The Mask You Wear

by porcelaindecay03

There is something strange about Rose Potter. Could it be the trauma from witnessing her parents' murder & separation from her brother, Harry? Her sheltered but wealthy upbringing in wizarding America? Or perhaps the Legilimency she was born with? Whatever it is there's no denying that Rose is far from normal & from what a Potter should be. Could she be hiding something sinister?

11. Consequences

TRIGGER WARNINGS: STRONG LANGUAGE, EXPLICIT MATURE THEMES INVOLVING MINORS: KISSING, TOUCHING, ORAL SEX (MALE RECEIVING). SENSUAL/INAPPROPRIATE INTERACTION BTWN MINOR & ADULT.

---

AUGUST 25TH, 1993 - MORNING - MALFOY VILLA

They awoke early the next morning not wanting to miss their chance at the last opportunity to enjoy each other without worry. Being with Draco was now instinctual, he knew where and how to kiss to get her squirm and grind against him. He knew where and how to touch her to make her moan, gasp, and yell.

All inhibitions were gone.

Neither could get enough of the other.

They pleasured each other that morning, their mouth's only ever breaking apart when Draco's eagerly returned to settle between her legs with a newfound determination to perfect pleasing her. The sounds and expressions she made alone were almost enough to drive him to the edge.

Rose had never experienced such pleasures before, she had never thought that something so human, like physical intimacy could bring such wonderful feelings. She enjoyed kissing and touching him and it pleased her to know, without a doubt, that Draco was now completely enamored with her. However, what she enjoyed most was the power, the power over her body and over him.

It had been such a pleasant way to start what would be a bittersweet day as their unsupervised freedom came to a close and so they cleaned up, dressed, and made their way downstairs for breakfast. They knew they would soon be in trouble for taking off on the guards last night but for now, they were happy as the aftermath of their physical explorations had yet to subside. Besides, Rose doubted her parents would go beyond a good scolding and perhaps a light grounding.

Regardless, it had all been worth it.

This summer had been the best!

She didn't want it to end however, now she felt herself looking forward to the upcoming year at Hogwarts. She was a new person, this new assertive and daring attitude was more than perfect and she couldn't wait to start over.

However, when they entered the dining room that newfound hope and confidence vanished upon noticing the newspaper that had been purposely set out on top of their breakfast. Rose walked over until she was close enough to read the large headline and it was then that she realized last night's rendezvous would be the least of their worries.

SWEETHEART OR WILD CHILD? AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK INTO ROSE POTTER'S WILD SUMMER HOLIDAY

By: Rita Skeeter

There she was, enlarged on half of the front cover, in nothing more than a two-piece! Rose watched with a mixture of horror and embarrassment as she danced with Marcus surrounded by Draco and his friends on board the yacht.

Well, you've certainly made quite the impactful impression, said the voice with palpable amusement.

Rose's failed to see the humor in this, her heart felt like it had plummeted into her stomach, she felt queasy as if she would be sick at any moment.

How?!

When?!

They must've been following them since the party! Her picture looked as if it had been taken from a distance, there had been other yachts nearby and with the distrations at the party it wouldn't have been hard to sneak a few pictures.

Last night's festival then came to mind, had they been followed then too? There could have been no way for Rose to know, the massive crowd of festival-goers prevented her from hearing anything suspicious but surely they would have noticed had they been followed.

Next to her, Draco's own horror and embarrassment set in as he watched his very public photograph dance closely with a girl who wasn't his girlfriend.

'Pansy is going to hate me,' He groaned internally. 'Were we followed last night!? Mother is going to fucking lose it! A fucking Muggle area! What were you thinking, Draco?!'

As if we don't all know exactly what he was thinking or what he was thinking with, commented the voice to Rose, for some reason he sounded far too entertained.

Ignoring his jest, Rose snatched up the paper and hastily thumbed through its pages until she reached the middle spread and opened it to discover the confirmation of their shared fear. There were several more pictures from the party and last night

Rose, Draco, and his friends swimming and jumping into the water.

A smaller version of the group as they danced, Rose and Zoe moving sensually against each other without Marcus between them, drinks fully visible in the background.

Draco and Rose at last night's dinner both immersed in conversation, his hand repeatedly reached for her own across the table in a looped action and occasionally her photograph laughed at whatever Draco was saying in that moment.

Another of them walking the festival grounds, hand-in-hand, and another aboard the Ferris wheel.

One taken while she and Draco danced, his photograph was holding her so close, his forehead against her own and she looked so happy. Anyone looking at this photograph would assume they were dating and that was exactly the problem! However, the one that topped all of them was the photo Rose had forgotten about. The one taken at the marina. She and Draco looked worse than she had first assumed, droopy, tired eyes and wild, unkempt wind-dried hair. It was no wonder that Richard had instantly known they were drunk!

With dread, self-anger, and shame, Rose reluctantly began reading the article:

Celebrated, praised, and admired for her academic brilliance, beauty, duelmanship, and, most notably, her relation to The Boy Who Lived. Rose Potter has been presented as the perfect and bright older sister of our own dear Harry Potter. She has been hailed a role model to young witches, someone they should look up to and emmulate. However, it seems we may have all misjudged this proclaimed sweetheart, or shall we daresay call, WILD CHILD!

Sources close to Miss Skeeter have informed that the Malfoy family is currently hosting the American Ambassador and his family at their luxury Spanish villa in the sunny coast of Malaga. Those sources also report that both sets of parents have been called away on a two-day stay in Madrid, courtesy of the Spanish Minister of Magic. However, Rose and the Malfoy heir, Draco (age 13) remain behind...ALONE!

It seems Miss Potter has taken the opportunity to - as the young generations say- "party it up" as she was spotted on-board the Flint's family yacht early afternoon this past Monday. Among those present at this party were Evan Rosier II, Draco Malfoy, Blaise Zabini, Theodore Nott, Cassandra, and Cassius Warrington, and several more Slytherin House members. How did our darling Rose fair amongst snakes? Apparently more than well as she was captured drinking and dancing provocatively in scandalous swimwear with the handsome Marcus Flint. Unnamed sources at the party report witnessing Rose Potter drink and flirt with the Slytherin Quidditch captain. However, it seems one boy's attention wasn't enough to satisfy this rising starlet as she was witnessed behaving very familiar with the younger and much wealthier Malfoy heir. Seems to appear that our darling Rose Potter has a taste for wealthy, pureblood, bad boys! Who would have thought?

"She was all over Draco! Always holding his hand, touching him whenever she could and giving him flirty looks." shares Millicent Bulstrode (age 13) a charming third-year Slytherin girl in the same year as Draco, who was also present at this party.

"I saw the way she was dancing with Marcus if you want to call that dancing. They were practically doing it the way she rubbed herself up against him but who knows what she was on. Then she and Draco disappeared for a while, no one knew where they went until I went inside and saw them getting very cozy together in the Master bedroom below deck," said one of the teenagers at the party who asked to remain anonymous.

Two teenagers alone in a bedroom getting 'cozy'?! No words are needed to guess what was going on there!

Unfortunately, it does not stop there! It appears alcohol and other illicit substances were also present as seen in the background of the photograph taken that day. This comes as disturbing news as the Ambassador's notorious opposition against illicit substances, particularly Muggle narcotics, secured his current political position. Although we are unable to confirm this at present time, one look at the young witch's guilty appearance as she left the marina says more than a thousand words.

Despite this wild party, one afternoon of salacious fun wasn't enough for the young, famous witch. She and the young Mister Malfoy were spotted last night on a romantic dinner date in the city's Muggle area.

Has the eldest Potter found love or just a summer fling?

Whatever intentions she has with these pureblood boys, it appears the young couple had an exciting evening mingling in the annual feria celebration although we noticed the absence of the bodyguards that had chaperoned the two lovebirds earlier that night. Did our dear Rose purposely evade her own security detail? It would certainly be a bold and dangerous move considering the current breakout of You-Know-Who supporter and mass-murderer, Sirius Black.

No comment yet from the Ambassador's office on his daughter's outrageous and reckless behavior as he and his wife remain comfortably in Madrid.

Tut, tut, Mr. Ambassador. Should we be concerned that our foreign relations with our fellow Americans are being handled by someone with little concern or control over the child they swore to take care of?

