AUTHORS NOTE: heh, chapter two. Are you honestly STILL reading this? Wow.
Parental Guidance Recommended. we swear a lot. And nither uv uz cn spel for
peanuts. Just a warnin to y'all. Review please, flames will be used to
torture our teacher. mwar har har.
Iseult POV.
A grinning Alessandro greeted the girls at the breakfast table down in the great hall, where they recounted Trinity's strangeness the previous night. He was more or less indifferent. "Yeah, Trins pretty crazy. She has lots of weird ideas. Brilliant Quidditch player though. Great with a quaffle." He gulped down a glass of pumpkin juice. "So who are Ezrai and Tania?" Sierra was questioning Aless to the point of interrogation. He was about to open his mouth when Iseult squealed "Yay! Porridge!" and ladled a ton of hot porridge into her bowl, before drizzling it with milk and brown sugar. Nonplussed, Aless continued, "The two girls that you're replacing. I didn't even know it was them who had gone. Ezralia's twin brother's left too, I presume the family's moved." Iseult had finished her porridge and now looked disappointedly at her empty bowl. She saw a rack of toast near Aless, and reached over him to grab a piece. "You have amazing metabolism, did you know that?" Aless watched her chew her honey-drenched toast delicately. "I know. And exquisite table manners." She grinned. "And I'm just so modest!" A sudden thump from the head table silenced them. Professor Albus Dumbledore, apparently still chewing, stood up and boomed out, amazingly for a man of his age and apparent frailty, "Tonight, students, as you will all be aware of, at precisely 6'O One, is the Third year to Fifth year.dance." Sierra, rather too loudly, remarked, "It is?" in a slightly horrified fashion, looking sideways at Sirius, who was beaming at her mischievously. Iseult's mind had left her breakfast and was now settling firmly on one thing. That thing was: HOLYSHITWATAMIGOINGTOWEARIDONTHAVEBLOODYDRESSROBES. Dumbledore apparently noticed some of the new student's distress, as he happily added, "This year I have decided we will break with tradition and wear our casual, normal clothes! No dress robes necessarily!" This comment brightened the student's faces but the teachers looked very disappointed and solemn. The headmaster ignored this. "As you will also have noticed by now, Today is a SATURDAY, and therefore you have today and tomorrow off so that you can organize yourself for school. Although we don't actually expect you to do that of course." Dumbledore grinned, and dismissed the students from the great hall, which was canopied with a smiling sky.
Sierra POV
Dear god this was boring. Sierra usually loved dances and the type, but for some reason she just felt, well, out of it all. Iseult, Ginger and Sierra had spent most of the evening making each other over. It hadn't taken much to turn Ginger into somewhat of a goddess. She was wearing a sparkly green tank top and maroon pants that ended in a bootleg. Sierra would never have imagined these colours paired together, but somehow Ginger pulled it off. The green eye shadow went beautifully with her eyes and top, and her hair hung long down her back with a couple of silver clips in it. Iseult looked almost as gorgeous in an almost too- tight top printed in some Italian passage that Sierra couldn't read but was sure many guys would be happy to translate, and a slightly "puffy" white skirt wrapped in ribbons. Her slightly strawberry blonde hair was done up in a messy bun, with a few wisps of hair framing her face at the sides. She wasn't wearing much makeup except for some mascara that lengthened her eyelashes in a striking way, a bit of light pink sparkly lip-gloss and a touch of eye shadow. Trinity hadn't taken part in this make up fest, she had just grabbed a makeup bag from her trunk and gone to the bathroom, only talking to Ginger. A few minutes later she had returned. She was wearing heavy eyeliner and mascara, and a deep red shade of lipstick. She looked absolutely gorgeous in a kind of goth-chick way. All this Trinity had teamed up with a tiny black spaghetti-strap dress. When they had finally got into the Great Hall (ten minutes late, naturally) Ginger had gone off to her Hufflepuff boyfriend. So Sierra and Iseult giggled between themselves over who was wearing the most atrocious outfit. A 4th year with pink hair won, just in case you were wondering. Iseult had then gone to get them some drinks, when she was asked to dance by a Ravenclaw boy with deep gold hair. Which was why Sierra was standing with CJ and Steph. Steph nudged her and pointed over to where the male Gryffindor third years were standing. "Sirius Black is looking at you." She said excitedly. Sierra resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She just couldn't understand the kind of girls who just stood around all day gossiping over who liked who and whether they were an item or not. "Well actually," pointed out CJ "He's looking at her ass. He's been staring at it for the past five minutes." This time Sierra actually did roll her eyes. "Don't guys have anything better to do?" "No." said CJ blandly, "They spend their whole lives staring at girls. It's a proven fact that if every woman in the world walked around naked female's would rule the world." Sierra laughed, both at CJ's comments and the astounded look on Steph's face. "God, I would DIE to have Sirius Black stare at my ass like that." She said dreamily. "I don't know what you're complaining about personally. Him and that James Potter are the sexiest guys at Hogwarts by far." CJ rolled her eyes and ignored her sister. "Sierra, ignore Steph. Sirius Black has the worst reputation at Hogwarts. He's a complete tosser. He goes out with girls then dumps them the next week. Trust me, you're better off just ignoring the idiot." Steph was about to say something, but she was cut off by Iseult drifting back towards them. Steph was instantly distracted and started firing questions at Iseult about the boy from Ravenclaw.
Iseult POV.
"That was Daniel Jones, wasn't it? The forth year you were dancing with?" "Well, I thought his name was David, actually." "Was he nice? Why did you stop dancing with him?" "Oh, well." Iseult was being bombarded by questions from Steph about the boy she had just danced with. Sierra and CJ were standing smirking behind Iseult's assailant, apparently quite happy to leave Iseult helpless to Steph's questioning. "He was nice, not very interesting. He looked like he was a bit scared to talk. I don't know why." Steph sniggered obviously. Iseult stopped herself from blurting out 'What?' as it would just make Steph happier. Rolling her eyes, Steph put her hand on her hip. "I know why he was scared." Steph rolled the 'I'. Is it even possible to roll your 'I's? Maybe it was a talent that came from being absolutely and utterly boy mad. CJ decided that it was time to save Iseult from Steph. "Hey, look, the school band's starting! Why don't we head closer to the stage?" During the course of the day the prefects and gamekeeper had turned the area where the teachers usually sat into a makeshift stage. The four girls shuffled through the throng of people so that they were in the midst of a gaggle of students surrounding the curtained stage, Steph reluctantly because it took away her chance to blabber on about James Potter. As the music started to play, the sea of shuffling feet stilled, and they stopped to listen to the notes of a band.who did not write their own music, evidently. ".The heart is a bloom, Shoots up through the stony ground, There's no room, No space to rent in this town." Iseult, who had been listening to muggle radio stations playing U2 all summer holidays, groaned slightly. At least it's a good song. The initial awe of the soon music died down, and people started dancing again. Iseult, Sierra, CJ and Steph were about to go and get another drink when CJ hissed, "Dickheads, three O'clock!" Sierra and Iseult groaned and turned, thoroughly sick of playing cat and mouse with these boys. Steph licked her lips nervously. She had not given up her hopes yet. "Quick!" hissed Sierra. "Set me up with someone to dance with! Shit! Hurry up!!!" CJ grabbed Alessandro, who just happened to be the nearest guy, and flung him, flabbergasted into Sierra, who was thankful to have an excuse to be away from Sirius while Iseult was left helpless as James bounded up to her. Iseult looked to the ethereal ceiling in despair. Shit. Not him. Iseult's head burned as she screamed at anyone who happened to have ESP. I AM FRICKIN SICK OF THAT STUPID BOY I WISH HE WOULD LEAVE ME ALONE!!! Exasperated, Iseult muttered aloud in an undertone, unheard by all but Steph who was moping wishfully beside her. "Has he not realised yet that I don't care about him?" Steph's whole face lit up, and for a second Iseult felt genuinely sorry for her. "Really? You.you don't like him even the tiniest bit.?" she whispered as the being in question looked at Iseult sideways. "No.No. I don't. He is a chauvinist pig who.STEPH!" Iseult glared at Steph's back as she skipped over to force a confused James to dance with her. By now all Iseult's sympathy for Steph had flown out the window, and she was wishing that she hadn't left her wand in her bag as she strongly wanted to cast a sharp Ricktusempra curse between Steph's swaying shoulder blades. She ditched me! Ditched me for that hideous.annoying.bigoted. Iseult stormed off to the side of the room, where Sierra was watching Alessandro stuff his face with pies, sausage rolls and peach-flavoured pumpkin juice. Iseult sat down in a huff and started to wail. "Steph ditched me for." "James?" asked Sierra, putting her arm around her friend. "Who cares? If she wants to have anything to do with that jerk, then just let her." Iseult looked a bit miffed, but then nodded. "Right then, who wants to play find Iseult a dance partner?"
