes to meet his.

Scorpius catches his breath for a moment - she has really pretty eyes.

And have her eyes always crinkled at the corner like that when she smiles? He can count three -

His thoughts are interrupted as he hears a dull thud around the shelf they'd been leaning against, and quick 'ow' follows.

Which sounds suspiciously like Lysander.

Scorpius springs up from his seat, feeling as if he'd been caught doing something illegal. Which was ridiculous, because he was simply comforting a dear friend.

Yes, that's what he was doing now.

"So-uh-should we go now?" blabbers Scorpius, his heart racing. He is looking at a spot two inches left of Rose.

"Maybe after we wrap up today's revision." He can hear the confusion in her voice.

"Right. So - yes - let's get back."

Scorpius quickly heads to their seat, his heart in his mouth. Lysander is scribbling again on his parchment and doesn't look up when he sits down. Rose joins them a few seconds later. They study quietly till Madame Pomfrey announces that she'll close the library in five minutes.

Lysander excuses himself to put back the books he'd borrowed to study. Scorpius feels the hair on the back of his neck rise as he realises that he and Rose will be flying together now.

Just the two of them.

For some reason, he is very nervous. His palms are sweating already.

Rose lets out a wide yawn from next to him and says, looking rather apologetic, "I think I'll take a rain check on the broom ride. I'm really tired and want to sleep now."

Scorpius immediately agrees, terrifyingly relieved at the moment. "Sure, no problem. It wasn't like I was looking forward to getting clawed again or anything." he splutters. He hates how high and flighty his voice sounds now.

Rose scowls at him. "You barely got a scratch!"

Scorpius turns to her, amused. Riling up Rose delights him so much. "I am quite sure my waist is bruised given how tightly your arms were wound around me!"

"What did I just walk into?"

Rose and Scorpius immediately turn to see Lysander looking at them curiously, his eyes larger than usual.

Scorpius cringes when he realises what it may have sounded like to Lysander.

"Nothing," replies Rose, suddenly looking flustered. "Just an inside joke. We should go now - lots of sleep to catch up on."

As they pack up, Scorpius feels Lysander's piercing gaze on him, making him feel nervous again. He feels Lysander may just confront him on what the so-called inside joke was about. Neither of them had mentioned their late-night rendezvous to Lysander, and Scorpius kind of liked that secrecy.

But much to Scorpius's relief, Lysander doesn't bring it up that night or next. The fucking OWLs were here.

The two weeks of exams are a blur for Scorpius. He only remembers exchanging quick wishes with Rose and Lysander before sitting at his seat in the Great Hall and Professor McGonagall announcing the start of exams. Post their theory exams in the morning, they are either busy with their practical exams or are busy catching up on their revision for the next day. However, they do take a moment to breathe; Lysander ensures they rest well, Rose keeps them supplied with chocolate and snacks, and Scorpius takes care of their revision.

Before Scorpius knows it, he is finishing the answer to the last question of the last exam, History of Magic. He puts the final full stop to his answer, and puts his quill down; his hands are shaking at this point.

This was it. He was done. All those sleepless nights of revision were finally done with.

The bell rings five minutes later and the entire hall erupts in cheers as their answer sheets are collected.

The fifth years at Hogwarts were officially done with their OWLs.

He was officially done with his OWLs.

FUCK-YES!

Lysander finds him in the crowd outside the Great Hall and immediately hugs him, elated.

"Can't believe we're finally done with this shit!", Lysander laughs as he pulls back from the hug, "Tonight will be the best birthday celebration everrr!"

Scorpius chuckles; he himself is happy with how things proceeded, and he knows he's done his best. Now all he can do is pray and hope for the best results.

Which was hopefully ten Outstanding OWLs - he knows he was flawless.

His eyes search for Rose in the crowd, and finally find her in a deep chat with Albus, who looks upset.

"Alright there, Albus?" calls Scorpius as they approach. Albus shoots him a grimace. He looks at Rose in confusion, who quickly shakes her head in response.

A few hours later in the Ravenclaw common room, where the Ravenclaws are practically partying like they've never done before, Scorpius tries out Firewhiskey for the first time as he raises a toast to Lysander turning sixteen. The alcohol burns his throat, making him splutter. But there's a rich aftertaste that lingers for a while. Not to mention the pleasant buzz in his head. He is then a few more drinks down and he is relaxing in his chair, his head bobbing to the loud music.

Maybe Firewhiskey isn't that bad. He was rather happy, wasn't he?

Lysander is dancing in the middle of the common room with a girl with dark hair. Scorpius guesses she is Jilian because he can't really make out her face - it's too blurry. Rose, on the other hand, is sitting across him looking utterly buzzed. She may have had a sip or ten, but she is blabbering to anyone who'd listen to her. He can see her talking pointlessly to Albus, who is not paying her any attention as he is fiercely entwined in Eleanor's arms -

Hold up.

Eleanor?!

Scorpius shakes his head and feels the world spin. He breathes deeply and tries to focus on the sight in front of him.

Why the fuck was Albus snogging Eleanor? Why wasn't Albus snogging Alice?

He gets up from his seat and wobbles his way towards Rose.

"What's going on?" he calls out as the world around him floats.

Rose's eyes brighten as she spots him. He's drunk as fuck, but Rose's eyes somehow manage to stand out clearly in the blur.

"Scorpius!" she squeals, standing up straight and hugging him tightly, "I missed you, you beautiful man."

