Well here is the next chapter. Hope you guys enjoy it!

If you check my main page you can see which stories I am working on, or at least the ones I'm supposed to be working on. I tried my best finding all the spelling, and grammar errors.

Also sorry for the uninteresting chapter. I had to set some stuff up so I used this one to do it. Even I think this chapter is pretty boring...But the next chapter will pick up with our favorite two characters ^^

Just Another Day

Monday

Today I was very confused, not because of class, but because of one person.

Tom-friggen-Riddle.

I thought I resigned myself to not caring about him one way or the other, but for some vexing reason I was finding that harder in practice. If I wasn't careful then his smug face would push its way into my thoughts. Something was seriously wrong with me. For me, it was the first time I was fixated on one person. It bothered me that I couldn't understand my own thoughts and feelings about him. I could easily say I don't like him, but honestly that wouldn't be the entire truth. It made me angry every time, but even when he would show me his detestable side, I couldn't get rid of the idea that he wasn't all bad. And that is what bothered me!

He had his moments of kindness too. Because of that I couldn't stop myself from feeling disappointed. Which of course made me even more confused and this never ending cycled continued. At this point I wanted to pull my hair out. Why do I keep feeling let down? Just what was I expecting from him? The answer should be nothing! Absolutely nothing! The only reason I was even putting up with him is because of the agreement with Kat's debt.

Lola's voice pulled me back into reality, making me realize two things. One, was the crink in my neck from having to turn my head to stare at Tom. Second, was that the others were giving me questioning looks because I was staring at Tom. I averted my eyes, trying to nonchalantly return to eating my lunch.

"Is something bothering you?" Lola's brow creased in worry. "We've been calling you for a while."

I shook my head, "No, I'm fine."

"Uh-huh." Well she didn't sound convinced. "And I suppose the reason you've been staring at Tom for the past 5 minutes is also because you're fine?"

Unable to come up with a rebuttal, I simply shrugged.

That was all Lola needed to see before her arms crossed, and that look crossed her face. It was a look saying that she wasn't going to quit until she figured out what was going on. I knew she meant well, but whenever she got that look it was always troublesome for me. Doubly so, since I didn't want anyone to know about my continued relations with Tom.

"Seriously, I'm fine." I faced her, "More importantly, how are things going on your end? Any improvement?"

Instantly her shoulders dropped and her expression became troubled.

"Oh, the woes of love." Kat sighed dramatically, throwing an arm over her forehead and her hand over her heart. "I say forget about old Potter brain."

"But if she loves him then she should fight for him." Mary shyly imputed her opinion. It was quite known she was a horrible romantic. I would be surprised if there was a romance novel she hasn't read yet.

"Fighting! Now that's what I'm talking about!" Kat grinned, "If you need backup I got you Lola. We can take out that Lilly chick before she even knows what hit her."

"I think that would just cause more problems." Trent laughed.

"Thanks Kat, uh, I'll keep that in mind." It was clear from her tone that she would be doing the exact opposite.

"So, do you have any plans?"

"Actually I do." Lola smirked and faced me. "And i'll need your help."

"Huh, me? How so?" Not that I minded too much, but why have her plans always involved me lately?

"Well thanks to you, we have a pre-arranged promise for a karaoke get together."

"That's right!" The first time we all got together I suggested that idea. "Hey, since it was my idea i'll get everything set up!"

Not expecting my excitement or willingness to go Lola looked surprised, but it lasted only a second. "Someone is eager to hang out with Sirius again."

I could only smile. If only she knew that he only had eyes for her. "I'll call Sirius and set everything up. I'll definitely make sure it's just us four."

Lola grinned, "That's what I like to hear. Someone is finally growing up."

This was my chance. With Sirius' help I could try to get the two of them in the room alone. Up until now she hasn't been able to have a proper conversation with James, mainly because of him, and as far as I was concerned it was long over due. Honestly, I felt bad about asking Sirius to help considering he had feelings for Lola, but I didn't have a choice. I had a feeling that Sirius would be able to convince James to go.

Sorry Sirius.

"Ok, one issue out of the way and now on to the next!" Kat grinned looking at me. Ok, what was it now? Don't other people have stuff going on too? Why was it always me? [1] "Of course i'm talking about your birthday!"

Suddenly it clicked in my head. How could I forget! I was even supposed to invite Lola to the dinner but completely forgot. Surprisingly, Lola had the same look.

