A/N: My apologies for the delay in updating. RL reared its ugly head, and my muse was feeding me inspiration for other stories I am working on... hope you all enjoy :-)
Chapter 6
Rachel sits there stunned. She never expected Fleur to be anything but one hundred percent human, even with the revelation of magic and strange creatures. Hell, she has even seen and heard one such creature speak. Once again, she thinks she should run away kicking and screaming. Instead, her curiosity is piqued even more and she craves to know even more about this wonderful being currently freaking out in front of her. Besides, she thinks, who the hell is she to judge anyone when she has been judged by others so much already in her short life. Other than the fact that Fleur Isabelle Delacour isn't exactly what meets the eyes when it comes to her ancestry, she is still the same beautiful and amazing woman she knocked down two days ago.
Rachel shakes her head and looks up the steps to see Fleur sitting there slumped, with her eyes closed, panic and what seems like utter sadness evident in her features and at once Rachel finds that unacceptable. She wonders what would prompt a person to leave everything behind and learn to live in a completely different world. She then gets up and kneels in front of Fleur and grabs her hand to gently cradle it in both of hers, surprising the young veela with the sudden contact.
"Fleur? I will probably end up with both feet shoved down so far down my throat they might need to be surgically removed, but, uh, I need you to know that I really don't care that you are of mixed heritage. I mean, I am curious about it, but surprisingly enough, I'm not freaking out as much as I think I should." Rachel says softly, once again blushing (good God, she would have to work on that. She might as well work part time impersonating a boiled lobster should she keep blushing like this).
"You don't care?" Fleur asks once she recovers from the shock at Rachel's non-reaction. Hell, most wizards and witches have had very violent reactions to that bit of news. She was expecting screaming, fainting, disgust, something other than this quiet acceptance. If anything, it just makes Rachel even more intriguing and her desire to get to know this young woman increases.
"I mean, it's kind of shocking and somewhat incredible, but with everything I have seen and heard so far, at least you're not part troll and you possess more than adequate intelligence. I can't even begin to imagine what you would look like as a troll. Come to think of it, aside from cartoon depictions, I don't even know what one looks like." Rachel says, trying to lighten the mood some.
"Merci Rachel. I honestly expected a more violent reaction from you. Why is that? Then again, the fact that you did not faint at the sight of Trixie should have given me a clue." Fleur says smiling for the first time since the revelation. "Which reminds me, Trixie, come here please." Fleur calls out softly.
Within seconds, there is a soft pop and the house elf materialises in front of the two girls. Rachel jumps and nearly screams at the sudden appearance of the house elf.
"What can Trixie do for Mistress Fleur?" she asks shyly.
"Go back to France, to the Delacour Estate. I shall be fine on my own. You have done nothing wrong, it's just that I live in a muggle world now and we cannot have obvious signs of magic here." Fleur says, adding the last part once she notices the dejected look on Trixie's face.
"Mistress Apoline will not be pleased with Trixie because Trixie has failed her, but I will do as Mistress Fleur asks." The house elf replies dejected.
"Please don't be sad and don't worry about anything. I have communicated my wishes to my parents and they know I am very displeased with them for sending you here in the first place. You have done well, Trixie. Now go home and if I ever need your assistance I shall contact you myself." Fleur says with a sad smile, and with another pop, the house elf disappears.
"What did just happen?" Rachel asks in awe after witnessing the exchange.
"Please accept my apologies for being so rude. Trixie does not understand any English. I just told her that I did not need her help here and sent her back to France. I did not mean to interrupt. Please continue." Fleur answers softly.
"Well, I guess I don't really care because it's not like I haven't dealt with my fair share of stuff just because of who I happen to be. As you know, I have two dads, which of course means that I am the daughter of two gay men. My Daddy also happens to be African-American, and that in itself is a reason for prejudice and judgement from most of the ignorant fools around here. I like you and I refuse to let circumstances beyond our control dictate what I think of you. So far, I find you to be an articulate individual who is beautiful, kind and with a wicked sense of humour. I would like to continue our fledging friendship and see what happens." Rachel says, looking down at the hand still gently cradled in hers. She is convinced that the flush she feels isn't only in her face, but in her whole body and she knows that if she looks at Fleur, she will spontaneously combust due to the intensity of her blush.