"I am, aren't I?" says Scorpius feeling rather smug as he hugs her back just as tightly.

"Let's move away from here," she whines in his ear, "I'm sick of watching the back of Albus's head for the last billion hours."

Scorpius chuckles and takes her hand, somehow stumbling their way to an unoccupied corner of the room.

Rose leans against the wall as she lets go of him, fanning herself. "So hot," she gasps, pushing her hair back.

"Why, thank you," he smirks. She simply throws her head back and laughs, making him feel all flustered and bothered.

And not in a bad way.

Alcohol is really playing with his head. And hormones.

Stupid. Fucking. Hormones.

He needs to change the topic.

"What's goin' on with Albus?" he asks loudly as the music volume is increased - boy do the Ravenclaws love to party after their exams!

He tries to point towards where Albus was but instead knocks over a passerby's drink. He yells out sorry before turning back to look at Rose.

"He and Alice broke up," groans Rose, and then covers her face with her hands. She looks annoyed when she brings her hands down. "They'd taken a break before the exams, but then after the exams, Alice told him that she didn't want to get back together. Instead of processing his feelings or talking about it, he decided that he'd just hook up with someone. And now he's chosen to snog Eleanor just because I happened to mention to him that she fancied him."

Scorpius turns to look back at where the snogging couple was previously seated. The place is occupied by someone else, so Scorpius assumes they must have headed out where they could get some privacy.

"How did they even get around to doing that?" he asks, swaying slightly, "Did he just walk up to her an' say let's snog?"

"Well there was a little flirting and then-," Rose brings her arms up and tugs him closer to her by his shirt, making him tumble towards her. He presses his palms against the wall on either side of her head just in time to avoid crashing face-first into her.

Scorpius also realises that his body is pressed up against hers in a way that makes him very aware of how he's gained an inch in height over her in the past year, making eye contact inevitable. He can also smell the heady scent that's a mix of that damned strawberry lip balm with firewhiskey.

They were friends. Best friends. They shouldn't be standing so close.

And yet, he hadn't pulled back and she hadn't let go of his shirt. She had fixed him with a blazing look that makes him all fuzzy.

Or was it the alcohol?

"Careful Rose, if someone turned to look at us, they might think we're snogging." Scorpius is highly surprised at how husky his voice is at the moment. Deeper than the usual teasing tone of his. And that satisfied smirk that's somehow plastered itself on his face.

Okay, no more of drinking this ever again.

"What's wrong with that?" she rasps, her voice so fucking sexy that it throws him off. She has a devious glint in her eyes that makes his fingertips all tingly.

Did she just ask what's wrong with people thinking that they are snogging? There was so much wrong with people thinking that! Scorpius is ready to list off a hundred reasons, but he is distracted by this smudge of tomato ketchup just on the side of her lip. Probably from the chips they were having earlier.

His hands itch to wipe the smudge off.

So he does. He notes how Rose's eyes widen, lips parting as his fingers graze her skin. He says, "Well, to begin with, we aren't snogging so -,"

"So why don't we fix that situation?"

Scorpius's eyes snap up to look at hers. They look so intense as she stares back at him that it makes his head spin. Her eyes are burning with that fierceness and surety he'd seen all those moons ago after she'd sung for him in the common room.

He then registers what she'd said, and her soft skin under his fingers. His mind is bombarded with questions because, of course -

What on earth are they doing?!

What on earth was he saying?

What on earth was she saying?

They both were drunk out of their wits. This wasn't right at all.

And she'd hinted at them trying out snogging.

SNOGGING.

Playful teasing is one thing, but snogging - snogging! Merlin's balls! - between friends who are friends and nothing more shouldn't happen. It can ruin things, make things awkward and he could lose her -

Wait, what did she mean by fix the situation - did she actually want to snog him? Or did she want him to move away?

She hadn't let go of his shirt. Was that deliberate or had she simply forgotten that she was holding it?

Scorpius lets out a groan. He swears his head is about to explode. He was so confused. His thoughts were so out of order that nothing was making any sense.

He notices Rose's lips quirking up.

Damn - did that groan come out as something sexual?

And her lips look so soft! What would it be like to -

"Looking rather cozy, aren't we?"

Scorpius jumps away from Rose immediately. He spots Steve and Alex, who are looking back at them rather smugly.

"Looks like I might just win this wager!" grins Alex, pointing towards them with his bottle of butterbeer, "I've always thought you two were bound to get together. Now please - continue snogging! We'll walk away right away."

Scorpius is redder than a tomato at the moment. "We weren't snogging!" he clarifies, "That wasn't going to happen-" he frowns as another part of what they said gets registered," -and what's this wager you're talking about?!"

"Like which best friend Rose Weasley is going to hook up with?" Steve says, looking sheepish, "It's a bit of silly fun among people here. The majority have bet on Scamander because obviously-"

Something about the way Steve says 'obviously' makes his blood boil. What was so fucking obvious about that?

"And there's you, holding on rather strong. Alex believes you both have the forbidden romance vibe going on. Lovers belonging to warring families, competitors turned lovers - all that jazz."

Scorpius clenches his fist. It all sounded so juvenile!

He turns to look at Rose, who is looking at the two boys rather amusedly, which was a far cry than how she would have reacted a year ago. Her eyes land on him for a mere second before she turns to their classmates.

