Hey! I've finally updated, I know! Thank goodness! Anyway, this is the part where they actually have their first non-drunken kiss! (Technically, the drunk part was Bletchley's fault..oh well.) Hope it's good and it's a bit shorter too...not by a lot.

Chapter Eleven-Out In the Open

'Ok, Greengrass is out of the way, so is every girl here. That's great, really, but I neglected to state that I already have my eyes on someone. Shit! Well, then again, I don't need everyone sticking their noses in my business. I just hope I'm doing the right thing in not saying much more.' Colin mused unsurely that evening before dinner walking down the corridor, paying no mind to the whispers and the girls' apparent sulking.

He figured they'd live with the disappointment as would anyone in their position. Life goes on. He had more pressing matters to think about, like what Miles's reaction was because he saw him briefly as he was leaving the library and didn't get a chance to truly look.

"Hey Colin!"

He stilled at the deep voice beckoning behind him. It was Cormac looking unusually proud. He leaned into Colin, nudging against his shoulder. "I just heard the most interesting news today that concerns someone I know all too well, who's fine as hell and so happens to be my best mate. Care to indulge me?"

Colin rolled his eyes with a smile. He let out a playful sigh. "Yes, it's all true. I pretty much outed myself in the library."

Cormac laughed, clapping his hands together. "First and foremost, I must congratulate you. And second, haha! Yes! Greengrass must be pissed!"

"Yeah, she was. Oh well."

"Thankfully you won't be hearing from her anymore."

"Definitely. Think there's a chance for payback because I humiliated her?"

"Meh, possibly but don't count on it. She'll live. You should concern yourself more about Miles. Does he know?"

Colin nodded. "I saw him on the way out. He was sitting with his team-mates."

"Then that's one step out of the way. Now all you have to do is wait for him to approach you. Speaking of approaching, I need to visit my favorite Beater sometime."

Colin gave him a cheeky response. "And grope his arse?"

Cormac smirked. "And grope his arse."

"I really appreciate the offer but no thanks, Roger. I'm doing fine so far in all my classes." Colin gave Davies a soft smile, shrugging his shoulderbag back upon his shoulder and looking up at the tall Ravenclaw.

"Well, if you ever change your mind, come find me. I'll be glad to provide you a 'private tutorial'." Roger winked, grazing his fingers along Colin's shoulder just before he left to the courtyard.

'Ugh, god. Another one. Fifth time today.' Colin scratched his head and frowned, staring out the open archway.

Ever since he outed himself in the library three days ago, it's been one proposition after another. Ok, some weren't outright propositions but they did have that certain underlying tone. At times he thought it was a mistake to have let everyone know, sadly, the populace would have found out eventually. Plus, he had to lay down the law with Daphne and the other girls. That part was easy enough, now he was having more difficulty with the guys.

'Hopefully I can survive this a little while longer. It can't get harder than this, can it? I'm not sure if I have enough politeness in me left, let alone patience.'

"Rough day, mate?" Cormac trudged over, letting his bag fall to the stone floor. He gazed at him in interest, waiting for an answer.

Colin shrugged and leaned against the wall. "You could say that. You just missed Davies making a pass at me."

The taller blonde raised an eyebrow. "Davies, huh? Hm, figured it would be a matter of time until he approached you. I bet Justin that it would have been Diggory first."

Colin snorted. He didn't find it all that hard to believe that Cormac was playfully betting on suitors. "I don't think that's going to happen."

"I dunno, Colin. I've noticed he has been checking you out here and there lately."

"I still don't believe he'd step away from Cho long enough to ask me out on a date. Those two are an item, are they not?"

"That may be but things change."

"I guess so."

"You know what would be hilarious?"

"What?"

"What if Malfoy started fancying you?"

Colin held back a burst of laughter. Now that idea sounded more preposterous than Cedric coming after him. "I think the day Malfoy sought me out would be when Snape decides to snog Filch."

Both Lions shuddered at the gruesome image.

"God, Colin. That was just nasty."

"I have my moments. Did I ruin your appetite?" Colin pouted his lips, feigning worry.

"No you didn't, which is a wonder in itself. Thanks for reminding me about lunch, we should totally bring up that Snape/Filch idea at the table, see how many we can gross out. I'd personally like to see Ron be unable to finish his plate."

