Hey, so sorry for the delay but here is an extra-long chapter. Just a warning this chapter is rather chaotic but I did actually write it when I was really ill with a fever, hence the slight fever dream vibe of it. Enjoy- love Mila :)
James:
The cold wind whipped my cheeks, and I brought my jacket in a little closer. Winter was definitely coming and there was a tension in the air awaiting the inevitable snow. I glanced in the direction of the shop willing for Dom to hurry up. A flicker of golden-brown hair caught my attention, and I felt my heart stop. My legs started walking towards the person before I could stop myself. I was only a couple of meters away when they turned to the side having spotted a friend. My heart sank. It wasn't her.
"Jamie?" A voice questioned.
I turned around to see Dom giving me a bemused look. She was towing a trailer full of what appeared to be cases of butterbeer but were in actual fact carefully disillusioned bottles of alcohol.
"Sorry, I just got distracted by something." I muttered.
"No worries, do you have the cloak?" She asked. I nodded and placed it carefully over the trailer. Despite the charm we still did not want to risk what would be over a month of detention and the precious alcohol being confiscated. Dom waved her wand and let go of an invisible handle to show that the trailer was now levitating closely behind her.
"Shall we?" she smiled, nodding in the direction which led us out of Hogsmeade and safely back to the castle.
"Lead the way dear cus," I smiled.
"I know you thought that was her," Dom said gently, taking me completely off guard. I pulled my jacket in closer; suddenly feeling even colder.
"It was the hair," I mumbled.
"How are you doing? I know I don't ask you that enough and I am sorry," she said, giving me a sad smile.
"Don't be silly you do," I said giving her a slight nudge.
"But okay, I just really miss her at the moment. Since the Quidditch match it has been hard. I saw her when I was out you know. That was rough," I rambled slightly. Dom and I had always been close growing up and whilst I adored Freddie, something about Dom made it easy to open up.
"Oh, I'm sorry Jamie that would have been hard. Cass had the same thing you know. She saw her dad when she was out. I know you two don't like each other but she might be a good person to talk to as she would get it," Dom said carefully.
"Yeah, Seth mentioned. I could tell as well. When she woke up, I knew that was what made her so upset. It felt quite bleak waking up," I muttered.
"Jamie." Dom said stopping in her tracks.
"Don't say that. Please," she said giving me sad eyes.
"I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that," I said quickly.
"I know about summer. Me, Freddie, Seth, your siblings, we know. And we just don't want it to happen again okay. Seeing you fall from your broom was hard. I know it wasn't intentional, but it was awful," she said sadly. I felt suddenly very awkward and flustered. Of course, I knew they knew, I just detested talking about it with anyone but Holly or my parents.
"I know. And thank you for being there, I really appreciate it," I nodded. I walked towards her and gave her a one-armed squeeze.
"Just please, I know you go all macho here and pretend like you don't have feelings which I know is completely untrue. But please, just talk to us if you need us," she said, and started walking again.
"I will. I promise," I nodded, joining her step.
"Good. There's nothing wrong with showing people your soppy side James. You know I much prefer it sometimes," she smirked, lightening the mood again.
"What are you referring to Dom?" I asked, sensing the mischievousness in her tone.
"Oh I don't know. Just the billion times we had to deal with you and Lex being lovesick puppies. The number of mornings or evenings she came in and you had given her flowers. The constant dancing, twirling and kissing. And please let me remind you I think nearly every member of your family including me has had the horrific experience of walking in on you two doing something heinous," she laughed. I laughed too despite being incredibly red in the face and feeling sadly nostalgic.
"Thanks for reminding me the many times that has happened and the many times I have tried to erase the memory," I said very embarrassed.
"Me and you both cus. Honestly, though, there's nothing wrong in showing that side of you James. Makes you far more interesting," she said.
"Well, I like the moody look. I think it makes me darker and more twisty and interesting," I objected.
"Of course, you would say that," she said rolling her eyes.
"Besides that side was only for Lex," I said quietly and sadly. I felt bad for yet again lowering the mood.
"I know Jamie. We all know how much you loved her. Merlin, you set the bar a bit high for us. I know Lily and I refuse to now settle for no less than a bouquet of flowers a week," Dom said. I loved her for having the uncanny ability to bring humour back into situations.
"Speaking of which, are you settling for the French Minister's son then or is that over?"
Now it was Dom's turn to go red.
"About that," she started, heavily blushing, "Well he's been pretty lovely really. I do like him a lot. Like I sent him a letter about the accident because I was so upset about you and Cass and he just sent back the sweetest response, followed by low-key a trip to Paris for me, Alice and Cassie."