Alessandro POV
Could someone please remind me WHY I'm dancing with Sierra Rehine? Alessandro thought to himself conversationally. Sirius was going to kill him. Sirius was going to kill him and it would be long and painful. He shot an apologetic look at Sirius who was shooting daggers at him and Sierra. On any other occasion he would be more than happy to dance with any other girl wearing very low, very tight hipster jeans and a backless top which showed off more than ANY top should. In fact he would positively jump at the chance. But then again, any other girl wasn't Sierra. Who was a. his friend, and b. currently being chased after by Sirius Black. Alessandro really needed to stop getting himself into these situations. It was starting to make life extremely difficult. "Er, Sierra?" "Yeah?" Sierra was making sure that under no circumstances she was to make any eye-contact whatsoever with Sirius. This would have been highly amusing, had Sierra not been quite a good actress - especially in the field of flirting. (At least, Alessandro HOPED she was acting...) "I'm getting a bit," He paused, trying to think of a word that wasn't 'Scared' or 'About to be Murdered' "Hungry. Can we go over to the food table?" To Alessandro's delight the smallest hint of relief washed over Sierra. "Great idea Aless, I'm getting a bit peckish myself." The pair walked over to the food table and Alessandro began to completely stuff himself. After all, he had nothing better to do. Well, apart from being murdered by Sirius for dancing with the girl he was after. He didn't notice Iseult until Sierra had thumped him on the back, making him spit the custard tart he was eating onto the table. A group of second year Ravenclaw girls muttered 'Eeew!' and 'Gross!' but Sierra flipped them the finger and they scowled and moved on. Iseult was standing looking thoroughly pissed off about something. And to be honest, Alessandro (for his own safety) didn't want to know what it was. Sierra was looking around the hall, apparently searching for something. "CJ's over there." He pointed out. "I know that!" snapped Sierra "We're looking for guys." "Guys?" said Alessandro dumbly. Iseult rolled her eyes. "Yes, guys! Now do you know any guys who are not complete idiots and are vaguely good looking?" Oh god, thought Alessandro. There was really only one thing to do if he wanted to actually participate in the more physical activities of the year. He ran.
Sierra POV
Sierra and Iseult watched Alessandro run off. "Stupid little..." Iseult began, but then stopped herself for lack of really insulting words. Sierra rolled her eyes. "Trust any guy who doesn't try to peer up your skirt when he has the chance. But WHY is he running?" "No idea." said Iseult, shaking her head "Maybe he just doesn't want to point out hot guys to us." Sierra nodded, that was probably it. "I'll bet those stupid pricks told him not to set us up with anyone" Iseult continued "They probably think its strange that we haven't 'fallen for their charms'" Sierra snorted. "What like Steph over there?" The girls looked over towards Steph who was brightly chatting up James Potter, he looked mildly interested - but was glancing round. Sierra thought he was probably looking for Iseult. She vaguely wondered where Sirius was when she realised Iseult had started talking again. Sorry, did I say talking? I mean ranting. Sierra interrupted her just as Iseult was beginning to get heated up. "Well if we're going to find some guys I strongly suggest we head for the dance floor. That's where the majority of the guys will be." Iseult thought for a moment, then nodded. "True. Come on, the band may suck but the songs are still good." The two girls headed back towards the mass of dancing bodies. Sierra began pointing out guys for Iseult, which was no small task. Iseult seemed to either have very high standards, or just wasn't interested in them. "What about him over there?" "Eew?! The one covered in pimples?" "No, dickwad. The one with the cargo pants." "Ugh, no way." "Why not?" "His lips are too big." "His LIPS are too big???" "Oh shut up!" "Alright, alright. Err, what about him?" "Guy in blue shirt?" "Yes!" "No!" "Why not! God you're a mission Iseult." said Sierra exasperatedly. If she wasn't mistaken Iseult looked the slightest bit smug about this. Suddenly Sierra spotted Snape not far off. She suppressed the urge to giggle and grabbed Iseult by the arm. "What about him?" She asked delightedly. "WHAT?! SNAPE?!" Iseult screeched a little too loudly, many nearby couples looked at her as if she had a possible mental disease. "Ssssh!" hissed Sierra "Keep it down why don't you?" Iseult shuddered. "You better not be serious" "Its ok," giggled Sierra "I'm not." "Good." The band moved onto a new song and Sierra listened to it closely, she recognised the tune vaguely. The band, it seemed, had taken to 'tweaking' many of the songs so that they were louder and thumpier. "A long, long time ago..." Dammit! What was that song? "I can still remember..." It sounds so familiar, "How that music used to make me smile..." The fact that it was quite slow and classical threw Sierra off completely. She could only think that it would pick up pace later. "And I knew if I had my chance, that I could make those people dance..." Lots of students had begun to sing the words loudly. "And maybe they'd be happy for a while..." Dammit, I've been listening to this song all holidays, what IS it? "But Febuary made me shiver, with every paper I'd deliver..." She could recall Danielle and Tristan singing it, "Bad news on the doorstep, I couldn't take one more step..." She definitely recognised the words now, "I can't remember if I cried when I read about his widowed bride..." Hold on a second, "But something touched me deep inside. The day, the music... died." Sierra repressed the urge to scream with delight. She had been listening to this song all holidays and couldn't deny that she had become supremely obsessed with it. The schools version was absolutely fantastic. It seemed Iseult loved the song also as she was singing the chorus at the top of her lungs "Bye, bye miss American Pie. Drove my Chevvy to the levy but the levy was dry, and them good old boys were drinking whisky and rye singing this will be the day that I die, this will be the day that I die!" Iseult grinned at Sierra and grabbed the nearest boy (A tall Hufflepuff) just as the drums came in and the music started to speed up. Sierra decided to follow her example and turned around and grabbed the nearest guy, flinging her arms around him. She prided herself on being a good dancer, especially with American Pie. Fabulous song that. However she did get the feeling that Remus Lupin had never had such a shock in his life.
Remus POV
I am going to die today, die today, die today, I am going to die today because I danced with Sirius' girl...
James POV.
With his super-seeker-sense eyesight, out of the corner of his roving eye, James caught sight of a dusty-haired Remus trying to dash from the hall but instead being re-grabbed by a girl in jeans that were.REALLY tight! The girl James was dancing with, (Stella was it?) forcefully turned him around to bring his attention back to her. She was a pretty girl, nice enough, But, James thought, a tad wistfully, Iseult is. He was brought back to the present when his partner "accidentally" stepped on, no, stabbed his foot with her stiletto heels. Nah, James, your being an idiot. She fucking hates you! Trust, she fucking hates you. She tore your feelings like you had none, and ripped them away. His thoughts were being interrupted by a tune Steph was humming, so he racked his brains and tried to concentrate on organising his own thoughts, (while he was still sober, a state which would shortly deteriorate.) You could have almost any other girl in the bloody year, most of them like you anyway, so of course you have to fall for a girl who hates your guts. Same thing happened with Evans! But nooo, she had to go and run off with Snape.and now she's ditched him for Lucius Malfoy of all people! James scowled in the direction of the Slytherins as he recalled memories of his ex, Lily Evans, one of the many reasons that he and the rest of the gang hated Snape so much. And Snape went after Iseult on the train! God, Sirius and I had short of publicly declared that she and Sierra were off-limits, were ours. That jealous bastard. If frickin Bellatrix hadn't come in I would have blown his friggin head off!!!. "James! James! Are you alright?" Stephanie was shaking his shoulder vigorously. "You've gone all red!" James was sick of wailing girls. "Yeah, I think I might just go and.Throw up!" he said brightly, intending to do no such thing. Leaving his dance partner at a peak of disappointment, James sauntered off to find Padfoot. If he didn't approach Iseult soon then that Ravenclaw blonde would forget about his threats and dance with her again.
