Dream Connections
Chapter 4
Harry walked dazedly back to Gryffindor common room. Friendship be damned, he wanted Blaise. They had parted not long ago with a short, sweet kiss that left Harry's brain rather foggy. He couldn't think of anything but Blaise's warm, soft lips on his own... not that he wanted to think of anything else.
In no time at all, however, he had reached the portrait hole. "Homo erectum," Harry mumbled before the Fat Lady could ask. She closed her mouth and swung open to reveal the entrance to the common room. Harry had barely set foot inside when he was assaulted by Hermione's voice.
"Not feeling well, Harry? Oh, that was rich. 'I think I'll go back to the common room'." Hermione mocked him, obviously none to happy. "We came back here thinking that you'd be waiting, but nooooo. Of course you weren't here. You only told us that you'd be here, why would you actually show?" Harry looked at his feet, suddenly ashamed although he couldn't figure out why.
"I'm sorry, Mione. I was coming back here, honestly. I ran into someone on my way and we had some butterbeers. I wasn't expecting to be caught up like that." Harry had conveniently left out exactly who he had run into and was hoping that he'd get away with it. He was disappointed to see Hermione frown deeply.
"It doesn't take all day to have some butterbeers, Harry. Where were you... and exactly who was it that had you caught up this entire time? They must have been pretty special to distract you for such a long time." Hermione smiled at Harry's deflated expression, knowing she had caught him. "Explanation time."
"Could I maybe talk to you alone, Hermione?" Harry was nervous now. Ron could not know about this... he just couldn't. Running a hand through his messy black hair, he bit his lip hoping that Hermione would catch his drift. He saw understanding dawn on his friend's face and allowed himself to be pulled to the far corner of the room. "Thanks." He mumbled, acutely aware of Ron's eyes on them.
"Okay, we are semi-alone now. What is going on and why can't Ron know?" Hermione looked at him anxiously, wary of what exactly her friend was trying to hide. She saw Harry blush furiously and knew suddenly what was going on. "You are involved with someone, aren't you?"
Harry turned a deeper shade of red and simply nodded. Then suddenly he shook his head. He and Blaise weren't exactly involved, at least as far as he knew. Hermione looked as confused as he felt. "I'm kinda involved, I guess." He stammered. "I'm not quite sure what you would call it, but it's nice, y'know."
Hermione smiled at her friend and reached out to brush some stray hairs from his emerald eyes. "I'm happy for you, but why on earth do you feel the need to keep this from Ron?" She saw the happiness in Harry's eyes dim a little and felt worry pooling in her gut. "Tell me, Harry, you can trust me."
Harry ducked his head as though he were ashamed and said nothing. Hermione was getting anxious again, something was wrong here. She bit her lip and thought hard. What could possibly be up with Harry's 'relationship' that Ron couldn't know about? It couldn't be a girl that Ron liked, could it? But after the talk she and Ron had... No... It couldn't be that. "Harry, tell me... Is it someone that Ron likes?"
"Oh, Hermione, don't be daft, it doesn't suit you." Harry looked up at her, staring into her soft brown eyes. "Ron likes you. It's not that... it's just..." Harry bit his lip and opened his mouth to continue, but no words came out.
"It's a boy, isn't it, Harry?" Hermione should've known. That would be the only thing that might keep Ron from being completely supportive, unless it was a Slytherin. She doubted it was a Slytherin though. Harry hated them as much as Ron did.
Harry looked thoroughly ashamed. "Yeah, it is." He looked nervously at Hermione, expecting to see disapproval in her eyes but saw only support. "You... You're okay with that?" Harry asked tentatively, not sure of what to expect.
Hermione broke out into a grin, laughing at the look of shock on Harry's face. "Why the hell wouldn't I be okay with that? I'm okay with you and I'll accept you no matter what. We are friends, y'know." She watched as Harry visibly relaxed.
They had been standing in the corner failing to actually sit down in the chairs until that moment. Harry sank into a soft, cushiony chair that was crimson with gold trim while Hermione daintily sat in the matching one across the small table that they normally play chess on. Looking at her friend lean back casually in the chair smiling happily, Hermione realized she still didn't know who Harry was 'with.'
"Umm, Harry," Hermione said quietly, "You still didn't tell me who it is." She was quite happy that Harry was relaxed enough to not think much of telling her who it was, but when he mumbled the name she had to hesitate. "Who did you say it was? I don't think I heard you correctly." She saw Harry blush.
"Blaise Zabini."
"Zabini?!" Hermione screeched. She saw Harry cringe as people turned to look at them curiously and lowered her voice to a whisper. "Are you serious? I mean, he is a Slytherin." She shook her head in disbelief, wondering when Harry had thrown all his inhibitions out the window. Then realizing that he had tensed again, she threw him an apologetic look. "I didn't mean it like that, Harry. It's not like I mind or anything, it's just that... I mean... Merlin, no wonder you didn't want Ron to know."
