DISCLAIMER!
I DO NOT OWN THE DESCENDANTS MOVIES, BOOKS, OR CHARACTERS!
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Chapter 16: Knew It
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Harry's POV:
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She just stares meh down with this tired look. I let me arms drop, I don' t'ink I've e'er actually seen 'er look tired 'fore. Figured she'd put up much more o' fight than tha', she always does. "And YA'RE a tool! Ya're only EVER interested in me when yare options are limited! Back on the Isle before the party, we didn't JUST kiss, we had a moment. In fact, we've had nothin' BUT moments whenever we're tagether. Now we're here again, and ya're off tryin' ta fuck LITERALLY ALL of yare friends and whatever randos ya came across. EVEN Princess Snooty, the chick who had just tried ta end the world. What EXACTLY do ya want from me at this point, Harry? Ya're ANNOYED when I don't give ya space, and PISSED when I do!", tha lass throws back. I knew she had more fire 'n 'er, but she's a bitch 'or sayin' I'm a tool. It's not e'en like tha'! She acts like I'm just tossin' 'er 'round! See this is wha' I was tryin' ta avoid 'n tha 1st place, 'nd why I've been tryin' so hard ta keep 'er at arms' length. If she'd taken tha hint we wouldn' have ta be goin' at it out 'ere 'n tha open 'n front o' anyone who walks by... Wait, I don' want other people stickin' their fat noses 'n o' my business. I can' have 'er scarin' some potential hook ups 'way either. "If we're gonna hash this out, can it at least be done 'n yare quarters 'r somethin'? Ya know, where there's actually privacy.", I suggest. She's back ta starin' meh down 'gain, but she'll relent, I know she will. She may be miffed at meh but she's not illogical. Doubt she wants all o' Auradon knowin' 'bout 'er dirty laundry ta.
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She lets out a snort while rollin' 'er eyes. 1st she's 'ere clearly tryin' ta start a fight with meh, now she's brushin' off me suggestion? Girly's really testin' me patience taday. She quickly snaps 'er fingers 'nd we're jolted inta wha' I'm 'ssumin' is 'er quarters. Wha was e'en tha point o' givin' meh sass if she was just gonna do it anyway? Ugh, women. Ya can' live with 'em 'nd ya can' live without 'em. "There, THIS better?", she exasperatedly asks. I nod as I'm takin' a sweep o' tha place. It's covered 'n 'er colors, tha' bit's not surprisin'. Looks like she rooms 'lone ta, no shock there. Wha' IS, is tha necklace I spot tha's strun' up 'n this stan' by 'er bed. "Ya can fuck right off 'nd outta me life if ya really t'ink I'm a tool. Ya're tha 1 pushin' 'erself 'n meh. I don' kno' how MANY times I have ta make meself perfectly clear, I don' WANT ta settle down right now. I'm not ready 'or somethin' like tha' 'kay? Why's it perfectly fine 'or ya ta be interested 'n all our friends, but I'M tha 'tool' if I do tha same thin' hmm?", I lay out. This double standard o' 'ers is ridiculous. Swear she was more chill 'bout these thin's 'n tha Isle. Well, if ya count hangin' Ginny from tha rafters by 'er ankles chill. "Is that what YA want? Ya want me ta leave a alone PERMANENTLY? Cause the door's right behind ya. Feel FREE ta walk out at any time. Hooky, I KNOW ya're not ready and have a fear of commitment and, all that. I'm okay, with it. I'VE said it before and I'll say it again, I'm not gonna make ya do somethin' ya don't want ta do. I'm not like THEM. I'm not in any rush, I can wait for ya ta come around. As for bein' interested in 'our' friends, or anyone else for the matter, I'm NOT. I'm not tryin' ta FUCK them. That's the, difference, between us right now.", Hazel counters.
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Hazel's POV:
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I can't BELIEVE we're seriously havin' a, fight, over this. What's his PROBLEM? Goin' off on me cause he couldn't handle that I was givin' someone ELSE some, attention, for a change. Who's the reallll hypocrite HERE? I know I'm playin' a bit of a, risky game, by challengin' him like this but what ELSE am I supposed ta do? Say sorry and green light all his man whore tendencies, while turnin' inta a conservative version of myself? Fuck THAT. I do WHAT I want, WHEN I want, with WHO I want. That's been my moto for as lon' as I can remember, and that's NOT changin' taday. I don't play by someone else's, rules, even his. If he wants me ta tone thin's down, then he's gonna have ta COMPROMISE. He roughly rakes his hands through his hair while lettin' out a frustrated growl. That'd be sooo hot if his frustration wasn't, directed, tawards me. He storms over, well, more like takes a few angry steps. I wasn't across the ROOM or anythin'. "O' COURSE THA'S NOT WHA' I- RRRUUGGHHHH! YA'RE SO FRUSTRATIN', YA KNOW THA'? WHY'RE YA STILL HOLDIN' OUT HOPE THA' I'LL COME 'ROUND? THA' I'LL BE ABLE TA GIVE YA WHA' YA WANT? WHY WON' YA JUST GIVE UP 'N MEH 'READY?!", he shouts in a fit of anger. Well that was loud. It's a good thin' I soundproofed this room AGES ago with magic. I'm sure the preppy bitches that live around here are just ITCHIN' ta, report me, ta Fairy Godmother. For any and EVERY reason they can. "CAUSE I LOVE YA, YA IDIOT!", I scream back. As soon as THOSE WORDS leave my mouth, I immediately wanna yeet myself back in time and take them back.
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Harry actually STUMBLES back in shock. My face reddens, and I don't think I've ever felt THIS embarrassed in my entire, existence. I swallow as I dip my head ta stare at the ground. I'd breeze by him and practically FLY out the exit if this wasn't MY room. I, don't think I can handle bein' pushed away by him right now afta sayin' somethin' so, vulnerable-personal. He doesn't say anythin', he HASN'T said anythin'... Son of a BITCH, I'm gonna have ta bite the bullet and look at him ta get a response, aren't I? I take a deep breath, pick my head up, and he's frozen dead on the spot. The STUNNED look he's sportin' would be pretty hilarious in any, other, situation. I didn't expect him ta say it back, but I figured he'd at least say SOMETHIN'- anythin'. I feel myself deflate. "Maybe ya should go.", I breathe out. I try not ta let my disappointment show when he nods his head, and turns ta leave. " 'or yare sake, I really hope ya're just confused 'bout how ya feel.", he comments on his trek ta the door. Hold the FUCK up, ya're not allowed ta leave afta sayin' somethin' like that! I use my magic ta lock the door, just as he goes ta turn the handle. He jangles it around a few times before turnin' back ta me with this expectant look on his face. "Care ta unlock tha door, Lassie?", he sighs. I beckon him tawards me with my finger. "Do ya want meh ta leave yare place 'r not?!", he snaps as he stalks over ta me. I narrow my eyes. Ya're lucky I'm about ta ask ya about this INSTEAD of usin' magic ta pick yare brain. Don't push yare luck, Hook.