"He did what! Jesus this man is in love with you Dom," I cried. Paris? That was a mighty gesture and a half. Forget bouquets of flowers. Wait, the man seemed to do that too.
"I know. I know. It was really sweet though and he did it in a way to make me realise Cassie would get better. The tickets are open, and I am actually yet to tell the girls, I was going to do it tonight. I guess I am just a bit scared Jamie. I've never had anything serious before, what if it doesn't even last?" she said, I could see the worry flicker across her face.
Despite Dom being part veela and attracting pretty much any male specimen that walked past her, the girl was still very insecure. She gave the big bolster to Alice and Evans but deep down you could tell she was still not ever completely confident in herself. Whilst she had a string of flings with many French guys, none of them were ever serious, and she was always the person to end them.
"Dom, not to be weird because you are my cousin, but you are beautiful, and a catch so do not doubt yourself. If he is willing to send you and your two friends to Paris surely you know what that means right?" I asked her.
"That his dad is the French Minister so rolling in it?"
"No you spoon. He clearly likes you that much that he wants to meet your friends. He's in Paris right? He's not just going to send you there for fun now is he?" I asked, the girl was so delusional sometimes.
"I guess," she said still doubtful.
"Come on, have some faith in yourself. You're getting flowers and trips to Paris," I smirked.
"Okay, okay," she said going red and rolling her eyes.
We had arrived at the gates, and I looked back to check that the cloak was still firmly on the wagon. Getting caught now was definitely not an option.
"Well, maybe you will meet him at some point. He is quite nice," she said nervously.
"And I would like that very much," I said, trying to hide the brotherly instincts which said otherwise, "does he have a name other than the French Minister's son?"
"He does, he does. It is Clement," she said carefully.
"Well I look forward to meeting Clement," I nodded.
"Thank you Jamie," she smiled.
"Are you looking forward to tonight?"
"Yeah I am buzzing." I said confidently despite feeling otherwise. The twins birthday was an amazing day however it did get cut short a little sooner than planned as Evans was clearly struggling by lunchtime. Not wanting to waste an opportunity and wanting to still have a bit of a rager, we all decided to have some belated celebrations for Halloween and throw a big party in the room of requirement. Whilst I was excited, the thought of drinking in a crowded space made me a little anxious. Something I had never ever experienced in my whole life. I knew Alex was on my mind a lot at the moment and drinking simply had the chance of exacerbating that. Whilst I wanted to let loose and have fun, I wasn't convinced that I wouldn't slump into a Lex depression.
"That is what we like to hear."
We both felt our mirrors vibrate now we were back in the radius of the grounds, and I let Dom check hers knowing full well it would be a message in our group.
"Right so they are done decorating. I think the plan is to dump the trailer in the room then get ready. Seth suggested a chilled prees in the room of requirement before, Cassie has sent a private message to me confirming that this is because he wants us all to properly meet Maisie," Dom said excitedly. This sounded much more appealing. Masie was incredibly sweet and her and Seth did seem to have an undeniable connection. The thought of having a more chilled drinks with my friends before the full party started eased my anxiety a little bit, and I too started to feel giddy with excitement. I also manifested the words of Holly from the night before which was, I was allowed to leave if I no longer enjoyed it.
"That sounds like an incredibly good start," I smiled.
"Eh there's the Jamie smile I have been wanting."
XXX
The three of us silently glided through the shadows of the corridors. Our all-black cloaks meant that we blended in with the dark crevices. Our movement was quick but unsuspicious and unrecognisable. Once we reached the tapestry, we paced past it three times and the door emerged.
The insides blew me away. Like a couple of weeks prior the room had taken the shape of an enchanted forest. Instead of lanterns vibrantly lighting the room, different neon-coloured pumpkins illuminated the space giving it a mystical but atmospheric charm. A gentle mist also caressed the floor of the forest and the table where we had the birthday feast was replaced by a large dancefloor. The space felt bigger and vaster, and it truly felt like we were having a party in the middle of a clearing of the Forbidden Forest.
"Pretty cool huh?" Freddie smirked, dropping his cape and revealing a rather ridiculous outfit below. It was Seth and Evans idea to get everyone to dress up. Halloween in the wizarding world was almost like Christmas. It was a serious holiday. The muggle pastime of dressing up seemed farcical but it was weirdly something everyone supported. I remember I laughed so hard when Seth once showed me a picture of him, and Evans dressed up as a witch and wizard on a Halloween when they were younger. Something about it added a comical layer to the party and all invitees were enthusiastic for the challenge. Freddie had decided to embrace the amusement of the muggle tradition and dress as a 'magician'. At least that is what Evans and Seth said he looked like. He wore a long black suit with a red lining, and a similar top hat. He also carried around a black stick with a white tip; something Seth said wands were supposed to look like in the muggle world. Whilst I thought he looked a little stupid in true Freddie style he rocked the look.