"Shit! I forgot too!"

I laughed, "Don't worry about it. Even I didn't realize."

"Don't worry about it?" Lola frowned. "As your best friend it is my job to remember your birthday and plan for it."

"Well, it's been a pretty busy first few months, so it's fine if you forgot."

"Anyway," Kat spoke up before Lola could say anything else, "Do you have any plans for your birthday?"

"Actually I do. My dad booked a dinner for me, him and Trent on Thursday evening. But he can't make it since he is supposed to go on a business trip that morning."

"What about the weekend?" Mary asked.

"You know me. I'll just me home. Well, other than Sunday,"

"Then lets meet up on Saturday!" Lola smiled. "Maybe we can catch a movie at my place."

With that tentative plan we quickly finished up the rest of our lunch. I just hoped they didn't try to plan anything too complicated. Before lunch ended I texted Sirius to meet me after school. There I would put my plan into action. Since Lola and James may feel a little awkward around each other for a while, until we get to Karaoke, it'll be the four of us. Hopefully by then the atmosphere will be better around them. I giggled to myself. I know I always got on Lola for trying to set me up, but now being on the other side its actually pretty fun.

Tuesday came and went without incident. Compared to how eventful things have been lately, it was quite normal. Wednesday was much of the same. Of course I started my trial internship for the next few weeks and the family clinic, and despite my belief it wasn't that bad. Everyone was really nice and the patients, mainly consisting of kids and the elderly, seemed to love me. Though this wasn't my dream career, I could see myself enjoying working here for a while. Though in my opinion anywhere was better than the police station. I wouldn't be able to relax with my dad breathing down my neck all day. That's probably why he gave me that ultimatum, to motivate me into finding a job.

However, I could have know. This was only the calm before the storm.

Thursday

As usual my phone alarm woke me up in the god awful morning. With a yawn I fumbled with my phone to turn the alarm off, and while doing so something caught my attention and I couldn't help but smile.

'Happy 18th birthday'

A text notification from my father at exactly 12am. Even while out with his work buddies he didn't forget. It was a yearly occurrence, but every time it made me happy. It was the first of many surprised this day, but the next one I could have done without. On the way to school Trent asked me if I saw the news. Of course the answer was no. I didn't even get up early enough to eat breakfast, so there was no way I'd have time to watch the news. From the look of his face it wasn't good news.

"What do you mean a drug bust gone bad?"

"Yeah, apparently there was on last night."

"How did the media find out do soon?"

We talked in hushed whispers since we were on the train. Guess that would explain some of the pitying looks I've been receiving from the other passengers.

"I doubt the police wanted this to get out so soon, as I'm assuming it was supposed to be covert and their were some injuries. The only explanation was that someone leaked the information. Probably to make the police look bad, and from the comments on the news articles, it's working."

'I wonder...When dad said he was going out drinking, if he was actually going to the drug bust.' That actually made more sense. He didn't seem to want to talk about it even though he claimed all he was doing was drinking. I hope he was all right. Right after this failed bust he had to fly out for a meeting with his superiors, who I can't imagine are very happy. Not only that but since he had to leave right after everything was leaked, it makes it seem like he's trying to run away. Trent also said people were injured. I hope who ever they are, they're ok.

"Now that's a frown as deep as the ocean." Kat teased the moment she entered the train with Mary.

"Guess you didn't see the news either." So save having to explain twice we waited for Lola's stop. Once she joined us Trent quickly explained and when he finished the others had similar expressions of worry.

"Is your dad alright?"

"I don't know. What about you, Mary? Have you heard anything from your father?"

Mary shook her head, eyes wavering with worry. "No but he has been a bit stressed lately. Yesterday he said he would be gone all night and wouldn't be back until the next day. He also said he would call the moment he got a chance but..."

Lola quickly fixed a smile on her face, "I'm sure both of your dads are alright. Let's try not to think about it and have a good day! After all, it's your birthday today!" Lola's attempt to raise the heave mood didn't go unnoticed, but it was hard to feel happy after that. Especially since even at school I couldn't escape the stares of pity.

I was resigned to having a pretty bad day but Lola was determined to make it better. I had noticed the small bag Lola had with her all day and though I was curious, considering she carefully protected it all day, I refrained from asking about it. I didn't have to wait long to find out what it was though. Lunch was in full swing when she unwrapped the box and revealed a mini cake, gaining the attention of the enter class in the process.