Remus POV.
Must.Get.Away. Remus struggled away from Sierra, and then made a run for it, out one of the huge doors into the cool night air. As he ran, he heard his former dance partner mutter behind him, "Great. Two guys run from me in one day? I am gonna murder Sirius Black."
Iseult POV.
After 'American Pie' and Remus's escape, Iseult followed Sierra over to the side of the hall, by a door leading out onto one of the huge balconies, where CJ and Steph were waving at them. Steph managed a sharp "Hi" when Sierra arrived, in between her wailing and ranting on various topics, most being on James Potter. Subsequently, she completely ignored Iseult. God, I'm fed up with her. "She can have the stupid guy I don't care." Iseult realised too late that she had spoken aloud, but shrugged and added, "Is there a way you can stop James from liking me? Because its sorta inhibiting me on the boy territory." Steph groaned. "Well how do you do it?" "Hey, its not like I'm encouraging him!" "Come on, you must have done something to make him like you?" "Get it into your head, Steph, she hasn't done nothing. Maybe she's just prettier than you?" "Oh shut up CJ! That's horrible and completely untrue!" Iseult huffed and frowned at CJ modestly. Steph ruffled her shoulders appreciatively as Iseult continued, in a most tragic and exaggeratedly "English" manner, "The more I hate him, the more he follows me!" Sierra spluttered into her pumpkin juice and butted in, laughing, "The more I love, the more he hates me!" (At this point CJ and Steph were looking from Iseult to Sierra, Iseult to Sierra, quite worried, and even more so as Iseult continued, "His folly, Hele- I mean Steph, is no fault of mine." And even more worried as Sierra made a wistful fainting action with her hand on her forehead and cried, "None but your beauty; would that fault were mine!" The two girls burst into hysterics, leaning over each other's shoulders to support their laughter. Steph chewed her thumb. Would James like her if Iseult went mad? CJ hit her two friends over their heads affectionately. "You little Shakespeare geeks!" The three more educated out of the four girls giggled at the utter sadness of the fact that Iseult knew the play well enough to quote it at the right moment, while Steph stood, hand on hips, quite frustrated and wishing that they would stop acting like such idiots and get back to the current crisis - JAMES! Her prayer was answered when CJ's laughing face straightened slightly and she stood up. "I think that the good old bard has given us a solution, girls." "A solution about James?" Steph said offhandedly, as if she had been thinking about anything else. "Yeah. You know," she paused, trying to think of a way to put it without hurting anyone's feelings. "Sierra and Iseult, and probably Lily Evans... And me of course," she added hurriedly, "are the only girls I can think of who haven't been victim to Sirius and James's "irresistible" charms." (CJ made the bunny ears sign around irresistible.) "Well, not publicly anyway." She added, thinking of Lily. "So, naturally, in a typical male 'Wants what he can't have' scenario, who are the girls that James and Sirius have made the most fuss about, and who have they chased after insistently, despite embarrassment and common sense?" A cold, harsh wave of realisation hit the girls. "Like Apollo to Daphne." whispered Iseult in the softest tone of voice. "So, you're saying." started Sierra, "That if we pretend we like them." "They'll leave you alone." Nodded CJ, who felt very wise at present. "Think you could handle being nice to the dickheads until they get over you?" Iseult jumped at the chance to have that presuming, arrogant.sweet in an annoying way.dickhead off her back! "Hey, I'm game! Sierra might have some trouble keeping her fist under control though!" Everybody laughed as Sierra poked out her tounge at Iseult and mimed punching her nose. Iseult laughed and glanced at the giggling girl next to her. The golden smile on Steph's face as she thought of James, made it all worthwhile.
Sierra POV
Sierra stood slightly inside the door, along with Iseult, who was pulling her top down in a nervous manner. Sierra vaguely wondered wether she really was wise in choosing a backless top for wearing that night. It was kind of cold. Iseult sighed melodramatically. "You would think that by now they'd get the picture that we are standing here waiting for them." "I dunno," replied Sierra thoughtfully "They could have taken the hint." Iseult snorted "Yeah right," "I'll admit you're right there Iseult. Those dick heads are too dumb to..." "You wouldn't be talking about us now would you Sierra?" came a voice from behind her. Stuck up little... Sierra turned around and smiled at Sirius, looking up at him from under her eyelashes. "I might be," she said teasingly "Then again I might not..." Sirius glanced nervously at James, he was quite shocked that Sierra was actually talking, no, flirting with him. "Well actually," said Iseult matter-of-factly "We were just saying how we really fancied having a dance with someone. We were jsut wondering who we should dance with." Sierra struggled not to grin as Iseult pretended to wonder. James grinned widely at her. "I'll dance with you if you want." "Oh would you?" said Iseult soppily. Now Sierra was struggling not to giggle, this was getting funner by the second. "That would be absolutely fabulous!" Iseult continued, batting her eyelashes at James, who was being thoroughly sucked in by Iseults theatrics. James offered his arm and Iseult took it, winking at Sierra as she walked past. She looked at Sirius who was beaming at her hopefully, and decided to have just a little bit of fun. "Do you know where Remus is?" she said, on the verge of laughter "If Iseult is dancing then i'm going to have a dance too." "No, I'm afraid I dont" liar, thought Sierra, you know perfectly well that he's standing over there, by the punch bowl "but I'll dance with you." He flashed her what he hoped was a winning smile and offered his arm, just as James had done. Sierra played with the thought of teasing him a bit more, and decided that there would be more than enough time to dance with him later. She was having too much fun at the moment. "Oh there he is!" Sierra said happily "Over there, by the punchbowl" Sirius' face visibly dropped, and Sierra felt slightly bad. But luckily she regained herself, think Steph, think Steph "Do you think he likes me?" she said wistfully, trying to imitate how Steph was when talking about James (or any guy for that matter). "I don't really know if I'm getting the right signals you know?" Sirius didn't look like he really cared about what kind of signals she was getting from Remus, so Sierra carried on. Twirling a strand of hair around her finger just as Steph did. "You're good friends with him, what does he really like in a girl?" As if sensing that they were talking about him, Remus turned round and looked at them. Sirius shot him a dark look and Sierra smiled flirtatiously and waved. Remus purposefully looked the other way. She mock-sighed and looked forlorn. "I guess he doesn't like me after all," she said sadly. "Oh well, I'll just have to find someone else." "Awww, it's ok Sierra." said Sirius eagerly, putting his hand around her waist. "Come on, you can dance with me. It'll make you feel better." "You think?" said Sierra in a despairing tone. Boys were so easy to win over. Shame they were so dimwitted. "Well, if you really think so..." Sirius wasted no time in leading her to the dance floor. Sierra noticed that his hand was pleasantly warm on her back... No! Don't think that you idiot! You're trying to lose him remember? By then they had come up to near Iseult and James, and, dear god was it true? Was Iseult actually enjoying it? Sierra decided that Iseult just liked dancing. After all, she had been a little more than outgoing with that Hufflepuff boy during 'American Pie'. That was just a great song, she wished they'd play it again. Snapping back to reality she put her arms around Sirius' neck (ignoring the jealous looks from the group of Ravenclaw girls that she'd given the finger to before), not quite touching his shoulder blades. She felt his hands rest on her hips, just above the waistband of her jeans and began to feel slightly self-conscious. She mentally slapped herself. Stop it you idiot! You're becoming just as bad as Steph, a complete boy-shadow! Well, actually she could see what Steph had been going on about before; he was quite nice looki... SHUT UP! SHUT UP! DAMMIT SIERRA YOU DICK YOU'RE TRYING TO GET RID OF THE ASSHOLE. Well, it wasn't her fault he was a good dancer. Scratch that, he was a really good dancer. Sierra glanced at Iseult and got a slight shock. WHY she thought IS ISEULT'S HEAD RESTING ON JAMES POTTER'S SHOULDER??? She resisted the urge to give Iseult a kick, as she was quite sure Sirius would notice it. Seeing as, hold on, was it just her - or was Sirius a few inches closer than when she had last noticed. They were so close that she could almost feel his breath on her neck. But what really worried her most, was the fact that she was, well, enjoying it. She really needed to get a grip. Fast.