"Good luck to you guys on the bets, since neither is likely to happen. They are my friends." Rose's voice is stunningly cool. Scorpius lets out a breath he hadn't realised he'd been holding. "I am in all likelihood leaving this place single and happy. I don't have time for relationships here. If there's a wager on that, count me in!"

Scorpius is surprised at her statement. Did she really not want to date?

She then takes Scorpius's hand and drags him to the dancing crowd, not sparing Steve and Alex a second glance.

Lysander emerges from the crowd, his face flushed pink, blonde hair all rustled up. "Where were the hell were you, guys? I had been looking around and I couldn't spot you! Were you guys off snogging somewhere?"

Scorpius splutters in defense, while Rose rolls her eyes.

"Sure, why not. Now, why don't we just dance?" she sighs, "We just got done with the stupid OWLs, and the last thing I want to do is sit back and complain about idiots."

Scorpius stares at her. Will she pretend that whatever had just happened by the wall didn't happen?

Or was he reading too much into her words? Maybe she hadn't meant it and it was simply good-natured flirting.

As Rose walks into the dancing crowd and grooves with Jilian, Scorpius decides that what they were doing was just friendly banter between friends.

Yes, that's what it was.

An odd mix of relief and disappointment comes over him. But Lysander is already dragging him into the crowd, and before he knows it, he's a few more drinks down and jumping around till his feet hurt and singing himself hoarse with the songs on the wireless.

Scorpius wakes up early the next morning in his bed with a heavy head, a horrible taste in his mouth, and the soles of his feet hurting like crazy. He knows he needs to be up soon to catch the train back home, but he only sinks further in his bed, a smile gracing his face as he understands that the dreaded OWLs year was finally over.

Three weeks later, he receives his letter as he is having afternoon tea with his parents, a few hours before they are to leave for the wedding of Victoire Weasley and Teddy Lupin.

"Scorpius, honey, it's okay. You can open the letter now."

Scorpius looks at his mother, who is smiling at him encouragingly. His father looks tense next to her; he is nervously tapping the floor with his feet.

"Draco, he's already so worried about his results. He doesn't need us panicking as well." says his mother sharply as she places her hand on his father's knee. His father lets out a deep sigh.

"I only hope he's done better than Weasley's daughter. It's one thing that Rose is his kid and another thing that she is Granger's kid. My boy is not going to get any grade lower than Rose Weasley's!"

Scorpius swears he can see a vein pop on his father's neck. The rivalry between him and Ron Weasley was becoming more ridiculous by the day.

Astoria Malfoy simply shakes her head and looks back at her son.

"Do you want to open the letter now? We can see the results after coming back from the wedding today," she says kindly.

"No," says Scorpius quickly, his heart skipping many beats. He knew Rose would confront him with her grades the moment she meets him today at the wedding. And he's leaving for his internship tomorrow morning, so he honestly doesn't have much more time to procrastinate. Might as well rip off the bandaid.

His heart is pounding in his mouth and his hands are shaking as he opens his OWLs results. Years of steadfast dedication to his academics would hopefully bear fruit now.

THIS. WAS. IT.

His eyes immediately land on the list of his subjects.

Arithmancy - O

Astronomy - O

Care of Magical Creatures - O

Charms - O

Defence Against The Dark Arts - O

Herbology - O

History of Magic - O

Muggle Studies - O

Potions - O

Transfiguration - O

His hands shake as the letter drops out of his hands. Stars burst in front of his eyes as he dazedly turns to look up at his parents.

He had fucking done it!

Ten fucking Outstanding OWLs!

FUCKING YES!

MERLIN'S - FUCKING- BALLS -YES!

"Ten Outstanding OWLs," he manages to croak out to his parents.

He is immediately enveloped by his mother, who smothers him with kisses. But rather than fighting it off, he lets her mollycoddle him. He knows how much the grades mean to her, given how she was a strong academic during her time at Hogwarts. He understands that she was happy to see her son carrying on her legacy. His father looks on amusedly at the scene, but Scorpius can't mistake the happiness on his face. The pride emanating from them makes the results even more worth it.

"Not a bad job, son!" smirks his father, clapping him on the back.

"Not a bad job?" laughs Scorpius, "I got more than twice the OWLs you did back in your fifth year! Not to mention all my grades are Outstanding."

His father shuts up immediately and glares at him. Astoria only laughs harder.

"Now now Draco. We all know academics was never your forte, and you bloomed in your own time," she says, waving her hand at Draco who only rolls his eyes. She then turns back to her son, looking absolutely thrilled. Scorpius feels so giddy on seeing his mother's childlike joy, "But this is such wonderful news, Scorpius! We must celebrate once you're back from your apprenticeship - Oh! I must write to Daphne once we're back from the party today - she was too curious! Now come on honey, go get dressed for the wedding. I have already laid out your clothes on your bed. We can't be late for the ceremony."

It is with a skip and wide grin that Scorpius heads to his room to get ready for the wedding.

Number three was off his list. Now four more to go.

He was going to crush this list of seven.

---

Two hours later, Scorpius is at the rickety gate of The Burrow, his eyes wide at how the entire landscape had been upped for the wedding.

The Burrow, frankly, looked even more magical than he'd ever seen it.

They enter the purple canopy where the wedding is supposed to take place, the entire place decked up elegantly. Scorpius can see his father tensing up in the presence of so many Weasleys. There was probably too much red for his liking.