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Harry's POV:
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"Ya can leave if ya choose, as soon as ya ELABORATE on what ya just said.", she huffs. Hades, is she TRYIN' ta makes thin's e'en more awkward than they 'ready 're? I don' wanna talk 'bout this, not e'en sure I can. I'm still recoverin' from tha' bomb she just dropped 'n meh. How tha Hell does she expect meh ta 'elaborate' 'n this fucked up situation? I should've just kept me trap shut 'nd hauled ass out o' 'ere. "I'm more trouble than it's worth, Love. Haven't ya hurt yareself enough with this? I'm all for breakin' people, 'r at least I was, but not ya. Ya don' deserve tha', but tha's wha''ll happen if ya don' back off. We can be mates, but anythin' more than tha''ll be ta much. Ya have ta see tha' by now.", I slowly say. If she doesn' get it by now she ne'er will. I don' know wha' else I could possibly do, 'sides make out with someone 'n front o' 'er, but I have a feelin' tha' wouldn' go ta well 'or anyone involved. She shuffles closer ta meh with a blank expression plastered 'cross 'er face. It's makin' meh wish I was better at readin' people, 'r better at readin' 'er at tha very least. "If ya really want me ta back off so badly, then why CARE if I'm flirtin' with someone else or not?", she asks meh. I don', I care 'bout tha' double standard ya're pushin'. "I wouldn' care if ya weren' makin' such a big deal 'bout-", I start ta reply 'fore I'm swiftly cut off. Lass could've at least had tha decency ta let meh finish a sentence. "I haven', and ACTUALLY if I recall correctly, I said I was okay with ya messin' around. I just wanted ta be 1 those people ya were messin' around WITH.", she corrects.
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She might've said somethin' like tha', but it was a load o' shite. Women aren' okay with their partners warmin' up some other chump's bed. Unless ya're an Isle slut, it's only about sex 'or 'em, they don' care either way. "It wouldn' be just messin' 'round 'or ya though, would it? It'd mean more ta ya than tha'.", I point out. She looks 'way, 'nd I know I've got 'er there, 'n more ways than one. She turns back ta meh. "If ya can look me in the eyes, and HONESTLY tell me ya don't have any feelin's for me, nothin' more than just wantin' ta fuck me. Then I'll drop this, us. Just don't even THINK about lyin' ta me, I'll know.", she requests as 'er eyes flash red at tha mention o' 'er knowin'. This feels extremely unfair. Wha' if I lie unintentionally, huh? I could fully t'ink I'm bein' honest, but actually be lyin' ta 'er. 'r would tha' be lyin' ta meself since I t'ink it's tha- 'kay this is gettin' ta complicated. The answer's right there, I know I don' want ta date 'er. If I felt all tha' mushy stuff 'or 'er I'd be whiskin' 'er off 'n dates 'nd shite by now. I don' do romance, relationships, 'r girlfriends. Now all I gotta do is tell 'er wha's right. It's tha right thin' ta do afta all. Yet as I'm studyin' 'er face, I can' brin' meself ta. I have gotten awful jealous o' anyone she's, overly friendly with. She saw somethin' 'n meh 'fore anyone else did, helped meh 'n a way e'eryone else was unable ta. T'inks more highly o' meh than I do meself, always so ready ta defend meh when someone's trash talkin' meh. "I can't do tha'.", I mutter out. 'er breath hitches. I'm 'n some deep shite now, 'ren't I?
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Hazel's POV:
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I KNEW IT! I KNEW MAKIN' THIN'S MORE, HIGH STAKES, WOULD YIELD SOME RESULTS. He feels what I feel, I'm sure of it. Hell, I SENSED as much before when I picked through his feelin's. That time he was LIVID about me bein' a spy of course, I haven't deliberately done anythin' like that since then. I've actually been realll respectful about it. I also knew arguin' with him would've been pointless. He responds WAY better when ya treat him as ya would a stray animal ya're, tryin' ta gain the trust of. "Ya like me.", I giggle out. He slaps a hand over his forehead, draggin' it down the rest of his face while groanin'. "Now don' go gettin' tha wron' idea there Girly, I'm not budgin'.", he chides. Yeah, yeah, he can think that ALLLL he likes, but he'll cave eventually. I don' do losin' afta all, specially if WE'RE the game. "I'm not askin' ya ta, I never WAS. We've been doin' nothin' but goin' at YARE pace, least were til ya decided ta act like an-", I start sayin' before Harry decides ta jump in. "I swear if ya call meh a tool 1 more time.", he warns. I throw my head back and start cacklin', he joins in afta a moment. "ASS was the word I was plannin' on usin'.", I correct afta we calm down a bit. He quirks his brow at me. I'm guessin' ta him, 'ass' isn't really much of an upgrade from 'tool'. Fair enough. "But I AM sorry for that.", I add on. He'd probably be bitter about that if I DIDN'T, apologize. Plus he doesn't seem like the type ta say sorry, but I bet if I take the 1st steps, I can manage ta yank somethin' outta him. He rubs the back of his neck while lookin' away.