Alessandro POV
For the past ten minutes, Alessandro had been hiding behind a well-placed statue. Thinking it was safe, he crept out and inched over to the punch- bowl. Where Remus Lupin was nervously glancing around him. He felt for his dorm-mate. He knew exactly what he was feeling. "So who are you hiding from?" Remus jumped, and let out a sigh of relief when he saw it was Alessandro.
"Err, Sierra Rehine." "Sierra?" said Alessandro, startled "Yeah, she sort of grabbed me during the 'American Pie' song. Saw you hiding behind the statue. Why?" "I was, also, hiding from Sierra." Alessandro felt slightly sorry for her. After all, two guys had blown her off already. "Oh, right." said Remus, also feeling slightly sorry for her. "Where is she now." Alessandro shrugged. "I have no idea, I think she went outside to CJ and Iseult." "Oh ok then, well I'll just... Stay here."
"Ok." Alessandro went towards the door he had last seen CJ exiting from. CJ was a nice girl, she was quite pretty and really nice. Steph would be too, had she not been so... loose, around most of the guys their age. Well, she wasn't that bad really. Just a little eager. But CJ was nice. Yes, Alessandro decided, CJ was definitely nice.
James POV.
OHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGOD
She's dancing with me!!!!! Eeeeh!!!! That's good!!!! James was too happy to think about why Iseult, who had plainly hated his guts only moments before, was now very.enthusiastic about dancing with him. But then, he was a boy. And boys are intellectually challenged when it comes to girls.
Iseult POV.
Iseult had the faintest idea that CJ's idea was WRONG. Dangerously wrong. Now James thought that he liked her. And she didn't. At all. Not even just the tiniest.little.bit. Ok, maybe just the tiniest.little.bit. Shut up, Iseult said to the voice in her head, which was laughing at her in hysterics.
Hehehehehe.
"Shut UP!" she whispered aloud angrily. Her partner looked at her strangely. "Is there something wrong? .Did I do anything?" James blurted out. After seeing Sirius roll his eyes behind Iseult's back, James cooled down a bit. His main aim in life was to achieve the look of Sirius's serene, don't- give-a-shit attitude. James knew that in private Sirius fidgeted and worried like hell, but in public, especially around girls, he was practically the Prince of Calm. James usually achieved this outward mode as well, except sometimes he.forgot. It didn't come naturally to him. Iseult mumbled, "No, Nothing," and drifted off into her own imaginings. Head rested on James's shoulder, they were comfortably dancing a short distance apart, until James slowly gripped her hip and pulled her slightly closer. Every time he did this Iseult felt slightly more uncomfortable, until finally her head was screaming with a conscientious cry of "Why are you doing this!" and she shivered. Why am I doing this? Sure I like him a little bit but. I don't exactly feel comfortable, do I? Was it fair to get all pissed off at him like that? I mean, he's not really that bad tonight, and he didn't do anything to me reaaally. Except presume. And scare off all these other guys. And beat up Snape for no reason. I wonder if there is a way to pretend I like him, without anyone realising that I really do like him. Hmmm.
Shit! What on Earth is he doing?
Iseult looked around for help. James was getting a little too physical, probably thanks to Sirius and Pettigrew's miming (of god-knows-what) behind Iseult's back. Iseult looked around for help. Sierra - Sirius was obviously being careful that the two girls couldn't communicate, as he had danced her away nearer to the stage, so she was obviously no help. Alessandro was chatting CJ up in the corner. Good on him. Iseult thought. However, as nice as this was, It was absolutely no help to the slightly stranded Iseult. She could have easily said, "Hey do you want to dance fast for this one?" but that was not the point. She wanted to get away. Gazing around urgently, she caught sight of a wistful Steph staring at her longingly. Poor Thing.Click! Iseult clicked and made the tiniest evil smile, as she beckoned to Steph over James's carved shoulder. Evidently her partner noticed, as James pulled her away from him and looked at her face suddenly. Iseult's sleek smile disappeared hurriedly, but he looked over his shoulder anyway, in time to see a bright, cheerful Steph bounding up behind him. James gripped Iseult's hips tighter, but she slipped away and veritably pushed James into a beaming Steph. Iseult tiptoed off to where she had seen Aless and CJ last, but they were either off dancing somewhere, or had found a little corner of their own. Although McGonagall had announced that morning that there was to be "No public proof of private passion" to be displayed, many couples had completely ignored this, and taken advantage of Hogwart's many passages and broom cupboards. Iseult grabbed a glass of spiced currant juice and drifted out through the doors onto one of the balconies. A gentle wind swirled around the stone banisters, making leaves spiral and flinging them away from the castle, an island of luminosity in the night. Leaning over the balcony and looking down at the stone buttresses again, she almost imagined that she saw Trinity's ghosts again, but then a hand tapped her on the shoulder and she spun around. A tall boy with chiselled features was silhouetted against the brightness of the window. "Would you like some more drink?" he said very softly, reaching out for her now empty glass. Iseult handed it to him, and tried to distinguish who he was, but he was just a black shadow. "You looked like a ghost out here by yourself. Not that that would be unusual, Nearly Headless Nick has been moping about the stage all evening." Iseult was a bit shocked. She hadn't prompted this conversation, had she? "Aren't you finding it cold? I'm bloody frozen!" Said the mysterious stranger as he poured himself a drink. "Oh, Yes, but it's too hot inside. My feet are icy cold!" He laughed, looking down at her shoes, which were the same ones she wore on the beach in Italy. Iseult sipped her drink and thought quietly. A howl echoed from the forbidden forest. "Hey, do you want to." Iseult turned around, but stopped in mid-sentence. The boy was gone. The best thing that had happened to her all night had disappeared and she didn't know his name. One thing was certain. She could forget about James.
Sierra was standing by the drinks table with the rest of the crew. Alessandro had his arm curled firmly around CJ's middle, as if she would take a leaf out of Sierra's book and run for it. They were the most gorgeous couple, and complemented each other beautifully. Iseult couldn't help feeling jealous of CJ, with tall, blond Aless standing protectively by her side. Why are all the guys that like me complete pricks? Iseult wondered crossly. She sidled over next to Sierra, who was also gazing at the happy pair warmly. "So what happened to Sirius?" she asked casually, not having to pretend she wasn't interested any more. "He ran off about 20 minutes ago. Steph said you ditched him and graciously gave him to her?" "Yeah," Iseult laughed, spluttering into her drink. "You could put it like that. How did they get on?" "He got sick of her, surprise surprise!" Muttered Sierra into her hand so that CJ wouldn't see. "She didn't seem to annoyed though. Steph's new official object of desire is." "Don't tell me." Groaned Iseult, expecting it to be Alessandro like everyone else. "David Jones! In don't think she's forgotten about James though." Iseult laughed. Poor Steph. The dance ended all too soon. Without Sirius, James and their band being seen again, the crew of Gryffindors headed up to their Dorms, Alessandro rather reluctantly as he wanted to go across to the Ravenclaw one instead. Iseult hurridly wiped off her mascara, pulled on her pyjamas, and slipped into bed. Through the window, she could see a beautiful, white, Full Moon.