"I know I think we outdid ourselves this year," Seth agreed also dropping his cape. Seth was wearing a slightly different outfit, and as it was his and Maisie's big relationship cameo, they decided to make the big and scary step of matching Halloween costumes. Unlike Freddie, I knew Seth's outfit. Lex had made me watch Disney films countless times, as well as Shrek. He wore a crown and a silly tunic style top and truly looked like Prince Charming. The look almost made me sad, and I wished that me and Lex got to do something as stupid as a couples Halloween costume.
"Yeah, good fucking effort guys," I said still in shock of the forest, but also dropping my cape. I had gone for something a bit more generic but something which was also for Lex. One of her favourite comfort films was this Disney film Tangled. The girl had nerves of steel but cried like a baby at the lantern scene. She always joked I was her Flynn Rider and after watching it with her I kind of saw the resemblance. She always wished that we could go as that for one Halloween.
"No fucking way, look at this place!" A voice cried out.
I turned around to see the girls had arrived and Maisie was also with them. They all dropped their capes, and I took in their outfits.
Maisie was dressed as a princess and perfectly matched Seth. His eyes darted straight towards her and his mouth turned into a smile. Alice was going for a plant-like look and her green shimmery dress mimicked different vines intertwining around her body. My instincts were correct, and I smirked when I saw Freddie blush, the poor boy. Dom looked like a literal diamond and was wearing a dress so bright and iridescent I almost had to squint. And Evans. Evans didn't actually look bad for once? She was dressed in a glittering purple dress and was wearing long, transparent, shimmering fairy wings, which moved with her and had been enchanted to look as though they were attached to her body.
"Don't you scrub up well girls," Freddie said cooly.
"Yeah, yeah we know, now let's drink," Dom ordered. I rolled my eyes at her but followed her straight to the bar.
"You look beautiful," Seth smiled, bringing Maisie into a kiss.
"Cute but ew," I heard Evans mumble.
"Don't look too bad yourself," Maisie smirked back also giving him a kiss.
"While there's romance in the air tonight, you are simply looking magical Alice," Freddie beamed. Dom, Evans and I gave each other a mutual grin.
"That was incredibly cringe, but thank you Freddie," Alice blushed.
"I need a shot," Evans announced.
"I agree," I nodded.
"Right I am thinking, FireWhisky?" Dom announced.
"I'm thinking FireWhisky and tequila," Evans countered.
"Merlin, are you on a death wish girl," Freddie laughed.
"Kind of. I am finally, finally feeling myself again and in the mood to get very very intoxicated."
"Cassie," Seth tutted coming over with Maisie.
"Yes?"
"Sensible," he huffed.
"No," she smirked back.
"Why don't I make some drinks? I used to do shifts at my uncles bar in the Caribbean." Maisie offered.
"I'll help," Seth nodded.
"My favourite please Sethy," Evans said sweetly, taking the tray of seven tequila shots over to some sofas which had materialised out of the trees.
"Surprise me," Dom said bringing over a tray of FireWhisky shots. Alice, Freddie and I also made our way to the sofas. I watched whilst Maisie and Seth very sweetly and rather extravagantly made us drinks.
"Where did he learn to do that?" Freddie asked, watching bemused as Seth flipped around bottles of alcohol.
"I make my money making coffee and well the rare times Seth is home he works for this swanky black tie catering business," Evans said nonchalantly. I watched as she turned to look at her brother and smiled.
"They are cute," she said only so we could hear.
"Yeah, I can't lie, she is perfect for him," Dom agreed.
"Was about time. The man deserved something a bit more permanent," Freddie nodded.
"You don't think we will get caught?" Alice asked nervously.
"Alice think, you know your dad is at my parents' house. Teddy and Shacklebolt are too. And then even the responsible teachers who are staying in the castle will definitely be in Slughorn's quarters," I said reassuringly. Halloween was the perfect night for this party for this reason alone. Since the final battle of Hogwarts, my parents decided that Halloween should be celebrated. My dad actually wanted to acknowledge his parents and the sacrifices they made for all of us, and he wanted to use the day to commemorate life and those lost in general. Teddy was obviously part of the Potter family traditions, and Neville and Kingsley always made a 'quick' appearance after the feast.
