Chapter 30 - The Dance
Harry dressed in a fresh school uniform after showering then went down to the laboratory to say good bye to the professor. He found the professor presiding over six different cauldrons. Stirring one cauldron, then the next with an intense look on his face.
"Um, I'm leaving now Professor," Harry watched the professor frown when he looked up at him.
Severus motioned for Harry to come over to him and stirred the last cauldron before wiping his hands on his apron. The professor tilted Harry's chin up and looked at the angry scar. It looked far better then last night but still quite red and swollen. He opened the jar of healing cream and gently applied it to the scar.
"Harry I trust that you will eat three full meals today? And I do not mean just a roll with butter," Severus said knowing that had been the extent of his son's lunch yesterday.
"Yes Sir," Harry watched as his father frowned at him again. What was he mad at?
Severus knew it shouldn't bother him so much but he wanted to hear Harry call him Dad again.
"I also require you to come see me if you begin to feel ill again. I was quite lenient with you yesterday but I will not be so nice today if you do not inform me of any signs of pain. I am quite serious about that."
Harry had actually thought Severus was pretty strict with him yesterday so he wondered what his father meant by 'nice'?
"Yes Sir. I'll come see you if I feel sick. Good luck with your secret potions," Harry said with a smile as he made his way up the stone staircase.
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Harry struggled to eat a full breakfast as promised, only making it through one piece of toast before giving up and pushing his plate away. Hermione gave him a concerned look and stopped him before he left the table.
"Harry are you ill? You haven't eaten anything the past few days."
Harry rolled his eyes at her. He didn't know she had been monitoring his food intake like the professor had.
"Hermione I'm fine. Please don't say anything like that in front of Severus. He's been on my case about eating all week."
"Well, I will say something to him if you don't finish your breakfast. And if you're feeling ill you should go tell him," Hermione threatened.
Ron looked at her with irritation, "Bloody hell Hermione! Harry already has one parent at the school; he doesn't need another one telling him what to do."
"Thanks Ron," Harry said as he left the table. "I'll see you guys after Potions. I'm going upstairs to rest a little. And if you run into Severus, don't say anything to him about it." Harry gave Hermione a pointed look.
Harry knew his father wouldn't be in Potions so he wasn't concerned about missing it. He made his way up to the Tower and flopped onto his bed. His stomach was really bothering him, it felt like he might vomit. He tried to lay as still as possible to stop the queasy feeling. Without planning to he fell fast asleep.
He didn't wake up until lunchtime. When he opened his eyes he noticed the clock on the far wall read noon. He quickly jumped out of bed and raced down to the Great Hall. If Severus found out he missed classes and another meal he didn't know what sort of punishment he would get. Just as he approached the Great Hall his heart dropped when he saw his father standing by the door with an irritated look on his face. Hermione and Ron were talking with him and Hermione looked a little upset.
"Mr. Potter. May I ask where you have been all morning?" Severus was trying really hard to maintain his decorum in front of Harry's friends and classmates.
"Um, I just … I was just …" Harry trailed off knowing full well that his father knew he was not in class.
"Your verbal skills amaze me Potter," Snape said with sarcasm. "I know you would not have forgotten about our conversation from this morning. I do believe you knew there would be consequences?"
Harry noticed how the professor did not say anything specific regarding the poison or his illness. "Um yes Sir, I remember." Harry was feeling really uneasy about this and it showed.
"Mr. Weasley, Ms. Grainger, please proceed into the dining room. Mr. Potter will join you shortly."
Hermione and Ron gave Harry looks of concern as they walked through the large doors. They knew Snape to be very strict and did not want their friend to get into any trouble.
The professor walked into an alcove knowing his son would follow, "I am more disappointed in the fact that you did not trust me enough to let me know you were not feeling well. I had thought you would trust me at this point. I already know you did not eat a full breakfast."
"How? How do you know? Do you have spy's telling you every bad thing I do!"
"Don't you use that tone of voice with me Potter! I am the one who was lied to by my son," Severus couldn't believe that Harry was trying to turn this around. He grabbed Harry's arm and swung him into the bench. Harry was forced into sitting.
"I told you to come to me if you were not feeling well. You said you would. Now I come to find out you ate a single slice of bread and then went to your room for a nap! I can hardly think those are the actions of a robust sixteen year old!" Severus was seething and began to pace in the small alcove. Harry started to stand but Severus pushed him back down with force. "This conversation is not over!" Snape said in clipped tones.