"Astoria!" calls out Ginny Potter, looking elegant in a fuschia gown. Her eyes land on Scorpius and she smiles, "How handsome you look, Scorpius!"

He flushes pink, feeling pleased, "Thank you, Mrs. Potter," he says bashfully.

As Ginny addresses his parents, his eyes rove the crowd and he spots many familiar faces. There's James Potter with a few boys that looked his age - probably his teammates since Scorpius doesn't remember them from school. Then there's Professor Hagrid speaking with Charlie Weasley. He can see Lily fixing her father's tie. Albus and Hugo are busy speaking to some girls who look decidedly French.

And finally, Scorpius spots Lysander talking to a straight-haired redhead that he assumes must be one of the Weasley cousins. Scorpius wonders if he should interrupt them, should Lysander be trying to flirt with the lady, but thankfully Lysander spots him and beckons him over, quashing his dilemma. In relief, he walks towards him, only to nearly trip on his feet when the girl Lysander was speaking to turns to face him.

Rose's bushy red mop had always been her signature - Scorpius could spot that head in the wildest of the crowds. So it feels like he's been clubbed over the head when he sees Rose with poker-straight hair pinned to the side with a delicate lily flower, dressed like she was out of a children's fairytale book.

She is dressed in a pale green dress that fell gracefully at her ankles. The slit in the dress cuts just to her knees; he can see her sporting rather elegant-looking heeled shoes. Not to mention how the dress cinched at her waist, showing off a notable dip to the waistline that hadn't been there before. And then -

Okay, that goddamn neckline of her dress was all kinds of sinful. His eyes move to the soft freckled flesh of her - Goodness gracious! - had she been shielding those under her baggy jumpers all this time?!

Mother of all that is impure and unholy -

Scorpius's eyes snap up, his face flushing hot when he realises that he's ogling at Rose's breasts, that too in public. Thankfully, Rose is now speaking to Albus who's suddenly appeared next to them, and hopefully - hopefully! - not noticed the blatant perv fest he was indulging in.

But Lysander is giving him a wicked grin, which makes him very nervous. Straightening his stance, he walks towards them.

Scorpius's breath hitches when Rose looks back at him, her eyes widening slightly. Her eyes look even more pronounced with the makeup on her face.

"Hi!" Her voice is slightly breathless. She looks even more stunning up close.

Scorpius wills himself to keep his eyes on her face and not let the gaze drop.

He should also respond - a simple hi should be sufficient.

He could even compliment her - she looks beautiful.

But of course, he ends up with -

"I got ten Outstanding OWLs."

Rose looks taken aback at his response and then her eyes widen, seemingly registering his words.

"Yes! YESS! I knew it! Me too, Scorp! Me too!" she laughs, her face lighting up. She immediately envelops him in a hug which has him very pleased.

She smells as heavenly as she looks. And she feels so soft.

"Okay now," he can hear Albus scowl from somewhere next to them, "We don't need to talk about our OWLs here. I am exiting this discussion. We are here for a wedding!"

"Which will start soon," says Rose, pulling back from her hug. "We need to head - Al, let's go!"

Scorpius watches Rose and Albus head out of the canopy. He breathes deeply, trying to comprehend why he feels like he's been struck by lightning.

He's feeling very light-headed, his cheeks are burning hot as he spots Rose turning round the corner -

"If you're done drooling over Rose, let's catch our seats?"

Scorpius scoffs immediately, turning to look at Lysander, who looks too smug for his liking. The mischievous grin on his face is fucking annoying. "Shut up, Lysander." Scorpius shoots back pathetically, making his friend laugh.

Scorpius finds his seat next to his parents. Lysander sits next to him. The lights dim, drawing everyone's attention to the altar that's decorated in golden balloons and seems to emanate soft music. A pink-haired Teddy looks radiant as he takes his place at the altar with his best man. Harry and Ginny Potter walk down the aisle with Bill and Fleur Weasley, both couples looking incredibly beautiful. James and Fred walk down the aisle, showering the guests with glitter confetti that evaporates as soon as it touches something. Scorpius watches as various Weasley cousins walk down the aisle in arms with someone. His breath catches somewhere in his throat as Rose makes an appearance on Albus's arm.

What is it about her that had changed? Sure, she had dressed up, as had everyone else. Rose Weasley wasn't a head-turner; you wouldn't drop your food or note her on first glance if she ever walked into the room or smiled at you. That was noted for people like Victoire, Dominique, Roxanne, Gracie Jones, and, to an extent, even Lily Potter. But, somehow, Scorpius finds it very hard to notice anything else tonight.

There is a tight squeeze in his chest as he watches her smile widely at her parents, who are seated somewhere in the front, the dimple on her face visible to him even though it shouldn't - he is sitting rather far away from the altar. As she climbs up the stairs and turns around to face the crowd. Scorpius realises what was it about her that had changed.

She was confident.

Those years of self-doubt and nervousness had taken a back-seat and she was shining like a beacon, looking like she had accepted herself for who she was. And boy, did it do wonders for her!

Was she at what she earlier idealised as the perfect height or weight? Absolutely not. But did she look like she owned this room and everyone in it, those twinkling sapphire eyes bubbling with happiness and the chin held up in confidence?

Absolutely fucking yes.

Scorpius grins, warmth flooding his chest on seeing this side of Rose. A self-assured Rose Weasley was an absolute sight to behold, a strong presence that calls out to him. Something tightens again in his chest as he finds her eyes roving the crowd -

Is she looking for him?