AUTHORS NOTE: Hey don't look at me like that! I didn't write the ending. It was sophie, I swear. Little drama queen.
Iseult POV.
A grinning Alessandro greeted the girls at the breakfast table down in the great hall, where they recounted Trinity's strangeness the previous night. He was more or less indifferent. "Yeah, Trins pretty crazy. She has lots of weird ideas. Brilliant Quidditch player though. Great with a quaffle." He gulped down a glass of pumpkin juice. "So who are Ezrai and Tania?" Sierra was questioning Aless to the point of interrogation. He was about to open his mouth when Iseult squealed "Yay! Porridge!" and ladled a ton of hot porridge into her bowl, before drizzling it with milk and brown sugar. Nonplussed, Aless continued, "The two girls that you're replacing. I didn't even know it was them who had gone. Ezralia's twin brother's left too, I presume the family's moved." Iseult had finished her porridge and now looked disappointedly at her empty bowl. She saw a rack of toast near Aless, and reached over him to grab a piece. "You have amazing metabolism, did you know that?" Aless watched her chew her honey-drenched toast delicately. "I know. And exquisite table manners." She grinned. "And I'm just so modest!" A sudden thump from the head table silenced them. Professor Albus Dumbledore, apparently still chewing, stood up and boomed out, amazingly for a man of his age and apparent frailty, "Tonight, students, as you will all be aware of, at precisely 6'O One, is the Third year to Fifth year.dance." Sierra, rather too loudly, remarked, "It is?" in a slightly horrified fashion, looking sideways at Sirius, who was beaming at her mischievously. Iseult's mind had left her breakfast and was now settling firmly on one thing. That thing was: HOLYSHITWATAMIGOINGTOWEARIDONTHAVEBLOODYDRESSROBES. Dumbledore apparently noticed some of the new student's distress, as he happily added, "This year I have decided we will break with tradition and wear our casual, normal clothes! No dress robes necessarily!" This comment brightened the student's faces but the teachers looked very disappointed and solemn. The headmaster ignored this. "As you will also have noticed by now, Today is a SATURDAY, and therefore you have today and tomorrow off so that you can organize yourself for school. Although we don't actually expect you to do that of course." Dumbledore grinned, and dismissed the students from the great hall, which was canopied with a smiling sky.
Sierra POV
Dear god this was boring. Sierra usually loved dances and the type, but for some reason she just felt, well, out of it all. Iseult, Ginger and Sierra had spent most of the evening making each other over. It hadn't taken much to turn Ginger into somewhat of a goddess. She was wearing a sparkly green tank top and maroon pants that ended in a bootleg. Sierra would never have imagined these colours paired together, but somehow Ginger pulled it off. The green eye shadow went beautifully with her eyes and top, and her hair hung long down her back with a couple of silver clips in it. Iseult looked almost as gorgeous in an almost too- tight top printed in some Italian passage that Sierra couldn't read but was sure many guys would be happy to translate, and a slightly "puffy" white skirt wrapped in ribbons. Her slightly strawberry blonde hair was done up in a messy bun, with a few wisps of hair framing her face at the sides. She wasn't wearing much makeup except for some mascara that lengthened her eyelashes in a striking way, a bit of light pink sparkly lip-gloss and a touch of eye shadow. Trinity hadn't taken part in this make up fest, she had just grabbed a makeup bag from her trunk and gone to the bathroom, only talking to Ginger. A few minutes later she had returned. She was wearing heavy eyeliner and mascara, and a deep red shade of lipstick. She looked absolutely gorgeous in a kind of goth-chick way. All this Trinity had teamed up with a tiny black spaghetti-strap dress. When they had finally got into the Great Hall (ten minutes late, naturally) Ginger had gone off to her Hufflepuff boyfriend. So Sierra and Iseult giggled between themselves over who was wearing the most atrocious outfit. A 4th year with pink hair won, just in case you were wondering. Iseult had then gone to get them some drinks, when she was asked to dance by a Ravenclaw boy with deep gold hair. Which was why Sierra was standing with CJ and Steph. Steph nudged her and pointed over to where the male Gryffindor third years were standing. "Sirius Black is looking at you." She said excitedly. Sierra resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She just couldn't understand the kind of girls who just stood around all day gossiping over who liked who and whether they were an item or not. "Well actually," pointed out CJ "He's looking at her ass. He's been staring at it for the past five minutes." This time Sierra actually did roll her eyes. "Don't guys have anything better to do?" "No." said CJ blandly, "They spend their whole lives staring at girls. It's a proven fact that if every woman in the world walked around naked female's would rule the world." Sierra laughed, both at CJ's comments and the astounded look on Steph's face. "God, I would DIE to have Sirius Black stare at my ass like that." She said dreamily. "I don't know what you're complaining about personally. Him and that James Potter are the sexiest guys at Hogwarts by far." CJ rolled her eyes and ignored her sister. "Sierra, ignore Steph. Sirius Black has the worst reputation at Hogwarts. He's a complete tosser. He goes out with girls then dumps them the next week. Trust me, you're better off just ignoring the idiot." Steph was about to say something, but she was cut off by Iseult drifting back towards them. Steph was instantly distracted and started firing questions at Iseult about the boy from Ravenclaw.
Iseult POV.
"That was Daniel Jones, wasn't it? The forth year you were dancing with?" "Well, I thought his name was David, actually." "Was he nice? Why did you stop dancing with him?" "Oh, well." Iseult was being bombarded by questions from Steph about the boy she had just danced with. Sierra and CJ were standing smirking behind Iseult's assailant, apparently quite happy to leave Iseult helpless to Steph's questioning. "He was nice, not very interesting. He looked like he was a bit scared to talk. I don't know why." Steph sniggered obviously. Iseult stopped herself from blurting out 'What?' as it would just make Steph happier. Rolling her eyes, Steph put her hand on her hip. "I know why he was scared." Steph rolled the 'I'. Is it even possible to roll your 'I's? Maybe it was a talent that came from being absolutely and utterly boy mad. CJ decided that it was time to save Iseult from Steph. "Hey, look, the school band's starting! Why don't we head closer to the stage?" During the course of the day the prefects and gamekeeper had turned the area where the teachers usually sat into a makeshift stage. The four girls shuffled through the throng of people so that they were in the midst of a gaggle of students surrounding the curtained stage, Steph reluctantly because it took away her chance to blabber on about James Potter. As the music started to play, the sea of shuffling feet stilled, and they stopped to listen to the notes of a band.who did not write their own music, evidently. ".The heart is a bloom, Shoots up through the stony ground, There's no room, No space to rent in this town." Iseult, who had been listening to muggle radio stations playing U2 all summer holidays, groaned slightly. At least it's a good song. The initial awe of the soon music died down, and people started dancing again. Iseult, Sierra, CJ and Steph were about to go and get another drink when CJ hissed, "Dickheads, three O'clock!" Sierra and Iseult groaned and turned, thoroughly sick of playing cat and mouse with these boys. Steph licked her lips nervously. She had not given up her hopes yet. "Quick!" hissed Sierra. "Set me up with someone to dance with! Shit! Hurry up!!!" CJ grabbed Alessandro, who just happened to be the nearest guy, and flung him, flabbergasted into Sierra, who was thankful to have an excuse to be away from Sirius while Iseult was left helpless as James bounded up to her. Iseult looked to the ethereal ceiling in despair. Shit. Not him. Iseult's head burned as she screamed at anyone who happened to have ESP. I AM FRICKIN SICK OF THAT STUPID BOY I WISH HE WOULD LEAVE ME ALONE!!! Exasperated, Iseult muttered aloud in an undertone, unheard by all but Steph who was moping wishfully beside her. "Has he not realised yet that I don't care about him?" Steph's whole face lit up, and for a second Iseult felt genuinely sorry for her. "Really? You.you don't like him even the tiniest bit.?" she whispered as the being in question looked at Iseult sideways. "No.No. I don't. He is a chauvinist pig who.STEPH!" Iseult glared at Steph's back as she skipped over to force a confused James to dance with her. By now all Iseult's sympathy for Steph had flown out the window, and she was wishing that she hadn't left her wand in her bag as she strongly wanted to cast a sharp Ricktusempra curse between Steph's swaying shoulder blades. She ditched me! Ditched me for that hideous.annoying.bigoted. Iseult stormed off to the side of the room, where Sierra was watching Alessandro stuff his face with pies, sausage rolls and peach-flavoured pumpkin juice. Iseult sat down in a huff and started to wail. "Steph ditched me for." "James?" asked Sierra, putting her arm around her friend. "Who cares? If she wants to have anything to do with that jerk, then just let her." Iseult looked a bit miffed, but then nodded. "Right then, who wants to play find Iseult a dance partner?"