It is clear that Hogwarts should prepare itself.

Brace yourself, Dumbledore, you have a wild one!

The page shook from the vice grip she had on it as her heart raced and her anger boiled at the realization that by now half of the wizarding world had read this article and were now either mocking or criticizing her as they disapprovingly looked at her nearly naked photograph. Worst yet, it wasn't that far from noon meaning her parents had surely already seen it by now which only meant the same for the Malfoys.

And Harry!

Oh, no! Harry must be so pissed! What must he think of her now?! This was not the way she had envisioned starting her relationship with her brother.

Rose finally forced her gaze away from the condemning article to her companion perhaps in hopes of finding some reassurance but he was wearing the same doomed expression on his colorless face.

"We're dead," Rose said flatly when their eyes met.

Suddenly there was a loud noise from the front of the house that made them jump.

"Fuck!" cursed Draco in exasperation. "The fireplace!" he explained, the anxiety lace in his voice. "They Floo'd back!"

Their eyes met and Rose could feel her own nerves rise to turbulent levels as Draco's worries and fear came pouring into her at once. There was no time to come up with any viable explanations for their illicit actions.

"ROSE!" called out the familiar voice of her father which was heavy with urgency and anger.

"What do I do?" She mentally begged her guide in desperation.

"DRACO!" then came the unmistakable voice of Narcissa.

Just do as I say.

---

"Explain yourself now!" demanded Rodrigo as he held up a copy of the morning paper. He dropped it on the coffee table in front of the teenagers who sat looking up at the glaring adults standing before them.

"It was my idea to run off last night, dad!" Rose quickly began. "Draco had nothing to do with it! He only went along because I asked him to!"

The disappointment and anger in her father's face and mind were unmaskable and unnerving, "So you knowingly put yourself and Draco at risk?" he demanded sharply.

"In a Muggle area no less!" emphasized Narcissa clearly appalled and outraged.

"No!" shot Rose trying her best to avoid the witch's cold glare. "I mean, yes it was a No-Maj area but there weren't any risks. It was just a festival."

"A festival you had no permission to be at!" Her father snapped.

Rose cast her eyes down, "I know, dad. It just looked fun and I knew Richard would never agree to it because there was no prior clearance and well...I just wanted to have some fun without being followed and watched all the time. Like a real vacation!"

"Fun?" asked Rodrigo looking down at the paper with clear disdain. "That is the fun you want to have?! The kind of fun that questions my role as a father and ambassador!"

"Amor," interjected Isabella quickly, placing a hand on his arm.

'Not here!' Rose heard her mother think and although her father could not mentally hear it the gesture was enough to communicate the thought.

You'll have to do better than this, said the voice. Have I taught you nothing?!

"That Skeeter woman and her so-called sources are lying," Rose began calmly willing herself to sound sincere and equally outraged. "Hogwarts has this stupid, ancient House rivalry they're pulling me into because of my family! Apparently, Slytherins and Gryffindors have to be constantly going at each other for some reason that's beyond me! This is just them trying to purposely sabotage my public image because I come from a family of nothing but Gryffindors! That's how those in the public eye are brought down, you've said so yourself, Dad."

Using the truth as the foundation to a mask a lie? The voice questioned. And your father's logic to further validate your reasoning? Why, Rose, I'm impressed.

It took great control to force down the smile that almost formed on Rose's face at his approval as the adults stared at her waiting for a thorough explanation of all offending events.

"That Millicent girl, she had it out for me the second she saw me! I heard it and she wasn't the only one that had a problem with me just being there! That's why I stayed close to Draco. I didn't know who I could trust."

Choose your words carefully now. Your lie must be as irefutable as your truth.

"We hung out, danced and even went swimming! How could any of us have stayed afloat if we were wasted?" She hadn't expected any of the adults to answer so she quickly continued without missing a beat. "Mom, Dad, you know I get terrible motion sickness and it didn't help that I ate a bunch right before so that's why I went below deck. I was alone but Draco followed me because he was worried. He found me the in bathroom of the master bedroom throwing up and had me lay down. He then stayed with me to make sure I would be okay until we docked. That 'anonymous source' is just twisting Draco's kindness into something perverted!" It was all flowing out so easily, so she added, "There wasn't any alcohol or illicit substances, it was all just mocktails. We were just dancing and it got a little...out of control but nothing bad happened."

The adults said nothing as they all looked at the young girl unsure of whether to believe her or not. Narcissa was furious as were her parents who were also angry and embarrassed. Surprisingly, Lucius remained collected and stoic as ever, his piercing eyes had been on Rose the entire time and she could sense small waves of amusement and satisfaction radiating from deep within him. Besides her, Draco waited anxiously knowing that his own scolding would come in private regardless of any explanation she gave to them, after all, he had run off to a Muggle festival with a Potter.

Finally, Rodrigo broke the silence, "Richard did inform me that you were sick on board. He denies seeing either of you intoxicated."

"It's true, sir." Draco suddenly spoke up, his confidence increased by the body guard's confirmed back up. "The Flints are family friends, they would never supply us with alcohol or anything dangerous and illegal."

"I can attest to that, Rodrigo," said Lucius stepping forward pleasantly surprising the young wizard and witch. "I've known Garrett Flint for years, he would never allow it."

Rodrigo sighed deeply once more but looked calmer than he had a few seconds ago.

"Very well," he said then looked straight into Rose's eyes.

'We're not done, Rosita,' he communicated to her before turning to the Malfoys, "I must ask that you excuse us, Isabella and I must speak with our daughter privately. I'm sure both of you also have much to discuss with your son as well."

The older Malfoy nodded and looked coldly at his son, "Indeed there is."

---

"Who taught you how to dance and behave this way?!" demanded Isabella holding out the paper to Rose, who sat at the end of their bed.

"No one!" Rose answered at once and a little more loud than necessary. "It's how people dance nowadays."

Isabella scoffed and threw the paper down beside where her daughter sat in repulsion, "I can't believe you would embarrass us like this! Acting like some kind of out-of-control party girl and giving the entire wizarding world something to gossip about! You could cost your father his job!"

"What?" Rose blurted, urgently turning to her father who stood leaning against the vanity behind Isabella, finally calmed and collected as ever. "Dad, is that true?! Are you going to lose your job?!"

Rodrigo stepped forward holding out his hands in a calming gesture, "No one is losing their job here," he assured matter-of-factly attempting to defuse the intensity of his wife's temper. "But your mother is right. As much as I hate what that Skeeter woman implied about you it is not unwarranted. This behavior is completely inappropriate and extremely unlike you! This rumor of drugs and alcohol can cost you everything right now not to mention it jeopardizes our political standing."

Rose knew he was referring to his campaign and efforts against No-Maj narcotics that were rapidly being smuggled into the magical communities by rogue wizards eager to cash in on the fortune that was turning No-Maj kingpins into billionaires. These No-Maj drugs were addicting for both magical and non-magical folks and it was the wizarding youth that was being specifically targeted by these smugglers. As a political representative of California's magical communities, her father had publicly condemned these wizards, supporting and funding efforts to capture and imprison them and take down their entire chain of command and operations. In fact, his appointment as ambassador had been largely due to his well-known stance for harsher sentencing as these drugs were rapidly infiltrating the American and European magical communities and it was his job to help stop it.

Her parent's role in this matter extended far beyond Rodrigo as Isabella's own family in Colombia were working diligently alongside No-Maj law enforcement to capture one of the most notorious No-Maj kingpin, Pablo Escobar, whose business had grown as local rogue wizards helped expand his reach by bringing cocaine into their own magical communities.

There were no rules in this drug war and it was affecting both worlds. These wizards cared for their own kind as much as the No-Majes cared for their own. It was all done for the money without a second glance towards those affected.

Apart from the underage law for drinking and cannabis, the magical community never had a reason to have laws against "drugs" as some of the plants used in making these substances held magical properties and were used in many potions, spells and rituals. It was whatever the No-Majes were adding that made it addicting. Therefore, any rumors linking Rose with any type of drug use, even cannabis, risked her family's image and standing.

"Who is this 'Marcus Flint'?" Isabella demanded suddenly and with disdain. "Why did you allow him to... dance with you like that?!"