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Oh yah, he's about ta cave. "Suppose I owe ya an apology ta. Accordin' ta Uma, I tend ta push people 'way. Which I'm sure ya 'ready know since ya like listenin' 'n o' other people's conversations.", he replies. Which is his own ROUNDABOUT, way of admittin' he's been a bit of a dick. "Hey, it's not MY fault people like ta talk while I'm in earshot.", I joke. He relaxes a bit. Do people not normally accept his- actually, nevermind. I swear I remember 1 of the core 4 sayin' somethin' about how people never say sorry on the Isle, accept the pushovers. Like Mistah Smee, great guy, but a TOTAL loser by Isle standards. "So we're good then yah?", he tries ta confirm. I playfully roll my eyes, but nod all the same. Reassurance seems ta ALSO be somethin' they don' do over there. Although, now that the Isle and Auradon are this connected thin', that changes thin's doesn't it? "Of COURSE we're good, Hooky.", I soothe. He lets out a sigh of relief while wipin' his brow. I giggle at the, theatrics, of it all. I snap my fingers, unlockin' the door. "Ya can leave now if ya want, or stay, either way it's up ta ya.", I tell him. He glances over at 1 of the windows, as if ta figure out if it's gotten dark yet. Not that that's very helpful, the curtains are drawn. I gesture ta them, givin' him the silent invitation ta shove the fabric aside. He saunters over there, and goes JUST that. I slide over ta my bed and flop onta it. The sun's quickly settin' from what I can tell. "Looks like it's gettin' late 'ere Lassy.", he comments. REALLY, I would've never been able ta guess.
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Harry's POV:
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Well, tha' went better than I thought it would.. I really should go find Uma 'fore it gets dark. Not sure if we're supposed ta sleep 'ere 'or tha night 'n 1 o' their spare rooms, 'r go back home. Can I e'en still call tha' place home? I wonder if Uncle Smee 'nd tha twins 're 'ready back 'n tha boat. Not really sure it matters, I'm old enough ta live 'n me own anyway. Where I sleep's up ta meh, but I'm not decidin' anythin' without Uma. Wha' kind o' 1st mate would I be if I didn' take 'er inta consideration? "I can see that, Puddin'. Ya can stay here for the night if ya need a place ta crash.", tha Lass offers. As temptin' as it'd be ta just agree, layin' 'n bed with 'er afta everythin' tha's just happened might not be tha best o' ideas. O' course if tha's wha' SHE wants, I'm sure she'll find a way ta talk meh inta it regardless. "I should really, find Uma 'nd Gil 1st. See wha' they're plannin' ta do 'nd all tha'.", I nervously laugh out. She immediately sits up, raisin' 'er brow at meh. Wow, real smooth there Harry. I'd smack meself upside tha head right now if I could. "It was just a SUGGESTION, Hooky. No need ta, freak out on me.", she teases. I WAS NOT freakin' out! Especially o'er such a tame suggestion. I've- WE'VE e'en done spicier thin's than tha'. Feelin' uncertain is tha most I'd e'er admit ta anyway. "I'm bein' serious! It's part o' tha pirate code. A 1st mate has ta check 'n with their captain before makin' any hasty decisions. Wha' if she drags Gil back ta tha Isle without meh, 'nd somethin' bad happens? It's me job ta be there.", I explain.
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I expect ta hear another sassy remark fly out o' 'er pretty little mouth, but she just nods 'n understandin'. Good, she knows how much tha pirate code 'nd me crew means ta me then. Already knew she knew I cared 'bout 'em, she said as much 'fore she high tailed it out o' tha Isle tha' 1st time. "Well that BORIN' Council Meetin's probably all wrapped up by now. Ya know, UNLESS yare Captain decided ta pick a fight with everyone that is. Want me ta check for ya?", she asks meh. I let out a snort. Uma isn't 1 'or pickin' fights 'less she has a good reason ta, 'nd seein' as how tha Isle's been run inta tha ground, I'd say she does. Those white collars clearly have no idea how ta handle thin's, 'r they don't care enough ta try. Either way tha' shite's gotta come ta an end. Tha Isle's not some ugly little blip 'n their world map they can just pretend ta ignore, not anymore. We made sure o' tha'. They've silenced our voices 'or far ta lon'. "If it tickles yare fancy. Then sure, knock yareself out, Love.", I agree. No sense 'n trekkin' 'cross campus 'or 'o reason. It's not like I could give tha Lassy tha slip. She'd surely offer ta walk with meh, whether I wanted 'er ta 'r not. 'er eyes light right up 'fore dyin' down a moment later. Well tha' was quick. "Yah, they're DONE. If ya hurry ya could probably, intercept, Uma before she runs off ta find Gil. I'll stay HERE if that'd make ya more comfortable ta.", tha Lass relays ta meh. Well at least she's givin' meh a choice this time. 'less it's not REALLY a choice. Is this another 1 o' 'er mind games?
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Hazel's POV:
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Harry narrows his eyes at me, as if he's takin' a minute ta either study me, or think about how he's gonna respond. I swear if he's STILL actin' weird by tamorrow, I'll have ta resort ta, hookin' him with his own hook. "Right, I'll just be off then. O', 'nd I don't really care if ya tag 'long 'r not.", he casually remarks as he strolls ta the door. I can't help but giggle at how FORCED that, oh so casual aloofness, sounded. He pulls my door open, takin' a glance back ta see that I'm still sittin' in the same spot. He looks confused, or surprised, they're intachangeable in this instance. "Ya're not comin' with meh?", he questions. A suggestive smirk forms onta my face. Looks like SOMEONE'S poor choice in wordin's about ta backfire. I slide off my bed. "WELL, if ya angle yare dick JUST RIGHT-", I start ta purr out before Harry RUSHES over ta clap his hand over my mouth. It muffles the laugh that SOON follows, but not enough that it's, completely inaudible. "Tha's not wha' I meant 'nd ya know it. 'sides, I know how ta please a woman. I've ne'er had ta ask THA' question, 'nd I ne'er will. 'kay, got it? Good, now, I MEANT aren't ya gonna accompany meh. Ya seem ta like trailin' afta me.", he clarifies before he lowers his hand. Oh boy, him and his ego lol. It's better than him bein' an insecure lil boi though, so I can't REALLY complain. I DO seem ta like followin' him around don't I? At 1st that was because of the undercover mission thin'. Then is was me tryin' ta get him ta see how WRON' he was in his decision ta, try and sleep with everyone but me.