"Besides, you might not want to be around me anymore once people treat you funny because you are nice to me." Rachel says just above a whisper, finally releasing the soft hand in hers.
Fleur automatically places her fingers under Rachel's chin and lifts her head so they're looking at each other now. "Rachel, you have shown me kindness beyond words. You did not rescind your offer of friendship once you found out my secret. I shall always treasure our friendship, and like you, I would love to cultivate it further. I truly enjoy your company and I do not care what others here might do or say about it." Fleur says sincerely. Once again, she is amazed by the level of maturity shown by the young brunette.
Rachel smiles brightly at those words, silently thanking whatever deity out there that allowed them to meet in such a unique way. Before she can say anything else though, the door bell rings with the arrival of the first delivery.
The rest of the morning is spent shepherding delivery men in and out of the house. Telling them where to put things so they won't have to re-arrange too much furniture once everything is delivered. Lunch consists of pizza so they don't have to rush back for the afternoon deliveries, which surprisingly enough arrive fairly close to each other. By four p.m., every major piece of furniture is placed in its final resting area, and all major appliances are hooked up and ready to be used.
"I can hardly believe everything is here and ready to be used." Fleur says in amazement. She remembers some of Hermione's horror stories about having to wait for days for some of her furniture in her London flat. She recalls how Ron had complained that they just dropped everything for Ron and Hermione to deal with.
"I think those delivery people couldn't resist the whole 'damsel in distress' bit." Rachel says with a chuckle. "I guess Quinn was correct, there is an upside to living in a small town with chauvinist pigs. Most straight men cannot resist the sight of a pretty face and they stumble upon themselves to show off and appear helpful." She adds humourlessly.
"Believe me, Rachel, that is a universal trait. Not just the mentality of people living in small towns." Fleur adds with a small smile.
"May I ask you something personal?" Rachel asks shyly.
"Of course you may." Fleur answers with a small smile.
"You mentioned something about a thrall, I believe you called it. Did it have anything to do with how some of the delivery people were tripping on their feet to assist you?" Rachel asks with a confused look, wondering also if that is why she is so inclined in helping Fleur.
"I don't think so. As we get older, we get control of the thrall. Mine is fairly weakened, compared to one from a pure veela. Besides, those affected by the veela thrall have this glazed look in their eyes, and they act as if they are in a hypnotic trance." Fleur says, impressed at the question and the lack of malice in Rachel's tone. Most witches treated her like a plague carrier in fear she would steal their mates, as if she would ever sink that low.
Rachel lets out a small breath of relief upon hearing that. She is definitely in full use of her faculties.
"Do you ever get tempted to use your thrall on other people?" Rachel asks hesitantly.
"No. When I was younger and had no control over it, I had boys following me around ready to do my bidding like mindless mannequins. It made having a conversation with anyone of the opposite gender nearly impossible. There are very few men who aren't affected by a veela's thrall." Fleur says with a slight frown at the memory of her teenage years.
Rachel automatically thinks her question upset Fleur. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply anything bad with that question. I was just curious." Rachel says anxiously.
"Oh, no. I'm not upset with you or at the question. I was just remembering how annoying it all was. Until I gained some control, all my friends were female. Even then, there weren't many because a lot of them would get jealous their boyfriends would react that way around me. Some girls even accused me of doing that on purpose and did not believe me when I told them that at the time I had no control over it." Fleur says sadly, remembering the incidents.
"It doesn't work on girls?" Rachel asks, truly curious.
"No. It only works on people of the opposite gender. I'm not sure why we even have it, because every veela I know would rather be with someone who isn't affected by their thrall." Fleur says sadly, thinking of what could have been had Bill survived. "I guess in an evolutionary sense, it would help us escape our captors." She adds as she furrows her brows.
"Do you ever get tempted to use magic to take care of everyday chores?" Rachel asks changing the subject once she notices the sadness clouding Fleur's eyes. She opens the fridge to see if it's cold enough.