"We were just dancing," Rose reassured with embarrassment. It was bad enough that the entire wizarding world had by now seen her photograph with Marcus, the last thing she wanted was her parents believing there was anything going on between them. "We got carried away but then I got sick right after and spent the rest of the party with Draco."

At the mention of the young Malfoy's name, both parents remembered what had been implied about their friendship and what had been described seen between them.

"He was just helping me!" Rose assured desperately.

Isabella gave her a suspicious look, "If there is something going on between you and Draco you can tell us!" she began much to Rose's horror. "You two have spent a lot of time together and it's only normal to be curious about boys at your age but you have to be careful. Boys at this age have only one thing on their minds."

"Oh my Merlin, mom!" exclaimed Rose in feign repulsion. "There's nothing going on between us! He just my friend and he's basically still twelve!"

Isabella didn't look convinced. "Really? Because this," she indicated as she held up the newspaper and pointed at their pictures from last night hand-in-hand. "Says otherwise!"

"We're buds! And we were using the buddy system so we wouldn't get lost!" Rose defended hearing the voice in her head laugh at the ridiculous explanation.

Her mother rolled her eyes then glanced back at the paper with clear disdain. "What were you even wearing?" she demanded finding the outfit that Rose had bought at the festival entirely too revealing.

"I think we're losing sight of what's actually the problem here," Rodrigo interjected calmly. "Rose, your behavior in the last two days has been entirely inappropriate. You have violated our trust by deliberately breaking every rule that are there for your own good and protection. You willingly put yourself and Draco at risk."

Rose rolled her eyes subconsciously, "There weren't any risks! I doubt Sirius Black traveled all the way to Spain just for me when Harry is back in England. Seriously, we're fine, it's not like we died!"

Her father shook his head but before responding he picked his wand from on-top the vanity and cast a quick Muffliato around the room.

"Rose, remember who you are and where we are now," he began in a low, serious tone. "There are people on in this world who would purposely hurt you because of your name. There are people who would hurt you because you're my daughter as well! There were names at this party whose families have well-known ties to the Dark side."

Immediately, Evan Rosier's handsome face appeared in her mind but she refused to associate him with the father he never knew and the family history he had no fault in. "Nothing happened though. Some of them were jerks but the rest were actually nice." she insisted. "I shouldn't have violated your trust like that. I suppose I just got carried away with having fun and finally having friends who aren't repelled by me that I didn't stop to think about my actions. I'm really, really sorry."

Her parents looked at her sympathetically before looking at each other unable to hide the concern and frustration with this sudden change in character.

Apologize again. Say you'll do better.

Rose looked down and willed herself to look guilty, "I'm sorry. I really am. I promise it will never, ever happen again."

---

"Mr. and Mrs. Malfoy, I cannot express how sorry and embarrassed I am," said Rose to the couple who stood listening with matching stoic expression back in the drawing-room. "I never meant to pressure Draco to go along with it. I didn't understand that I put us at risk of dangers, magical and non-magical. You all have been such generous hosts and I sincerely apologize for violating your trust."

Well done, said the voice with satisfaction after she had verbally repeated every word he had said.

Rose stared up at them and despite their mental barriers, she could feel the anger that still resided within Narcissa. However, her husband's collected and cool demeanor had not faltered and so he was the one to respond.

"It's alright, Miss Potter," he said gently, a smile spreading across his pale, pointed face. "Reckless as the actions were we understand you had no malicious intent. Although, I do ask that next time you remain in the areas approved by your parents. Your safety is of great importance to all of us. That being said, Draco is also at fault and I believe he also has something to say."

At this Draco stepped forward, "Mr. and Mrs. Vega, I apologize for my ill-thought actions. I knew better than to run off however, I also wanted Rose to have a good time. I now understand that a good friend would have spoken up against breaking the rules that are there for our own protection. I regret my actions and hope that you accept my apology and not think poorly of me."

You could learn a thing or two from him, the voice commented.

Isabella smiled at Draco while Rodrigo nodded, "Thank you, Draco." he said before her mother added. "We are grateful that you stuck by Rose despite the circumstances."

"Circumstances that will never happen again, isn't that right, children?" asked Lucius pointedly.

Draco nodded in agreement right away and while Rose was under no obligation to do the same she followed suit. Those eyes were so intimating and unnerving that picturing them behind a Death Eater mask sent chills down her body. His guarded secrecy and his interest in her also made Rose very anxious around him but she couldn't bring herself to openly ignore or disregard him.

"Yes, sir, it will never happen again, I assure you," Draco responded.

"Never again, we promise," Rose reassured as well.

Rodrigo nodded, "Very well," he said then turned to Lucius. "Lucius, I must take advantage of your hospitality once more and take over your Floo channel. I have some matters to discuss with my advisors."

"Of course," Mr. Malfoy replied. "Feel free to use it comfortably."

"I'll go with you, amor," said Isabella. "We must all be in agreement on what occurred."

Her husband nodded and as they walked out Rodrigo articulated one thought to Rose.

'Stay out of trouble!'

Once the Vegas had left, Rose and Draco were dismissed to their rooms by Lucius and as they walked silently down the hall Rose thought of all the trouble she had caused. She felt ashamed and guilty but only by a small fraction as the adrenaline began overtaking her.

Considering what had truly happened, they had gotten off lightly. She knew her dad would make a public statement that would protect her and no one would have the courage to openly contradict him. He would deem those sources as uncreditable and nothing more than forms of slander and defamation. Mister Malfoy would surely support him. The "friendship" with Rodrigo was much too valuable to lose.

Although Rose knew nothing about Garrett Flint she was positive that he wouldn't dare contradict the more powerful, more wealthier, and more cunning Lucius Malfoy.

In a way, they had actually gotten away with it!

But now the whole wizarding world would be talking about them.

It doesn't matter what they say or believe. You're better than to concern yourself with the opinion of others. Besides, your father will always protect you.

He was right a fact that brought a grin onto her face as the fear she had felt this morning disappeared replaced by amusement.

That Skeeter bitch had nailed it!

She had been drunk, high and there was definitely something going on between her and Draco!

She smiled to herself again as she imagined how everyone would react knowing that Rose Potter, Harry Potter's sister and the fucking 'sweetheart of the wizarding world', had allowed Draco Malfoy to kiss, touch and taste her in such pleasurable ways. The thought excited Rose and as they turned the corner of the hallway, she pushed Draco roughly against the wall and crushed his mouth with her own. He was taken by surprise but nonetheless opened his mouth to return the kiss. She could feel his arousal course downward through his body to awaken the lower part of him. However, the thought of his parents being so close in the other room filled him with panic yet he did nothing to push her off.

"Are you mad?" he demanded once she broke away; his cheeks flushed pink. "Do you want to get caught after all that?!"

Rose smirked, "Maybe." she said slyly before kissing along his neck where he was the most sensitive.

He let out a low groan mixed with frustration, panic, and pleasure but nonetheless, he did not reject or deny her. However, Rose sensed the lingering apprehension so she pulled away and added, "C'mon Malfoy, wasn't lying our way out of that so exciting? Don't pussy out on me now."

Draco looked at her clearly frustrated and shook his head.

'You're trouble, Potter.' He articulated through thought then, without warning, roughly grabbed Rose by the back of her neck and pulled her into an aggressive kiss.

Rose pressed herself hard against him and grabbed hold of his silky tresses as she kissed him back with such fervor and excitement that rivaled his own. There had been something about getting into trouble and lying their way out that had awakened a lustful fire inside of Rose and she wanted nothing more than to consume Draco with its flames.

She was so lost and focused in the moment that Rose failed to sense Lucius as he unexpectedly stumbled upon them on his way out of the drawing-room. He had been about to turn the corner when he had witnessed Rose Potter throw herself at his son. He remained hidden, silently placing a Disillusionment Charm on himself to observe the very interesting scene before him.

'Oh Miss Potter, who would have thought?'

---

MID-DAY

Shortly after they went to their rooms, they were called down for lunch in the gardens with Narcissa. Rose had almost declined the invitation as the thought of being around the witch made her nervous, however, due to the morning events breakfast had been skipped leaving her starving so she reluctantly made her way down. Once in the colorful gardens, Rose took a seat across from Draco and ate her lunch quietly careful to avoid his mother's watchful and uncomfortable eyes. Legilimency wasn't needed to know that the older witch did not believe a single word she given in her explanation. In fact, of all the people Rose had met in her short life, the Malfoy matriarch was the only one to ever doubt her word and intentions but without any evidence, it would all remain suspicion. However, that did not sway her from repeatedly glancing between the pair throughout lunch, determined to find any sort of substantial proof to support her suspicions.