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Not so sure what my excuse NOW is supposed ta be. "COURSE I know what ya meant, Pumpkin. I was just teasin' ya. I can' RESIST makin' a sex joke afta all, I'm sure ya can relate ta that. As for whether or not I'll be, 'trailin' afta ya', I don't think I will this time. Ya CLEARLY don't want me ta, 'nd I'm not 1 ta stick around where I'm not wanted.", I say all while pushin' his stiff body tawards the exit. By the time I'm done talkin' I've already opened the door and shoved him inta the hallway. I slam the door shut behind him, BEFORE he even has a chance ta process what just happened, lol. He LIKES bein' in control, havin' a choice. Which who could blame him, considerin' his, tragic life story. So therefore by simultaneously goin' alon' with his clearly IMPLIED decision and enforcin' it, I've taken away any control he felt he had. It feels like MY decision instead of his at this point. I poof back over ta my bed, then whip my phone out. Givin' the illusion that I'll stay true ta my word. Which I FULLY plan ta do, I'm not gonna be the 1 ta change their mind. The door swin's open, Harry stomps back inside. He looks annoyed, fun. "O' no ya don't Lass, get up.", he orders. I comply, hoppin' up. Ya see, the only way for him ta feel in control again, is ta be THE decidin' party. "Ya're comin' with meh, I specifically said I didn't care either way. I'm not lettin' ya put words 'n me mouth.", he grumbles. So of course that means askin' me ta come with. Looks like we BOTH get what we want, it's a win win situation really. "Well if ya insist, Hooky.", I concede while snappin' my phone away.
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Harry's POV:
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It may have taken a bit 'or me brain ta catch up, but I could see right through 'er little act. Girly t'inks she can pull a fast 1 'n meh now does she? WELL she's sorely underestimated meh then! She's pullin' some reverse psychology bullshite 'n meh, I know it. She's been clingin' ta meh e'er since we met, now she's more than happy ta shove meh out tha door? E'en has NO PROBLEM with stayin' behind? She's workin' an angle. How's tha' 1 sayin' go 'gain? Absence makes tha heart grow fonder, 'nd all tha' sentimental crap. She bankin' 'n meh missin' 'er if she pushes back a little. Well I'm not givin' 'er tha chance. I've been puttin' up with enough o' 'er crap as is, I refuse ta take part 'n 'nother game o' 'ers. I snatch 'er wrist up 'nd lead 'er out o' tha room. If she wants ta play hard ta get then I'm stickin' ta 'er like glue. She slams 'er door shut pretty harshly just 'fore I start pullin' 'er down tha hallway. It's nice ta be tha 1 takin' tha lead 'or a change. "WOULD IT KILL YOU TO GIVE IT A REST PSYCHO?!", someone yells from tha other end of tha hall. I cast a glance behind meh, but I don't see anyone. They must've just said, 'shouted' is tha word any chap with a pair o' workin' ears would use, their piece 'fore duckin' back inta their room. "YA, ACTUALLY!", she screams back. Glad she had tha decency ta whip 'er head back so me eardrums wouldn't cave 'n. "Wha' was all tha' 'bout?", I question as we're boundin' down this staircase. She starts crackin' up, I'm startin' ta t'ink tha's a habit o' 'ers at this point. "Oh, APPARENTLY I close doors ta loudly for other people's, personal taste.", she dismisses.
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'nother habit o' 'ers I see. I remember 'er pullin' me own bedroom door so hard, I was sure she'd rip it right out o' tha frame. We reach tha sidewalk 'nd tha streetlamps 're 'ready lit up. "Not ta play devil's advocate, but I t'ink ya forget yare own strength sometimes, Lass.", I point out. She smirks as we skip 'long tha gravel. "FORGET, isn't the word I'd use.", she comments. I roll me eyes. Wha' do tha technicalities matter 'n tha scheme o' thin's anyway? "Well wha' word WOULD ya use, Love?", I ask just ta humor 'er. Now, if I could remember which 1 o' these stuffy buildin's Ben dragged his future wife 'nd me Captain inta. "WORDS, with a 's'.", she corrects. Gods, she's gonna make me regret pullin' 'er out o' 'er dorm isn't she? Suppose whenever I'm 'round 'er she always manages ta make meh regret, 'nd somehow feel almost thankful, tha she's 'ere. "WORDS THEN.", I snap. We round a corner, 'nd all tha buildin's still look tha exact fuckin' same. Christ, was it THIS difficult when it was still light out? Tha's wha' I get 'or takin' me leisurely time 'n 'patchin' thin's up' with tha nutcase next ta meh. "Not carin'.", she says. Great, I'm lost, 'nd I'm gonna look like a fool 'n front o' Hazel. "Hmm?", I absentmindedly hum. I'm supposed ta be tha 1 'n charge, leadin', but I can't e'en find tha buildin' where tha bloody meetin's take place! Not tha' tha name 'r location o' tha buildin' was e'er mentioned. They must all t'ink it's common knowledge. I'm sure it is 'or tha Auradonians 'nd Mal's crew. "I'm WELL aware of my strength, I just don't care, Hooky.", she clarifies.
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Hazel's POV:
It seems that Uma's 1st mate, THE Harry Hook, pirate extraordinaire, is lost. I'd give him a, helpin' hand, but I wouldn't wanna wound his fragile ego afta all. Plus, watchin' him try ta SOOOO desperately hide his incompetence, is amusin'. I'll take pity on him when he gives up and/or starts ta get REALLY frustrated. I wonder how lon' that'll take. "Yare neighbors must not be very fond o' ya then.", he jokes. He's right of course, but I don't think they'd like me even if I was the most considerate neighbor EVER. "Most people aren't.", I respond. The lightness from my voice is gone, he notices. Figured he would've been ta distracted ta. He looks over, I just keep walkin'. I'm about ta smooth over, that, I don't need his pity. Can't have EVEN the Isle folk feelin' sorry for me. They should be more worried about their own shit. It's not like I'll be livin' here, in this school more specifically, forever. "Well I 'or 1 am, fond o' ya I mean, 'or some reason. Gil is ta, probably 'cause ya supply him with an endless amount o' grapes.", Harry admits. Ta say I WASN'T expectin' that would be an, understatement. Gettin' him ta admit he felt the smallest sliver of SOMETHIN' for me, was like pullin' teeth. That's how the sayin' goes isn't it? Not that it really matters, much, anyway. I definitely expected him ta say somethin' alon' the lines of, 'well fuck 'em then'. "And here I thought ya didn't do feelin's.", I giggle. He stiffens before pickin' up the pace. Hopin' that the sooner we get where we're goin', the sooner this conversation'll be over.