"I know, I just don't fancy being expelled," she sighed.
"Alice your dad is a professor!" Evans laughed.
"Yeah and it's Kingsley, if he didn't expel old Scissorhands over here I think you'll be fine," I chimed in.
"Hey!" Evans protested.
"He has a point," Dom laughed.
"Enough with this expelling talk and let's get drunk hey," Freddie cheered.
Maisie and Seth brought over a tray of drinks each for us and I already had the feeling that tonight was going to be a heavy one.
"Merlin I am going to die," Alice gulped, looking at the two drinks and two shots in front of her.
"You and me both sis," Dom agreed.
"Right do let us know whose is better?" Maisie asked with a grin. We all took a swig of the pink drink she made. It was strong but delicious.
"Oh yeah, I am getting rat arsed tonight," Evans coughed.
"Not good?" Maisie said quickly.
"No it's fucking fantastic," Evans smiled.
"Try mine please," Seth said like a child. We all took a swig, and his was weirdly just as nice. Not as strong tasting but equally very refreshing.
"Not to be lame but I like them both," Alice decided.
"Yeah same," Freddie, Evans, Dom and I, chimed in.
"Well looks like a draw then," Seth smirked.
"Is that a good idea to be wearing tonight?" Evans interjected, eyeing up Seth's wrist.
"I'll be careful," he said protectively holding his watch.
"Better be."
It was a rather comical but sweet affair when the twins had exchanged gifts. Upon unravelling the paper both of them had tears in their eyes and instantly started mumbling pleasantries at each other. Seth had gifted Evans their dad's old hospital bag for when she was inevitably going to be a healer. Evans had repaired their dad's watch and given it to him. The boy had since treated it like his child. He would stare at it fondly and not let it out of his sight.
"Well I'll just make sure you don't get too smashed," Maisie joked.
"Yeah pretty hard with these lethal drinks girl," Dom giggled back.
"Speaking of which, shots?" Evans asked.
We all picked up the first shot of FireWhisky.
"Happy belated birthday guys," Dom chimed. We cheersed and I cringed as the liquid burned my throat.
"Tequila?" Evans asked.
"To a great and uneventful night," Seth announced. We all cheersed and the minute the burning sensation went down my throat I wondered to myself, now why would you jinx it Seth?
X X X
Two hours later and the party was in full swing, and I was very very intoxicated. Most of our year had come along with pretty much all of the family.
"Albieee," I cried, seeing my brother attempting to chat up a Ravenclaw.
"Jamieee," Al said hugging me.
"Please don't cockblock me," he whispered into my ear.
"Yeah he has a girlfriend mate," I whispered back rustling his hair and dragging him away from the man in question.
"Oooh," Al sulked.
"Hey, no frowning mister man," I said touching his hair up. He had dressed up as Dad which was kind of weird. The hand drawn scar made him look funny.
"Jeez you are drunk James," Al said, rolling his eyes.
"Sorry dad," I said now hysterically laughing. Why was I so funny?
"Lily please help," Al called out.
"Hello Lily cat," I called out hugging my sister. She had dressed as a cat but kind of reminded me of Crookshanks junior.
"You're drunk," Lily laughed.
"And you're Crookshanks junior," I giggled.
"Oi, if that is because I am ginger I will beat you up," she huffed.
"I think you need some water Jamie," Al advised.
"I think I need a cigarette dear father," I smirked, walking off towards the edge of the trees which had become a designated smoking area.
"I'm not looking after him," I heard Lily whisper to Al. Who was Lily cat kidding? I didn't need looking after? I was just happily in my youth doing youthful fun things. This was fun James.
Dom, Alice and Evans were chuckling in the smoking area, all with a cigarette in hand.
"Hello Jamie," Dom said very giddy.
"Bonjour Dom Dom," I nodded with a smirk. Dom gave me an incredulous look and Evans and Alice burst out laughing.
"Bonjour Dom Dom?" Evans questioned.
"Got a problem with that Evans?" I asked. The comment tried to be in my snappy tone but that felt silly in this moment, so it came out a lot lighter than intended.
"You are rather intoxicated Flynn Rider," she smirked taking a drag from her cigarette.
"Can I have one?" Dom and Alice coughed on their drags and spluttered all over themselves.
"What?" Evans asked shocked.
"Why are you so surprised?" I asked, taking a seat next to her.
"Well you are just usually so my body is my temple, I am a bloody health and fitness guru, and if I catch you smoking you are off the team kinda guy," she retorted clearly amused.