"I used to, but not anymore. I have seen how lazy some wizards can get and how dependant they become." She says glad at the change of subject. She remembers only too well how most purebloods wouldn't be able to do a thing if someone were to snap their wands. "It is extremely helpful though when I need to move heavy items. I admit that if those men had not insisted in helping us, I would have charmed the furniture and appliances to make them light enough for us to move around and not get hurt." Fleur admits sheepishly.
"I admit that I am extremely curious about magic and the temptation is very strong for me to ask you to show me stuff, and to perhaps do things for me. I need you to promise me that if I ever make you uncomfortable with my questions or requests you will say something to me immediately. I don't want to risk annoying you or have you think that I would use you to make things easier for me. I am human though and I believe that it is in our nature to want things as easy as possible." Rachel says after some thought, knowing it's better to clear things up than to have issues come up because of miscommunication between them.
"Thank you Rachel. I appreciate your honesty, but I really doubt you will ever use me in such a way. I never realised how dependant I had become until I made the conscious effort to stop. Had I not accepted your help when I hurt my foot, I would have probably come home and pulled my wand out to mend my injury. I would not have known what to do otherwise." Fleur admits quietly.
"Oh. Why didn't you just mend it using magic once you told me about your world?" Rachel asks perplexed.
"I know from experience that it is the ease with which my people can mend injuries that have caused some of the arrogant attitude a lot of the purebloods have. I do not think we are superior in any way to muggles and I don't ever want to think that. There is another thing to keep in mind though. Mending injuries isn't something the average wizard or witch can do. Healing spells when they're not done properly can do more damage than good. The ones who have the knowledge are called mediwitches and mediwizards. They have studied the field extensively, much like your doctors." Fleur says, feeling the need to clarify. It would not do to have Rachel believe that all witches and wizards can wave a wand and cure the injured.
"I don't get it. You said you worked for the bank. Did you have two professions?" Rachel asks confused.
"No. I had to learn some basic healing spells because it was a necessity." Fleur says without elaborating, the look of sadness and despair returning to her beautiful features.
Rachel sees the look reappear on the blonde's face and once again feels like a jerk. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you again with my stupid questions and my curiosity." Rachel says softly, silently wishing she could kick herself swiftly in the ass. She speculates that whatever it is that is making Fleur so sad is part of the reason for the one-eighty in the blonde's life.
"Don't be. Curiosity is what made me learn about your world in the first place. I cannot begrudge your quest for information just because some of that information brings back unpleasant memories." Fleur says reaching over and grabbing Rachel's hand in hers, softly stroking the back with her thumb.
"That still doesn't give me the right to upset you." Rachel whispers, as she squeezes the hand that is softly cradling hers.
Rachel's words warm her heart and Fleur cannot help the tears that flood her eyes. Over the years, her family and friends have pushed her to talk about her feelings, regardless of whether or not Fleur has been ready to open up. Yet, this girl she has met only two days ago has shown her kindness and understanding no one else has been able to since Bill. She closes her eyes as the first tear slides down her cheeks, soon to be joined by more.
Upon seeing the tears, Rachel panics and automatically uses her other hand to softly wipe off the tears. "I am so sorry. I really did not mean to make you sad. I promise I will do my best to stop asking stupid questions." Rachel says in rapid fire speed, panic clearly evident in her voice.
"Do not feel upset, ma petite ange. These are tears of relief. You are the first person who has shown me such consideration for my feelings in your quest for knowledge and understanding. Not even my family has been able to stop their questions; regardless of how upset they might make me." Fleur says as she puts her free hand on top of the one Rachel has cupping her face so gently.
Rachel removes her hand from Fleur's face, and silently pulls Fleur towards the new couch and gently guides her to sit down. She then releases the blonde's hand and as if she has done this countless of times, she pulls the tall blonde in for what she hopes is a comforting hug. Rachel has no idea what to say to those words. The idea of questioning someone you're supposed to care for when that someone is upset is a foreign concept for Rachel. Unconsciously, Rachel runs a hand through the platinum blonde locks, absently enjoying the feel of the silk like strands running through her fingers.