"Happy birthday." The four of them shouted. There was still an underlying unease in our groups atmosphere, but seeing them trying to make the best of the day made me resolve to do the same. So I pushed my feelings away and smiled, genuinely happy for the surprise. There was also scattered clapping through out the class, while others turned away uninterested. The cake was pretty good, thought what was most surprising was that Lola made the cake herself. The thought alone warmed my heart since it was the first time I received a homemade cake.

Thought what happened next really threw me for a loop. I wasn't sure whether I should be happy or weary of my next gift.

"Raven, what a coincidence." The familiar drawl called from behind me.

It was self-study period and I had taken a short trip to the restroom. Seems like Tom followed me, which seems to be the norm when he wanted to corner me at school. I couldn't hide my annoyance at his tactic and attempted to continue on my way.

"Trying to avoid me?' He chuckled, moving to intercept me.

"If i'm honest will you move?" I was surprised by the level of annoyance that made it to my voice. Especially considering I don't normally talk like that even when I didn't particularly like the person. The realization that I was slowly lowering my guard and becoming comfortable around him wouldn't hit me until much later.

"No."

'I didn't think so.' I sighed internally. "What do you want?"

"Put the claws away, kitten-"

I bristled at the nickname.

"-I only wanted to say happy birthday,"

I could only stare in surprise since I was sure that whatever he wanted would spell bad news for me, and I had enough of that already. He chuckled at my blank stare and reached out to close my mouth that I didn't know was hanging open.

'Well, that's embarrassing.'

"Um, t-thank you."

"I'd also like to give you a present." He smiled and I instantly got a bad feeling. What was he planning this time? And why was my heart starting to beat so fast? "I think you might like it." He gracefully pulled out a lanyard with something attached to it from his pocket. I hesitatingly accepted the item, staring at him a few seconds in caution before checking his present.

"All access pass..." What was it for? A closer inspection had my eyes widening and hands shaking in disbelief. Were my eyes playing tricks on me? There's no way this could be real! "No...No way." I blinked rapidly reading, and re-reading the words on the rectangular, laminating item. "An all access pass to the Anpachi Trolls' games and backstage access for the whole season!"

Even people who didn't follow volleyball have at least heard of the Anpachi Trolls. Unless you were interested in volleyball, soccer or ice skating most people over looked the school - since otherwise it was a rather average school - but otherwise Anpachi college was the way to go. As far as volleyball was concerned the Anpachi collage was considered one of the four power house schools in the east bracket. The volleyball season hadn't even started yet but every ticket was already sold for their games, and while the Anpachi Trolls weren't my favorite, it was almost a sin to pass up watching such a talented team playing in person.

"From your silence I can take it that you like it."

I heard the smugness in his voice but was too over the moon to be affected by it.

"Of course that's not all."

I looked at him expectantly. How could this present get any better?

"There is a joint practice session between that team and the Gringott Goblins. It's this Saturday if you'd like to go."

Ok. I was wrong. It could get better. My eyes nearly popped from my skull. The Gringott Goblins!?

Gringott college was a private school started by the one and only Gringott bank. As such it is very high class and only those who can afford it can go. So in other words the rich and powerful. The school had all of the top equipment, teachers, players and coaches one could hope for. Getting to watch 2 of the 4 powerhouse schools practice with one another was like a dream come true. Which is why my excitement morphed into suspicion. Why was Tom doing this? Was it because I was angry and he's trying to get back into my good graces? Nothing he could do would make me forgive him for using my life as bait. The feeling in my gut worsened when he smirked slyly. Like everything was going the way he wanted.

"You're just giving giving this to me?" I asked cautiously. "Weren't you the one who said nothing in this world is free?"

His smirk widened and it made my skin crawl, but oddly enough it wasn't entirely unpleasant.

"I should praise you for remembering properly. There are two conditions. First you can only use that pass if you are going with me. Second, this Saturday you must wear what I pick out for you."

Ugh, i should've known. I didn't like either of the conditions much less the first than the second. With the outfit, though i'm sure it'll be embarrassing, at least it'll only be once. And given the first two outfits he made me wear a skirt I assume it'll be something similar. The first condition, however, forced me into hanging out with Tom even more. Though having the pass didn't mean I had to use it, it would be such a waste to not use it. How could any volleyball lover pass up this opportunity?