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"Don't push yare luck, Lass.", he warns. Now THAT'S more like the Harry I know. I smile at him. I do nothin' BUT push my luck constantly, with everyone. Another reason why I'm not exactly the most, likeable person in the 'room'. I decide ta take mercy on him, and use my magic ta find out if Uma's even still in THAT particular buildin'. For all we know she could've already hauled ass ALLLLL the way across campus, in the opposite direction of where we're goin'. Imagine just how EMBARRASSED, he'd feel if somethin' like that happened. How would I LIVE with myself and have a clear conscience, if I let that play out? Lol. I turn my head away from him, ever so slightly. I'm sure my eyes would catch his attention. Even with these slightly better quality streetlamps, serious why aren't these the lamps used on the Isle, it's ever DARKER over there. It only takes me a brief moment ta determine that Uma's NOT in a buildin', and luckily for Harry, she seems ta be headin' right for us. I don' voice this of course, let him think it was his intuition or somethin'. The rest of our, short journey, is filled with a comfortable silence. Until we, I if ya wanna get technical, spot you know who in the distance. "Phew, and I thought we'd be roamin' the grounds ALL night, lookin' for this chick. Ya know, 'til we got chased down by a security guard or somethin' for breakin' curfew.", I say as he starts pickin' up the pace. Ever so eager ta see his Captain as ALWAYS. Ya'd think THIS would be the ship I was worried about, but Uma's made her feelin's pretty clear. If she ever even HINTED that she might be interested in him, I'd bet all the money in 'my' kingdom that he'd drop EVERYONE else and propose ta her on the spot. He does think the world of her afta all.
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Harry's POV:
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I'm slightly miffed tha lass laid eyes 'n meh, OUR if she still considers 'erself a part o' tha crew, Captain 'fore meh. She's been lookin' out at tha trees, sky, literally everthin' else but wha' she's supposed ta keep 'er eyes 'n. Yet SHE'S tha 1 crackin' comments. Must've sensed 'er 'r somethin'. Girly does have an unfair advantage afta all. If it were anyone else, I'D have tha advantage, 'r it'd be fair game at least. "We're breakin' curfew, this early? Fairy Godmother's more o' a square than I thought.", I groan out. We don' have sanctioned curfews 'r anythin' o' tha sort 'n tha Isle. Nightfall is tha prime time for patrollin', amon' other thin's. I wonder how much o' tha Isle's gonna change now tha' it's open ta tha public. They'll no doubt make everythin' bright, shiny, 'nd new. A pretty lil plastic version o' wha' it once was. Any character tha' tha place has, tha' separates it from 'ere'll be gone. Don' get meh wron', tha place is a dump, but there's a difference 'tween cleanin' thin's up 'nd turnin' it inta somethin' it's not. Auradon won' change o' course, their lot t'inks this place is perfect. It is, isn' it? Perfect, pretty, 'nd fake. Straight out o' a fairytale, tha golden land o' opportunity. I haven' been 'ere lon' but I can 'ready see why Mal turned 'er back o' us 'n tha 1st place. Without Uma ta guide meh, 'nd if Gil was chosen ta, I would've done tha same thin'. Once this place's lost tha' initial novelty, ya can see where thin's are just a lil ta clean, ta bright, ta pretty, ta square. Where's tha fun in tha'? Thin's aren' meant ta be this perfect. Makes tha whole place feel inhuman, it's charm fades.
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'r maybe it's ta much charm, 'nd ta much o' somethin's ne'er a good thin'. Just ask Gil, once he challenged Gonzo ta a yolk eatin' contest. He might've won tha contest, but his stomach lost 'n tha lon' run. Heard his guts were churnin' all night. Had ta sleep 'n tha bathtub, ta ensure he could make it ta tha toilet 'n a pinch if needed. Ya, ta much o' somethin' can really wreck ya. "Probably, I don't remember EXACTLY when we're all supposed ta be, tucked away in our dorms for the night. I don't do curfews.", tha lass shrugs off without a care 'n tha world. Well if she's not worried 'bout it.. We reach Uma, 'nd she seems surprised ta see Hazel with meh, but she doesn't comment 'n it. "Glad I didn't have to round up a search party to find you. Although I DID have a pretty good guess as to where you might be.", she says while glancin' o'er at tha lass. Somethin' tells meh tha' if I asked permission ta have a slumber party with tha girly I'd ne'er hear tha end o' it. Not tha' I e'en want ta 'n tha 1st place anyway. "That's a rather, bold, assumption for ya ta make.", Lassie comments. I roll me eyes. It may be mostly dark out 'ere, but I can still make out tha playful smirk tha's plastered all o'er 'er face. She's clearly pleased with Uma's train o' thought. I'd very vocally set 'em straight if I though tha'd actually do any good. Knowin' these 2, it'd only drag this out, 'nd tha last thin' I need is 'or me Captain 'nd tha Lass ta gan' up 'n meh. Least 'n this sense, I could t'ink o' a few o'er circumstances where tha'd be extremely beneficial 'or e'eryone involved.
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Hazel's POV:
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There's a, twinkle, in Uma's eyes as she regards me. She knows JUST as well as I do that if Harry was gonna, be off somewhere, it'd be with me. Whenever we get tagether, it's hard ta pull us back apart. Which may or may not be partially due ta me followin' him around everywhere. As he EVER so kindly pointed out earlier. "Have ya found Gil yet?", he sighs out. Looks like someone's ready ta change the subject. I'm prettyyyy sure if Uma had found him already he'd be eagerly standin' behind her. I don't wanna be the 1 ta break it ta him though, his motive behind the question is clear as day isn't it. "Nah, I have no idea where he ran off to, but I'd bet money he's in some fast food joint choking down something greasy.", Uma answers while wrinklin' her nose is disgust. That SOUNDS like Gil from what I've seen and heard so far, the pup's like a vacuum. Harry laughs in a way that says he's agrees. "Aye, 'nd just 'tween us, I t'ink tha drivin' reason 'or 'im joinin' tha crew's 'cause we always meet at tha Chip Shop.", he leans inta Uma's space ta dramatically whisper. She playfully slaps his arm while lettin' out a giggle of her own. It's, interestin', ta see them like this. It feels like a private moment I'm intrudin' on, I don't think I like that very much. I'd chime in with offerin' ta send out a signal ta find Gil, but oddly enough, it feels kinda rude ta interrupt this. I use the word, rude, LOOSELY since it's the only descriptive thin' that comes ta mind right now. I've never cared if I came off as 'rude' before, so I don't know why NOW'S any different.