Fleur is surprised at the comfort she gets from Rachel's embrace. Ever since Bill's death, she can barely stand the hugs from her family and friends. She knows they mean well, but if anything, they just make her feel oppressed and in some rare occasions, uncomfortable at the physical contact. She just clings to Rachel, enjoying the embrace and she silently sends a prayer of thanks to whatever deity is listening. For the first time in years, she feels lighter, like she can finally move on.
When they finally pull apart, both girls are surprised at the empty feeling, but choose to ignore it. "Thank you Rachel. Fleur says softly, smiling once again.
"Well, um, you looked like you needed a hug." Rachel says looking at her feet, once again feeling her cheeks burn. She is sure she is the colour of a ripe tomato again. "I, uh, was thinking that we still have some time to get some more shopping done." Rachel changes the subject, hoping to give Fleur a break from whatever it is that is troubling her.
"You mean, a day of furniture shopping isn't enough for you?" Fleur teases lightly, glad for the subject change. She cannot help but marvel at Rachel's insight and thoughtfulness.
"Well, you might have furniture and working appliances, but a whole lot of good an empty fridge is going to be. I figured if we hit the local Linens N Things first, we can get you some decent kitchenware and dinnerware. I doubt you'd want to rough it and eat with your hands on a permanent basis. Then we can head to the supermarket and at least get you enough groceries to tie you over for a couple of days." Rachel says with a light smile.
"That, Mademoiselle Berry is an excellent idea. Lead the way, though if we are planning on getting that many items, I insist in taking my rental. Your chariot might be fuel efficient, but it does not provide a lot of cargo space. And, to ease your mind, you can once again chauffeur me around." Fleur says with a small curtsy.
Rachel bows playfully before she extends her hand for Fleur to take. They systematically tackle the shopping of the big items, starting with the bulkiest and ending with the most fragile. Everything is loaded safely into the trunk of Fleur's rental and the girls are off to get some groceries. When they return to Fleur's house, they slowly and quietly unload and carry everything inside. They work quickly to put the groceries away, keeping their conversation light.
"Would you like to stay for dinner? It won't be anything fancy, but at least it won't be take out and I'll be the one cooking." Fleur asks, not ready to be alone just yet.
"Sure, but I get to help." Rachel answers happily. "We can start by taking everything out of the boxes and loading the items in the dishwasher. There is no knowing what might be on the seemingly clean surfaces." She adds.
"That would be lovely, and I appreciate all your help." Fleur says sincerely. She looks around a bit nervous, but deep in her heart she knows she has to say what has been in her mind since Rachel accidentally caught sight of Trixie. "I need you to keep everything I have told you about my identity and background to yourself. I know it is a lot to ask, but you cannot say anything to anyone, not even your parents or best friend. If the time ever comes where I feel like I can trust others here, I will say something. Until then, I will forever be grateful of your discretion." Fleur says a bit reluctant.
"Don't worry about a thing. I kind of expected something like that. I wasn't planning on saying a thing. I have learned my lesson. Most importantly, it is not my information to share, nor is it my secret to share." Rachel says softly, remembering the clusterfuck of events that followed her revelation of Quinn's secret.
"Thank you." Fleur says as she gathers a few things to start their dinner. "Are you allergic to anything or is there anything you do no like to eat?" Fleur asks Rachel with a small smile, remembering the same queries from Rachel earlier in the day.
"No food allergies to my knowledge, and everything you picked up at the store I am fine with." Rachel answers with a light chuckle. "What can I help with?" She asks as she grabs two aprons, one for her, and one for Fleur.
"How do grilled halibut, wild rice, and salad sound?" Fleur asks as she starts to gather the ingredients needed.
"Perfect. I'll take care of the salad and rice while you take care of the fish?" Rachel asks as she dons the apron and hands the other one to Fleur.
"Merci." Fleur says with a smile.
Both girls work quietly and efficiently. Within a half hour, dinner is ready and served. They decide to eat at the breakfast bar on the other side of the kitchen island since it's just the two of them.