"This is fun James," I said.
Dom, Alice and Evans laughed again.
"Oh Jamie, this isn't what I meant earlier. I didn't mean you had to start smoking," Dom said gently.
"I know. I'm not silly. I just fancy a cigarette."
"Well, I think we should give the man a cigarette," Evans said, passing me over one and a lighter.
"You're going to regret this tomorrow," Dom chimed.
I lit the cigarette and took in a deep drag. It made me feel slightly sick and I had to resist the urge to cough. After the first puff I felt better and reached for another drag.
"Since when did you smoke?" Evans asked amused, clearly impressed that I wasn't the loser she thought I was, and I wasn't spluttering everywhere.
"I used to smoke with Lex," I retorted, taking another drag.
"You did?" Dom asked bemused.
"Yeah out on the fields. We did a lot on those fields," I snickered.
"Yeah, as I did say earlier. I don't need that mental image," Dom replied.
"Sorrryyyyy," I chuckled.
"You are full of surprises James," Alice said amused.
"I bet you are too Miss Longbottom. Are you going to marry Freddie?" I asked.
Alice went bright red, and I felt bad. I didn't mean to make her go red. That wasn't very nice of me.
"I don't know," she said quickly.
"Well he would be very lucky because you look very pretty tonight. Dom are you going to marry Clement?" I asked, trying to smooth out my mistake.
"I don't know Jamie. I am going to put out my cigarette sadly and get another drink though. Would you like something, I think a water would be good for you?" she asked smoothly, standing up.
"A water would be fabulous you diamond," I beamed.
"Aren't you fun tonight," she laughed, "Alice, want to give me a hand with the drinks?"
"Yeah, sounds good," she said, stubbing out her cigarette.
"Hey! Don't leave me with Potter," Evans cried out.
"Don't act like you're not going to have another one," Alice said playfully.
"Yeah, and anyway, I have a serious matter to attend with you," I said seriously.
"Yeah, please don't leave me," Evans begged.
"Sorry," Dom and Alice chimed, clearly finding Evans' discomfort amusing.
"So what is this serious matter?" she asked, lighting up another cigarette. I suddenly felt nervous.
"So you've seen Tangled?"
"That is the serious matter Potter? Of course, I've seen Tangled. I'm a Muggle Born remember. It's my comfort film," she said confused.
"It was Lex's comfort film," I said. I don't know where the words came from.
"Oh. Well she had good taste," Evans replied, clearly uncomfortable.
"Did you cry when you woke up because you saw your dead dad?" I regretted it as soon as the words came out, but I didn't know how else to ask.
She choked on her cigarette and looked at me with a mix of anger and hurt.
"You fucking bastard," she hissed standing up.
"Wait," I jumped up quickly, grabbing her hand gently.
"I'm sorry. That was mean and insensitive. I only asked because I saw my dead girlfriend too. I saw Alex. And well, I guess I just wanted someone to talk about it with," I said quickly. Her facial expression quickly softened, and she gave me a weird look. It was almost sympathetic.
"No pity eyes," I said quickly.
"They're not. Don't worry Potter," she said taking a seat back down. I sat next to her, and she handed me another cigarette which I gratefully took.
"Don't tell anyone this Evans. Or I will kick you off the Quidditch team," I said.
"I won't, don't worry."
"So what did you see?" she asked, gently taking in a drag. She was quite the elegant smoker. She looked elegant in general tonight, like a regal fairy.
"Well. It was weird. I was at home with her, and she was there on the grass in the sunshine. It was such nice sunshine. And well she looked beautiful. A little bit like the sunshine. Kind of how she looked when we would say and do things to make the other glow. And she smelt like her, like vanilla, and she was real. She was her. She told me to grow up and live a little. But that is really hard because sometimes I feel like the love we had has always been buried quite deep inside of me. But I do want to live, to be the me that she used to see, and so maybe that is what I am doing tonight," I ranted. Why was I telling Evans this? She gave me a look which made me agree with the thought.
"I don't know why I said that," I said suddenly standing up.
"No wait. Potter. Sit down," she ordered. For some reason I obeyed.
"That was really nice Potter. I mean I didn't realise- "
"That I had a heart," I laughed.
"Well yeah. You're a bit of a fucking arsehole," she laughed.
"Fair enough." We both started giggling.
"I get you though. My dad was there on Cley Beach. It smelt like log-burning fires. He had his overgrown stubble. He looked the exact same and smelt the exact same. He even gave me advice and called me beautiful which caused me to break down into the stones," she said sombrely.