Colin inwardly smirked. The look on his room-mate's face would be fucking priceless. Two of his most-disliked people sucking face. Yep, they totally have to do it. Grabbing his bag, Colin grinned. "Why don't we get a seat right next to him? Ron needs to hear us loud and clear."

"Draco...Draco...hello.." Deaf to the voice in his left ear, Draco continued to stare off across the Great Hall that night at dinner, focusing solely on Colin. That hair, those eyes, that body...it's only a matter of time before it's all his and absolutely none of it will go to waste. He'll have to start off slow, gain Colin's confidence, which to him it won't be such a taxing feat. Honestly, with his charm, outstanding appearance and his name of course, it wasn't hard to lure anyone in. 'Give it time. He'll crumble. They always do.'

"Draco, hey..." A firm tap on his left drew Malfoy back to earth.

"What do you want, Zabini?" he asked in irritation.

"We've been discussing potential plans for Hogsmeade while you've been lost in space. Care to give us any input?''

Fighting an instinctive sneer, he drawled ''Why not do what we normally would? I've never heard you complain before."

"Frankly, I'm sick of it and I'm surprised you're willing to stick with routine."

"I don't care, Blaise. I've got far more important things to deal with."

Blaise darted his eyes between Draco and Colin as he resumed eating. 'Oh yes, Creevey. Important, indeed.'

Next day in Potions...

"Could you pass the juniper berries? Need to add about six of them."

Colin emptied that amount from the glass vial and deposited them into Draco's waiting hand, observing the simmering light-purple brew in the pewter vessel.

"Might want to turn down the heat. We can't afford to scorch this."

Colin obeyed, turning the burner down slightly before returning to grind clippings of black hellebore in the mortar. Snape stuck several students in trios yet again (this time without Daphne) for their current project- Cornish Pixie repellent. Difficult to make, very useful for people living near those annoying bastards.

Turning the pestle clockwise, Colin mused 'This is indeed strange. It has been a month and a half almost and no wisecrack from Malfoy. Not a sneer nor a hex directed towards me. This is a relief! Yet...' He didn't feel a sense of calm like he expected. '..Yet, why can't I shake this feeling I have? Shouldn't I be happy that he's decided to leave me alone? I am happy but...damn it! Something's not right here, I just know it.'

Setting down the pestle, Colin sat the ground hellebore next to Draco. "Here, it's done."

"Thank you. Go ahead and add it in, then stir once clockwise, twice counterclockwise and clockwise once more."

"Sure." Moving a strand of loose hair behind his ear, Colin did as instructed. A very tiny smile formed across Malfoy's lips as he watched the Lion stir the cauldron. Pale slender fingers grasping the spoon, a wrist rotating in slow and careful movements. It was almost elegant in the way he tended to the brew, how he did everything.

That smile faded once that hand was away from the cauldron. Colin used it to help re-tie his ponytail, making sure no hair was hanging out of place. Cauldron burners and stray hair does not mix. "All right, now it simmers for ten minutes and then we're done." Once the timer went off, Snape went around collecting samples and tested them out on a Cornish pixie in a cage towards the front. Once he awarded points to those who passed and berated those who failed, class was dismissed.

"You've done rather well today, Creevey."

Colin looked up from his bag, surprised with the compliment. "Uh, yeah I guess. Thanks?"

Draco gave a kind nod before he left, easing his way past Colin. The Lion stared after him, unsure of what just happened. Was that sincerity he heard in his voice? Was that a very slight quirk of the lips? The kind that results in a smile? Either his paranoia was getting the better of him or the apocalypse was set to begin. He stuck with the former. Shaking his head, Colin met Neville and Cormac at the door.

After lunch two days later, in the courtyard...

"All right, so after breakfast tomorrow we'll reconvene at the Pitch for the Slytherin-Gryffindor game. I'm bringing some snacks and Butterbeer to pass the time. Those games have been taking for-fucking-ever to end lately." Justin groaned as he admitted the last sentence, stuffing his hands into his pockets. The muggleborn liked Quidditch and all, but a guy gets hungry after a while, you know?

"I hear you, mate..but at least it's better than class or detention."

"It's not like you'll be paying all that close attention anyway, you'll be clicking snapshots of Bletchley." Susan winked, teasing Colin over that very true instance.