Harry felt anger rise over the force Snape was using. He began tostand again but was pushed back with so much force that his head slammed against the window with a loud thwack. He froze with fear quickly taking over. His face must have shown his fear because the professor sat down next to him with a look of regret and tried to pull him into an embrace. Harry was having none of that and pushed the professor away. He quickly rushed out of the small alcove before the professor could stop him.
He dared not skip another meal and headed into the Great Hall. He tried to calm himself before joining Ron and Hermione. He must not have done a very good job because both his friends looked at him with distress.
Before they could ask any questions he raised his hand and said, "Don't ask, I'm fine."
"I didn't say anything Harry, I swear," Hermione quickly said.
"Don't worry about it. Severus is just taking this parenting thing pretty seriously," Harry watched his father walk into the Great Hall and felt a pat on his shoulder as the professor passed his table. Harry shook his head and looked away from his smiling friends.
His friends quickly changed the subject and began talking about the dance. Another subject he didn't want to talk about but he ended up just listening. He looked at the bowls of hot food before him and served himself a minimal amount of pumpkin pasta and salad. He skipped the rolls and instead added a half glass of milk.
Lunch seemed to take forever to get through with all the talk about the dance. Harry glanced up to the head table knowing that his father was watching the food on his plate. He tried to eat more than a few bites but just couldn't manage. Finally he pushed his plate away from him knowing he couldn't eat anything else. The plate floated back towards him on its own as the Gryffindor around watched in surprise. Harry pushed the plate away again but the plate moved back towards him. This time it looked as if more food had been magically added to it too.
"Harry what's goin on?" Ron asked with alarm.
Hermione must have figured out it was Professor Snape because she said, "Harry for heavens sakes, just eat it!"
Harry begrudgingly picked up his fork after giving his father an infuriated look. He practically forced every bite down feeling as if he might vomit with every fork full. When he finished eating the pasta, the half cup of milk edged closer to him. He was already embarrassed enough over the whole incident and decided to just drink it. When he finally finished the milk he stood up and gave Severus another glare before storming out of the Great Hall.
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During his last class a house elf came in with a note from Severus. He was being summoned down to the dungeon by his father. He crumpled up the note and threw it in the waste can a few seats away. The last person he wanted to see was Severus. Ten minutes later another house elf came in with a note but went to Professor McGonagall with it instead.
"Mr. Potter, your father wishes to see you in the dungeon," Minerva watched the boy roll his eyes and remain seated. "Mr. Potter you are being summoned by your father!" Minerva did not appreciate the disrespectful way Harry was treating his father.
Harry begrudgingly stood up and gathered his books.
"It would do you well to remember that Severus is new to parenting. I advise you to not make it more difficult for him. I do not approve of ignoring a request to see one's father when summoned," McGonagall looked down right indignant at Harry's behavior.
"Sorry Professor. I'll keep that in mind," Harry said in front of the whole class. He was glad to get away from the stares and whispers. It wasn't anyone else's business as far as he was concerned, including his teachers. At least now he knew who Severus had spying for him.
When Harry went into Snape's quarters he walked directly down to the lab. He stood nervously on the bottom step watching Severus tend to his potions and waiting to be reprimanded.
After Severus added more powder to a potion he looked up into his son's eyes. "I did not think you were coming," He stated matter of factly.
"Well, I didn't want to but McGonagall insisted," Harry answered honestly.
"Professor McGonagall." Severus corrected and walked towards Harry stopping a few feet away. He looked up at his son as the boy fidgeted with his cloak and remained standing on the step.
"I owe you an apology." Severus continued when his son looked into his eyes, "I feel I over reacted this afternoon. It was poor judgment on my part to lay hands on you when I was angry. I feel regretful to say the least," Severus watched as Harry's face took on a look of surprise.
"Oh," Harry cleared his throat, "It wasn't a big deal. I mean that was nothing compared to the punishments I got from my uncle."
Severus looked up at him sharply before his face softened and he said, "Harry, throwing you back on that bench was not intentionally done as a punishment. I just let my anger get the best of me. I should never have touched you when I was angry, it was wrong."
"Yeah but I'm just saying that it wasn't such a big deal. I've had worse happen," Harry couldn't understand why the professor was so apologetic. He didn't even have any bruises or cuts from it.
