I don't leave for the Davis Cup match until tomorrow morning. That leaves me with time for this chapter and maybe if I'm a good girl the next one! YAHHHHH! A million and one thank yous to Juryu. Enough and on with the story!
As always the usual goes here. If you don't know it by now look at the top of another chapter.
***
Ch 12-The Unexpected Guest.
Once the flames parted Delia arrived in a ballroom. The place was decked out in a splendor only the rich could afford. The room had lavish furniture and the black marble shone brightly through the polish. There we no flowers in the room. There was a tapestry of the Slytherin Symbol on the west wall next to a tapestry of the Dark Mark. Torchlight and candles lighted the room dimly. Everyone was wearing black. Their eyes were on her. Delia felt a little odd in her yellow Hufflepuff Quidditch robes. Lucius still had Delia by the shoulder. A house elf came by and handed Delia a glass of champagne. Severus who muttered something about Hogwarts rules forbade students from drinking anything other then butter beer, quickly removed the glass from Delia's hand. Delia was glad Severus had appeared at the right time. She was terrified and he knew it.
"Oh come on Severus. Allow the lady have a small drink." Lucius pleaded taking away the glass and handing it to Delia, "Otherwise I will not be perceived as a good host."
Severus gave Lucius a cold stare. He turned and mouthed to Delia don't drink it; it's got a poison!
Delia handed the flute back to Lucius. "Thanks, but I don't drink."
"My dear, you are old enough. Do you think I poisoned it?" He laughed an evil laugh.
"No, its just I'm a diabetic," she lied. "Bad for my blood sugar."
"Then would you like some Pumpkin Juice or tea?" Lucius asked.
"No thanks. I'm good," she drawled out.
"In that case let me introduce you around. Everyone gather around!" Each person in the room dropped what they were doing and joined around Lucius. "We have a special guest tonight. This is Miss Delia Wheelrite the Hogwarts Exchange Student from America. Delia this is my wife Narcissia, Mr. and Mrs. Crabbe, Mr. and Mrs. Goyle, Mr. Macnair, Mr. Mulciber, Mr. Rookwood and of course you know your professor. Now that you know everyone, please enjoy my party!" All of the party guests resumed there groups picking up where they left off from their conversations. Delia noticed four more people entered the room. Lucius took Delia by the arm and took her over. "Miss Wheelrite this is Mr. and Mrs. Daniels. I presume you know their son, Craig."
"Oh we've met," Delia said.
"Good, good. This is Mr. and Mrs. Jennings. I think you might know their daughter Rebecca."
"Once again we have met on more then one occasion," Delia said trying to be polite.
"Excellent! This is Miss Delia Wheelrite Hogwarts exchange student. I hope you have heard good things about her." Lucius seemed jubilant with himself. "Mix and mingle, Miss Wheelrite, tonight you are my honored guest!"
"Thanks, but I don't think that is necessary. I did arrive uninvited and some might say I'm gate crashing."
"Nonsense, this is my home and party. I invite only those I like." Lucius gave Delia a smile that turned her stomach.
"In that case seeing as I came at the last moment with no further warning do you have somewhere I can wash my face?" She smiled real pretty as if she were a farmers daughter for the Miss America pageant.
"Yes, I'll take you. It's in an odd location of the house."
"Thank you, but you have guests. Just point me in the direction."
"Don't worry Lucius. I'll take her," Severus said. Delia felt relieved. Severus grabbed Delia's arm and led her out of the ballroom. "Do you think for one moment I'm leaving you alone with him. There is a powder room this way. It's not far. Just around the corner. Odd location in the house...balderdash!" Severus pushed open the door, "I'm coming in with you if you like it or not. I don't trust anything here."
"Thank you." Delia said softly entering the powder room and walking over to the mirror. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her wand and fold up brush. Delia took a tissue from the box and transfigured the tissue into a white ribbon. Delia brushed her hair and pulled her hair up into a high ponytail. Delia put away her brush and wand and rummaged around pulling out tube of pink lip-gloss. Delia applied it to her lips. She could see Severus's refection in the mirror he didn't look too good. He looked quite grave.
"Delia," he said softly, "I don't know what Malfoy's intentions are tonight. But I have a feeling its not good. I will make certain you get out of here alive. You have just walked into something I hoped would never happen to you. I cannot apologize enough. It's my fault you are here. Malfoy was supposed to pick me up thirty minutes later then what he did. He thought you would be there and was right...DAMN...sorry, Delia."
"Say what you like. I bet I'm thinking it."