Alessandro POV
Could someone please remind me WHY I'm dancing with Sierra Rehine? Alessandro thought to himself conversationally. Sirius was going to kill him. Sirius was going to kill him and it would be long and painful. He shot an apologetic look at Sirius who was shooting daggers at him and Sierra. On any other occasion he would be more than happy to dance with any other girl wearing very low, very tight hipster jeans and a backless top which showed off more than ANY top should. In fact he would positively jump at the chance. But then again, any other girl wasn't Sierra. Who was a. his friend, and b. currently being chased after by Sirius Black. Alessandro really needed to stop getting himself into these situations. It was starting to make life extremely difficult. "Er, Sierra?" "Yeah?" Sierra was making sure that under no circumstances she was to make any eye-contact whatsoever with Sirius. This would have been highly amusing, had Sierra not been quite a good actress - especially in the field of flirting. (At least, Alessandro HOPED she was acting...) "I'm getting a bit," He paused, trying to think of a word that wasn't 'Scared' or 'About to be Murdered' "Hungry. Can we go over to the food table?" To Alessandro's delight the smallest hint of relief washed over Sierra. "Great idea Aless, I'm getting a bit peckish myself." The pair walked over to the food table and Alessandro began to completely stuff himself. After all, he had nothing better to do. Well, apart from being murdered by Sirius for dancing with the girl he was after. He didn't notice Iseult until Sierra had thumped him on the back, making him spit the custard tart he was eating onto the table. A group of second year Ravenclaw girls muttered 'Eeew!' and 'Gross!' but Sierra flipped them the finger and they scowled and moved on. Iseult was standing looking thoroughly pissed off about something. And to be honest, Alessandro (for his own safety) didn't want to know what it was. Sierra was looking around the hall, apparently searching for something. "CJ's over there." He pointed out. "I know that!" snapped Sierra "We're looking for guys." "Guys?" said Alessandro dumbly. Iseult rolled her eyes. "Yes, guys! Now do you know any guys who are not complete idiots and are vaguely good looking?" Oh god, thought Alessandro. There was really only one thing to do if he wanted to actually participate in the more physical activities of the year. He ran.
Sierra POV
Sierra and Iseult watched Alessandro run off. "Stupid little..." Iseult began, but then stopped herself for lack of really insulting words. Sierra rolled her eyes. "Trust any guy who doesn't try to peer up your skirt when he has the chance. But WHY is he running?" "No idea." said Iseult, shaking her head "Maybe he just doesn't want to point out hot guys to us." Sierra nodded, that was probably it. "I'll bet those stupid pricks told him not to set us up with anyone" Iseult continued "They probably think its strange that we haven't 'fallen for their charms'" Sierra snorted. "What like Steph over there?" The girls looked over towards Steph who was brightly chatting up James Potter, he looked mildly interested - but was glancing round. Sierra thought he was probably looking for Iseult. She vaguely wondered where Sirius was when she realised Iseult had started talking again. Sorry, did I say talking? I mean ranting. Sierra interrupted her just as Iseult was beginning to get heated up. "Well if we're going to find some guys I strongly suggest we head for the dance floor. That's where the majority of the guys will be." Iseult thought for a moment, then nodded. "True. Come on, the band may suck but the songs are still good." The two girls headed back towards the mass of dancing bodies. Sierra began pointing out guys for Iseult, which was no small task. Iseult seemed to either have very high standards, or just wasn't interested in them. "What about him over there?" "Eew?! The one covered in pimples?" "No, dickwad. The one with the cargo pants." "Ugh, no way." "Why not?" "His lips are too big." "His LIPS are too big???" "Oh shut up!" "Alright, alright. Err, what about him?" "Guy in blue shirt?" "Yes!" "No!" "Why not! God you're a mission Iseult." said Sierra exasperatedly. If she wasn't mistaken Iseult looked the slightest bit smug about this. Suddenly Sierra spotted Snape not far off. She suppressed the urge to giggle and grabbed Iseult by the arm. "What about him?" She asked delightedly. "WHAT?! SNAPE?!" Iseult screeched a little too loudly, many nearby couples looked at her as if she had a possible mental disease. "Ssssh!" hissed Sierra "Keep it down why don't you?" Iseult shuddered. "You better not be serious" "Its ok," giggled Sierra "I'm not." "Good." The band moved onto a new song and Sierra listened to it closely, she recognised the tune vaguely. The band, it seemed, had taken to 'tweaking' many of the songs so that they were louder and thumpier. "A long, long time ago..." Dammit! What was that song? "I can still remember..." It sounds so familiar, "How that music used to make me smile..." The fact that it was quite slow and classical threw Sierra off completely. She could only think that it would pick up pace later. "And I knew if I had my chance, that I could make those people dance..." Lots of students had begun to sing the words loudly. "And maybe they'd be happy for a while..." Dammit, I've been listening to this song all holidays, what IS it? "But Febuary made me shiver, with every paper I'd deliver..." She could recall Danielle and Tristan singing it, "Bad news on the doorstep, I couldn't take one more step..." She definitely recognised the words now, "I can't remember if I cried when I read about his widowed bride..." Hold on a second, "But something touched me deep inside. The day, the music... died." Sierra repressed the urge to scream with delight. She had been listening to this song all holidays and couldn't deny that she had become supremely obsessed with it. The schools version was absolutely fantastic. It seemed Iseult loved the song also as she was singing the chorus at the top of her lungs "Bye, bye miss American Pie. Drove my Chevvy to the levy but the levy was dry, and them good old boys were drinking whisky and rye singing this will be the day that I die, this will be the day that I die!" Iseult grinned at Sierra and grabbed the nearest boy (A tall Hufflepuff) just as the drums came in and the music started to speed up. Sierra decided to follow her example and turned around and grabbed the nearest guy, flinging her arms around him. She prided herself on being a good dancer, especially with American Pie. Fabulous song that. However she did get the feeling that Remus Lupin had never had such a shock in his life.
Remus POV
I am going to die today, die today, die today, I am going to die today because I danced with Sirius' girl...
James POV.
With his super-seeker-sense eyesight, out of the corner of his roving eye, James caught sight of a dusty-haired Remus trying to dash from the hall but instead being re-grabbed by a girl in jeans that were.REALLY tight! The girl James was dancing with, (Stella was it?) forcefully turned him around to bring his attention back to her. She was a pretty girl, nice enough, But, James thought, a tad wistfully, Iseult is. He was brought back to the present when his partner "accidentally" stepped on, no, stabbed his foot with her stiletto heels. Nah, James, your being an idiot. She fucking hates you! Trust, she fucking hates you. She tore your feelings like you had none, and ripped them away. His thoughts were being interrupted by a tune Steph was humming, so he racked his brains and tried to concentrate on organising his own thoughts, (while he was still sober, a state which would shortly deteriorate.) You could have almost any other girl in the bloody year, most of them like you anyway, so of course you have to fall for a girl who hates your guts. Same thing happened with Evans! But nooo, she had to go and run off with Snape.and now she's ditched him for Lucius Malfoy of all people! James scowled in the direction of the Slytherins as he recalled memories of his ex, Lily Evans, one of the many reasons that he and the rest of the gang hated Snape so much. And Snape went after Iseult on the train! God, Sirius and I had short of publicly declared that she and Sierra were off-limits, were ours. That jealous bastard. If frickin Bellatrix hadn't come in I would have blown his friggin head off!!!. "James! James! Are you alright?" Stephanie was shaking his shoulder vigorously. "You've gone all red!" James was sick of wailing girls. "Yeah, I think I might just go and.Throw up!" he said brightly, intending to do no such thing. Leaving his dance partner at a peak of disappointment, James sauntered off to find Padfoot. If he didn't approach Iseult soon then that Ravenclaw blonde would forget about his threats and dance with her again.