His heart palpitates for a moment, worrying, that she might miss him.

To his extreme surprise, Rose shyly lowers her eyes and blushes pink as she makes eye contact with someone on the other side of the aisle, seated two rows in front of them. Scorpius scowls as he notes that the group of people seated there were James Potter's friends from Quidditch. Victoire and Teddy make their vows at the altar, and Scorpius can hear his mother gushing about the wedding, but he is busy glaring holes at the back of this dark-haired tosser, who is clearly undressing Rose with his eyes.

There is a loud cheer as Victoire and Teddy kiss and the wizard marrying them announces them husband and wife; an explosion of confetti follows, but Scorpius is barely rattled. His eyes flit between that dark-haired idiot and Rose, the latter now hosting a secret smile on her face.

He is rather agitated when they are asked to get up and the floor is cleared to make room for dancing. He cranes his neck to catch a glimpse of that pillock, who'd now turned to speak to the girl next to him. He was notably tall, probably taller than James Potter, and seemed to have a friendly air about him.

But Scorpius couldn't shake off this odd feeling about him. It made his skin crawl.

His name was probably something like Zacharias. Or Corbin. If he was muggle-born, maybe Chad or Matthew 'Call Me Matt'.

Scorpius breathes rather hard when he sees that quack call out to Rose who was walking past him. She smiles widely in return. Scorpius scowls when he sees the dung beetle extending his hand out. She blushes prettily before giving him her hand and walking to the dance floor.

Scorpius curses so fluently under his breath that his mother would be extremely glad that she wasn't around to hear son spit out curses like it was as easy as breathing.

"Ah looks like Rose's found herself in Vincent's arms!" comes Lysander's voice from next to him. He sounds amused.

"Vincent?!" sneers Scorpius. The name is even worse than he assumed, "That's his name?!"

"Yeah? Met him earlier today. He's an upcoming talent at Chudley Cannons. Goes to Ilvermorny. Pretty cool guy though."

Scorpius is even more annoyed now. "Wow. Look at you getting all pally with him," he growls.

Lysander snorts, "Now now. Don't be jealous. You're still my number one, bud."

"Yeah well, I don't like him. He's got an off vibe about him," snaps Scorpius, crossing his arms and scowling at the sight of that tosspot and Rose dancing. They looked happy together, and Scorpius didn't like that one bit. The only person who seems to share his sentiment was Ron Weasley, who was eyeing the dancing duo suspiciously as he danced with Hermione nearby.

"Of course he does. You fancy the girl he's dancing with."

They both jump at the sound of Lily's voice behind them. She appears with a fruity drink in her hand, smirking deviously at Scorpius, making him groan loudly.

Not that again!

"I don't fancy Rose!" he growls, running a hand through his hair.

"Of course you don't," smirks Lily, her smile getting even wider.

"Pray-tell, Lily Luna Potter," grins Lysander, in a sudden turn of events that Scorpius absolutely does not like at all, "why you think so."

"It's all in his eyes," she says simply, swirling her drink with a straw.

"Damn Malfoy, I didn't know your eyes were so expressive," teases Lysander. For a moment, Scorpius feels hopeful. Maybe Lysander was on his side, and he'd help in proving Lily's stupid theory wrong.

"You don't believe in what she's saying, right?" Scorpius hopes he doesn't. Lysander was often at odds with Lily, so Scorpius was more than ready to have some support against these blasphemous suggestions coming from Lily.

"Wellll," Lysander stretches out, smiling softly, making Scorpius groan again.

"Not you too!" he snaps.

Scorpius honestly feels betrayed at this point.

"What?!" exclaims Lysander defensively. Lily's giggling now. "You should see how you're with her, Scorp! The way you lean into her when you're speaking to her, or the constant touching -"

To prove his point, Lysander pokes him lightly on his upper arm. Scorpius freezes at his touch.

Damn! He knew he was playful with her and she reciprocated. Was it that noticeable? But he never thought more -

"You don't do that with anyone else," continues Lysander seriously, "You should have seen the look on your face when you saw her today."

Scorpius feels rather hot around his collar. That was not true. That was not -

"You both are mental," he pipes uncomfortably, "She's just a friend."

"A friend you tend to stare at every time she's looking away?" asks Lily, raising her eyebrows.

Scorpius flushes again, "I wasn't staring! I was simply observing what she was wearing - the gown was simply-"

"You were staring at her breasts," interjects Lily matter-of-factly as she finishes off her drink.

Scorpius is momentarily left speechless before a furious blush erupts all over his face.

"I-I was NOT!" he splutters. He can see Lysander looking awkward next to him, suddenly interested in his fingernails, "I was simply admiring - her necklace."

He can hear Lysander gasp 'oh boy' just as Lily looks even more amused, "Oh really, what was the colour?"

Before Scorpius can respond with blue, because that is the first colour that comes to his mind when it came to Rose, Lysander butts in.

"Lily, let's dance," he says firmly, extending his hand. Lily looks taken aback at the invitation.

"Okay," she shrugs a moment later. She hands her glass to Scorpius and takes Lysander's hand. He winks at Scorpius before dragging her to the dance floor.

Scorpius grins back at Lysander, silently thanking him for taking her away. He knows he's done with her grilling.

His eyes search for that familiar dark-haired tosspot in the crowd. To Scorpius' utmost displeasure, he was still dancing with Rose.