Third game of the season and Colin's eyes were going to be on him whether they won or lost. Most likely Gryffindor was going to stomp them, as they did...nearly every time. Colin shrugged, fiddling with his camera lens. "He's cute, can you blame me?"

"No we cannot." Cormac comically laid over Colin's shoulders. "Besides, tomorrow's the day I am going to sneak into the Slytherin locker room."

Zacharias raised an eyebrow. "Good luck with that."

"Heh, please. I won't need luck."

'Wow..' Colin silently snorted while Cormac relayed his brilliant plan of sneaking in, turning when a shadow loomed over him.

"Hello, Colin."

The blonde's eyes widened. "Hey, Cedric. Uh, what can I do for you?"

The handsome Hufflepuff flashed those award-winning pearly whites. "I was hoping maybe you'd like to accompany me to Hogsmeade sometime...like this Sunday? That's if you want to."

'To the point', Colin noted. "Um, I dunno, Cedric. This seems kinda sudden, I mean, aren't you with Cho? At least that's what I've been hearing."

Cedric shyly shrugged, locking his slate-gray eyes with Colin. "I know it seems that way. It's not like Cho and I are exclusively dating. We're more casual than anything else." Colin nodded, taking a chance to glance over Diggory's shoulder, seeing Cho was standing with her friends and glaring at the both of them from across the way, mostly at him.

'Apparently SHE thinks they're exclusive.' He had to think of an excuse and fast. ''I'd like to, but sadly I'll be busy Sunday. Binns decided to drop on us a massive essay. I'm sorry.''

Cedric's face fell somewhat but his soft smile returned. "I totally get it, Colin. Binns does tend to lay it on a little thick. Well, maybe some other time then. See you later."

Colin waved him goodbye, sighing softly.

"See?" Cormac pointed out. "Told you."

''I know, I know..you're right."

Hannah whistled. "Wow, I have never seen anyone turn Cedric down. It's practically unheard of."

Colin replied "Don't get me wrong, Cedric's very handsome and he seems like a wonderful guy but I can't lead him on when I know it'll be going nowhere. I'm not that kind of person.''

Hannah smiled. "And that's why we like you so much. You're sweet and kind and- -"

Cormac interrupted "And sexy, don't forget 'sexy'."

Rolling her eyes, she continued "...AND you're considerate. I can see Miles being very happy with you."

"There's no reason why he shouldn't be happy with Colin. They're perfect for each other."

Said blonde lazily curled a finger through his hair, smiling dreamily. 'We are, aren't we? I think so, although I have yet to get Miles to squeal. I need to push him harder or I can just come out and say it. I need to before I get fed up with all the advances which won't be long, not long at all. Maybe tonight would be good? We're meeting after dinner as scheduled so I can at least figure my game plan.'

That night, after dinner...

'Nine o' clock. Oh boy..' Colin blew out tensely as he turned the corner, anticipating this next visitation. He was so nervous he almost forgot to breathe in between praying to whatever deity that happened to be listening to make sure things went right. The last thing he needed was an absolute disaster. Pacing three times, Colin stepped through the door. Miles was eagerly waiting on the sofa across the table filled with the usual snacks.

"Great to see you, Col. Sorry I haven't been able to see you much lately. Practice has been hell."

"It's fine, mate. I don't blame you." The Lion sat next to Miles, uncorking a Butterbeer.

"So..." the Keeper smiled, turning to his best friend. "...heard you've been fighting off the masses. How's that coming?"

Colin took a sip and tried not to frown but found that difficult because it was annoying. He wouldn't have minded if he was single and not undoubtedly crushing on Miles. "Well, I wouldn't say 'masses.' Truthfully, it's getting aggravating. I didn't expect to get this much attention. It's a bit overwhelming and I dunno how much more I can take. Did you know Davies hit on me earlier this week?"

Bletchley's fist tightened around the amber bottle as he maintained a calm face. "I've heard." 'Flirtatious git better stay away.' He listened to Colin further, clenching his jaw.

"Yeah. I really didn't think he'd approach me considering the crowd he runs with, same as Goldstein. They're not the only ones. Lynch, Kirke, that Slytherin seventh year; Desmoulin, not to mention, multiple others."

"Really?" Miles's heart was pounding, his body tensing with jealousy.