Remus POV.
Must.Get.Away. Remus struggled away from Sierra, and then made a run for it, out one of the huge doors into the cool night air. As he ran, he heard his former dance partner mutter behind him, "Great. Two guys run from me in one day? I am gonna murder Sirius Black."
Iseult POV.
After 'American Pie' and Remus's escape, Iseult followed Sierra over to the side of the hall, by a door leading out onto one of the huge balconies, where CJ and Steph were waving at them. Steph managed a sharp "Hi" when Sierra arrived, in between her wailing and ranting on various topics, most being on James Potter. Subsequently, she completely ignored Iseult. God, I'm fed up with her. "She can have the stupid guy I don't care." Iseult realised too late that she had spoken aloud, but shrugged and added, "Is there a way you can stop James from liking me? Because its sorta inhibiting me on the boy territory." Steph groaned. "Well how do you do it?" "Hey, its not like I'm encouraging him!" "Come on, you must have done something to make him like you?" "Get it into your head, Steph, she hasn't done nothing. Maybe she's just prettier than you?" "Oh shut up CJ! That's horrible and completely untrue!" Iseult huffed and frowned at CJ modestly. Steph ruffled her shoulders appreciatively as Iseult continued, in a most tragic and exaggeratedly "English" manner, "The more I hate him, the more he follows me!" Sierra spluttered into her pumpkin juice and butted in, laughing, "The more I love, the more he hates me!" (At this point CJ and Steph were looking from Iseult to Sierra, Iseult to Sierra, quite worried, and even more so as Iseult continued, "His folly, Hele- I mean Steph, is no fault of mine." And even more worried as Sierra made a wistful fainting action with her hand on her forehead and cried, "None but your beauty; would that fault were mine!" The two girls burst into hysterics, leaning over each other's shoulders to support their laughter. Steph chewed her thumb. Would James like her if Iseult went mad? CJ hit her two friends over their heads affectionately. "You little Shakespeare geeks!" The three more educated out of the four girls giggled at the utter sadness of the fact that Iseult knew the play well enough to quote it at the right moment, while Steph stood, hand on hips, quite frustrated and wishing that they would stop acting like such idiots and get back to the current crisis - JAMES! Her prayer was answered when CJ's laughing face straightened slightly and she stood up. "I think that the good old bard has given us a solution, girls." "A solution about James?" Steph said offhandedly, as if she had been thinking about anything else. "Yeah. You know," she paused, trying to think of a way to put it without hurting anyone's feelings. "Sierra and Iseult, and probably Lily Evans... And me of course," she added hurriedly, "are the only girls I can think of who haven't been victim to Sirius and James's "irresistible" charms." (CJ made the bunny ears sign around irresistible.) "Well, not publicly anyway." She added, thinking of Lily. "So, naturally, in a typical male 'Wants what he can't have' scenario, who are the girls that James and Sirius have made the most fuss about, and who have they chased after insistently, despite embarrassment and common sense?" A cold, harsh wave of realisation hit the girls. "Like Apollo to Daphne." whispered Iseult in the softest tone of voice. "So, you're saying." started Sierra, "That if we pretend we like them." "They'll leave you alone." Nodded CJ, who felt very wise at present. "Think you could handle being nice to the dickheads until they get over you?" Iseult jumped at the chance to have that presuming, arrogant.sweet in an annoying way.dickhead off her back! "Hey, I'm game! Sierra might have some trouble keeping her fist under control though!" Everybody laughed as Sierra poked out her tounge at Iseult and mimed punching her nose. Iseult laughed and glanced at the giggling girl next to her. The golden smile on Steph's face as she thought of James, made it all worthwhile.
Sierra POV
Sierra stood slightly inside the door, along with Iseult, who was pulling her top down in a nervous manner. Sierra vaguely wondered wether she really was wise in choosing a backless top for wearing that night. It was kind of cold. Iseult sighed melodramatically. "You would think that by now they'd get the picture that we are standing here waiting for them." "I dunno," replied Sierra thoughtfully "They could have taken the hint." Iseult snorted "Yeah right," "I'll admit you're right there Iseult. Those dick heads are too dumb to..." "You wouldn't be talking about us now would you Sierra?" came a voice from behind her. Stuck up little... Sierra turned around and smiled at Sirius, looking up at him from under her eyelashes. "I might be," she said teasingly "Then again I might not..." Sirius glanced nervously at James, he was quite shocked that Sierra was actually talking, no, flirting with him. "Well actually," said Iseult matter-of-factly "We were just saying how we really fancied having a dance with someone. We were jsut wondering who we should dance with." Sierra struggled not to grin as Iseult pretended to wonder. James grinned widely at her. "I'll dance with you if you want." "Oh would you?" said Iseult soppily. Now Sierra was struggling not to giggle, this was getting funner by the second. "That would be absolutely fabulous!" Iseult continued, batting her eyelashes at James, who was being thoroughly sucked in by Iseults theatrics. James offered his arm and Iseult took it, winking at Sierra as she walked past. She looked at Sirius who was beaming at her hopefully, and decided to have just a little bit of fun. "Do you know where Remus is?" she said, on the verge of laughter "If Iseult is dancing then i'm going to have a dance too." "No, I'm afraid I dont" liar, thought Sierra, you know perfectly well that he's standing over there, by the punch bowl "but I'll dance with you." He flashed her what he hoped was a winning smile and offered his arm, just as James had done. Sierra played with the thought of teasing him a bit more, and decided that there would be more than enough time to dance with him later. She was having too much fun at the moment. "Oh there he is!" Sierra said happily "Over there, by the punchbowl" Sirius' face visibly dropped, and Sierra felt slightly bad. But luckily she regained herself, think Steph, think Steph "Do you think he likes me?" she said wistfully, trying to imitate how Steph was when talking about James (or any guy for that matter). "I don't really know if I'm getting the right signals you know?" Sirius didn't look like he really cared about what kind of signals she was getting from Remus, so Sierra carried on. Twirling a strand of hair around her finger just as Steph did. "You're good friends with him, what does he really like in a girl?" As if sensing that they were talking about him, Remus turned round and looked at them. Sirius shot him a dark look and Sierra smiled flirtatiously and waved. Remus purposefully looked the other way. She mock-sighed and looked forlorn. "I guess he doesn't like me after all," she said sadly. "Oh well, I'll just have to find someone else." "Awww, it's ok Sierra." said Sirius eagerly, putting his hand around her waist. "Come on, you can dance with me. It'll make you feel better." "You think?" said Sierra in a despairing tone. Boys were so easy to win over. Shame they were so dimwitted. "Well, if you really think so..." Sirius wasted no time in leading her to the dance floor. Sierra noticed that his hand was pleasantly warm on her back... No! Don't think that you idiot! You're trying to lose him remember? By then they had come up to near Iseult and James, and, dear god was it true? Was Iseult actually enjoying it? Sierra decided that Iseult just liked dancing. After all, she had been a little more than outgoing with that Hufflepuff boy during 'American Pie'. That was just a great song, she wished they'd play it again. Snapping back to reality she put her arms around Sirius' neck (ignoring the jealous looks from the group of Ravenclaw girls that she'd given the finger to before), not quite touching his shoulder blades. She felt his hands rest on her hips, just above the waistband of her jeans and began to feel slightly self-conscious. She mentally slapped herself. Stop it you idiot! You're becoming just as bad as Steph, a complete boy-shadow! Well, actually she could see what Steph had been going on about before; he was quite nice looki... SHUT UP! SHUT UP! DAMMIT SIERRA YOU DICK YOU'RE TRYING TO GET RID OF THE ASSHOLE. Well, it wasn't her fault he was a good dancer. Scratch that, he was a really good dancer. Sierra glanced at Iseult and got a slight shock. WHY she thought IS ISEULT'S HEAD RESTING ON JAMES POTTER'S SHOULDER??? She resisted the urge to give Iseult a kick, as she was quite sure Sirius would notice it. Seeing as, hold on, was it just her - or was Sirius a few inches closer than when she had last noticed. They were so close that she could almost feel his breath on her neck. But what really worried her most, was the fact that she was, well, enjoying it. She really needed to get a grip. Fast.