"Delia you are going back out into something I don't even know what. I hope you know how to save yourself if something does happen. Though, with the DADA teachers we've had in the last few years it wouldn't surprise me if you didn't know what to do. Not that I'm questioning your ability."
"You are right I don't know what to do," Delia agreed.
"You are scared aren't you?" Delia nodded then Severus spoke in a gentle tone, "You have every right to be scared. If anything happens don't be afraid to use any of the Unforgivable Curses." He could see Delia had turned white and was shaking. He pulled her into an embrace.
"If I do...w-w-w-won't I-I-I-I end u-u-u-u-p in...Az-Az-Azkaban?" Delia asked quietly. Severus didn't answer. Delia pushed him way and said with vigor. "Answer me!"
Severus reached for Delia she pushed him away again. "I can't promise you if you will or not. Just don't do anything stupid that will make them annoyed at you. You are dealing with some Ministry Officials with ranks and friends in high places. Watch out for Mulciber, he is the Imperius Curse expert. I won't leave your side. We had better get out of here fast before Malfoy thinks I'm having fun with you."
"Why don't I just leave?" she said in her don't mess with me voice.
"Because Malfoy only has one fire place on the Floo Network and you know where that is. If you leave, you are in the middle of a forest much like the Forbidden Forest. You can't appearte yet. You learn that this year. If things get messy the Floo Powder is on the mantle behind the skull. Go straight to Dumbledore's office! Don't wait for me."
Delia nodded. Severus walked out first, checked to see if anyone was watching and waved for Delia to come out. They walked back into the ballroom. Narcissia, Mrs. Daniels and Mrs. Jennings pulled Delia away from Severus. She was taken to the other side of the room. They joined Mrs. Crabbe and Mrs. Goyle. Delia had been taken in to it what seemed to her as the ladies club.
Severus watched as Delia stood and chatted with the ladies. He knew Delia was scared but by looking at her you couldn't tell. She was handling this well. The only thing Severus feared was Delia's mouth. He hoped she was old enough now to know when to keep her opinions to herself. Severus turned his attention back to the men.
"Don't be anxious Severus," Malfoy said. "Your Delia will be fine. What a fine thing she is. If I only had something that young as mine. Tell me Severus how do you keep up with such a ball of energy?"
"Ball of energy? Delia? Well..."
"Don't be bashful Severus. I saw the state of your chambers when I arrived. The bed wasn't made. Delia's hair was tousled and she was throwing on her robe in rather a hurry. Your excuse coming by to collect books didn't fool me! What is a man to think, eh?" There was a look of evil in his eyes. "You are so lucky to have a young thing like that to squeeze and do with as you please. I don't know how you get it passed Dumbledore. Have you got that girl under some spell?"
"That Lucius, " Severus said with an evil grin on his face, decided to play the game, "is something I will not tell you."
The group laughed and Goyle spoke, "Severus we didn't know you were into young things! She is such a lovely, makes our wives look unattractive. Even if she is in Hufflepuff Quidditch robes!" The group laughed again, loudly. "Lucius, I am shocked to see that your wife hasn't torn off Delia's head!"
"Don't worry boys, she's not intimated by Delia," Malfoy replied unperturbedly. "So Severus how was it in the powder room? How much did you see?"
"I beg your pardon?" Severus asked shocked
"Come now, you were gone for a lengthy time. Once again what's your charm, spell or what Potion are you using."
"I'm not using anything of the sort!" Severus exclaimed.
"Do you think," Crabbe said, "that an appealing thing like Delia would like you for what you are? Get with it Severus."
"I'm not telling. That would ruin a secret, now wouldn't it?" He flashed a sly grin.
"Sometime Severus, " Malfoy said, "I don't know how you do it!"
***
Delia was in the middle of telling about Kansas when Lucius came over. "I'm sorry ladies, but we want to have a chat with Miss Wheelrite too." They all let out a groan at the same time. "Now, now we just want to borrow Delia for a little while."
"But Lucius!" Narcissia protested. "Delia was in the middle of telling us about her town!"
"I'll bring her back, I promise. If not she can come again another night. This time she might be more organized. Now, Miss Wheelrite if you'll please follow me."
"Severus, it seems as if your girlfriend is joining us," Goyle said. "Wonder why?"
"I don't have any ideas really," Severus said. He was relieved that Delia was closer to him and not on the other side of the room.
"I've snagged Miss Wheelrite away for a few minutes. I know you are sick of this but would you tell us a bit about Kansas?"