The fact that her suspicions were accurate thrilled Rose so much that she couldn't help but sneakily rub Draco's leg with her sandaled foot underneath the table. He panicked at her touch but said nothing only glanced at his mother to make sure she remained unaware.

'You're fucking insane, Potter!' he thought to her as he did his best to continue eating for appearance's sake.

After lunch, Rose's parents had yet to come out of their meeting but that was to be expected considering the damage control required in wake of the article, so they returned to their chambers until Tilly announced the arrival of Draco's friends. In between the day's events, they had completely forgotten about the visit but the Malfoys were not the type to turn away guests especially if it would arouse more gossip. It was similar to her own family, whose political involvement meant that pretending everything was normal was the best way to avoid confirming any reported rumors.

Quickly they got dressed to receive their guests in the pool area and as Rose slipped into the now infamous bikini she could feel the anxiety arise once more. What would they say to her about the article? She remembered the Slytherins well enough to recall their sense of humor. Would Evan say anything, was he even here? If he was, surely Cassandra had tagged along too. Rose groaned at the thought and hope that neither she, Millicent, Marcus, or Terence had come. Fortunately, when she and Draco made their way outside she was glad to find only Zoe, Adrian, Theo, and Blaise waiting for them although she did feel a slight disappointment at Evan's absence.

"We look so hot!" Zoe exclaimed gleefully holding up today's paper. She sat between Adrian's legs on a chaise lounger, his arms were encircled around her waist as she turned to the inside spread and held up the pictures of Draco and Rose. "And look at these two lovebirds!"

Draco turned slightly pink as his friends mockingly made exaggerated kissing sounds and wolf-whistled at them. The attention had him off-guard rendering him silent it wasn't until they burst out laughing that he rather nervously joined them. Quickly, Rose decided to take the lead, or else he gives them away.

"He wishes," she remarked to the group who laughed again.

"Really, Potter?" Draco responded quickly picking up on her angle. "Who was it again who was all over who? Let's ask Millie shall we." He grabbed the paper from Zoe and began reading. "' She was all over Draco! Always holding his hand, touching him whenever she could and giving him flirty looks.'"

Rose rolled her eyes, "To think I defended her."

"Don't take it personally, Rose. Millie's always been a real bitch," said Theo. "She used to bully us, boys, when we were kids because we were shorter than her. That is until last year that we all grew taller and she realized no one wants to shag her."

They all burst out laughing even Rose. She knew it was rude to laugh but the attempt at sabotage on Millicent's part had set her mind on the girl so she did not care.

"Okay, so, in all honesty, you two are saying that you were alone with each other in this house for two nights and nothing happened between the two of you?" inquired Zoe arching an eyebrow in question.

"Yes!" they both replied instantly...too instantly.

The group laughed at their haste, smirking as they exchanged amused looks. They didn't believe them. The events at the party and photos from last night's adventures had implanted the suspicion of their involvement

"You two need to lie better than that," commented Blaise clearly amused. "Especially to Pansy. I reckon she isn't too happy right now to be publicly dumped for the Rose Potter."

Rose rolled her eyes, "Seriously, we're just friends!"

---

EARLY AFTERNOON

Narcissa stood on the master bedroom balcony overlooking the pool as Draco and his childhood friends splashed and jumped into the cool water. She couldn't help but think how much time had passed. Gone were those small boys whose imaginations would take them far off to magical lands and in their place, were teenagers. Their thoughts no longer lingered on make-believe adventures as they were now occupied by their interests in the opposite sex. Her eyes wandered to the girls, Zoe was a kind and polite girl from a respected magical family who Narcissa knew through their connections in the Ministry. The witch did not mind the young girl, in fact, she believed Adrian and her made a smart match.

However, when her gaze settled on the newcomer, who was seated on top of her son's shoulders as she attempted to wrestle Zoe from Adrian's, she sneered in disdain. She watched as the Potter girl successfully forced the other girl down into the water for the fifth time in a row. Potter and Draco cheered and clapped along with Theodore who had been watching and cheering on with Blaise.

"Arrington, I bloody betted on you!' shouted Blaise at Zoe as she emerged from the water.

"She's stronger than she fucking looks!" Zoe shouted back.

Zoe couldn't have been more correct in her assessment, however, Rose Potter's deceitful appearance extended to more than just physical strength. Narcissa had seen it instantly the day she had arrived at the villa. She had recognized it in the calm and collected way the girl carried herself, the way she calculated every word before she spoke it, and the way she timed each glance and smile before she gave them. It had been a technique perfected by Narcissa and every high-society Pureblood witch at a young age for Pureblood witches behaved in a graceful, mysterious and confident manner.

Of course, Potter was no Pureblood; her family had long ago been dropped from Pureblood society to have kept traditions and values. Although she liked the girl's adoptive family they might as well be Muggles with such heavily diluted blood. Potter's behavior was not taught as it had been to her, it was natural and when Narcissa had looked into the girl's eyes she had seen it; a small gleam of darkness.

Rose Potter was not the innocent and sweet girl everyone thought she was and now that Narcissa knew, her power made the older witch nervous for herself, her husband, and, mostly, for her son.

She knew Lucius had some plan for the girl that he had arranged with his old comrades. She had had her own part in it when she let it "slip" to Ms. Jensen about the girl's presence at the villa. Although Narcissa was concerned over her husband's scheme to damage the remaining Potters, she strongly believed her husband would find a way to come out on top against children. But at what cost?

When she walked in to find Lucius and the girl in his closed study she had been livid. Potter was young, beautiful, and famous, there was no denying it, and although Narcissa still retained her figure and infamous beauty she had aged as evident by the lines and creases that ran along her once smooth face. She had lost the youthful allure that had once drawn the attention and desire from boys and grown men like flies to honey.

It was her own past experience that had justified her fury upon encountering them alone but Potter was too young. Lucius would never dare! She wasn't stupid, she knew of his affairs, Lucius was a slave to life's pleasures and once, long ago, she had joined him in bringing lovers to their bed. However, that was before the trials and tribulations of parenthood and the routine of marriage had changed things. She stopped sharing their bed and joining him both with lovers and alone as her sexual drive diminished but he continued nonetheless. Narcissa tolerated it for his need's sake but she would never act blind to her husband's infidelity, unlike her own mother. Extramarital affairs were not uncommon among Pureblood men, especially those belonging to the secretive warlock's club that Lucius frequented and just like Cygnus Black, he enjoyed the company of young, pretty witches.

But Potter was just a child!

No, he simply meant to intimate her. Regardless, Narcissa knew that no matter what sick plan Lucius concocted he would always have the upper hand, unlike Draco. Her son wasn't like his father regardless of how tirelessly he tried imitating Lucius. Draco had always been gentle, trusting, and too eager to please, all characteristics that had greatly displeased his father.

Narcissa felt her insides churn as she watched her son place his hands around Potter's waist to throw her playfully into the water; both teenagers were visibly happy and comfortable with the other. It was innocent but Rose Potter was far from that. There was the way she looked, touched, and smiled at Draco and the way he reciprocated those gestures. She even strongly suspected they were communicating secretly through Potter's ability. There was without a doubt something going on there.

With one last look at the adolescents, Narcissa turned to retreat to the bedroom and found Lucius leaning against the frame, smiling rather smugly at the children below. This only worked to infuriate Narcissa further at his blatant lack of concern.

"Are you not the least bit concern for our son?" she demanded sharply as she walked past him into their chambers.

Lucius followed his wife as she settled on a chaise "My dear, there is nothing to be concerned about," he assured.

She gave a small, cold laugh, "Nothing to be concerned about?" she repeated coolly. "He's being corrupted and seduced by that little harlot!"

Her husband sighed and sat down on the armchair in front of her. "My love, you're being dramatic," he stated calmly but continued before she could protest. 'Miss Potter is not a harlot and Draco is far from the innocent boy you insist on treating him as."