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A lot of thin's have been differently lately, haven't they? It's only natural of course, with time comes change, etc. I look at them havin' their lil moment 1 last time before teleportin' off ta find their(our?) friend. Whatever that was, whatever they have, it's special. It's similar enough ta what Evie and Mal have, Carlos and Jay ta if I'm thinkin' about it. That sort of closeness, familiarity, that comes with havin' a best friend. Watchin' moments like that, especially when it's IRL, makes me feel hollow. It's like an inside joke that I'm not a part of. Maybe if I was 'nicer' or 'saner' I'd have that sorta connection with someone ta.. Not that I'll EVER admit as much out loud. I shouldn't feel THESE sorts of, thin's anyway. It's not my fault anyway, they ALL turned their backs on me as soon as I transferred here. I didn't fit THEIR norms, the core 4 weren't a thin' here. Bein' DIFFERENT wasn't a thin' here, but I had refused ta completely bend ta their standards. Ya know, when Mal's lil group rolled up in the beginnin', I was optimistic. They'd surely get me better than all these royals, they didn't. Couldn't tell ya if that's 'cause I reminded them of the place they were so desperately tryin' ta forget once upon a time, or for fear that they'd stick out in the wron' ways by bein' associated with me. I could've always held back, acted more like them. Reined it in just enough ta where my existence was now acceptable, yet I didn't. I'm not gonna walk around wearin' a mask just so I'm, likeable. It's fine when it's a quick temporary thin', but for the rest of my high school days? Talk about exhaustin', plus it'd only be the PERCEPTION of me they liked.
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Harry's POV:
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I pull back from Uma as soon as I hear a poof, just barely 'n tha nick o' time ta see a red glittery puff o' smoke. Guess tha Lass magicked off somewhere. "Where'd your little girlfriend go?", me Captain questions. I groan. Now tha' me 'little girlfriend' is gone, I can at least clarify thin's. It WOULD'VE been nice if she'd given us a warnin' 'fore leavin' like tha' though. "She's NOT me girlfriend, 'nd I'd appreciate it if ya stopped called 'er tha'. As 'or where she disappeared ta, I don' know. Off ta go find Gil if we're lucky." I pout. Wait, retract tha', reply, respond, any o' those is better than 'pout'. It's not like I have anythin' ta pout 'bout anyway, 'sides Gil bein' god knows where doin' god knows wha'. "Tell you what, I'll stop callin' her your girlfriend. When SHE stops acting like she is, and YOU stop treating her like it. Where's she if we're not lucky?", is Uma's come back. Ugh, I cannot believe 'er! I've NE'ER treated 'er like a girlfriend, especially as o' late. Tha'd give 'er tha wron' impression, e'en more so than wha' she 'ready has. I can't control if she wants ta act like she belon's ta meh, she's a free spirit if I've e'er seen 1. "We're not like tha' 'nd ya know it Uma, why is it so hard 'or ya ta drop it? If we're not so lucky she's back 'n 'er dorm hidin' from some security guard tha's come ta snatch us up 'or bein' out late 'r somethin'.", I huff. I say tha' last bit just ta mess with 'er, but tha' doesn't stop meh from takin' a quick glance 'round us. Uma's wise enough ta do tha same. Tha streets 're thankfully still empty. We silently agree ta start makin' our way back ta tha dorms.
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Gil's a big boy, 'nd we're 'n AURADON, he can take care o' himself. 'sides, it's not like anyone 'ere has tha balls ta try 'nd take 'im down. He might be a bit slow 'n tha head sometimes, but he's usually 'n target when it comes ta sparrin'. Not ta mention how he's probably stronger than half o' this place's population. We'll collect 'im 'n tha mornin' if he hasn' made his way back ta us by then. "You know I don't care about your one night stands, your little playthings you toss to the side when you're bored. If this chick was either of those, I wouldn't bat an eyelash. She's lasted longer than anyone else so far, which really says a lot considering how she's constantly following you around like a lost puppy. We both know how much you hate that. Just like we both know you feel some type of way about this one. Whether that be, liking, caring, or whatever complex emotions are swirling around in that head of yours. I know the Isle messed us all up, you more than others, but that's not an excuse you get to use anymore. You don't have to date Hazel, or anyone else for that matter if you're not ready, but the least you could do is be honest with yourself. It's OKAY to like someone you know.", Uma rants. I tried ta interject several times, but she held 'er hand up ta let meh know tha' 'floor' was 'ers right now. She dropped 'er hand afta she was done, but I remained silent. I don't exactly know wha' ta say ta tha'. If I was, like she suggested, bein' honest with meself, I'd say she's right. Hades, I WAS honest with meself 'nd tha lass ta boot, earlier when I.. Takin' tha' train o' thought, I accept it, then bury it deep down inside.
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"Harry.", Uma softly pipes up. I snap me head 'n 'er direction. She rarely e'er lets 'erself sound tha' vulnerable, weak. She knows tha', is aware I do ta. This is important isn't it. "Uma.", I parrot back. Our eyes meet, she looks concerned. Almost as concerned as she used ta look whene'er I'd have ta clock 'n right afta an appointment with a client. I gulp. I'm startin' ta wish tha lass would've taken meh with 'er. "As your Captain, I'm ordering you to go see Fairy Godmother in the morning. Ben mentioned that she's a licensed therapist on top of being the Headmistress. Get some weekly appointments set up, and no, this isn't just about your girl- special friend. This is about everything, the Isle, your father, your former profession. You've got some shit you need to work out, but you can't do it alone. Especially if you're this determined to do anything BUT address it.", she orders. I narrow me eyes at 'er. If this conversation keeps goin' any longer I'll end up shoutin' somethin' I'll later regret. So I look away, 'nd inhale a sharp bit o' air. I count ta 10, then breathe out. Pushin' any anger I'm feelin' back under, where it belon's. Uncle Smee taught meh tha' trick back when I was a foul tempered youn' lad. "Well tha's settles it then, seein' as I'm bound ta tha pirate code, 'nd must go as me Captain says.", I curtly retort. I may be a thievin' pirate, but I'm honorable 'n a different sense. Orders 're orders, I can't do anythin' but follow 'em. "And as your FRIEND, I'm asking you to please at least try and open up during the sessions. I wouldn't make you do this if I didn't think it was necessary, I hope you realize that.", she sighs. I let out a huff, but nod all tha same. Uma's always looked out 'or meh. She's ne'er steered meh wron' 'fore, 'nd tha's not changin' anytime soon.