"He sounded like a pretty cool man," I said.
"He was."
"Do you think that Andrews put some sort of spell on that bloody bludger?" I asked.
"I mean unless that spell was the resurrection stone then I doubt it. I think we were both just that close to death," she said inhaling the smoke.
"Well, I am sorry you lost your dad when you did. I know it must have been hard to see him," I said also taking a drag. Evans looked at me with a shocked expression.
"I'm sorry too Potter. Alex seemed pretty fucking cool and I am so sorry you lost her. It's okay to show you're grieving more you know," she said carefully.
"Now that would be silly." I smiled trying to lighten the mood.
"It really wouldn't. If Alex told you to live a bit more, part of doing that healthily is by accepting your grief."
I took in the words. They hit my heart a little bit and I suddenly felt a bit sad and overwhelmed. I knew this would happen tonight. Maybe it was time to go.
"Hey, look, you two aren't killing each other," Dom said cheerily, passing me a water and Evans a drink.
"Thank you, Dom Dom," I nodded, taking an eager sip.
"Thank you Chicky. Where's Alice?" Evans asked.
"Freddie whisked her onto the dance floor," Dom smirked, "how are my little chickens?"
There was an awkward silence followed by an awkward glance.
"Did you two kiss or something?" Dom asked incredulously.
"NO," Evans shouted.
"Ewwie," I said, taking another sip of water.
"Well, that's a relief," came a voice from behind us.
"And why's that Kevin?" Evans asked with a smirk.
"Because you look absolutely gorgeous tonight and I was hoping you would come have a boogie with me," Kevin asked smoothly. He was literally dressed as a clown. Evans would be a clown if she got with him tonight.
"Not going to turn that down," she replied with a cheeky look.
"Get it girl," Dom called out as she disappeared off.
"Dom Dom," I mumbled.
"Yes, Jamie?"
"I think I want to go to bed," I muttered.
"Okay, I can take you to your dorm but are you sure? It's still quite early?" she asked gently, sipping another drink.
"I just feel a little bit sad," I admitted.
"Well, we can talk?" she suggested.
"I don't really want to cry you see."
"There's nothing wrong with that Jamie."
I just shook my head. Crying was not a Hogwarts thing. Let alone a Hogwarts party thing.
"I can drop you at Ted's if you'd like?" she asked.
"Can I have another drink?"
"I don't think that's a good idea Jamie."
"Please. I want to have fun. I want to have a boogie. If Evans is able to boogie then I can too," I said suddenly determined.
"Um okay," Dom said helping me up.
"If you throw up though I am not cleaning it up," she laughed. We made our way through the busy crowd of people. Seth and Maisie were twirling each other around like the little, cutesy, love birds they were. Alice and Freddie were having a frantic jump about with Al, Lily, Rose and Scorpio.
"Let's go there after," I said pointing at them.
"Okay Captain," Dom said pouring me out a drink.
"This is my tenth of the night," I chuckled, taking a big swig.
"James! That is including shots, right?" she asked.
"No," I giggled, "that would make it twenty. Or wait maybe twenty-five?"
"Merlin you will be the death of me," she tutted, dragging me over to the group.
"Dom why did you give him another drink?" Al said. I put my finger on his lips.
"Dad shuuuushhhh," I whispered.
"Oh Jamie, you're a bit mangled," Freddie chuckled giving me a hug. I hugged him back, what a cuddly man no wonder Alice loved him.
"Love you Fredster."
"Wow James, I've never seen this side of you," Scorpio chuckled. I looked at him trying to work out who he was meant to be dressed as.
"Are you a unicorn?" I asked.
Rose and Al burst out laughing.
"Not quite, I would need a horn for that," Scorpio laughed.
"Not very horny mate," I chuckled.
"James," Lily laughed.
"You are on a mad one tonight," Alice giggled.
"I have never seen you like this brother," Al commented.
"It's because I only used to get rat arsed with Lex. In the fields," I said, giving him a wink.
Dom shot Freddie, Lily and Al a look which I didn't like.
"Hey, I'm fine. Seee," I said, giving my best big smile.
"You are indeed fine sir," Seth said. I was grateful for his presence.
"My prince charming," I cried, hugging him dramatically.
"Wow, you will feel rough tomorrow. And is that a whiff of cigarettes I am getting," Seth noted.
"Doesn't count if they are your sisters," I shrugged.
"Speaking of which, where is Cass?" Seth inquired.
"If I was you, I would not turn around right now," Freddie chuckled.