"I tell you what, it's running late and I have classes in the morning. Why don't I answer a few questions instead-"
"Or better yet," Severus interrupted. "Why don't I take Miss Wheelrite back to Hogwarts. She can return another time and tell us all about her home land."
"Valid point, Severus." Malfoy said, "Thank you, Miss Wheelrite for being my honored guest. I will invite you again soon. Take care and good night."
"Thank you for inviting me. It was nice meeting you all. I'll come back with pictures of Kansas next time. Take care and good night." She said that with such exaggerated graciousness. She have not liked saying it, however, she wasn't going to give the impression Kansan were rude hicks from the sticks.
The second Delia entered Severus's Chambers she ran to the bathroom. Her stomach couldn't take anymore. She made it just in time before the first heave. She pulled the chain and fell to the floor exhausted, gasping for breath. She put her face in her hands. She felt another one coming up. Severus stood by and asked, "Do you want a nerve calming potion?"
"No," she heaved again, "I don't think I could keep it down!"
Delia kept heaved a few more times. She pulled the chain and leaned against the wall. She felt dizzy. She closed her eyes. The wall felt cool and peaceful. Her chest kept rising and falling suddenly. All she could keep thinking was I made out in one piece. I'm ok. I'm ok. Once Delia stopped breathing heavily Severus held out his hand and pulled Delia of the floor. Her stomach felt better, but she felt weak. Delia walked out of the bathroom and collapsed on the bed. Severus sat at the edge of the bed caressing Delia's back.
"I'm never going back there!" Delia said her face muffled by the pillow.
"No one is making you go back," Severus said in his silky smooth voice soothingly. "Delia what you did tonight took courage. You are incredibly brave. I'm giving you one hundred points. Don't let it get out tough!"
Delia rolled over and looked at Severus. "I think I'm going to lose it again!"
"You wouldn't dare."
"Listen, I think the one hundred points is nice. I was to saving my own neck. So I'm arguing with you not to give them to me and Hufflepuff House."
"You showed bravery, you acted cool under pressure and made it out alive. You are getting one hundred points if you like it or not!"
"I'm too out of whack to bicker. What time is it anyways?"
Severus glanced at his watch, "Anyways Delia, one fifteen in the morning."
"Great hour to be...um doing whatever it is people awake do. You know what's funny? When I was kid I'd be up at this hour cause I couldn't sleep. My dad would say to me you must be witch; you are up at this hour! Then I get here and they make us sleep? Boy, that is an urban legend is wrong!"
Severus laughed, "You father didn't know he true he was!"
"Yep, life's weird. Fiction makes since sometimes. Well, anyways I'm off to my bed. G'night." She got off the bed.
"Whoever said you are going anywhere, my dear," Severus said.
"Oh geez, not the password lock thing again!" Delia groaned and heard Severus snap his fingers. "One of these days I'm going to figure out the password!"
"Then what will you do?"
"Dunno. I'll worry about that when I come across it!" She sat down on the bed, and then took off her boots. She stood back up and walked to the bathroom, Severus followed. Delia shook her head and shut the door in his face, locking the door. Severus sighed heavily.
"Before you think," she said her voice muffled, "Malfoy is going to Port Key me off I have to pee. Once I have, I'll open the door and you can watch me wash my stinky feet. Your lesson of the today is don't mess with a women who has to pee, especially when her bladder is about to explode!" Her threatening tone scared Severus away from the door. A few moments later she opened the door. He went a leaned in the doorframe watching her as she ran water in the bathtub. Delia filled it a few inches, added some bubble bath and took a set on the ledge sticking her feet in.
"I hope you know that water is icy," Severus informed her.
"I know. I want it that way. Quidditch boots aren't made for standing in. I learned that after a long practice in ice-skates that if my feet hurt soak them in cold water for a bit then warm the water up. Reduces the swelling. In the morning they should be fine. Now be a dear and bring me my robe on the chair. I need my wand so I can warm the water up." Severus shook his head and came over to Delia. He had his wand in his hand. He flicked it.
"Is that warm enough?" He asked, "or do you want it warmer?"
"This is great, thank you."
Severus walked over and picked up two towels. He placed on one the floor behind Delia and the other he held on to. Delia pulled the plug, swung around and placed her feet on the towel. Severus sat down next to her on the ledge, picking up one of her feet. He dried it and looked at he toe nails. When he first picked up her foot the nail polish was green, then it turned purple. The same went with the other foot. This perplexed Severus. Delia giggled.
"Its nail polish. Turns colors when it's warm or cold. Pretty cool, eh?"
"If you say so. You have large leg muscles."