"He's thirteen! He is just a boy, Lucius!" Narcissa argued. Why couldn't he see that using Draco was wrong? " He's not you! He's young, inexperienced, and can be manipulated by a pretty face."

Lucius held back from rolling his eyes, "Draco is not being manipulated," he reassured.

"He ran off to a filthy Muggle festival to please her!" She pointedly reminded him.

He sighed again, "As foolish as that was I assure you no manipulation was involved. Draco went willingly."

"How do you know that?" she demanded. "It's obvious Potter has her little claws sunk into him!"

"Because I asked him to befriend the girl," he answered. "He was instructed to make her feel welcomed. Tp please her so that he could gain her trust and friendship."

Narcissa stared at her husband in disbelief. How dare he use their son as some kind of boy toy in his sick plan and for what purpose? Surely, he did not mean to get back at Potter for the whole Dobby debacle by forcing Draco to become involved with his sister. The thought was sick and childish! And surely the Malfoys held enough political influence without truly needing the Ambassador's alliance. But hadn't he also instructed Draco to befriend the boy?

That had been different, however, the boy was rumored to be the next Dark Lord as he had been the previous's downfall.

She thought that idea of the rise of a new Dark Lord had died after it became clear that Potter was as self-righteous as his parents and Dumbledore's golden boy. It never occurred to Narcissa that this idea could transfer over to the girl.

"Why?" she spat out venomously. "Why this sick obsession that you have with her?!"

Lucius leaned forward with a serious look on his face, "Narcissa, the Dark Lord spared her for a reason. He had a plan for her," he began. "You weren't there when he planned the attack. He made it clear that the Potter lineage would end that night but he spared her! There's no coincidence that she's a natural Legilimens and the most accomplished duelist of her age. She is the key to destroying Potter and Dumbledore's precious Order. The Dark Lord saw that! With her on our side she may even finish what the Dark Lord started!"

She sighed and shook her head at her husband's obsession, "How can you be so sure that he saw anything in her?" she asked. "Why can't you accept that perhaps he simply forgot to kill her or was just in a hurry to kill the boy?"

"The Dark Lord never forgot and never deviated from his plans!" retorted Lucius impatiently. "His plan was simple: kill the parents, kill the girl and save his true enemy for last. I know he spared her for a reason."

"How can you be so sure about what happened at Godric's Hollow?!" Narcissa demanded standing up suddenly, her body filled with frustration. "You weren't there that night, Lucius! There could be countless reasons why he spared her each crueler than the next!"

She could feel her desire to hex him rise as she watched her husband leaned back calmly and smile, "Didn't I just say that I instructed Draco to gain her trust?" he asked rhetorically. "On that end, our son has been more than successful. I can guarantee with all certainty that the Dark Lord wanted her."

Narcissa slowly sat back down as her husband's words sank in. This was all confirmed information that Draco had already extracted otherwise Lucius wouldn't be so confident. If the Dark Lord had spared the girl for this reason, with him gone could this mean that she had the potential to grow up to be some sort of Dark...Sorceress? Could she succeed where the Dark Lord had failed?

As a Pureblood, the thought of purging the magical world of Mudbloods thrilled her but the memories of war filled her with fear and dread. She could clearly remember the nights Lucius was sent away on missions and her fear for his life each time he left. Sleep never came easy to her back then so she would stay up the entire night and sometimes past dawn awaiting her husband's return.

On one terrible occasion, shortly after Draco's first birthday, Severus had returned carrying an unconscious and bloody Lucius after a terrible and deadly run-in with the Order. Instantly, she had feared the worse but luckily his injuries hadn't extended beyond the surface, still, she feared that if the war continued her son would soon be left without a father.

Bellatrix then came into mind as did her dangerous and insane infatuation with the Dark Lord which had ultimately been her downfall tearing her once-proud family apart. When the Dark Lord had been defeated by Potter Narcissa had expressed disappointment and outrage as expected of her to their inner circle but deep down she had been secretly relieved for her family's safety although that was a secret she would carry to her grave.

Now Lucius was setting this dangerous game in motion.

"We have a good life," she said simply knowing it would do nothing to dissuade him.

Her husband nodded understanding her unspoken concerns but nonetheless determined for her to see his reasoning. "Do you want Mudblood filth to continue infiltrating our world?" he asked as he leaned in to grab her hands. "Do you want to continue and stand by as they infect magical blood and bring in their poisons? This is what we've been fighting for, what our parents only spoke in secret and dreamed of accomplishing! The ultimate rise to power of our kind. The girl and her power are our answer! Think about it, my love, brother against sister, it's almost poetic. Of course, she will need the proper motivation and a small push in the right direction. Draco will see to that."

Narcissa looked deep into her husband's eyes, "If Draco gets hurt I will hold you responsible."

---

Isabella watched her daughter and her new friends down below at the pool, quietly observing her happiness as she had never seen Rose so at ease with others. She knew she should feel ecstatic to finally see Rose fit in with kids her age yet the witch could not ignore the gnawing worry inside of her. "Perhaps moving was a bad idea," she said suddenly.

"What do you mean?" came Rodrigo's voice from behind her.

She turned sharply to face her husband who sat leaning forward on the bed, "This is not how Rosie acts!"

"Amor, she's a teenager," he answered as if that explained everything. "This is the first time she's had friends since we've had her if anything this behavior is long overdue."

Isabella shook her head, "This world, these people...they could be affecting her! What if she regresses?"

"Cariño," Rodrigo said as he stood to walk over to his wife and placed his hands comfortingly on her shoulders. "It's been years since she's had an episode or heard voices."

"Voice," Isabella corrected instantly. "It was only one voice, the little boy."

Immediately the witch felt a chilling sensation run down her spine as she recalled the memories of their daughter when she had first arrived at their home. After several long months of silence and awkwardness, Rose slowly began adjusting to her new surroundings enough to speak, eat, and play. They had been delighted to see this progress however, one day Isabella had discovered the small girl speaking to herself or rather to someone. She remembered walking into the playroom to find Rose sitting on the floor with two teacups, one placed in front of her and one across. However, there were no stuffed animals or dolls placed in the empty spot so Isabella had asked who she had been speaking to.

"The little boy with black hair." Rose had replied pointing to the empty air across from her. "He's my friend, he came with me from home."

Isabella played along convinced that the little girl was simply using her imagination to create a playmate as was often the case with an only child. However, when she had asked the little boy's name, Rose had replied, "I don't know it. He won't tell me. But he tells me to be polite and to speak and to eat dinner so you and Mr. Vega can be happy."

"That's nice of him," she had said. "What else does he tell you?"

"Lots of things." the little girl had replied. "But sometimes he gets really angry especially when I cry or when I don't do the things he wants me to do or when I don't say the things he wants me to say."

There were no words to describe the chill she had felt run down her spine and spread throughout her limbs at her words. She had forced herself to remain calm.

"What things does he want you to do or say?" she asked, careful to sound casual.

It was that moment where the most curious and alarming thing had happened. Little Rose had shifted her gaze so that she was looking directly at the empty space across from her. Isabella could recall how her heart had raced at the empty, dead stare, and the silence that followed. It was as if she was transfixed by someone else until finally, the little girl returned her eyes to the older witch and answered.

"He tells me to be polite, speak, and to eat dinner so you and Mr. Vega can be happy. That's all."

Alarmed, Isabella had described the incident to Rodrigo and he had been quick to reassure her that it was simply an imaginary friend she would outgrow in time.

"Besides," he had said. "It's not like this 'little boy is telling her to hurt anyone."

Shortly after Rose enrolled in kindergarten at a No-Maj school. She had found it difficult to make friends but they weren't concerned as Rose was a shy and reserved child. They had believed that over time Rose would become comfortable enough to interact with the other children. Then she magically attacked one of her classmates and it was then that they discovered the Legilimency. Shaken and frightened, Rose confessed that it had been the little boy who told her to keep her power hidden from them but, more gravely and to Isabella's horror, she also confessed that it had been him who told her how to use this power to hurt the No-Maj child.

Both of them had been terrified and enraged with the English Ministry as they now found themselves torn between contacting the British Magical Child Services to demand an explanation or protecting and keeping the child they had wanted for years. Their decision hadn't taken long. Isabella had waited far too long to be a mother, far too long to give it up.