Alessandro POV
For the past ten minutes, Alessandro had been hiding behind a well-placed statue. Thinking it was safe, he crept out and inched over to the punch- bowl. Where Remus Lupin was nervously glancing around him. He felt for his dorm-mate. He knew exactly what he was feeling. "So who are you hiding from?" Remus jumped, and let out a sigh of relief when he saw it was Alessandro.
"Err, Sierra Rehine." "Sierra?" said Alessandro, startled "Yeah, she sort of grabbed me during the 'American Pie' song. Saw you hiding behind the statue. Why?" "I was, also, hiding from Sierra." Alessandro felt slightly sorry for her. After all, two guys had blown her off already. "Oh, right." said Remus, also feeling slightly sorry for her. "Where is she now." Alessandro shrugged. "I have no idea, I think she went outside to CJ and Iseult." "Oh ok then, well I'll just... Stay here."
"Ok." Alessandro went towards the door he had last seen CJ exiting from. CJ was a nice girl, she was quite pretty and really nice. Steph would be too, had she not been so... loose, around most of the guys their age. Well, she wasn't that bad really. Just a little eager. But CJ was nice. Yes, Alessandro decided, CJ was definitely nice.
James POV.
OHMYGODOHMYGODOHMYGOD
She's dancing with me!!!!! Eeeeh!!!! That's good!!!! James was too happy to think about why Iseult, who had plainly hated his guts only moments before, was now very.enthusiastic about dancing with him. But then, he was a boy. And boys are intellectually challenged when it comes to girls.
Iseult POV.
Iseult had the faintest idea that CJ's idea was WRONG. Dangerously wrong. Now James thought that he liked her. And she didn't. At all. Not even just the tiniest.little.bit. Ok, maybe just the tiniest.little.bit. Shut up, Iseult said to the voice in her head, which was laughing at her in hysterics.
Hehehehehe.
"Shut UP!" she whispered aloud angrily. Her partner looked at her strangely. "Is there something wrong? .Did I do anything?" James blurted out. After seeing Sirius roll his eyes behind Iseult's back, James cooled down a bit. His main aim in life was to achieve the look of Sirius's serene, don't- give-a-shit attitude. James knew that in private Sirius fidgeted and worried like hell, but in public, especially around girls, he was practically the Prince of Calm. James usually achieved this outward mode as well, except sometimes he.forgot. It didn't come naturally to him. Iseult mumbled, "No, Nothing," and drifted off into her own imaginings. Head rested on James's shoulder, they were comfortably dancing a short distance apart, until James slowly gripped her hip and pulled her slightly closer. Every time he did this Iseult felt slightly more uncomfortable, until finally her head was screaming with a conscientious cry of "Why are you doing this!" and she shivered. Why am I doing this? Sure I like him a little bit but. I don't exactly feel comfortable, do I? Was it fair to get all pissed off at him like that? I mean, he's not really that bad tonight, and he didn't do anything to me reaaally. Except presume. And scare off all these other guys. And beat up Snape for no reason. I wonder if there is a way to pretend I like him, without anyone realising that I really do like him. Hmmm.
Shit! What on Earth is he doing?
Iseult looked around for help. James was getting a little too physical, probably thanks to Sirius and Pettigrew's miming (of god-knows-what) behind Iseult's back. Iseult looked around for help. Sierra - Sirius was obviously being careful that the two girls couldn't communicate, as he had danced her away nearer to the stage, so she was obviously no help. Alessandro was chatting CJ up in the corner. Good on him. Iseult thought. However, as nice as this was, It was absolutely no help to the slightly stranded Iseult. She could have easily said, "Hey do you want to dance fast for this one?" but that was not the point. She wanted to get away. Gazing around urgently, she caught sight of a wistful Steph staring at her longingly. Poor Thing.Click! Iseult clicked and made the tiniest evil smile, as she beckoned to Steph over James's carved shoulder. Evidently her partner noticed, as James pulled her away from him and looked at her face suddenly. Iseult's sleek smile disappeared hurriedly, but he looked over his shoulder anyway, in time to see a bright, cheerful Steph bounding up behind him. James gripped Iseult's hips tighter, but she slipped away and veritably pushed James into a beaming Steph. Iseult tiptoed off to where she had seen Aless and CJ last, but they were either off dancing somewhere, or had found a little corner of their own. Although McGonagall had announced that morning that there was to be "No public proof of private passion" to be displayed, many couples had completely ignored this, and taken advantage of Hogwart's many passages and broom cupboards. Iseult grabbed a glass of spiced currant juice and drifted out through the doors onto one of the balconies. A gentle wind swirled around the stone banisters, making leaves spiral and flinging them away from the castle, an island of luminosity in the night. Leaning over the balcony and looking down at the stone buttresses again, she almost imagined that she saw Trinity's ghosts again, but then a hand tapped her on the shoulder and she spun around. A tall boy with chiselled features was silhouetted against the brightness of the window. "Would you like some more drink?" he said very softly, reaching out for her now empty glass. Iseult handed it to him, and tried to distinguish who he was, but he was just a black shadow. "You looked like a ghost out here by yourself. Not that that would be unusual, Nearly Headless Nick has been moping about the stage all evening." Iseult was a bit shocked. She hadn't prompted this conversation, had she? "Aren't you finding it cold? I'm bloody frozen!" Said the mysterious stranger as he poured himself a drink. "Oh, Yes, but it's too hot inside. My feet are icy cold!" He laughed, looking down at her shoes, which were the same ones she wore on the beach in Italy. Iseult sipped her drink and thought quietly. A howl echoed from the forbidden forest. "Hey, do you want to." Iseult turned around, but stopped in mid-sentence. The boy was gone. The best thing that had happened to her all night had disappeared and she didn't know his name. One thing was certain. She could forget about James.
Sierra was standing by the drinks table with the rest of the crew. Alessandro had his arm curled firmly around CJ's middle, as if she would take a leaf out of Sierra's book and run for it. They were the most gorgeous couple, and complemented each other beautifully. Iseult couldn't help feeling jealous of CJ, with tall, blond Aless standing protectively by her side. Why are all the guys that like me complete pricks? Iseult wondered crossly. She sidled over next to Sierra, who was also gazing at the happy pair warmly. "So what happened to Sirius?" she asked casually, not having to pretend she wasn't interested any more. "He ran off about 20 minutes ago. Steph said you ditched him and graciously gave him to her?" "Yeah," Iseult laughed, spluttering into her drink. "You could put it like that. How did they get on?" "He got sick of her, surprise surprise!" Muttered Sierra into her hand so that CJ wouldn't see. "She didn't seem to annoyed though. Steph's new official object of desire is." "Don't tell me." Groaned Iseult, expecting it to be Alessandro like everyone else. "David Jones! In don't think she's forgotten about James though." Iseult laughed. Poor Steph. The dance ended all too soon. Without Sirius, James and their band being seen again, the crew of Gryffindors headed up to their Dorms, Alessandro rather reluctantly as he wanted to go across to the Ravenclaw one instead. Iseult hurridly wiped off her mascara, pulled on her pyjamas, and slipped into bed. Through the window, she could see a beautiful, white, Full Moon.
AUTHORS NOTE: Hey don't look at me like that! I didn't write the ending. It was sophie, I swear. Little drama queen.