"Summer of ice skating. My parents still think I'm going to be their little skater. BLAH! On the third day of my summer vacation I was sitting around in my robe and slippers. Mom threw me off the couch and told me to get dressed I was going to the rink. I was having fun watching TV. I think it was the popcorn all over the room that ticked her off.
"What were you doing with popcorn?"
"Throwing it at the TV while watching ESPN!"
Severus gave Delia an odd look. "There are some things I don't understand about you Delia Penelope Wheelrite." He stood up and walked out of the bathroom. Delia padded out after him. He was taking off his robes, leaving him in his shirt and pants. Delia thought he looked like a normal man with a since of style. He appeared to be...what was the word...damn fine? Delia blinked herself back into reality and sat on the edge of the bed. Her mind started in on her.I'm in my teachers' chambers watching him and thinking he's hot. We're on first name bases. This is just too weird. He's half my freakin' age! I've SLEPT with him. Gotten drunk for the first time with him. My first kiss was from him too. Well, when I was drunk he didn't take advantage of me. He's been kind. The whole thing is just odd. Stop psychoanalyzing the state of affairs. Take your cuz Jen's theory; he likes you, you like him. THE END.
"Here you go silly," he threw a nightshirt at Delia. "I've been trying to get your attention for the last 5 minutes. I've been in my boxers for the last five minutes now too. All you can do is look at the wall. I even walked by with your Quidditch robe and you were still unfazed. Do you even know where your robe is and for that matter your wand?" Delia looked at Severus and gulped. For man that looked pale he sure had muscles. Her heart pounded fiercely. "Earth calling Delia, Earth calling Delia. Heeellllllloooooo Delia!" Severus laughed. "From the look on your face you would have swore you had never seen a man in his boxers or is it you find me irresistible? Mhh I think it's the latter."
"What!" Delia exclaimed. "You have flipped. Lost your rocker. Struck out on three! Because you don't know what I think."
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking about out of all the conversations in the world we are having this one! I mean, really. People of our intellect should be having more intelligent conversations then ...the-one-we're-having-now."
"You said the last half dreadfully swift," he said slowly in his silky smooth voice that made Delia melt. "You don't do well under nerves, I've noticed. You bite your lip a lot and you don't lie very well either."
"Who said I was lying!" she said defensively.
"Just confess it Delia. You find me hot, irresistible, and enticing."
"Why would I find you of all people in the world hot, irresistible and enticing? I'd have to have a warped, twisted mind to do so. But then again who says you aren't the one to thinks the same about me? I mean let me take off this yellow sweater and ask you the same question. Then you'll see what I'm talking about." Delia pulled the sweater off revealing a white tank top with thin straps. Severus considered this women's underwear. Severus took Delia's sweater, folded it and placed it on top of the dresser. Delia got off the bed and turned a cartwheel. She then proceeded to walk on her hands. She walked out as far as the foot of the bed, followed by a fall into a backbend, then pulled herself back up to her feet. Severus was awestruck; he had only seen circus performers do things like that when he was young.
"How do you do that?" he asked.
"Magic," she replied. Severus gave her an I-don't-believe-you look. Delia rolled her eyes and said, "Many years of gymnastics. Long story I'll tell you more later," she yawned. "Excuse me, man I'm kaput."
"What else can you do?"
"Oh I can do hand spring, some flips and a few other things."
"Show me a hand spring!" Severus said eagerly acting like a child.
"I don't have enough room in here. I'm afraid I'd crash into something. I'll show you some other time."
"All right" Severus was disappointed. Delia took off for the bathroom and returned wearing his nightshirt. Severus took Delia's pants and tank top and hung them in the wardrobe.
"You still want to see a hand spring don't you?" Delia asked.
"Don't hurt yourself. I can wait."
"There is plenty of room if I run in from the bathroom and then I flip up onto the bed."
"All I am saying you know what you are doing."
Delia walked back into the bathroom. She came running out, placed her hands on the floor and flipped onto the bed. This happened all to fast for Severus to catch on. He was amazed. All he could say was while shaking his head. "Delia, I don't understand you sometimes."
"Do yourself a favor and stop. There are no true answers." She got off the bed, threw back the duvet and said, "I'm off to bed. Its two in the morning."
"I know the feeling. I'll set the alarm for six instead of five thirty. If I throw this against the wall, make sure I'm up in time."
"I'll try but I might be asleep," she said crawling into bed. She took one of the pillows and arranges it to suit her. She was making suck a racket beating the poor thing to death. When she was finished, she had a hole for her head. She laid back closing her eyes. The last thing she noticed before falling asleep was Severus putting his arms around her.