His dear friend Rose, who was looking rather spellbinding today. Her face lights up in laughter as she is spun around. She looked amazing today.

His dear friend Rose, whose expanse of bare freckled skin of her chest makes him very flustered.

His dear friend Rose, who is clearly not wearing a necklace.

He immediately facepalms himself, cursing the entire human existence and his inability to lie convincingly.

He is mortified - mortified with a capital M!

Good thing that the summer break was here. He wouldn't have to deal with Lily for at least a few weeks.

He looks around, grumbling, to spot any other souls as miserable as him. Certainly, there should be grumpy people around at a wedding.

He hits jackpot as he spots Albus slouched in a chair, glaring at Alice, who was dancing nearby with a rather confused-looking Lorcan.

Scorpius doesn't waste time in filling the seat next to him, maybe even discuss that hare-brained oaf and his intentions. But alas, Albus had different plans.

"Would you look at them?" hisses Albus, looking pointedly at Lorcan and Alice, "Can't believe she's trying to make me jealous by dancing with Lorcan!"

"Err," Scorpius mumbles, unsure of what to say next. But Albus is paying him no heed.

"I mean, out of anyone, anyone she could have chosen to dance with, she chose him!"

"And what's wrong with him?" Scorpius is very confused.

"Just that he's in the same friend circle. It's not fair!"

"It's a wedding party. And it's her choice to dance with whomsoever she wants." Scorpius thinks Albus is being rather ridiculous. It was just a dance between friends. Innocent and sweet, unlike what was between Rose and that wanker.

Did she already have a nickname for him?

Vinny, maybe?

Scorpius laughs to himself for a moment before feeling awful.

"Word from the wise, Scorpius - think twice before you date someone," says Albus in a deeper voice. The raven-haired boy looks troubled as he watches Alice excuse herself from Lorcan and move on to dancing with Louis. "If you're not on the same page regarding the relationship, don't get into it. It's going to be an utter disaster and everything will be horrible."

"Er, okay" says Scorpius, confused. He still doesn't know what happened between Alice and Albus, and he isn't in the mood to pry further. Their breakup doesn't seem too amicable and Scorpius is in no mood for further drama.

"Why aren't you dancing?" asks Albus, now turning to look at him, "This is a Weasley wedding! You have to dance!"

"I don't dance. Correction - I can't dance," says Scorpius, rather abashedly. It was the one thing he couldn't do, and it frustrated him to no end.

"Bollocks!" laughs Albus, "Hard to believe after seeing your parents over there!"

Scorpius notes his parents dancing gracefully in one corner, making him smile. It was one of those moments when Scorpius could see how much his father loved his mother. Draco wasn't a big fan of dancing, despite being decent at it, but he'd always dance with Astoria.

"Say Al," Scorpius starts cautiously. Rose is now dancing with James, but he can see the arsewipe standing by the dance floor and smiling at Rose in a way that makes him want to punch his face, "How well do you that boy, Vincent?"

He shudders internally on using the mingebag's name.

Albus blinks, "Wellington? He's alright. Haven't spoken to him much though. He's been hanging around Rose a lot. They seem pretty pally. Felt a little weird in the beginning because their personalities are so different. But I guess opposites..."

Scorpius zones Albus out.

Just Rose? Different personalities?

Scorpius decides that that knobhead's intentions are very, very doubtful.

Lysander joins them a few minutes later, looking annoyed. "Has Lily always been that wild while dancing?" he complains, "She stepped on my toes thrice. Her heels didn't help!," something akin to comprehension dawns on his face, "She was messing with me, wasn't she? Ooooooo - one of these days, I'll get back at her!"

"Fuck this! I am going to find someone to dance with," Albus announces through gritted teeth, storming off.

"What's up with him?" asks Lysander in surprise as he watches Albus ask one of Victoire's distant cousins for a dance.

"Some post-breakup drama you don't want to be a part of," shrugs Scorpius.

Albus's empty seat is occupied by Rose. Her face is red, and her hair already seems to be curling.

And she has the biggest smile on her face, pissing off Scorpius to no end.

"Thank you for finally gracing us with your presence," teases Lysander.

Rose simply waves her hands, "Oh shut it. I was just having some fun."

"Yes, we could see that," says Scorpius through gritted teeth.

Rose's eyes turn round as she faces him. "Oh, Scorpius, I know I should have introduced you - he's Vincent Wellington, one of James' training mates from the Academy."

Scorpius simply grunts in response. Rose frowns at him for a moment before turning to Lysander.

"Vincent is soo... funny and sweet!" she gushes, putting her hand on her chest, as if calming her heartbeat, "He's absolutely lovely!"

"Really?" sneers Scorpius, "Is that so? You've just met him though."

Rose raises her eyebrows. "We've been talking enough. We went around London last week as we did wedding chores -"

Something within Scorpius sinks horribly.

"You've already been out on a date?" he asks slowly. His artery may just have burst somewhere. His nails were digging into his palms now. He is worried they might bleed soon.

"Well not exactly. But yeah, we've hung out together. You should meet him - he's great! I know I didn't tell you -"

"Yeah well, you didn't. And I just want to tell you I don't trust him."

Rose lets a noise between a squawk and a laugh, "Why?! I expect this behaviour from dad 'cause he's barmy - but seriously, what's wrong with him? You haven't even met him. But Lysander has. He's a great guy, isn't he, Lysander?"