"Fred!" Dom and Alice chimed giving him a light hit.
Seth turned around to see Evans enjoying Kevin's mouth. Potions was going to be an interesting affair.
"She's her own woman," Seth declared.
"Damn right," Maisie said, giving him a kiss on the cheek.
"There's so much love tonight," I said.
"Don't fancy anyone?" Lily asked.
"I am going celibate dear sister. A born-again virgin. Albus son, please take over for me. Someone in the family has to," I declared.
"You are not finishing that," Albus chuckled, trying to go for my lovely drink.
"Noo," I said, downing it in a sip.
"Merlin," he cried.
"Sorry Dad can't ground me here," I quipped.
"We've created a monster," Freddie said dramatically. I ignored him and allowed myself to relax and little and sway to the music. Swaying felt nice. As did this actually. Not being off with some girl in the corner, small talking each other's way into a broom closet felt nice.
"Off she goes, mission accomplished," I heard Dom whisper to Alice.
"And she did it all by herself," Alice gleamed back. I followed their eyeline to see Evans subtly leave with Kevin.
"Why would you want to have sex with a clown?" I chimed in.
"In fact, I am going to mirror her now and ask her that." I said pulling out my mirror.
"To hell you are," Dom said snatching it from my hand.
"Fine, I won't. Can I have my mirror back?" I said still swaying about.
"This is being confiscated for the night," Dom replied shoving it in her bag. No fairs.
"Stop being jealous," Alice scolded.
"I'm not. Ew. Wouldn't want to have sex with a fairy either."
"Well, luckily I think that is off the cards for you tonight," Dom shot back.
I stopped swaying but the room didn't. This didn't feel good. Neither did those tequila and FireWhisky shots. Or the two cigarettes.
"I am going to be sick," I announced with a grin and a nod. I turned quickly on my heels and went towards the trees. No sicky in front of the party. I had a reputation to maintain. A good strong, reputation.
Once I was a couple of trees in, I leant over and threw up the contents of my stomach onto the ground below. The mist meant you couldn't see it at least. It wasn't even a painful affair, and it weirdly made me feel better.
"James," Freddie called out.
"Here," I coughed, then threw up some more.
"Ew," he said, gently rubbing my back. After a couple of minutes of retching I leant against a tree opposite the sick.
"Drink," Dom ordered, giving me a cup of water.
"I don't need babying," I huffed.
"Fine, don't take it," she huffed back.
I grabbed the water sulking. Freddie gave Dom a nod and she headed back out to the dancefloor. Why was everyone acting so shocked that I was drunk? No one was like this when it was Dom or Freddie chucking up.
"Why the pouty face Jamie?" Freddie asked, slumping down next to me.
"Everyone's acting weird just because I'm a bit sloshed."
"I think it's just a bit new to people is all. No one has seen this carefree James. Merlin, I have never in my life seen you be sick," Freddie laughed.
"Is it that bad?" I asked, suddenly self-conscious.
"No, you are a hoot dear cus," he smiled.
"I hope so. I promise I am not always a sulky git."
"I know. I know. I'm actually happy to see you let loose a bit. It's refreshing."
I nodded and sipped the water some more. I still felt a little queasy, but the room had stopped swaying as much.
"Want me to take you back to the dorm?" Freddie asked.
"No, I'm okay I promise. Just give me a minute," I nodded, closing my eyes. It felt quite relaxing lying against the trees.
"A secret dorm meeting without me, I am insulted," Seth said, appearing out of the trees and sitting down next to me.
"We were letting you be in love," I replied with my eyes still closed.
"Not at that stage yet boys," Seth laughed.
"You'll get there," I replied. Silly boy was definitely, practically there.
"I was just reassuring Jamie that he is being comical tonight," Freddie interjected.
"Oh very comical indeed. I like this new look on you James," Seth smirked.
"I have a feeling it is a one night only appearance," I hummed.
"How you feeling? Still sicky?" Seth asked. I contemplated the answer.
"I don't know. Maybe one more throw up?" I questioned.
"Merlin, never sick, then twice in one night," Freddie chuckled.
"I'll have you know I've had over twenty drinks tonight," I murmured, standing up and heading towards the trees opposite.
"How are you still talking and walking?" Seth laughed, following me.
I wretched a little and threw up a bit and this time it actually hurt and felt rather uncomfy.
"Better?" he asked rubbing my back a bit.
"Yeah, definitely not throwing up again. Or having another drink," I said feeling a bit jaded.
"Sip it," Freddie said, handing me another water.