"Oh yeah. And earlier today, Cedric Diggory."

He nodded. "Diggory, huh?"

"Yes, turns out he and Cho aren't as exclusive as the rumor mill claimed. Well, she believes they are, anyway. But don't worry, I turned him down."

Miles let out a forcibly controlled natural breath. 'Thank Merlin! Fuck you, pretty-boy 'Puff.' "I'm glad to hear you're still in one piece. I don't think I would have withstood all those advances without losing my sanity."

Colin chuckled. "Yeah, I'm surprised I still have mine, same goes for my temper." He was sure to pay attention to Bletchley's last few words. 'This is going to work perfectly. Now I can draw it out of him with a compliment or two. Here goes nothing.' ''And...seriously? No one is asking you out?"

Miles shook his head. "No."

"Aw, why? You're nice, smart, funny and if I have to be completely honest, you're very attractive."

Miles found a slight blush crossing his cheeks.

Colin watched and mentally smiled. 'It's working.' "To top it off, you're an amazing bloke. I don't understand why you're single. Thought someone would have scooped you up by now."

Miles shrugged. "Guess I just haven't found the right sort yet." 'I already have and he's sitting in front of me.'

"Oh?" Colin sat down the bottle. "What sort of person are you looking for?"

The Snake countered shyly with ''What are you looking for? I'm shocked to see my best mate is still single, too.''

Colin flicked his tongue briefly over his bottom lip. 'I know exactly what I want.' "Hm, what I am looking for...well, I want someone who is honest, down to earth but still knows how to dream a little, he has to be smart, doesn't have to be a genius but smart enough to know how to keep his hand off a hot stove, someone who can keep my attention, stable, sensitive. He doesn't have to be perfect 'cause in reality, none of us are and really, I just want him to treat me with the kindness, decency and respect I deserve. That's all."

Miles nodded and tapped his chin. "I want someone who is also honest, sweet and kind...well, basically everything you said. But the most important thing is I want someone who can love me for who I am, not what they wish I were. I know I'm not exactly the most desirable man in the world and I am certainly not perfect. I just want that person to be comfortable with me like I would be with them and be willing to stand by me through it all, you know? That's all I really want." Bletchley locked eyes with Colin as he spoke, hoping to convey everything he was saying without actually having to give himself away. But with the spark glowing in those blue eyes, he was close to failing. No, scratch that...he IS failing.

'Aw, damn it. I-I can't hold out any longer, I need to tell him now.'

Colin was gazing at him longingly, his heart beating wildly. 'Open your mouth and say it already! If you won't, I will.' "Miles, I-"

"Colin, wait." Miles rubbed his face, sighing aloud. He scooted closer, never breaking eye contact. He couldn't believe he was about to do this, laying his heart on the line. He prayed Colin would accept. "Colin, since we're being honest and we have been nothing but that, I need to tell you...I..um.."

"Yes? Go on." Colin urged.

"I...fuck it.." Throwing caution to the wind, Miles grabbed Colin and passionately kissed him, feeling that distinct rush of excitement mixed with elation, this only intensifying once he felt Colin fully reciprocate the kiss, pressing himself further into the Keeper and threading his fingers through that short orange hair. Miles almost stopped kissing for the briefest of moments. He had no idea that Colin equally fancied him, though he did have his suspicions, however slight.

Out of breath, the teens pulled apart, eyes dilated and lips kiss-swollen.

"Wow..." Colin gulped.

Miles whispered. "You had no idea how long I wanted to do that.''

"I'm glad you did."

"So, you really want me?"

Colin smiled, leaning into his chest. "I've been wanting you for a while. You know, heh heh...I pretty much knew you wanted me too.''

Miles snorted. "Was I that obvious?"

"The sidestaring you've done and that intense flicker you get in your eyes when you're around me was enough indication."

A laugh sounded from the Keeper this time. "Beautiful and clever. I'm a lucky man."

"As am I."

"I believe the guys will be glad to know we've stopped dancing around each other."

"I couldn't agree more."

Close to curfew, Colin and Miles share a final gentle kiss before they separate for the night, content as can be now that their burdens have finally lifted.

Ain't that sweet? :P I know it took a while to get to this point but...here we are! Hopefully the next update won't take too long. Just bear with me, please. *gives pleading puppy dog eyes*