As always the usual goes here. If you don't know it by now look at the top of another chapter.
***
Ch 12-The Unexpected Guest.
Once the flames parted Delia arrived in a ballroom. The place was decked out in a splendor only the rich could afford. The room had lavish furniture and the black marble shone brightly through the polish. There we no flowers in the room. There was a tapestry of the Slytherin Symbol on the west wall next to a tapestry of the Dark Mark. Torchlight and candles lighted the room dimly. Everyone was wearing black. Their eyes were on her. Delia felt a little odd in her yellow Hufflepuff Quidditch robes. Lucius still had Delia by the shoulder. A house elf came by and handed Delia a glass of champagne. Severus who muttered something about Hogwarts rules forbade students from drinking anything other then butter beer, quickly removed the glass from Delia's hand. Delia was glad Severus had appeared at the right time. She was terrified and he knew it.
"Oh come on Severus. Allow the lady have a small drink." Lucius pleaded taking away the glass and handing it to Delia, "Otherwise I will not be perceived as a good host."
Severus gave Lucius a cold stare. He turned and mouthed to Delia don't drink it; it's got a poison!
Delia handed the flute back to Lucius. "Thanks, but I don't drink."
"My dear, you are old enough. Do you think I poisoned it?" He laughed an evil laugh.
"No, its just I'm a diabetic," she lied. "Bad for my blood sugar."
"Then would you like some Pumpkin Juice or tea?" Lucius asked.
"No thanks. I'm good," she drawled out.
"In that case let me introduce you around. Everyone gather around!" Each person in the room dropped what they were doing and joined around Lucius. "We have a special guest tonight. This is Miss Delia Wheelrite the Hogwarts Exchange Student from America. Delia this is my wife Narcissia, Mr. and Mrs. Crabbe, Mr. and Mrs. Goyle, Mr. Macnair, Mr. Mulciber, Mr. Rookwood and of course you know your professor. Now that you know everyone, please enjoy my party!" All of the party guests resumed there groups picking up where they left off from their conversations. Delia noticed four more people entered the room. Lucius took Delia by the arm and took her over. "Miss Wheelrite this is Mr. and Mrs. Daniels. I presume you know their son, Craig."
"Oh we've met," Delia said.
"Good, good. This is Mr. and Mrs. Jennings. I think you might know their daughter Rebecca."
"Once again we have met on more then one occasion," Delia said trying to be polite.
"Excellent! This is Miss Delia Wheelrite Hogwarts exchange student. I hope you have heard good things about her." Lucius seemed jubilant with himself. "Mix and mingle, Miss Wheelrite, tonight you are my honored guest!"
"Thanks, but I don't think that is necessary. I did arrive uninvited and some might say I'm gate crashing."
"Nonsense, this is my home and party. I invite only those I like." Lucius gave Delia a smile that turned her stomach.
"In that case seeing as I came at the last moment with no further warning do you have somewhere I can wash my face?" She smiled real pretty as if she were a farmers daughter for the Miss America pageant.
"Yes, I'll take you. It's in an odd location of the house."
"Thank you, but you have guests. Just point me in the direction."
"Don't worry Lucius. I'll take her," Severus said. Delia felt relieved. Severus grabbed Delia's arm and led her out of the ballroom. "Do you think for one moment I'm leaving you alone with him. There is a powder room this way. It's not far. Just around the corner. Odd location in the house...balderdash!" Severus pushed open the door, "I'm coming in with you if you like it or not. I don't trust anything here."
"Thank you." Delia said softly entering the powder room and walking over to the mirror. She reached into her pocket and pulled out her wand and fold up brush. Delia took a tissue from the box and transfigured the tissue into a white ribbon. Delia brushed her hair and pulled her hair up into a high ponytail. Delia put away her brush and wand and rummaged around pulling out tube of pink lip-gloss. Delia applied it to her lips. She could see Severus's refection in the mirror he didn't look too good. He looked quite grave.
"Delia," he said softly, "I don't know what Malfoy's intentions are tonight. But I have a feeling its not good. I will make certain you get out of here alive. You have just walked into something I hoped would never happen to you. I cannot apologize enough. It's my fault you are here. Malfoy was supposed to pick me up thirty minutes later then what he did. He thought you would be there and was right...DAMN...sorry, Delia."
"Say what you like. I bet I'm thinking it."
"Delia you are going back out into something I don't even know what. I hope you know how to save yourself if something does happen. Though, with the DADA teachers we've had in the last few years it wouldn't surprise me if you didn't know what to do. Not that I'm questioning your ability."