She was hers.

That beautiful, little fair-skinned, red-head was her daughter.

She was meant to be her mother. Perhaps that was why, despite loving that dark red shade, she had permitted Rose to dye her hair black like her own. Isabella would never voice it although perhaps Rose already knew, how she would at times wonder what it would have been like to have a child that looked like herself and Rodrigo.

When they had married in their mid-twenties they immediately tried for a child but after fruitless attempts and unsuccessful fertility potions, spells, rituals and, even, No-Maj medicine they learned Isabella was infertile. She had sunk into a horrible depression after learning the painful truth so much so that she refused to visit her family in Colombia to avoid seeing her siblings and cousins with their own children. Then, almost a decade after their marriage, Rosie came into their lives after tragically losing her parents.

Her Rose.

Her Rosita.

She worked so hard to win the little girl's love, trust, and affection each day after she arrived. It took almost a year until finally one night, after having comforted Rose from one of her nightmares, the little girl had timidly asked.

"Can I call you mummy?"

She was her mother. Rose Potter was her daughter and she would not abandon her!

Therefore after the attack, Rodrigo paid off the right MACUSA officials to maintain the case highly classified and away from the public eye. They quickly obtained legal permission to Obliviate the No-Majes involved and, after ensuring that the case would be permanently sealed, hired the best, private Mind Healers to treat their little girl.

After explaining the incident to the Healers and disclosing what they knew about the imaginary little boy, Rose had been observed and interrogated by their team. They had taken her into another room while they waited in the head healer's office watching their little girl by means of an enchanted mirror. They saw as she was sat down at a table where several small toys and books were laid out. She was allowed to leaf through the picture books while the Healers asked their question and their quills quickly jotted down each answer, each distraction, and each sign of distress, excitement, or anger.

A few hours later, the Healers had explained that Rose was suffering from something called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It was a name given by No-Maj doctors to a mental illness caused by traumatic past events that affected the way a person behaves, reacts, and thinks. They had explained that the disorder was more commonly found and associated with military members but that a strong traumatic event, like the one Rose had gone through, was more than enough to constitute the diagnosis. No-Majes were still studying this disorder but the wizarding world had yet to open itself to mental illnesses therefore Isabella had been worried and scared at this discovery.

However, the Healers laid out a treatment plan to work with Rose and apply a rehabilitation technique modeled after the No-Maj findings on this condition. They went on to explain that the attack or "episode" had been a symptom of this illness caused by external triggers and since Rose had a magical ability these episodes had the possibility of turning fatal if she lost control.

As for the little boy with black hair, the Healers explained that it was most likely a manifestation of her brother, Harry. She was imagining him and even demonizing him as a way to cope with their separation. However, and this had been difficult for the Healer to explain, they had could not rule out another mental illness that when explained had plagued Isabella with fear: Psychosis.

Before deciding if the little boy was a manifestation of Harry or a severe and dangerous hallucination, the Healers needed to observe Rose more thoroughly and strongly recommended in-patient treatment.

Isabella had immediately refused. How dare they try to treat her daughter as if she was crazy? Rosita needed a mother now more than ever and deep down in her bones she knew Lily Potter have would agree with her. The Healers had tried to dissuade her by daring to imply that she was not making the best decision for Rose.

"She needs to be in a controlled and spell-warded environment, Mrs. Vega." one of them explained pleadingly. "If she were to have one of these episodes with you or anyone else they could turn deadly because of her magical ability. If we also ignore any potential signs of psychosis you are also risking her safety as well as your own!"

Isabella wouldn't hear any of it and had firmly remarked that they would only agree to outpatient treatment then stormed out to collect her daughter before they could try to stop her.

However, it had been later that same day that Isabella questioned whether she had made the right decision when she, once again, heard little Rose talking to herself in the playroom.

"They think I'm mad and dangerous because of you," she said to no one. There was silence as if she was receiving an answer then she spoke again.

"Why did you make me hurt Jeffrey like that?"

Silence.

"Yes."

Silence

"What do I do now?"

Silence.

"Okay, just don't leave me."

Isabella had slowly walked away, silently tearing up for the doubt in her earlier actions began to stir. Perhaps she was being selfish and not making the right decision for Rose's well-being. Perhaps the Healers were right. She had hated herself for thinking that but what she had overheard couldn't be ignored. There was something wrong with Rosie.

Reluctantly they set up a day to admit Rose within the week. They were working on how they would explain this to their daughter when she suddenly stopped seeing or speaking to the little boy.

When they had questioned her she simply replied that she was too old for imaginary friends and that she simply missed Harry. She apologized again for attacking her classmate explaining that she had lost her temper and control and that blaming an imaginary friend had been easier than admitting to it.

At first, they had questioned it, suspecting she had used her power to see into their minds but that couldn't be it, she had been so little, only five! There was no way she could have understood what was really going on.

Rose wasn't admitted and as time went by she settled comfortably into her new life without further episodes. The out-patient Healing sessions were a success and their suspicions were put to rest as no mention of the little boy was ever said again.

However, every now and again, when Rose was in deep thought, Isabella could swear she saw her look as if she was having an entire conversation inside her head.

"It's been years," repeated Rodrigo bringing Isabella back from her revelries. "Rosita is better. No little boy, no voices, no nightmares, and no episodes. Look at all she's done! She's a top student, one hell of a duelist and potion brewer!"

"And what do you think can happen to all that if these people come after her?" she asked softly. "She is a Potter to them. They have a history in this world. Our Rosita has a history in this world!"

"Amor, Rosie's famous, and the press will always come after her. I really believe she's just being a teenager." Rodrigo once again reassured his wife. "Come on you remember what it was like at that age. All the changes in your body and curiosity and suddenly there are these boys that take an interest in you." At this, he began to gently rub her arms as he brought her closer to him. He kissed her neck and said in a quiet, low voice, "Tell me again of your adventures at Castelobruxo, Senorita de la Corte?"

Isabella gave a small laugh, "Only if you remind me of your explorations at Ilvermorny." She then kissed her husband deeply as he brought her against him to deepen the kiss while leading them towards the bed which they fell upon. Their lips never parted as Rodrigo's hands traveled eagerly around his wife's body searching to free her from the summer dress yearning for nothing more than to make love to her. His touch felt so good to Isabella but her mind remained on her worries so she stopped and turned away. The situation at hand was too much to forget for Isabella so she gently pushed her husband off and sat upright. Rodrigo sighed, knowing what was distracting her and so he grabbed a hold of his wife's hands to reassure once again, "This is normal teenage behavior."

She looked into her husband's soft, brown eyes, "I think we should go home."

He sighed but gave a soft smile, "If that is what you think is best."

"I do," she stated without hesitation.

Rodrigo sighed, "Rosita is not going to like this."

---

LATE AFTERNOON

"This is so unfair!" Rose exclaimed angrily after returning from the pool following their guests' departure. "We still have a few days left!"

"The press is having a field day because of the Skeeter woman's article," Rodrigo explained. "We've released a statement to keep things calm for now but it's easier for me to handle this if I am with my team."

'Bullshit!' thought Rose unable to say that aloud.

It is, the voice agreed with her.

"You're doing this to punish me," she said instead.

"Actions do have consequences, Rose! Now due to those actions, I have to cut our vacation short to deal with this mess before another reporter dares to question my job as an ambassador and father!"

You cannot argue against that.

"It's not fair," she repeated nonetheless. "I finally have friends and the whole world freaks out because I acted my age for two days!"

"You had no permission to go to that festival." Rodrigo reminded sharply. "I don't care if nothing happened. You had absolutely no permission to be there yet you purposely ran off! I don't care how old you are, you will never, ever break my rules like that again not while you live under my roof!"

It took Rose great control to refrain from pointing out that they were technically not under his roof or else risk angering him further.

"Rosie, whether you like it or not you are a public figure," Isabella explained sternly. "Everything you do will be judged and criticized by everyone, especially in this world. Besides this gives us time to think about and plan more important things."

"Like what?" Rose asked rather rudely.

"Like preparing for the school year, the OWLs, and spending time with us before you go," she listed as if it had been the most obvious answer. "What about the Witches Debutante Ball? You're leaving for school and you haven't picked out a ceremonial or evening gown!"