"I'll give you some time to think about it. If you agree then come to my place Saturday morning around 9." He grabbed the lanyard from me, pocketing it once more. "I look forward to your answer."

As I watched Tom return to the room first I sighed since I already knew the answer the his question. Here I was, once again, willingly walking right into whatever trap he had laid for me. You would think I would learn my lesson the first few times. No matter the prize being dangled in front of me, I shouldn't be accepting any extra reasons that lead me to hang out with him more than I am already forced to. Again I sighed as I realized with this another problem arose - having to tell the others my Saturday is no longer available.

On the way back home I took a look at some news articles. None were very good. They all talked about the same thing. How it was embarrassing to have failed, and to have had officers injured without even being able to capture anyone involved in the incident. Also it seems that the names of the injured officers were now available. I was relieved to see that Mary's father wasn't on the list, but it didn't last long since some of them were in critical condition.

"Do you still want to go to the restaurant tonight?"

"I feel bad about skipping but i'm not really in the mood. Besides I don't think it's a good idea right now."

"Yeah, with how things are maybe we shouldn't go. With uncle Clark gone the reporters may not leave you alone."

I didn't even have anything to do with it but that wouldn't stop the press. I understood the need to do your job, but why bother innocent people? Luckily when the Trent and I arrived home it was free of reporters. The moment I walked through the door I received a text from dad saying that he canceled the reservation. Seeing that he texted me a spark of hope that he had a bit of free time prompted me to call him. At the very least I wanted to call and make sure he was OK. Thankfully he answered the phone.

"Make it quick, I don't have much time."

"Are you alright? I just wanted to check in on you." Guess I'll just cut to the chase.

There was a brief silence, "Don't worry about me, i'm fine. Though my business trip will be cut short. I'll be back home later this evening."

"Alright, take care of yourself. If you can come home and eat dinner."

"If i'm able too. Also, I apologize for cancelling the reservation."

"It's fine, I understand."

"Then you two take care. Call me if anything happens."

Well at least he didn't sound too stressed yet. I knew that the next few days he would be very busy so I made the decision to make sure he eats. During times like these he would often skip meals. One time he even collapsed due to hunger! It'll be difficult to make extra trips, and I would have to wake up earlier than normal, but if I could help him out somehow I wanted to do it. I laughed at how much of a mother hen I sounded like. At times like these I often wondered just who it was that took care of who.

Friday

'Ugh, it's too early.'

I woke up at 6, an hour earlier than normal and not surprisingly Trent was also up, in order to make a breakfast lunchbox - breakfastbox? - and deliver it to the station. I also has his lunch prepared too. Dad never came home last night for dinner so I could only hope he ate something. At the station, though I wasn't expecting the atmosphere to be good, I also wasn't prepared for the heavily depressed mood.

"Good morning, Raven." The receptionist greeted with a yawn.

"Morning. You look pretty tired.

"Yeah," She sighed, "The press was right outside only a few hours ago. They were persistent, but somehow your father managed to get them to leave."

"I'm sorry to hear. Please try to rest when you can."

She smiled, :Thank you for your concern. Now I assume your here for your father. He should be in his office now. Quickly now, so you aren't late for school."

With a nod I headed down the familiar halls. Ahead of me two officers turn down the same way but since their backs were to me they didn't notice me. Seems like they were talking about what happened.

"Man this sucks." One complained with a heavy sigh.

"Tell me about it. The press were like vultures this time."

"How the heck did the even find out? Most of us didn't even know about it. Hell I had to find out from the news!"

"Obviously someone leaked it, and it was probably the same person who leaked the whole plan to the traffickers. Think about it. No one knew about the plan except for the ones carrying it out, and yet they failed so spectacularly. No only were officers injured but they couldn't capture anyone. We can't even reveal who we believe is behind it because there is no real proof. If we had at least apprehend someone we could do something but nothing. It was like they were waiting for us, so there must be a traitor somewhere."

The other cop sighed, "Man i'd hate to think we have a mole in the force but..." As the two continued down the hall and turned the corner I could no longer hear them.

While waiting for the elevator I couldn't help but wonder just what was going on. Things just seem to be happening so fast lately, and somehow it always involved the people around me. I remember when my life use to be rather normal, but ever since that English project with Tom things just spiraled into a mess. Well anyway, I needed to hurry and complete the mission I came here for. Finally reaching dad's office, much to his surprise, I noticed the list of employee files on his deck along with an open computer. I quickly met his eyes to say my piece.