"But that is not the point Harry. I should never have touched you in anger. Just because I didn't leave a mark on you doesn't make it alright. Your uncle has really done more damage then I've thought," Severus said the last part in a near whisper.
It really hurt Harry's feelings to hear the professor say that last part about his uncle damaging him, even if it was true. It made him feel flawed as if he was ruined in some obvious way.
"Sorry," Harry whispered. "May I be excused now?"
Severus looked up at him with confusion, "Why are you apologizing?"
"I don't know, you just said my uncle ruined me and I'm sorry I'm not good enough. May I go now Sir?" Harry hated this conversation and desperately wanted to end it.
Severus stepped forward and gathered Harry into his arms. He could feel the boy stiffen the moment he was touched but Severus didn't care. Severus didn't exactly feel comfortable hugging Harry either but knew it was just a matter of time before it came naturally to both of them. Hugging his son when the boy was sick came easily. But now when Harry was healthy it was slightly forced. He had spent many nights reading books on parenting teens and they all suggested positive physical contact. He continued holding his son, feeling Harry relax a little.
"You are not ruined. Merlin boy, what are you thinking in that brain of yours? I honestly do not believe I could be any prouder of a son than I am of you. You might disobey me at times but that does not change my admiration for you in the least," Severus felt Harry's arms wrap around him.
"I thought you called me down here to punish me," Harry's voice was muffled by the professor's robe.
"No, as a matter of fact I called you down here to give good news. That surprise potion I was working on is finished. I have extended the antidote a few more days. That would be enough time for you to play in the game on Saturday. In addition I hope some of that nausea will be relieved, which is the reason I did not want to wait for your classes to end today," Severus pushed Harry back to see his reaction.
Harry raised his eyebrows and a big grin spread across his face. "You mean it! I can play?"
"I believe so. That is the reason I was so insistent that you eat a full lunch this afternoon. The more you eat the less aggravation it will be on your stomach. It was also the reason I wished to be informed if you were not feeling well. I changed the formula slightly to accommodate your nausea. Do you feel ready to give it a try?" Severus let go of his son and walked over to the work bench to get the vial of potion.
Harry jumped down off the last step following after the professor. He downed the antidote in one go, not even caring that it tasted like earwax.
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Harry had a light supper with his father then went up to Gryffindor Tower to get ready for the big dance. When he stepped through the portrait hole he was surprised to see the common room empty. He went upstairs and saw his friends rushing with an air of excitement in the room. Harry walked over to his bed and saw new dark blue formal dress robes hanging magically in the air. He touched the fine velvet cape and saw the lining of darkest blue silk. Ron walked over and stood next to him staring up at the formal wear.
"Harry, I'd be afraid to wear anything that nice. Did you see what the twins sent me?" Ron walked over to his bed and Harry saw the brand new dress robes in a dark gray. Harry remembered back to when he gave the twins his winnings from the Triwizard Tournament and made them promise to buy Ron new dress robes. He was glad to see them make good on their promise.
"Wow Ron those are brilliant!" They were a far cry better than the ancient dress robes from two years ago.
Seamus and Dean had just finished their showers and came out to get dressed. Harry went in to shower, thankful to have a little time alone to think about Charlet. He knew he would have to force himself to be nice to her. Something about her just rubbed him the wrong way and he had found it easy to see through the sweet demeanor she often used. Making it through the entire night with someone as phony as Charlet was going to be hard, especially compared to someone like Ginny. Harry would give anything to have had another chance at going with her. Just thinking about Dean making that bet made Harry want to get out of the shower and punch him in the face.
He went back into the dorm room and took his time getting dressed. His friends were all standing at the mirror fumbling with their bow ties and talking about Charlet.
"Harry is she related to Snape then?" Ron asked as he tried to imagine what a female version of Snape would look like, yuck!
"No Ron! I already told you guys, she was adopted by Severus' aunt. She isn't even a blood relative of the Snapes." Harry was getting tired of all the questions he had been getting about Charlet.
"Well no offence to your new dad but I'm glad to hear that," Seamus said and the whole group including Harry laughed.
"How the bloody hell does this thing work?" Ron asked in frustration as he tried once again to tie the bow tie.
"I dunno. When we went to the Yule Ball Dobby came up and tied them for us. Where is that elf?" Seamus asked as he untied then retied again.