'Oh, Merlin, no!" she groaned at the thought of the archaic and grandiose wizarding tradition that she had witnessed each of her female cousins go through once the age of fifteen was reached. It was a tradition that dated so far into magical history that it was wildly debated whether the No-Majes had taken that custom or vice versa. Regardless, it was upheld by most prominent wizarding families as a way of showing off their wealth and daughters. No one truly expected fifteen-year-old witches to marry but it wasn't uncommon, particularly in ancient Pureblood families, to become betrothed at that age. For Rose, the entire thing was antiquated, over-the-top, and unnecessary.

"Do I have to do that?"

Isabella frowned, "It's tradition!"

'Your tradition!' Rose thought angrily itching to voice it as well.

Don't say that!

Rose listened but argued regardless, "I don't even have an escort."

Isabella smiled, "What about Harry? Or Draco? Or any of your new friends?" She reminded. "In fact, why don't we invite them all? There's no better way to get to know people than at a party and it's only polite to return the favor. Narcissa will surely know how to get in touch with all their families."

Trust her mother to jump on the chance to meet her new classmates, especially Marcus Flint who she felt strong apprehension towards. Sighing, Rose recognized her defeat in the matter, "Sounds great." she said flatly dreading the thought.

---

EVENING

At dinner, Rodrigo had announced their early departure to their hosts using the press damage-control explanation as to the sole reason for the urgency. The Malfoys had, of course, understood and had politely expressed regret for the turn of events. Across the table, Rose could sense guilt and embarrassment radiating from Draco although he held himself together not once betraying the stoic expression he adopted from Lucius. Regardless, he once again offered an apology to her parents which her father waved away.

"You can't keep apologizing forever, Draco." Rodrigo had reassured the young wizard. "What's done is done and we should move past it."

Rose kept herself from rolling her eyes, knowing well that her punishment was not done.

"It's such a pity, Rodrigo," Narcissa had commented although Rose could tell she was relieved at the news. "We had planned a night out this weekend at the most exclusive wizarding restaurant in the city. Such a pity really."

"It is," Isabella agreed from where she sat next to her husband, "You have all been such generous and gracious hosts. Please accept our invitation as our most honored guests to the Witches Debutante Ball this December. We will be presenting Rosie this year."

Rose tried not to groan out loud or show the dread and reluctance on her face at the prospect of having the Malfoys at that party.

Narcissa smiled at her mother, "Such an important and magical night for a young witch. We wouldn't miss it for the world."

---

NIGHT

"Straight to sleep, senorita!" ordered Isabella to Rose once she finished packing the younger witch's clothing into the suitcase with a few flicks of her wand. "We're leaving right after breakfast tomorrow."

Rose sighed in annoyance as she climbed into bed and laid down still angry at the unfortunate change of plans. She felt the bed sink in as her mother sat down and ran a hand through her daughter's long hair before placing a kiss on her head. "Goodnight, mi amor."

"G'night," Rose huffed determined to give her parent's the cold shoulder. She could hear her mother mentally dismiss her tone as she was aware of her daughter's anger and disappointment but was resolved in her decision.

Once her mother had left for her own chambers, Rose looked up at the canopy overhead and sighed deeply.

What was wrong with her? She had made a complete mess of things! Her parents were right, she had behaved completely unlike herself!

Isn't that what you wanted? came the voice. To leave that shy, lonely girl in that other world you never belonged in and be seen as a strong force in this one which is rightfully yours?

'Yes, but I didn't want to be called a slut or risk losing my parent's trust or dad's job!' Rose thought in response.

Your parents will always have faith in you, as long as you say and do the right things. Now, you are a woman and if you are to be a force then you need to get used to being called such names and much worse. And they will call you much worse!

'You're right,' she thought to her secret companion. "I had to change."

And it was worth it, wasn't it? Didn't we have fun with Draco?

'How did you know what to do?' She asked remembering how he had instructed her last night and all other nights and days before then. 'You're not real, how do you know all these things?'

The voice chuckled, 'I am real. I know all because you know all. I am you and you are me. I will never leave you for I am part of you. I will always be right here to protect and guide you. Have I not done a good job? Have I not taught you well and more?'

'Yes,' Rose replied without any disagreement although now she was more confused than ever as to what the voice was.

Through me, you have darling Draco eating out of the palm of your hand.

At that Rose thought about the young blonde and his obvious crush that he tried to keep hidden although his actions and thoughts spoke for him. She would miss him and the freedom they had temporarily found together. Even though she would see him again at Hogwarts in a matter of days, she knew it would not be the same. There they would be surrounded by a hundred more Millicents, Cassandras, and Marcus' but more drastically, Harry will be there.

How will react Harry react to her friendship with Draco?

She didn't want to think about that but she did know that she did not want to waste her last night at the villa worrying about the unknown. If they were going to force her to leave the best vacation she had ever been on she would make sure it ended on a high note.

An hour passed by and when she was assured that both sets of parents had retired for the night she mustered up her courage to leave her bed and walk over to the door to quietly step out into the empty, dark hallway. The door to her parent's bedroom was closed and she could not hear an audible or mental word so she quickly tip-toed her way downstairs to cross from the guest house into the main house. Using her power to navigate and to avoid running into her hosts or any of their servants, Rose made it onto the second floor and silently darted to Draco's closed door.

It was unlocked so she let herself into the dark bedroom and shut the door quietly behind her. When she turned the outline of Draco's body laying on his bed was visible against the balcony window that he was turned to.

She began moving towards the bed when he suddenly spoke without turning, "I don't need to be checked on or tucked in anymore, mother."

Holding in laughter, Rose jumped onto the bed without warning, "Oh, really? Guess I should leave then since you're such a big boy!"

Draco turned and sprang up, "Rose!" he quietly exclaimed. "Are you fucking mental?! Do you have any idea what they will do if they catch you in here?"

"No," she replied simply moving to straddle his waist. "But I know what I want to do to you."

There was a sudden prod against her bottom which made her smirk with satisfaction at his response. However, his lingering fear was distracting and Rose wanted him completely at ease for what she had in mind.

Pulling her camisole overhead to reveal her breasts, Rose leaned down to kiss Draco on the mouth feeling him respond as his hands wrapped around her waist sending goosebumps throughout her skin. He groaned as she rubbed herself against his erection which encouraged her to softly bite down on his bottom lip giving it a gentle tug. Rose looked down at him and briefly admired how beautiful he looked, framed by her long, dark hair, flushed, and full of raging desire. She moved to plant small kisses along his face, following his jawline to that special spot on his neck she had discovered before moving down his bare chest, stomach, and ending just over the waistband of his silk shorts.

Draco was breathing fast now with excitement and arousal and in his thoughts, he could not hide all the things he wanted to do to her. There was one in particular that he was hopeful for but doubtful that it would happen. However, unknown to him, it was exactly what Rose had in mind.

Briefly, she remembered how Marcus had teased him about his lack of experience and Draco's own embarrassment at the matter.

"Really, Malfoy? Because I can tell you've never had your little cock sucked off."

'Time to rectify that,' she thought smirking in amusement. Looking down at Draco she saw the confusion in his face as he waited for her lead so she allowed the lust to overtake her. She tugged down on the waistband of his shorts and he quickly helped her pull the garment down to free his erect member.

There was no way she couldn't stare at it before initiating anything. She had never seen one up close and was unsure of what to think. She knew people made a point to emphasize the importance of size and in that case, Draco looked as if he had no reason to worry. He was not huge but he also did not lack length or girth, however, it was still strange looking.

Don't just stare at it, the voice urged.

She glanced at Draco and saw that his eyes were fully fixed on her and in his thoughts he was nervous that she found him inadequate.

At the latter, Rose gave a small chuckle before wrapping her hand around his shaft instantly causing him to gasp as he prepared himself for what he thought was a handjob.

Let him think that. The voice instructed as she began stroking him gently slowly increasing her speed as he became comfortable.

Draco let out a low moan as he rested his head down on the pillow and closed his eyes savoring the wonderful feeling Rose was giving him. She waited until he was lost in her rhythmic stroking before mustering up the courage to run her tongue along the tip sending a million pleasurable sensations throughout his body all at once. Draco gasped at the new and electrifying touch, slightly arching his back before looking down at her with disbelief and amazement.