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Hazel's POV:
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Once I sense that Gil's at Carlos and Jay's dorm, I take myself ta their front door. I WOULD just teleport myself directly inside, but I decide against it on the off chance someone's in there, doin' the nasty. I know I wouldn't wanna be walked in on if I were in that sorta, situation. I knock for a change, and hear someone scream 'come in' from the other side. Wow, they are SO lucky I'm bein' this considerate right now. Gods, I'm goin' soft, aren't I? I throw the door open, startlin' Carlos, who was loungin' on his bed. Oops, lol. Jay flinches from his place on his own bed, but otherwise tries NOT ta show that he's been affected in any way. Gil on the other hand, is ta absorbed with whatever's on the tv screen ta even notice me. I slip inta the room, slammin' the door shut behind me. Gil briefly looks away from the screen tawards the noise, 'nd shoots me a blindin' smile. "Hazel! Hi! I'm playing a VIDEO GAME, how cool is that?!", he enthusiastically chirps while gesturin' ta the screen. I giggle as I move ta stand behind him. Looks like he's playin' the same game Carlos used ta RAVE about when he 1st got here. "Hey there Golden Pupper, that's extremely cool. Ya havin' fun there?", I politely ask. He immediately nods before divin' back inta his lil game. "Can I just say-", I hear Jay pipe up from the side. I turn ta look at him, he seems mildly surprised for some reason. It surely can't be from my presence, this isn't the 1ST time I've ever set foot in their room afta all. "That in all my years of knowing you, I've never once seen you knock before entering. Is there some special occasion we don't know about?", he teases.
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I can hear Carlos snickerin' from his bed, and Gil as expected, couldn't care less. I plop down on next ta Jay, he scoots over a bit ta give me some space. WHAT a gentleman. "Well me bein' the considerate person that I am-", I start off as more snickers and snorts fill the room. I roll my eyes and continue on. "I decided ta knock incase anyone in here was gettin' fucked. Wouldn't wanna KILL the mood afta all, not that I could. So ya tell me, IS there a special occasion? I can leave the room if ya'd like some privacy.", I offer. The boys turn inta red sputterin' messes as soon as I'm done. Awww, they're not gonna laugh at that TA? What a pity, and here I thought we were all havin' a grand ol' time. Don't tell me they're, embarrassed, lol. "Jane's not coming over! Especially not to do, uh, that.", Carlos yelps. I glance over, and the poor thin' looks MORTIFIED. In a flash I'm sittin' next ta him on his bed instead. He jumps in alarm, bitin' his lower lip ta stop himself from cryin' out again. I draw him inta my arms immediately, shushin' him and makin' some reassurin' cooin' noises. "There there, Precious Pupper, it's all right. I'm sorry I startled ya, there's no need ta be ashamed. Regardless of whether or not a certain someone is or isn't comin' over. That's yare business, and besides, who I am ta judge?", I soothe while rubbin' his back. He melts inta my touch while softly sighin', "Who are you, and what've you done with the real Hazel?". I softly giggle while shruggin'. I'd like ta retort that I've been nice ta him before, cut ta the 1st few chapters of this fic. So he's either jokin', or doesn't remember it. Probably a combination of both.
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"Lonnie's not coming over either!", Jay proclaims from the other side of the room. Oh boy, here we go again. I swear, what IS it with these 2 and fightin' for my attention? I mean I get it, I'm hot and EVERYONE else thinks so ta, but this a lil overkill at this point. "Who's Lonnie?", Gil asks before Carlos can tell Jay off. If that came from anyone else's mouth, I'd assume they're bein' a snarky lil shit, and laugh about it. I don't think Gil actually has it IN him ta pull off somethin' like that though. Does he seriously NOT remember Lonnie? Last I heard, she was involved in the Mal vs. Uma pirate ship showdown. She may not have been as present in the Mal vs. Audrey magic off, but his memory can't be THAT bad. "Nobody, won't worry about it.", Jay dismisses. REALLY now? How interestin, 'cause I could've sworn she was yare GIRLFRIEND. That doesn't sound like 'nobody' ta me. Gil goes back ta playin' his game, and Carlos pulls away from me. "Since when?", he asks Jay. I nod in the background. For the most part, I've been keepin' tabs on everybody. There's no way those 2 broke up without me somehow hearin' about it. "It's, uh, pretty complicated. I'll tell you later.", Jay mutters while rubbin' the back of his neck. Ahhh, I get it. He doesn't wanna spill his guts while Gil and I are present. "Say no more, Star Athlete. Golden Retriever and I will get outta yare hair so ya ta can, figure all that out. Octopus Lady and Hooky have been lookin' for this 1 anyway.", I say while jumpin' up and throwin' a thumb over in Gil's direction.
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Harry's POV:
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Neither o' us utter a word tha rest o' tha way ta tha dorms. I hold tha door open 'or 'er, 'nd she sends a smile me way as a thank ya. She must be worried tha' sayin' tha wron' thin'll set meh off. She worries 'bout meh ta much if ya ask meh, but wha' else is new. She's 1 o' tha few people who've constantly gave a shite 'bout meh me entire life, so I suppose I shouldn't complain ta much. Rather have 'er be up meh arse carin', than leavin' meh be 'cause she couldn't give 2 fucks. I let tha door swin' shut 'hind meh as we shuffle inta tha lobby. We freeze right there 'n tha spot, 'nd if I wore glasses, I'd be polishin' 'em off 'n me shirt right now ta make sure me eyes aren't deceivin' meh. There's Gil right 'ere 'n tha flesh, perched up 'n tha stairs chompin' down 'n a banana o' all thin's. Ya will ne'er guess who he's watchin', Princess Audrey and Ginny Gothel. Tha girlies 're smack dab 'n tha middle o' tha lobby, havin' a proper cat fight. Yellin', hand slappin', hair pullin', tha works. Hazel's 'ere ta o' course, there's no way 'n Hades she'd be missin' out 'n somethin' like this. She might e'en be tha mastermind 'hind tha fight, I wouldn't put it past 'er. She's leanin' against a railin', a whistle 'n 'er hand, 'nd a score board ta 'er left. I look o'er at Uma, 'nd she seems just as surprised as I am. "Where was Gothel when the Princess was ACTUALLY a problem?", she snorts. 'n tha Isle with e'eryone else, but I don't say as much. Uma knows better, it's just 'er mouthin' off. I nod all tha same though. Tha lass 'nd I end up makin' eye contact afta tha'.