Scorpius turns to look at his friend as well. Lysander suddenly looks like he'd wanted to be anywhere but with them.

"Err. He's nice," he says cautiously.

"Nice?" says Scorpius scathingly, "That's what girls settle for these days?"

Rose looks offended. Her ears slowly turn red, which pleases Scorpius. She shouldn't be so naive about the boys, especially tall boys from across the bloody pond, who seem to show interest in her out of nowhere.

"We don't settle for nice guys, Scorpius. We choose them," she says, her voice straining with control, "What's gotten into you?!"

"Something's off about him. Isn't it weird that he comes out of nowhere, stays with the Potters, and socialises with you of all people?"

"Scorpius!" Scorpius can hear Lysander's gasp, but he ignores him. Rose should be more careful with the guys who show interest in her.

"What are you hinting at, Scorpius?" asks Rose icily, "Do you think he's dating me only because I'm the Minister's daughter?"

Ah! There it was. Made complete sense, didn't it?

Scorpius decides that Rose has finally zeroed in on the theory that had been scratching at the inside of his skull since he first laid his eyes on him.

"Exactly!" Scorpius latches on, "Like why else would he want to date you?"

Rose's expression changes from angry to thunderous.

"Fuck you, Malfoy!" she snarls, before getting up from her seat and storming into the dancing crowd.

Scorpius is gobsmacked. Hadn't they arrived at a theory about the twit behaving the way he did? Seriously, what is up with the hostility?!

He turns to Lysander, hoping he'd give some insight into her behaviour. To his immense surprise, Lysander is glaring at him.

"Who hurt you?" Lysander scowls at him.

"What does that mean?!" exclaims Scorpius, taken aback.

"You just said that the only reason that guy would want to date her is that she is the Minister of Magic's daughter. Like she had nothing going on for her. Maybe Vincent is someone who is genuinely interested in her, and you just had to twist his intention into something that will hurt her!"

Oh.

Scorpius is speechless.

That's not really what he wanted to say.

And yet he did.

But he never meant that!

"I was just watching out for her," he says meekly, trying to defend himself, "She's the Minister's daughter-,"

"Gods, Scorpius!" Lysander sounds exasperated at this point, "Don't fucking trample over her self-confidence because you can't deal with your feelings! You fancy her because she's Rose, not because she's the Minister's daughter. If you can see her value, so can others."

"What - fancy her?! - that's - you've completely missed the point." Scorpius coughs up uncomfortably, trying to ignore the turbulent flip-flops in his stomach.

"It's not funny anymore. I am used to seeing you both skirting around whatever there is between you both. But this is not cool at all," says Lysander, running his hand through his hair tiredly, "Either ask her out or let her be happy with someone who wants to be with her. Don't rain on her parade because you feel differently."

Scorpius processes what Lysander says and decides he's being ridiculous.

Lysander apparently registers what he's thinking; he rolls his eyes, mumbles 'idiot' under his breath, and excuses himself to go dance with Molly.

Scorpius politely declines Lily's invitation to dance with her, and instead chooses to glare at Rose and that idiot who were talking nearby. Rose spots him looking over and throws him a dirty look. He simply sneers back in response.

He knows that the turd head is up to something. He can feel it in his bones.

Food appears on the table he's seated at, but he doesn't eat. His stomach bottoms out when he sees the muppet make her laugh, eventually drawing her out to the dance floor. Scorpius tries his hardest to look away, trying to ignore the anger pulsing within his veins, but he is unable to.

His discomfort crosses the limit when he sees the locust tug a giggling Rose out, probably to get more privacy.

He's utterly miserable and upset, a drowning feeling swirling in his gut. This is not how'd imagined his day would go.

He just wants to go home. Now.

He finds his way to Lysander who's still dancing, this time with Roxanne.

"Tell Rose I'm sorry about the things I said," he tells him, the guilt nagging at his insides. Roxanne looks on suspiciously, "I didn't mean - what she thought, that is. She's," he pauses, trying to find the right word, "she's simply the best and deserves so."

"Why not tell this yourself?" asks Lysander, crossing his arms.

"She's off with him somewhere, and I need to leave."

"Oh" gasps Lysander, comprehension dawning on his face. Scorpius can see concern growing on his face, "Are you okay?"

"I'm absolutely fine," snaps Scorpius, exasperated, "There's nothing to be upset about. "

"Alright alright. Will tell her. Write to us about your adventures in Nafplion, alright? Have a great trip!"

"I will," says Scorpius, trying his best to smile, but all that comes out is a grimace.

After giving a quick hug to his friend, Scorpius finds his parents, who are surprised at his request to leave early. But they bid their goodbyes and leave the venue.

Scorpius is angry and desolate when he is finally in his bed, waiting for sleep to take over.

He is mad at Rose for being so blind about that idiot.

He is even more furious at himself for being such an arse to her. And that her dating someone else bothered him so fucking much.

He punches his pillow and plonks himself forcefully onto it, pushing himself to go to sleep. He needs to get enough rest if he is to be fresh for his trip.

That night, Scorpius dreams, dreams of the Hogwarts corridors, like many times before. He feels the tug of familiarity, as his feet take him to a place he had clearly visited many times before, especially in his dreams. He is outside the Ravenclaw common room, and right in front of the door to the common room is Rose.

Rose in that pale green wedding dress, but with her unruly hair falling over her shoulders.