"You are right I don't know what to do," Delia agreed.
"You are scared aren't you?" Delia nodded then Severus spoke in a gentle tone, "You have every right to be scared. If anything happens don't be afraid to use any of the Unforgivable Curses." He could see Delia had turned white and was shaking. He pulled her into an embrace.
"If I do...w-w-w-won't I-I-I-I end u-u-u-u-p in...Az-Az-Azkaban?" Delia asked quietly. Severus didn't answer. Delia pushed him way and said with vigor. "Answer me!"
Severus reached for Delia she pushed him away again. "I can't promise you if you will or not. Just don't do anything stupid that will make them annoyed at you. You are dealing with some Ministry Officials with ranks and friends in high places. Watch out for Mulciber, he is the Imperius Curse expert. I won't leave your side. We had better get out of here fast before Malfoy thinks I'm having fun with you."
"Why don't I just leave?" she said in her don't mess with me voice.
"Because Malfoy only has one fire place on the Floo Network and you know where that is. If you leave, you are in the middle of a forest much like the Forbidden Forest. You can't appearte yet. You learn that this year. If things get messy the Floo Powder is on the mantle behind the skull. Go straight to Dumbledore's office! Don't wait for me."
Delia nodded. Severus walked out first, checked to see if anyone was watching and waved for Delia to come out. They walked back into the ballroom. Narcissia, Mrs. Daniels and Mrs. Jennings pulled Delia away from Severus. She was taken to the other side of the room. They joined Mrs. Crabbe and Mrs. Goyle. Delia had been taken in to it what seemed to her as the ladies club.
Severus watched as Delia stood and chatted with the ladies. He knew Delia was scared but by looking at her you couldn't tell. She was handling this well. The only thing Severus feared was Delia's mouth. He hoped she was old enough now to know when to keep her opinions to herself. Severus turned his attention back to the men.
"Don't be anxious Severus," Malfoy said. "Your Delia will be fine. What a fine thing she is. If I only had something that young as mine. Tell me Severus how do you keep up with such a ball of energy?"
"Ball of energy? Delia? Well..."
"Don't be bashful Severus. I saw the state of your chambers when I arrived. The bed wasn't made. Delia's hair was tousled and she was throwing on her robe in rather a hurry. Your excuse coming by to collect books didn't fool me! What is a man to think, eh?" There was a look of evil in his eyes. "You are so lucky to have a young thing like that to squeeze and do with as you please. I don't know how you get it passed Dumbledore. Have you got that girl under some spell?"
"That Lucius, " Severus said with an evil grin on his face, decided to play the game, "is something I will not tell you."
The group laughed and Goyle spoke, "Severus we didn't know you were into young things! She is such a lovely, makes our wives look unattractive. Even if she is in Hufflepuff Quidditch robes!" The group laughed again, loudly. "Lucius, I am shocked to see that your wife hasn't torn off Delia's head!"
"Don't worry boys, she's not intimated by Delia," Malfoy replied unperturbedly. "So Severus how was it in the powder room? How much did you see?"
"I beg your pardon?" Severus asked shocked
"Come now, you were gone for a lengthy time. Once again what's your charm, spell or what Potion are you using."
"I'm not using anything of the sort!" Severus exclaimed.
"Do you think," Crabbe said, "that an appealing thing like Delia would like you for what you are? Get with it Severus."
"I'm not telling. That would ruin a secret, now wouldn't it?" He flashed a sly grin.
"Sometime Severus, " Malfoy said, "I don't know how you do it!"
***
Delia was in the middle of telling about Kansas when Lucius came over. "I'm sorry ladies, but we want to have a chat with Miss Wheelrite too." They all let out a groan at the same time. "Now, now we just want to borrow Delia for a little while."
"But Lucius!" Narcissia protested. "Delia was in the middle of telling us about her town!"
"I'll bring her back, I promise. If not she can come again another night. This time she might be more organized. Now, Miss Wheelrite if you'll please follow me."
"Severus, it seems as if your girlfriend is joining us," Goyle said. "Wonder why?"
"I don't have any ideas really," Severus said. He was relieved that Delia was closer to him and not on the other side of the room.
"I've snagged Miss Wheelrite away for a few minutes. I know you are sick of this but would you tell us a bit about Kansas?"
"I tell you what, it's running late and I have classes in the morning. Why don't I answer a few questions instead-"
"Or better yet," Severus interrupted. "Why don't I take Miss Wheelrite back to Hogwarts. She can return another time and tell us all about her home land."