"Severus said all the house elves were on duty tonight in the kitchens. Isn't there some sort of spell or something you can use to tie it?" Harry asked as he walked over to the mirror with his own tie. The mirror expanded with each new person using it until all five boys stood before it, fumbling with their ties.
"Naw, my Mum said you have to tie these by hand," Seamus said.
"I hate these bloody things! " Ron ripped his tie off his neck and threw it towards the door.
Severus caught the tie midair and raised an eyebrow at the five boy's standing before him with their mouth's open.
"Oops! Sorry Professor," Ron said quickly as he took the tie back from the professor.
"Problem gentlemen?" Severus walked towards the group.
"These things don't come with any directions and they just don't look right when we tie them," Harry said as he tried once again to tie the bow tie.
"May I offer my assistance?" Severus walked behind Harry and they both faced the mirror. He placed his hands on Harry's shoulders, "I will tie Mr. Potter's tie and you four try to duplicate." Then he gave step by step instructions. His hands worked Harry's tie easily and the rest of the Gryffindor followed along with their own ties.
Harry stood with his hands at his sides watching Severus with pride. Harry never thought he would have a father to teach him simple things like this. When they finished Severus inspected all five boy's ties adjusting them all a little. When he came to Neville the poor boy looked as if he might faint.
"Calm down Mr. Longbottom, you have done an adequate job with this task," Neville seemed a little shocked to have been given a near compliment by the potion instructor. He stayed perfectly still as his teacher adjusted his tie.
Severus stood back and inspected the group. He nodded his approval but readjusted Harry's cloak for him.
"I actually came up here to escort Mr. Finnegan down to the portkey point." He gave Harry a knowing look but since the teachers were not supposed to know about the stow away he did not include his son.
Seamus spoke up, "Professor is it alright if Harry comes with us?"
"Certainly," the professor said and gave Harry a half smile.
The Gryffindor thanked the professor for helping with their ties as they all headed down to the common room to meet up with their dates.
The girls had not made an appearance yet so Dean, Ron and Neville sat down and waited. Harry and Seamus followed the Professor out the portrait hole to lots of teasing and hollering from their friends.
The portkey arrival was happening in a matter of minutes in the courtyard and Harry began to feel a little tense. Having to spend the entire dance with Charlet was a daunting task.
Severus watched the boys pacing nervously and tried to offer a little reassurance by placing his arm over Harry's shoulder. Harry felt too anxious to stand still so he dragged his father along and continued pacing around the courtyard.
Harry watched several couples arriving into the Great Hall through the long windows adjoining the courtyard. He saw Dean walk in and high five Michael and some guy in Hufflepuff. Ginny walked in by herself looking around for her date. Harry couldn't believe Dean hadn't waited for her upstairs in the common room. He thought Ginny looked amazing though. Her hair had soft curls and was pinned up at the sides with small pearl combs shaped like butterflies. She was laughing with her head thrown back and Harry had a strong urge to kiss her neck. He shook his head and continued to pace, thinking he better not watch her too much or Charlet would realize he liked her.
Just when it seemed like the Great Hall was packed to capacity a loud 'pop' was heard in the courtyard. Harry and Seamus watched as Gabriele practically floated down to the ground. Harry remembered when he had portkeyed before and had landed with a sprawl. This breathtaking girl landed with grace and Harry thought his friend a very lucky guy.
Gabriele looked about in wonder then a big smile broke out when she spotted Seamus walking towards her. Just as Seamus embraced his date the invisibility cloak dropped to the ground and Charlet made her appearance.
Severus pushed Harry towards her when he noticed the boy had not moved to greet her. Harry had actually been frozen with nerves over seeing her again. Harry thought Charlet looked stunning, he only wished beauty wasn't her only good attribute.
Charlet looked about and walked towards Harry with an air of supreme royalty. Her raven black hair was curled and cascading down her back. The tiara she wore was obviously made from real diamonds as it sparkled like fire. Charlet's dress was a pale blue with hundreds of diamonds sewn on the bodice and along the hem. It was sleeveless with white mink fur along the edges. Her pink lips stood out on her pale skin making her look like a porcelain doll. She held her hand out to Harry as if she were the queen herself.
"Charlet, thank you for coming. You look amazing," Harry said as he leaned over her hand and kissed it.
Charlet smiled enchantingly, "Harry, thank you for the invitation. You look quite dashing yourself." She turned towards Severus and extended her hand once more.