"I wanted to give this to you. There's breakfast and lunch here, so make sure you make time to eat them. I'll come back after work to deliver some dinner and a change of clothes if you need it."

"That isn't necessary." He grunted and returned to his work.

"If I was confident that you'd eat on your own I wouldn't feel the need to do this." Dad raised a brow and I quickly realized that my reply was a little loaded, and sharper than usual. When did my lips get so loose? I cleared my throat and averted my eyes in embarrassment, "All I mean is im concerned. You always get so obsorbed in your work during times like these."

With a resigned sigh he nodded and he relaxed as he looked at me fondly. "I understand. Now get to school. I'll properly eat what you bring me."

I would imagine if I had a mother she would be here in my place, berating him for neglecting his meals so often. Though, the thought that one of the few ways I feel I can connect with him would be gone made me feel lonely. I liked being able to take care of him during these moments. Knowing that he would eat I left with a light heart, but that was only the beginning of my trials for the day. The biggest hurdle I had to over come was beautiful, blond and loud.

"What do you mean you can't come this Saturday?" Said beautiful blond huffed during our lunch period.

"I never said I couldn't go. Just that I can't go until after 5."

"That's so lame." She frowned, "Why don't we just hang out on Sunday then?"

When I didn't respond Lola sighed, which made Kat laugh. "I don't see how all of this is funny." Uh-oh. Lola was starting to get angry.

"Oh, trust me, it's hilarious. Let's just meet up after 5pm on Saturday. Besides, it's not like it changes our plans all that much. We can still watch a movie."

"Yeah, but..."

"Sorry Lola."

Kat then looked at me, "Don't worry. She's just bummed because she had the whole day planned. Shopping spree, hair and nails, you name it."

"Kat! It was supposed to be a surprise!" Lola then deflated, "Not that it matters much now I guess."

"Oh, Lola. I'm really sorry."

"It's fine...I still have a lot of stuff planned for later! So I hope you're ready."

I wonder if I should be worried.

"Anyway, whats so important that you can't make it Saturday?"

"Oh, um, it's a thing I have to do for my dad."

"He's got you running all over the place lately. Must be tough. I still think we should meet Sunday instead. I mean you only play volleyball for like 3 hours in the morning, right? We could just meet at 1 since you don't want to miss a day of your precious volleyball."

"You still play on Sundays?" Kat asked, "Mary told me she hadn't seen you in a while."

"Really? but she always leaves on Sunday morning." After Trent said this they all looked at me for an answer.

"Um...Well..." My mouth went dry and my throat tightened. "Actually I..." We is always so hot in here? I didn't think this was how my secret would be exposed. I needed to find some excuse but with Mary here as a witness I couldn't use volleyball as an excuse. I could feel the sweat roll down my back as my brain worked overtime. Suddenly someone laughed, obnoxiously loud, and we all turned to look at the source. Surprisingly it was Tom. He looked in our direction and laughed again.

"Sorry, sorry. I just heard the funniest joke. Would you care to hear it? I promise it'll be worth your while."

Lola rolled her eyes. "No thanks, we'll pass."

"That's too bad. It's a real gut buster. If you happened to change your mind just as and i'll be more than happy to share."

"Like I said, we'll pass. Just stay in your group and out of ours."

"You're always so hostile Lola. As a fellow Slytherin I was hoping we would get along."

Lola grimaced, "I don't remember us being on first name basis. And we'd never get along, Riddle. Not even in your dreams."

I'm not sure what Tom's intentions were for his strange outburst but Lola suddenly went on a tangent about how much she hated Tom, and our previous conversation was miraculously forgotten.

~~~~Teaser~~~~

In the small infirmary heavy panting filled the otherwise quiet room. It was so tight. I couldn't take it anymore. With every step, and every breath it would constrict and rub against me.

"A-ahh!"

It was too much rubbing.

It wasn't enough rubbing.

I didn't know anymore.

"Your eyes are glazing over. You're enjoying this more than I thought you would."

I wanted to tell him that, that wasn't true but all I could do was moan. The slightest movement made me go crazy. My body was too sensitive.

"Tell me what you want, Raven."

I looked up at him with trembling lips and glassy eyes. There was only one thing I wanted.

"Ta...Take it...o-off."

[1] Because the story is about you...Sorry...