"Valid point, Severus." Malfoy said, "Thank you, Miss Wheelrite for being my honored guest. I will invite you again soon. Take care and good night."
"Thank you for inviting me. It was nice meeting you all. I'll come back with pictures of Kansas next time. Take care and good night." She said that with such exaggerated graciousness. She have not liked saying it, however, she wasn't going to give the impression Kansan were rude hicks from the sticks.
The second Delia entered Severus's Chambers she ran to the bathroom. Her stomach couldn't take anymore. She made it just in time before the first heave. She pulled the chain and fell to the floor exhausted, gasping for breath. She put her face in her hands. She felt another one coming up. Severus stood by and asked, "Do you want a nerve calming potion?"
"No," she heaved again, "I don't think I could keep it down!"
Delia kept heaved a few more times. She pulled the chain and leaned against the wall. She felt dizzy. She closed her eyes. The wall felt cool and peaceful. Her chest kept rising and falling suddenly. All she could keep thinking was I made out in one piece. I'm ok. I'm ok. Once Delia stopped breathing heavily Severus held out his hand and pulled Delia of the floor. Her stomach felt better, but she felt weak. Delia walked out of the bathroom and collapsed on the bed. Severus sat at the edge of the bed caressing Delia's back.
"I'm never going back there!" Delia said her face muffled by the pillow.
"No one is making you go back," Severus said in his silky smooth voice soothingly. "Delia what you did tonight took courage. You are incredibly brave. I'm giving you one hundred points. Don't let it get out tough!"
Delia rolled over and looked at Severus. "I think I'm going to lose it again!"
"You wouldn't dare."
"Listen, I think the one hundred points is nice. I was to saving my own neck. So I'm arguing with you not to give them to me and Hufflepuff House."
"You showed bravery, you acted cool under pressure and made it out alive. You are getting one hundred points if you like it or not!"
"I'm too out of whack to bicker. What time is it anyways?"
Severus glanced at his watch, "Anyways Delia, one fifteen in the morning."
"Great hour to be...um doing whatever it is people awake do. You know what's funny? When I was kid I'd be up at this hour cause I couldn't sleep. My dad would say to me you must be witch; you are up at this hour! Then I get here and they make us sleep? Boy, that is an urban legend is wrong!"
Severus laughed, "You father didn't know he true he was!"
"Yep, life's weird. Fiction makes since sometimes. Well, anyways I'm off to my bed. G'night." She got off the bed.
"Whoever said you are going anywhere, my dear," Severus said.
"Oh geez, not the password lock thing again!" Delia groaned and heard Severus snap his fingers. "One of these days I'm going to figure out the password!"
"Then what will you do?"
"Dunno. I'll worry about that when I come across it!" She sat down on the bed, and then took off her boots. She stood back up and walked to the bathroom, Severus followed. Delia shook her head and shut the door in his face, locking the door. Severus sighed heavily.
"Before you think," she said her voice muffled, "Malfoy is going to Port Key me off I have to pee. Once I have, I'll open the door and you can watch me wash my stinky feet. Your lesson of the today is don't mess with a women who has to pee, especially when her bladder is about to explode!" Her threatening tone scared Severus away from the door. A few moments later she opened the door. He went a leaned in the doorframe watching her as she ran water in the bathtub. Delia filled it a few inches, added some bubble bath and took a set on the ledge sticking her feet in.
"I hope you know that water is icy," Severus informed her.
"I know. I want it that way. Quidditch boots aren't made for standing in. I learned that after a long practice in ice-skates that if my feet hurt soak them in cold water for a bit then warm the water up. Reduces the swelling. In the morning they should be fine. Now be a dear and bring me my robe on the chair. I need my wand so I can warm the water up." Severus shook his head and came over to Delia. He had his wand in his hand. He flicked it.
"Is that warm enough?" He asked, "or do you want it warmer?"
"This is great, thank you."
Severus walked over and picked up two towels. He placed on one the floor behind Delia and the other he held on to. Delia pulled the plug, swung around and placed her feet on the towel. Severus sat down next to her on the ledge, picking up one of her feet. He dried it and looked at he toe nails. When he first picked up her foot the nail polish was green, then it turned purple. The same went with the other foot. This perplexed Severus. Delia giggled.
"Its nail polish. Turns colors when it's warm or cold. Pretty cool, eh?"
"If you say so. You have large leg muscles."