"Mmmm. This is heavenly, Fleur." Rachel says as she takes a bite of her fish.
"Merci. Once I get things settled, I will invite you and your dads for dinner. I still owe you a homemade French dinner." Fleur says softly. "What is it Rachel. You can ask me anything, and I will do my best to answer." Fleur says as she watches a host of emotions flicker through Rachel's face.
"How did you know I wanted to ask something?" Rachel asks perplexed.
"I can see it in your body language. You have this look in your face when you want to know something, and you have been fidgeting for a bit." Fleur says with a small chuckle.
"I was kind of wondering what happens when people aren't ready to accept all the knowledge of your world? What happens when they threaten to out you all to the rest of my world. I know some really unscrupulous people would not hesitate to benefit from this knowledge as much as possible." Rachel says softly.
"You'd be surprise at how easily people can deal with things by going into denial once a plausible explanation is provided." Fleur hedges carefully, not sure how Rachel would react to some of the darker side of magic.
"Is it always that easy?" Rachel asks. "I just don't want to see you become a guinea pig because someone else might see something they're not supposed to." Rachel explains.
Fleur sighs softly. "Please don't hold what I am going to tell you against me. I wholeheartedly disagree with those practices." Fleur starts. She silently sends a pleading look Rachel's way once she sees another question start to bubble to the surface, and smiles kindly when Rachel gestures for her to continue.
"We are taught from very early on that we must never perform magic in front of muggles, unless it is a matter of life and death, even then, we have to do so as inconspicuous as possible. There are always cases where muggles accidentally stumble upon us. There are however some purebloods who make it a game to charm items that muggles use on a regular basis because they think it's funny to see their reactions. When we cannot explain the magic use away and when the pranks are bad enough, there are squads in each ministry that will go and perform memory altering charms to protect our world. I truly dislike playing with people's memories when it can all be prevented by being more careful and being less arrogant." Fleur says sadly.
"Would you have done something to my memory had I reacted poorly to your revelations?" Rachel asks, hoping the answer will prove her instincts correct.
"No. I would have quit my job, pack my belongings and leave, without a word of it to anyone. I would have made up some story to my parents and moved to another place to start over." Fleur says softly.
"Thank you." Rachel says relieved.
"What? Not that I am not flattered by it, but how can you just believe me? How can you just trust I won't do anything?" Fleur asks not quite able to believe the words coming out of Rachel's mouth.
"Don't sound so surprised. I know that we have known each other for a total of two days only. I found out about your world by sheer accident and in the span of twenty four hours, you have revealed some major stuff about yourself. Once you pulled out your wand and did your hocus pocus to bring up your suitcases you could have used magic against me, yet you did not. You chose to risk your safety and revealed things I am sure you're not supposed to tell a friend, let alone a complete stranger, even one that has helped you with your shopping. That's why I believe you when you said you were ready to tell me even if I hadn't walked in on the furless Chihuahua. That is why I believe that you would rather uproot yourself again, rather than hurt me in any way, and go against your principles. I really appreciate that you are willing to explore this friendship. I admire the fact that you value honesty and trust, regardless of how difficult it might make things for you." Rachel says with a smile.
"Merci beaucoup Rachel. Your trust will not be misplaced. I appreciate your kindness and your willingness to help, and above all, I appreciate your discretion." Fleur says with a huge smile.
Rachel's breath catches at the sight of that smile. She quietly wonders if the brightness of it alone can light up the entire Eastern Seaboard. She forces those types of thoughts away from her head because she remembers the awkwardness when she had her crush on Mr. Schue. She is definitely not going there again. Rachel closes her eyes and shakes her head a couple of times before she opens them once again to look at her dinner companion.
"No, I'm the one who should be thanking you for placing so much trust in me. I wish I could tell you how and what I am feeling, but I cannot seem to be able to find the proper words to express how much that means to me. For now, I guess thank you will have to be enough." Rachel says softly. "I know so much about you, let me at least return the favour and tell you about myself more in depth." Rachel replies with a smile of her own and proceeds to speak about her life.
TBC