"Charlet you look lovely," Severus said as he too kissed her hand.
Charlet grabbed hold of Harry's arm and they walked towards the Great Hall. Severus retrieved the invisibility cloak and watched with pride as his handsome son escorted his date into the Great Hall.
When the Gryffindor and their dates entered through the main doors into the Great Hall it seemed as if everyone who saw them stood gawking. Their entrance spread like wild fire with students pushing to get a better view. Harry felt like a Muggle circus attraction with his date as the main show.
Harry looked about the Great Hall with great appreciation for magic. The walls were covered with large swags of brilliant jewel tone silk from floor to ceiling. The round tables were each covered in different jewel tone colors of emerald green, gold, deep purple and brilliant blue. Each table had several large round glass fish bowls filled with brilliant colored magical fish to coordinate with the table. Bright magical butterflies lit up the table as they flitted around the colored fish bowls. There were candles sprinkled throughout the arrangement causing a brilliant show of reflective lights. The entire effect was quite mesmerizing.
Harry ignored the stares and continued scanning the room for his friends. He spotted them sitting at a table towards the center of the room. Seamus and Gabriele followed the striking couple through the maze of ogling students.
Charlet leaned into Harry and said in a haughty voice, "My my, by the attention we are getting you would think the students of Hogwarts have never seen a properly dressed lady before. But then again, by the looks of the girls at this school that is probably true. It is no wonder you had to look elsewhere for a proper date."
Harry tried to ignore her nasty comment but it became harder when she met his friends. He introduced her to his room mates and their dates, including Ginny with Dean. Hermione made room for them to sit next to her and welcomed Charlet to Hogwarts.
Harry was just about to sit when he noticed Seamus pulling the chair out for his date. Oops! He quickly moved behind Charlet's chair and pulled it out for her. Charlet gave him a look of disdain.
Ron came back with drinks for his date and Harry remembered he never offered to get Charlet a drink. "Charlet may I get you a drink?"
"Oh so you do have manners after all," Charlet said with a sneer. "Yes, I will have a glass of Champagne."
"I don't think we have that. But we have pumpkin juice or sparkling water," Harry offered.
"Huh that figures," Charlet said just loud enough for Hermione and Ron to hear. "Fine I'll just have water then."
As soon as Harry walked away she rolled her eyes and said in a matter of fact tone, "My Aunt thinks Severus should send him to etiquette school this summer. I hardly think it will do him much good though, since he was raised by Muggles."
Most of the people at the table just looked at her with shock but Ginny felt the need to speak up.
"Harry has perfectly fine manners." She was about to say more but just then Draco walked up to the table and stood beside Charlet.
"Charlet, a pleasure to see you again," Draco took Charlet's hand and kissed it, lingering a tad longer than necessary.
Charlet smiled charmingly at the Slytherin, "Draco, I was wondering if I would see you here."
"Yes, I heard you were coming to Hogwarts but could hardly believe it since I also heard you were coming with Potter," Draco said with derision.
Ron looked as if he were ready to jump to Harry's defense but Hermione put a hand on his arm to keep him from getting up. She did not want to see her date in a fight tonight.
Charlet laughed, "Oh Draco, you must be quite jealous of the hero of the wizarding world."
"I'm not jealous of Potter!" Draco said indignantly.
"Oh, I am saddened to hear you say that. After all, he was fortunate enough to have me as his date tonight," Charlet stuck out her bottom lip into a pout.
Draco quickly added, "Yes, perhaps I am jealous. If I had known you had the ability to come to a dance at Hogwarts I would have dumped Pansy in a second to bring you." Draco looked around the table, "Where is your sorry excuse for a date anyway?"
"Draco you are so naughty! Harry went for drinks. I must say the selection was rather limited," Charlet smiled sweetly.
"Well, it might be limited for the Gryffindors but we Slytherins would never be caught drinking pumpkin juice at a social function. May I?" Draco flicked his wand at the table before Charlet and a single glass of bubbly champagne appeared. "Do not worry about the teachers seeing you, the glass is spelled to look like pumpkin juice is in it and it will never run out of Champagne either."
"Thank you Draco, you are indeed a proper gentleman," Charlet crooned. Charlet ignored the snort from Hermione over that statement.
Harry walked up with the sparkling waters and pushed Draco out of the way with his elbow. Draco looked ready to fight but Pansy approached and wrapped her hand around Draco's arm.