Looking absolutely ravishing.

'He dreams of her extending her hand towards him as if asking him to take it and follow her. He happily gives in, following her inside the Ravenclaw common room. The vision has suddenly shifted. Inside the common room, they are in the same spot they had taken refuge in during the end-of-year party.

Only this time, they were actually snogging.

Snogging with a capital S.

Something blooms within him, warming his blood and introducing absolute contentment.

He dreams of meeting her lips in heart-stopping kisses.

He dreams of her body pressed flush against his, trying to get as close as humanly possible it was.

He dreams of angling his head so that he can coax her mouth open; his knees would shake as her tongue would meet his, just like he'd imagined many times before. His fingers would get entangled in her locks, all soft and so much of it! She would tug hard at his hair, soft cries ripping out from the back of her throat as he'd cup her full breasts. He'd then marvel about seeing them naked and ravishing them whole-heartedly one day, maybe when they are more horizontal.

He dreams of his body being highly aroused as she'd grind her hips against his. His fingers would dip under her gown and lightly trace the supple skin of her thighs, making goosebumps erupt on her skin. He dreams of her hand cupping him over his pants and then somehow, finally wrapping her hand gently around him, moving with firm strokes that would have him groaning deeply into her mouth. He would be eager to let her feel what she does to him, so he would move his fingers between her legs to feel her, and - Merlin's saggiest balls! - she would be so warm and wet.

He dreams of an electric frenzy in their movements, straining desperation in their kisses, building the momentum into something tremendous. His fingers would find her hard little clit and stroke it, and she'd shudder against his lips, gasping just as he flicks her, his hips grinding into his hands. She would shudder against him in minutes, her teeth tugging at his lips almost violently as she would orgasm. The sight of her falling apart, combined with her lustful strokes, would send him over the edge and he would spill in her hands. As he would catch his breath and look up to see Rose's sated, lazy expression, her expression would turn to that of a scowl. Her eyes would blaze in anger and she would shove him off before saying -

'Fuck you, Malfoy.'

Scorpius wakes up with a jerk, the back of his neck drenched with sweat. His heart is racing a mile a minute, his hand is wrapped around his penis in his pajamas. And his hands are soiled.

FUCK!

Growling, he gets up to change his pajamas and the mess. The watch next to his bed shows one fifty-eight.

His hands are shaking as he washes his hands and face in the washroom, his dream still as vivid and alive in his mind.

He stares at his reflection in the mirror, his face visibly flushed. He is yet to catch his breath from his sleep.

What the bleeding fuck was that?

Did he just have that dream about Rose?

Goodness heavens.

He slides down onto the floor, leaning against the closet. He runs his hands through his hair, still trying to catch his breath.

His heart is still thundering against his chest.

He wants to laugh it off; people have sex dreams about other people without it meaning anything, right?!

However, there is a weird gnawing feeling within him that knows that that was not the case here.

A resounding feeling that he is trying to fool himself by claiming that the dream didn't mean anything to him.

Red curls, blue eyes flash before his eyes. A surge of blinding heat scalds his insides as he recalls the feel of her warm soft body against the length of his.

And then he remembers the staccato of his heart when he'd seen her in that gown today.

He can still feel how loud his heart had pounded on seeing her.

Scorpius gasps, terrified of the implication. But it could not be any truer.

It had been facing him for a while now, hadn't it? But he'd been in utter denial.

Lily and Lysander had practically spelled it out for him tonight.

How he'd managed to deny that he fancied Rose, for months if he was being honest, he would never understand.

He can't even pinpoint when and how it began. Was it when they'd flirted for a nanosecond after she'd sung to him? Or was it when he constantly found his eyes seeking her presence under the firecrackers on Christmas? Or was it when he absentmindedly thought of her when he was happily brewing potions last summer? Or was it when she was flying on the broom with him, clawing at his arm, and screaming obscenities that would make his mother blush, and all he could think of was how warm and soft she was against his back?

He honestly doesn't know.

What he knows is that he fancies the fuck out of Rose Weasley, and she doesn't reciprocate, least of all after what happened today.

He can't say he doesn't deserve the hate; he was a total - jealous! - arse, but that doesn't mean that this situation doesn't hurt.

He lets out a hollow, miserable laugh at the whole situation. How convenient was it that he developed feelings for her when she had clearly moved on, especially when she wasn't likely to fancy him back, possibly ever?

Very, it seems.

Was he glad the summer had begun and he would be leaving for his internship? Indeed he was. He wouldn't have to go through an arduous summer at the Burrow where he'd have to hear Rose talk about her new beau. Or deal with his feelings while she was around him all the time.

Hopefully, this was a silly stupid crush that he would move on from during the summer. Or maybe he'd have a summer romance, like last year. Yes, that would help a lot.

Until then, he could blame it on the stupid-fucking-hormones!

---

Sooooo things levelled up. Lots of cursing, lots of sexy dreaming. And Scorpius came to a conclusion we were all aware of, albeit not in the most pleasant way. Scorpius also achieved his goal number and he moves on to the next one.

Things only get spicier now, and it'll be so much fun writing it out and sharing the same with you! *sips tea* A fun beloved Scorose trope is coming up, can you guess which one is it? :D

Hope to issue the next update soon; work's already begun on the same.

I hope you're all doing well. Would love to hear from you on this chapter :)

Stay safe, keep safe!

Love,

Weasleykingrocks