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She juts 'er head 'n Gil's direction, gesturin' 'or us ta wait up there with 'im. Uma catches 'n, leadin' us 'round tha' mess 'nd up tha stairs. Our fellow crew member's just beamin' with joy when he realizes we'll be joinin' 'im. He yanks his trap open ta no doubt announce our presence rather loudly, but Uma shuts tha' down immediately. Placin' a finger o'er 'er lips 'nd shushin' 'im, he gets tha picture. Vigorously noddin' 'fore tuckin' inta tha rest o' tha' banana. Good, good, can't risk those 2 down there noticin' us. I have no idea why they're squarin' off, but I'll be stayin' right out o' it thank ya very much. I'd rather not get 'n trouble 'n me 1st real night 'ere. I need ta make a good impression afta all. Tha barrier might be taken down, but tha' doesn't mean tha higher ups can't find other ways ta punish us. I move ta stand next ta Gil. "Don't suppose ya know tha cause o' tha' lil scuffle down there?", I lean o'er 'nd ask 'im. He opens his mouth. "Explain it quietly.", I tack 'n. His shuts his trap 'or a moment 'fore openin' it back up again. "They found out they're both 1 of your special friends.", he whispers. I can't help but drag me hand o'er me face afta hearin' tha'. Great, now if Fairy Godmother comes boundin' through those door ta break up tha kerfuffle, it'll lead back ta meh. So much 'or stayin' outta trouble I guess. "How 'n Hades did I become tha topic o' conversation? Why're they e'en hangin' 'round each other? Ginny hardly seems like tha type o' company Audrey likes ta keep.", I follow up.
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I don't hush Gil this time, 'nd I'm hopin' tha' won't also come back ta bite meh 'n tha arse. I can practically feel Uma's eyes burnin' holes through meh. She can't possibly blame meh 'or any o' tha' right? I certainly didn't make 'em face off, can't really blame 'em 'or doin' as much either. I AM tha total package afta all, charmin', handsome, skilled 'n many different fields. It's only natural tha' they wouldn't want ta share someone as amazin' as meh, else they run tha risk o' losin' meh. Surprised tha lass isn't smack dab 'n tha thick o' it, eager ta claim meh as 'er own. It's wha' she did back at tha Chip Shop 1st time she met Ginny. Actually, tha's more o' wha' Ginny did. She's got a major possessive streak runnin' through 'er, probably gets it from 'er ma. "Oh, well, Hazel and I were just on our way to find you and Uma actually. Funny how that works isn't it? We were looking for you guys, but you guys ended up finding us and-", Gil starts strayin' off topic 'fore Uma slaps him upside tha head. "Get to the point, Gil.", she chides from 'hind us. Gil rubs tha back o' his head while sportin' a wounded look 'n his face. O' please, she barely e'en touched 'im, wha' a drama queen. "We ran into Ginny, and she was still reallyyyy mad at Hazel for hanging her upside down that 1 time. She didn't want Hazel to be 1 of Harry's special friends, so they started arguing as Audrey was walking by us. Then Hazel pointed at her and told Ginny she's 1 of Harry's special friends too. That's when her and Audrey started fighting.", Gil rattles off.
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Hazel's POV:
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Okay, I know this looks bad, but this wasn't even MY fault. I was mindin' my own business, returnin' Gil ta his friends. WHILE givin' Jay and Carlos the opportunity ta have a lil, sharin' circle moment, on top of that. If anythin, I was on my best behavior. Ya know, until that whiny troll in a ratty dress attempted ta 'put me in my place'. Ya'd think she would've learned from the LAST time she pulled somethin' like this, but apparently aside from bein' a jealous bitch with zero fashion sense, she's also an idiot. So naturally, for her sake, I pointed her in the direction of the other whiny jealous troll. Who just happens ta also have a thin' for a certain pirate. Harry REALLY seems ta attract a certain, personality type, doesn't he? Turns out both these chicks can't handle the shame of, takin' another L in the relationship department. There's way only 1 way to settle this, a fight ta the death. Or in THEIR case, cause they're fuckin' pussies, a fight 'til the other person runs away cryin'. The referee whistle and score board is mainly for show, adds to the chaos of everythin'. At this point, half the people livin' here have all migrated ta the staircases and edges of the lobby, ta watch this mess unfold of course. I hope someone gets this on camera. Audrey gettin' inta trouble so soon after failin' ta take over Auradon? Seems like a good use of karma ta me. The bitch only got a slap on the wrist for all that shit. Actually, not even a slap on the wrist, she got an APOLOGY. It was overdue in all fairness, but she still should've gotten punished.
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It's not like she was in love with Ben and heart broken or anythin'. She was in love with the crown and power hungry, just like her 'grammy'. Rulin' Auroria wasn't enough for them I guess, but let's move on from that injustice, otherwise I be here all night lamentin' about it. The fight surprisin'ly hasn't started windin' down yet. Ya'd think without a magical scepter, Audrey'd get absolutely BODIED by that piece of Isle trash. Ginny's REALLY losin' her touch, if she ever any ta begin with. I survey the room, checkin' for uptight adults and snitches. The entire buildin's standin' around like this is a cage fight at this point afta all. I gotta say, had I known the turnout'd be this good, I would've set up a bettin' pool and concession stands. It always adds ta the fun of thin's. Unfortunately or me, all good thin's come ta an end eventually. The end comin' in the form of Headmistress Fairy Godmother, and a couple of security goons. The doors burst open, and any students that happen ta notice, scatter. I take THAT as my cue ta get outta dodge. I poof away the scoreboard and whistle before disappearin', takin' Harry and his friends with me. We're jolted inta my room, seein' as I still don't know the sleepin' arrangements. "Awwww, why'd you do that? I wanted to see who won.", Gil immediately complains. He must've been sooo engrossed in the lil quarrel, that he didn't notice the raid that was happenin' right under his nose. "Fairy Godmother showed up with backup to bust the fight. You should count yourself lucky, everyone down there's probably in some deep shit right about now.", Uma speaks up. Ya're tellin' meh, ya noticed the fun police, but didn't think ta drag yare bois outta sight before I did? Looks like Ginny isn't the only 1 who's losin' their touch.