"Draco, I was wondering where you went off to." Pansy looked at Charlet with contempt, "Don't you have your own date?"
"Shut it Pansy, Charlet is an old friend of the family," Draco hissed.
Draco leaned towards Harry, "Potter, you are sooo out of your league. When you figure out that Charlet is too good for you, let me know and I'll step in and take over." Draco turned his back and strode away with Pansy still on his arm.
"What was Malfoy doing over here?" Harry asked as he placed the drinks down.
Ron spoke up first, "Apparently he knows your date."
"We have met at various social functions but I haven't actually seen him in a year," Charlet said. "But he was kind enough to supply me with champagne, which is more than I can say for you."
Oh Merlin, Harry had no idea this was going to be so hard.
Ron pulled his wand out, "Malfoy might be a lousy git but he did have a good idea. Who would like to join me in a fire whiskey?" Ron tapped his glass and it filled with the hard liquor.
Several people at the table did the same including Harry. If had to hang out with Charlet all night he figured he better have a little help. He took a big gulp and his eye's watered but it helped him to relax a little more.
Professor Dumbledore called their attention to the podium. When the announcements were finished the tables filled with an amazing display of desserts. Every person had a chocolate replica of the Hogwarts Castle, complete with lights in the windows. Harry realized this must have been what kept Dobby and the rest of the elves so busy today. The rest of the sweets were spread throughout the table on pedestals made from ice that didn't melt.
A few girls from Hufflepuff that Harry had recognized from Severus detention earlier in the week, came up to talk with him. He introduced Charlet but the girls didn't pay her any attention. One of them offered Harry a chocolate, which he quickly turned down remembering the warning from Severus about love potions. As the girls became more interested in Harry it appeared as if Charlet became more interested in him too.
Finally after enough snide remarks from Charlet the girls walked away dejectedly.
The orchestra began and several people made their way to the dance floor. Charlet seemed pretty content to drink her champagne and insult the girls of Hogwarts. Harry tuned her out and watched Ginny as she waltzed around the dance floor with Dean.
Harry hadn't realized that he had been staring until Charlet poked him in the ribs and asked, "Who are you watching? Vespa is right, your manners are quite appalling."
Harry ignored that last comment, "I wasn't watching anyone, I was just wondering if you would like to dance?"
Charlet stood up and Harry escorted her out to the dance floor. He knew he wasn't a very good dancer but hoped Charlet had enough champagne to not notice. Several girls said hello to Harry on his way out to the dance floor causing Charlet to become jealous and hold tighter to his arm.
They stayed on the dance floor through three songs with Charlet talking about herself the entire time. If Harry heard one more story about her perfect grades he thought he would hurl.
As they were walking off the dance floor Hillary Smidgen accidentally bumped into them and stepped on Charlet's dress.
"Get off you big cow!" Charlet screeched, as she checked her dress for rips.
"Oh gosh I'm so sorry!" Hillary tried to dust off the hem of Charlet's dress.
"Charlet it was an accident. Chill out, your dress isn't even ruined," Harry said with irritation over the way Charlet was treating Hillary.
Just then Draco strolled up and looked at Hillary with disdain, "Watch where you're going hippo." Draco turned towards Charlet and offered his hand, "May I have this dance Miss Charlet?"
Charlet leaned into Harry and whispered, "You know it would not be very polite if I declined."
Harry could care less if Draco danced with her, "Go ahead Charlet, I'll wait for you at the table."
Feeling relief at getting rid of his date for a few minutes, Harry turned back around and faced Hillary. He saw she had tears in her eyes and was close to breaking down.
"Don't let them bother you Hillary. Could I walk you back to your date or get you a drink?"
"I didn't come with a date but I'll have a drink if you don't mind?" Hillary looked up at him with hopeful eyes.
They made their way through the crowd to the beverage table and Harry noticed how Hillary had latched onto his arm. He handed her a drink and they talked about a few classes they had together. Hillary excused herself to use the restroom and Harry was left standing alone.
Ron walked up behind him and whispered, "Watch it mate, I saw you with Hillary and I hear she has a crush on you."
Harry ignored that since he kinda figured that out on his own, "Hey Ron, how's your date so far?"
Ron didn't get a chance to answer because Hermione showed up and pulled him out to the dance floor much to his displeasure.
Harry was watching Ron dance worse than him when he was grabbed around the waist from behind. He turned quickly finding himself face to face with Ginny.