"Summer of ice skating. My parents still think I'm going to be their little skater. BLAH! On the third day of my summer vacation I was sitting around in my robe and slippers. Mom threw me off the couch and told me to get dressed I was going to the rink. I was having fun watching TV. I think it was the popcorn all over the room that ticked her off.
"What were you doing with popcorn?"
"Throwing it at the TV while watching ESPN!"
Severus gave Delia an odd look. "There are some things I don't understand about you Delia Penelope Wheelrite." He stood up and walked out of the bathroom. Delia padded out after him. He was taking off his robes, leaving him in his shirt and pants. Delia thought he looked like a normal man with a since of style. He appeared to be...what was the word...damn fine? Delia blinked herself back into reality and sat on the edge of the bed. Her mind started in on her.I'm in my teachers' chambers watching him and thinking he's hot. We're on first name bases. This is just too weird. He's half my freakin' age! I've SLEPT with him. Gotten drunk for the first time with him. My first kiss was from him too. Well, when I was drunk he didn't take advantage of me. He's been kind. The whole thing is just odd. Stop psychoanalyzing the state of affairs. Take your cuz Jen's theory; he likes you, you like him. THE END.
"Here you go silly," he threw a nightshirt at Delia. "I've been trying to get your attention for the last 5 minutes. I've been in my boxers for the last five minutes now too. All you can do is look at the wall. I even walked by with your Quidditch robe and you were still unfazed. Do you even know where your robe is and for that matter your wand?" Delia looked at Severus and gulped. For man that looked pale he sure had muscles. Her heart pounded fiercely. "Earth calling Delia, Earth calling Delia. Heeellllllloooooo Delia!" Severus laughed. "From the look on your face you would have swore you had never seen a man in his boxers or is it you find me irresistible? Mhh I think it's the latter."
"What!" Delia exclaimed. "You have flipped. Lost your rocker. Struck out on three! Because you don't know what I think."
"What are you thinking?"
"I'm thinking about out of all the conversations in the world we are having this one! I mean, really. People of our intellect should be having more intelligent conversations then ...the-one-we're-having-now."
"You said the last half dreadfully swift," he said slowly in his silky smooth voice that made Delia melt. "You don't do well under nerves, I've noticed. You bite your lip a lot and you don't lie very well either."
"Who said I was lying!" she said defensively.
"Just confess it Delia. You find me hot, irresistible, and enticing."
"Why would I find you of all people in the world hot, irresistible and enticing? I'd have to have a warped, twisted mind to do so. But then again who says you aren't the one to thinks the same about me? I mean let me take off this yellow sweater and ask you the same question. Then you'll see what I'm talking about." Delia pulled the sweater off revealing a white tank top with thin straps. Severus considered this women's underwear. Severus took Delia's sweater, folded it and placed it on top of the dresser. Delia got off the bed and turned a cartwheel. She then proceeded to walk on her hands. She walked out as far as the foot of the bed, followed by a fall into a backbend, then pulled herself back up to her feet. Severus was awestruck; he had only seen circus performers do things like that when he was young.
"How do you do that?" he asked.
"Magic," she replied. Severus gave her an I-don't-believe-you look. Delia rolled her eyes and said, "Many years of gymnastics. Long story I'll tell you more later," she yawned. "Excuse me, man I'm kaput."
"What else can you do?"
"Oh I can do hand spring, some flips and a few other things."
"Show me a hand spring!" Severus said eagerly acting like a child.
"I don't have enough room in here. I'm afraid I'd crash into something. I'll show you some other time."
"All right" Severus was disappointed. Delia took off for the bathroom and returned wearing his nightshirt. Severus took Delia's pants and tank top and hung them in the wardrobe.
"You still want to see a hand spring don't you?" Delia asked.
"Don't hurt yourself. I can wait."
"There is plenty of room if I run in from the bathroom and then I flip up onto the bed."
"All I am saying you know what you are doing."
Delia walked back into the bathroom. She came running out, placed her hands on the floor and flipped onto the bed. This happened all to fast for Severus to catch on. He was amazed. All he could say was while shaking his head. "Delia, I don't understand you sometimes."
"Do yourself a favor and stop. There are no true answers." She got off the bed, threw back the duvet and said, "I'm off to bed. Its two in the morning."
"I know the feeling. I'll set the alarm for six instead of five thirty. If I throw this against the wall, make sure I'm up in time."
"I'll try but I might be asleep," she said crawling into bed. She took one of the pillows and arranges it to suit her. She was making suck a racket beating the poor thing to death. When she was finished, she had a hole for her head. She laid back closing her eyes. The last thing she noticed before falling asleep was Severus putting his arms around her.