After finishing the cup my drunkness felt less dizzying and there were suddenly half the amount of trees around us.
"We can take you back to the dorm?" Seth asked.
"No I actually feel a bit better now," I nodded. The sound of the music came back into focus now the deafening feeling of nausea had gone.
"Wanna boogie?" I asked with a smile.
"I do indeed," Seth cheered.
"That's our captain," Freddie jeered. We made our way back to the group and Dom gave us an exasperated look.
"You're like bloody Voldemort," Lily laughed.
"Yeah maybe I am," I said twirling her about.
The rest of the night went by in a sweaty blur. I chose not to ingest anymore alcohol for the safety of my liver and my dignity. By the time 3am rolled by the room started to empty and Freddie announced it was time to call it a night to everyone. I was a little shocked no teacher had shut us down, but we were careful. There was no way to tell who crafted this whole affair and they couldn't give the whole year a detention. Especially considering even the prefects were present.
The five of us made our way down the deserted corridors. Whilst I had stopped drinking and started the hideous process of sobering up, the others had gotten progressively more drunk.
"Can we all have a sleepover?" Dom asked, twirling gracefully down the stone hallway.
"I would love that," Freddie beamed.
"Where's Maisie?" Alice pouted.
"She left an hour ago. Well, she got put to bed an hour ago. The girl was her own nemesis tonight, those cocktails were bloody strong," Seth chuckled, still in a loved-up haze.
"Oh, I like Maisie," Dom pouted.
"As do I Dom," Seth laughed.
"Do we ask where Cass is?" Freddie said amused.
"That is top secret information," Dom replied dramatically sealing her lips.
"I know she's with Kevin, I don't care," Seth shrugged.
"Have I been blind to miss some sort of secret flirtations in potions?" I asked, as we stepped into the common room.
"No this was pretty spontaneous to be fair to the girl," Alice chuckled.
"Don't worry Jamie, you're not that oblivious," Dom laughed.
We quietly made our way up to the dorm. It always felt weird it was only us three in it, but it was a stark reminder that we were the post-war children. So many people were killed and even then, some people were hesitant to start having children in case something similar occurred.
"Freddie, can I have a cuddle please," Seth said like a child.
"Of course, my prince," he replied dramatically. I laughed at their theatrics. Dom and Alice took a seat on Seth's bed and started removing their make-up. I chucked Dom over one of my t-shirts and a pair of my joggers before she attempted to raid my trunk; something Alice had already started doing to Freddie's.
"Water?" I asked. After getting nods from everyone I summoned a large jug and five glasses.
"You are a new person Jamie," Dom said sipping the water.
"Throwing up twice sadly sobers you up a bit," I murmured. The hangover was starting to hit already, and I was beginning to feel like I had been put through a blender.
"I'm not letting you live that down by the way," Dom chuckled.
"Me either," the others chimed.
"Oh shush," I said, taking off my silly costume and climbing into bed.
Freddie and Seth did the same and climbed into Freddie's bed whilst Dom and Alice went into the bathroom to get changed.
"What a night eh?" Seth smiled.
"A good night indeed," I smiled back. Despite my slightly erratic behaviour I did have a lot of fun.
"Do you think we got away with it?" Freddie asked.
"Well for our sake I hope so. If we haven't and they purposefully didn't shut the party down then that probably means they were letting us have some final fun before they expel us," I laughed.
"Merlin don't say that" Alice said nervously, coming out of the bathroom dressed in Freddie's clothes.
"We'll be fine," Dom said, following suit.
They both climbed into Seth's bed and looked rather cosy.
"I wish Cass was here, feels a bit incomplete," Dom pouted.
"I'm sure she is thinking the exact same at this very very moment," I replied.
"Ew," Seth groaned from his pillow.
"Jamieee," Dom moaned.
"I think it's bedtime," Alice announced with a yawn.
Everyone nodded and after a round of goodnights the room quietened and was replaced by the sound of heavy, gentle breathing.
I quietly pulled a picture out from under my pillow. I had taken it the night before from my bedroom after what was a pretty rough session with Holly. It was me and Lex from the night in the field on her birthday. You could see the lanterns and the bottles of champagne. I could smell the late summer sun, the burning fire and the candles from her cake. She was smiling whilst kissing my lips and my expression was an exact mirror image. I stroked it gently. Tonight, was nice, but the others were right. They didn't see that side of me. The side that had been cultivated and grown out of those days in the fields with her.
"Night lex," I whispered. I kissed the photo and held it close to me whilst I willed myself to fall into a dreamless sleep.