"Hi Harry! Are you having fun?" Ginny fanned herself with her hand and lifted the hair cascading down her back. "Whew, it's hot in here isn't it?"
Harry's breath caught and it took a moment to respond, "Um yeah, it's hot." Without thinking he blurted out, "You look beautiful Ginny. Um,…your dress is really nice."
Ginny laughed and spun around, holding the pale pink dress out, "My mom made it for me."
Harry raised his hand up to push a stray hair from her face, letting his fingertips slide down her soft cheek.
Suddenly he felt his arm being grabbed roughly and turned around to see an angry scowl on Charlet's face.
"Hello Harry," Charlet said suddenly sweet once again.
Before Harry could say a word Charlet pulled him towards her and kissed him. Not just a peck on the lips but a full on deep kiss that lasted way too long in Harry's opinion. When he finally pulled back and caught his breath he noticed a small audience watching, including Ginny.
"Charlet, let's go talk," Harry said and led her out the door by the hand to the small alcove he had been in earlier with Severus. "Um, can I ask what that was all about?"
"That was the girl you were watching earlier on the dance floor wasn't it?" Charlet accused.
"Charlet, I don't know what you are talking about. I wasn't watching her or anyone else," Harry lied hoping she would believe him because so much was riding on this date.
"You know Harry, I think it is time for me to leave. I don't appreciate my date gawking after some girl in a homemade dress and cheap shoes. If you wanted to go to the dance with her why didn't you just ask her!"
Harry began to panic at the thought of her leaving like this. How in the world could he give her a very expensive diamond necklace when she knew he didn't even like her? He had to do something quick before the whole plan was blown by his stupidity.
He grabbed hold of her waist and pulled her close, "Charlet, I don't like that girl, she's just my best friends little sister. How could I like someone like her compared to you? She doesn't even begin to compare."
Harry watched Charlet's face begin to soften. He leaned in close and gave her a kiss on the neck that made her giggle.
Charlet turned her face towards Harry and they kissed again. This time Harry kissed her back, forcing himself to forget about Ginny. He traced his fingertips all the way down her bare arms and held her hands firmly. "Now do you believe that you are the only girl I want to be with? " He said as he raised her hands to his lips and kissed them.
"I guess I feel a little better," Charlet said and ran her fingers through Harry's hair.
Harry had to make sure she really did believe him and pulled Charlet into a close embrace. He began kissing her neck again, lingering on the spot that made her giggle. He slid his hand down to her waist moving it to caress the small of her back. They stayed in the alcove kissing a few more minutes until Charlet decided she wanted to slow dance. She wrapped her arm around Harry and they walked inside the Great Hall.
When they passed by Ginny, Charlet made a point of stopping Harry to kiss him again. Harry hated every minute of that kiss but forced himself not to pull back. They walked onto the dance floor and embraced again, swaying to the music. Charlet ran her fingers through his hair again, sending a shiver down his back. She leaned her head on Harry's chest and he dropped his head down and spoke softly to her about her favorite subject; herself. He told her how much he loved her dress and hair and how proud he was to be here with the most beautiful girl in the room. Charlet giggled back lifting her face for anther kiss.
Harry was just about to kiss her when he saw Ginny out of the corner of his eye. He looked up and saw her weeping into Hermione's shoulder at the table. His heart dropped and he didn't know if he could keep this farce up any longer. Then he saw his father watching him from the corner of the room and knew that he didn't have any choice. If Charlet didn't believe that he really did like her then she would be suspicious of the necklace, especially when she found out that she couldn't remove it. He made his decision and leaned down and gave Charlet a long kiss. He didn't look up again and missed Ginny running out of the room.
After another dance and several more seemingly passionate kisses, they went back to join Harry's friends at the table. Hermione glared at him but Harry ignored her. When this whole thing was over he would be able to explain the kisses and fake passion. Until then he knew he had to make everyone believe he liked Charlet.
He had already asked Severus if he could just let Ginny know what was happening with the poison but Severus was adamant that he not say a word. Severus reminded him that Voldemort somehow knew that Ginny was a person that Harry cared for, due to those visions he was sending Harry. If Ginny was ever in Voldemort's hands Severus knew that she would not be able to keep the poison a secret. Severus was not about to let that sort of information about his son into Voldemort's hands. If Voldemort knew how vulnerable Harry was at this time he would attack for certain. In the end it had all made perfect sense to Harry but he still found it hard to live with.