'Are you sure?' he mentally inquired ever the gentleman.

Answer him with your tongue instructed the voice wickedly and with glee.

Rose listened fueled by a new wave of power and satisfaction. She threw a mischievous smirk at Draco before running her tongue along his length which once again made him moan in pleasure and she could feel her own arousal between her legs.

Now open wide and take him into your mouth. Be mindful of your teeth, you'll hurt him if you graze him.

Carefully, she did as instructed. She could only comfortably take him a little more than halfway but the voice once again guided her.

Move back up his length and repeat the motion. Grip him gently and use your hand to stroke where your mouth cannot reach. Look into his eyes ever so often, let him see how lucky he is.

In his mind, Draco could not believe what was happening. The sight of Rose orally pleasuring was almost too much to handle but he wanted to savor every moment of it so he rested his head back and allowed himself to succumb to the bliss.

Now stroke your tongue against him while he's in your mouth.

At this, the young Malfoy gasped and closed his eyes, "Oh gods, Rose...don't...stop."

Both she and her secret companion inwardly laughed at his reaction.

It wasn't as bad, gross, or difficult as Rose had imagined when she first discovered what blowjobs were from the girls she shared a dorm with. In fact, she was enjoying it and the sight and sounds coming from Draco.

It's all power play. We've been over this, the voice reminded. You can bend them to your will by making them feel good and important. You're a beautiful and famous girl, Rose. Beauty and fame are forms of power too. Make them addicted to you. Now run your tongue in small circles along his tip.

She did as she was told although another part of her felt sick at the words she had just heard inside her head. However, she ignored it and focused on the mesmerizing result of her action as Draco moaned with pure ecstasy while forcing himself to hold on.

Take him fully into your mouth.

She hesitated but once again obeyed forcing herself down his entire length instantly blurring her vision as her eyes began to water. It felt like she was going to be sick and when she felt his tip touch the back of her throat she emitted a strange sound as she choked. Thankfully, it had been too much for Draco, he groaned loudly as he came hard, once again magically shaking the bed frame only significantly harder than the previous times.

Don't spit it out.

Rose listened instinctively having been taken by surprise by the warm liquid that now filled her mouth.

Swallow!

She did without question ignoring the tasteless but nonetheless unpleasant sensation, however, Draco had been watching the entire time so she met his gaze as he propped himself on his elbows. His breathing was hard, his cheeks were flushed pink and his hair was sweaty and tousled.

Rose smiled at the sight of him and climbed over to place a kiss on his forehead before allowing him to wrap his arms around her torso as he sat up to hold her close. Instinctively, she placed her arms around him burying her face into his shoulder and taking in the wonderful feeling of his warm, smooth skin against her own.

A few minutes passed in silence, Rose tried her best to ignore Draco's thoughts or else spoil the serenity of the moment, however, she could not help but feel satisfied as his thoughts held nothing but admiration and love toward her. Finally, the two looked at each other and she silently admired his beauty enhanced by post-climatic bliss and the summer moonlight. They smiled softly at each other before Draco willingly communicated one thought:

'This has been the best summer ever!'

---

It was early dawn when Rose awoke after having fallen asleep while cuddling with Draco, she had meant to only close her eyes for a few minutes before taking off but had greatly underestimated how tired she was from a very turbulent and exciting day. Quickly and quietly, she slipped free of his embrace, careful to not wake him, and walked out into the silent, semi-dark hallway.

She checked for any audible sounds and thoughts before carefully stepping out and closing the bedroom door silently behind her. It closed without a sound and she released the handle to turned and make her way back to the guest house. However, upon turning she found herself in front of Lucius Malfoy who was now standing before her in his black silk pajamas and robe looking at her with a raised eyebrow and that devilish smirk.

Her heart dropped with fear at the realization that she had been caught by none other than her host who happened to be her father's colleague, a former Death Eather, and the most unnerving and intimating man she had ever met.

The fear must have been shown on her face as his smirk grew in a knowing and malevolent way.

Don't panic! The voice instructed. He'll play you right into his jaws if you panic. Just relax, Rose.

"Miss Potter!" Lucius said quietly feigning shock. "May I ask what you are doing leaving my son's bedroom at this hour?"

Her mind raced for a believable explanation that would not incriminate either her or Draco but nothing came to mind. She knew exactly what this looked like and it didn't help that in her own silk camisole, shorts, and bare feet she felt once again exposed and vulnerable. Instinctively, she crossed her arms over her chest to shield herself as she felt her nipples perk up from the mixture of fear and the cool dawn air.

"I...umm...I..was...uhh,'" she stuttered pathetically feeling her heartbeat furiously against her chest. Lucius wasn't an idiot, he knew why Rose was sneaking out of his son's room in the early hours of the morning. There was no point in lying to him. Her parents were going to kill her!

You don't have to admit to anything either! Just stay quiet and don't incriminate yourself. Judging by that smug, proud grin of his and that terrible act of shock, he is delighted by this.

'Ew!' Rose mentally exclaimed although externally she remained frozen and silent.

When it became clear Rose had no answer Lucius broke the silence, "Come, Rose, I'll escort you back to your chambers." he said simply and calmly.

She followed him silently as they descended the stairs and crossed over to the guest house. He said nothing to her and Rose avoided looking at him focusing only on making it back to the bedroom, however, she had to know, "Are you going to tell my dad?"

The wizard chuckled softly as he continued walking, "Rose, my dear, it's only natural to want to experiment at your age." he answered simply in a very understanding tone. "I would be lying if I said I didn't get into my own delightful mischief during my adolescence. However, I must ask that you take the proper precautions particularly if you and my son have entered a physical relationship. 'Friends with benefits' I believe is what the youth calls it nowadays, is it not?"

Rose blushed with embarrassment, wanting nothing more than the earth to open and swallow her whole. She was also now utterly confused, this wasn't a normal reaction from a parent who had just caught a girl sneaking out of his son's bedroom but, then again, Mr. Malfoy was not normal. He was as intriguing as he was handsome and terrifying. If only he would let his mental guard down long enough for her to take a peek inside that mind she would be sure to find many interesting and implicating discoveries.

"So...are you going to tell my dad?" she asked insistingly.

He said nothing but continued escorting her silently which only worked to infuriate and worry Rose further.

He's toying with you, the voice reminded. He's keeping you in suspense in hopes of building your frustration and anxiety making you more likely to react emotionally consequently putting you in a vulnerable position. Do not fall into his trap, Rose, keep yourself calm and collected!

Finally, they reached Rose's bedroom door when he turned to her and finally spoke, "When I first heard of you, Rose, I imagined you'd be like your family...your real family." he explained pointedly, "Overtly courageous, bold, and, forgive me for my rashness, a bit self-righteous. But you are something else, something...special."

At the mention of her real parents and the way he spoke of them, Rose could feel sudden anger build up.

"You didn't like them, did you?" she demanded daringly. "My real family. You didn't care whether a Blood Traitor, a Mudblood, and their Half-Breed children died that night. Were you eagerly waiting to hear about our deaths?"

Lucius stared down at her intently, their eyes boring into each other's as her words took him by surprise, and, in that state, his mental shield had faltered allowing a quick glimpse into that mind she had been eager to invade. There it was, the memory of that Halloween night and how Lucius had spent it at the manor with his fellow Death Eaters waiting for news from their Master. He must have noticed how his initial surprise had affected his mental guard for he hastily brought the shields back up.

"Does that frighten you?" he asked coldly, knowing what she had seen.

"No," she stated with a small sneer, her eyes narrowing slightly as they looked deep into those menacing icy pupils. Inside she could feel the approval and pride her mental companion felt at her unguided response.

The man before her smirked arrogantly before leaning in which alarmed Rose, much to his delight, and whispered darkly into her ear, "Fear not, darling Rose, it was never personal and tonight can be our little secret."

Rose could feel the goosebumps run down her limbs, her heart racing, and a strange sensation in the pit of her stomach at the close proximity and the feeling of his breath against her skin. However, nothing could have prepared her for what he did next.

Tenderly, he placed a chaste kiss inches away from the corner of Rose's lips sending a cold shiver down her spine at his touch. His lips lingered on her skin for a few moments before pulling away.

"Sleep well, Rose."