Charlet continued drinking her champagne and asked if Harry wanted to share. Harry said he would rather have water and excused himself from the table. As he stood at the beverage table, Hermione walked over to join him.
"Harry, I'm trying really hard to see what it is you see in that girl, but I just don't know what you're thinking? I know she's related to Professor Snape and maybe your just trying to make him happy or something." Hermione said watching for Harry's reaction.
"Hermione that is not it at all. It's really none of your business anyway. Why don't you just let me have some fun for one night without overanalyzing everything?" Harry walked away wishing he could tell her the truth.
When he went back to the table he noticed Hermione had followed him and she took a seat next to Charlet.
Hermione thought she would give Harry's date another try. There must be something to make Harry so head over heels in love the girl to even kiss her like that in front of Ginny, let alone the entire school.
The girls at the table were talking about tiaras and shoes again. Hermione joined along and told Charlet how much she loved her dress.
"Yes, thank you Hermes. I am sure it cost my aunt a small fortune but as she always says 'Only the best for the best!'." Charlet didn't see the looks of shock over a statement like that and continued with, "I believe strongly in only wearing clothes from the finest grade material made by the house elves on our estates. As a matter of fact I had my aunt send over all the house elves to make my dress in two days. I actually had to lock them in my room without food or water so they would finish it in time!"
Okay, now Harry was truly mortified! He wished he could apparate the hell out of there at the look Hermione was giving him. He grabbed Charlet's arm and quickly said, "Let's dance!"
While they were slow dancing Harry looked up and saw his father watching him once again. Harry pointed to the side door and Severus nodded. When the song ended Harry said he needed to use the restroom and walked Charlet back to their table. Thankfully Hermione was no longer at the table. Charlet sat next to Seamus and Dean, flirting with them shamelessly.
Harry walked out the side door, meeting up with his father. Severus put an arm over his shoulder and guided him into an empty classroom.
"Severus, I don't know if I can continue with this. Did you see Ginny crying? I think I really hurt her feelings and that Charlet is so evil …" Harry ran his fingers through his hair then sat down on a desk.
"Calm down son, it will be fine. The evening is almost at a close. I am sure Ms. Weasley will understand once everything is explained to her." Severus hoped the girl would be understanding but wasn't so sure by the way she had stormed out.
"Yeah, well I wouldn't blame her if she didn't ever talk to me again. Charlet's been hanging all over me!"
"Yes, I have noticed. I only hope your behavior is due to these extreme circumstances," Severus rebuked. Severus made a mental note to speak to his son about propriety at the first possible chance.
"What! You think I want to kiss her like that in front of the whole school!" Harry yelled and began pacing.
"Maybe not but I fear Professor McGonagall will take me to task for allowing such untoward behavior from my son."
Harry rolled his eyes at his dad, "Well, it's not like I'm having fun!"
"Harry calm down and think about the task at hand," Severus pulled the box with the portkey necklace out of his pocket and handed it to Harry. "I suppose you should continue on acting the same. It seems Charlet is quite enamored with you, which will work to our advantage."
Harry stuck the flat box in his dress robe without looking at the necklace again. "I need a hot shower to get her smell off of me. I think she used an entire bottle of perfume."
"Yes, there is evidence of your impropriety on your shirt collar as well," Severus pointed his wand at Harry's collar and the lipstick disappeared. "I know this task is rather daunting but I fear it is really our best approach to our predicament."
"Yes sir, I know you're right but it doesn't make this any easier," Harry hung his head as he leaned up against the door.
Severus walked up to his son and placed his hand on the back of Harry's neck, "Things have a way of working themselves out son."
"I hope so. I guess I better get back before Charlet turns all my friends against me."
"How so?" Severus asked knowing that if she was even half as evil as Vespa was then she was worse than Harry was letting on.
"You'd be surprised over the stuff that comes out of her mouth," Harry said as he straightened his cloak. "I'm pretty sure Hermione won't be speaking to me either."
Just before Severus opened the door he said, "Do not forget to clasp the necklace around Charlet's neck."
"Yes sir." came a sad voice.
Severus turned around to face his son once again, "This will all be over before you know it."
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So what do you think? When you review, let me know where you are from. I think someone said they were from China. Its pretty cool to know people from all over the world are reading my little story. HeeHee