Harry nodded solemnly, stealing a glance at Ron who was eyeing them suspiciously. "So you really don't mind? Everything is okay?" He smiled when Hermione nodded, her bushy brown hair swaying in agreement. "Good, I'll be able to talk to someone." His grin had widened as he said this, but faded when he saw the stern look on Hermione's face. "What? What now?"
Hermione frowned at Harry. "You still have to tell Ron. He is your best friend, you're gonna have to tell him eventually." She saw him lower his head, crestfallen, and reached across the table to grab his hand. "Look, Harry. I am your friend no matter what. You will always be able to talk to me if Ron doesn't get over it soon. But make no mistake about it, he WILL get over it."
Harry kissed Hermione's hand gently and placed it carefully on the table. "I know, Mione, I'm just not ready yet." She smiled in return. "Of course, it will happen in your own time. Just know that the longer you wait, the more it will hurt him that you left him out on the secret. Now then, how about we talk later and let Ron join us. You know it's killing him being out of the loop."
Harry smiled and nodded, relieved that he had taken the first step. Ron would have to wait... that just wasn't something he could deal with right at that moment. He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose and called out to his friend. "Oy!!! Ron!!! Come over here, let's play chess or something!"
*~*
Draco heard the grinding of stone as the dragon moved out of the way to admit a visitor. He frowned, hoping that it wasn't Snape or Zabini. He didn't feel like sharing his feelings or dashing anyone's brains out on the mantel just now. "Speak your piece." He called out to whoever was invading his privacy. He wanted to just get down to business so that he could return to wallowing in self-pity face down on the couch.
"Oh, Draco, where are you? Stop playing around. We have to get to work on setting the plan into motion. Remember?" Pansy stood just inside Draco's quarters glancing around disinterestedly.
Draco heaved a sigh of relief. It was Pansy, thank Merlin, it was Pansy! He rolled onto his back and sat up, turning to look at her. "I'm right here. Sorry about that, I thought you were Snape or Blaise or something else horrific."
Pansy was by far Draco's favorite person. She could actually be seen as his best friend if you considered Slytherins to be capable of friendship. They forged a bond between themselves long ago when they thought they would one day have to get married. One could guess that they kind of grew on each other after that, watching out for each other, telling each other secrets. Pansy was the only person Draco allowed to see his true side. They were in no way attracted to each other but rather appreciated the companionship.
While Draco was staying with Snape after being disowned, he had contacted Pansy and let her know they were off the hook. Things immediately lightened between them and they became even closer. This is why Pansy so readily agreed to help Draco win Harry over. She truly understood his feelings and sympathized. The person of her dreams seemed out of reach as well... Seamus Finnigan. Oh, how she wanted him! From his sandy hair to his sexy accent... but he was a half-blood, and a Gryffindor at that! It could never work out.
Pansy smiled at him, her hard face softening as she looked at Draco's pale, worn visage. He looked so sad, and she doubted that if she were anyone else whether he would have even shown himself. "Ah, cheer up, Draco. My plan is practically fool-proof. The only way it will backfire is if Zabini gets a brain and a heart... and I doubt either of those will happen soon enough to mess up the plan."
"Don't you think it is kind of cruel to Harry, though?" Draco finally voiced his fear about the plan. "It is toying with his emotions. He might get hurt in the process and I don't want him to break down." He looked down at the floor and brushed his hair out of his eyes.
"Look at it this way, Draco. At least if he breaks down, you'll be there to pick up the pieces. He'll get over it, I promise." Pansy walked over, plopped (as daintily as a girl can plop) down onto the couch behind Draco and pulled him to her. She stroked his blond hair and rubbed her hands down the length of his arms. "You've got to think about this logically."
Draco smiled and leaned back into Pansy's arms. "You're right, Pansy. Damn you, you're always right." She laughed a full, throaty laugh as he pinched her arm.
"Bitter are we, Daaaarling?" Pansy stretched out the term of endearment in a mockingly sweet way. She laughed as Draco flinched.
"Come on, Pan, those days are long over."
"Oh really, Dray? They are? When were you gonna let me in on the secret?"
"You're teasing me! How dare you?!"
"I'm not teasing you..."
"That's what I thought! You know better."
"I'm mocking you!"
"You little wench! You know I hate that!"
"That's why I do it, idiot."
Draco smiled at the familiar banter as he turned to look at her, settling on the opposite end of the couch. He loved Pansy dearly, as a sister anyway. He had always wanted a sister, but Pansy was as close as he ever got. He was forever grateful for her presence...
"Pan, could we please move on to more pressing matters?"
"You mean like how you're gonna get into Potter's pants?"
"That is exactly what I mean; now you're getting it. What a good girl!"
Pansy gave no response other than hurling a pillow at Draco's head.
*~*
"I'm gonna head off to bed." Harry smiled at his two friends who were currently fighting over Ron's 'sorry excuse for a Potions essay.' They hardly glanced up at him as he turned toward the stairs. "Goodnight. See you in the morning. Are you gonna wake me up for breakfast, Ron?"
"Yeah, sure, mate. Bright and early... hold on... you up on early on a Sunday? Oh yeah, you've lost it." Ron turned to Hermione and shook his head. "I don't know who that is, but that is NOT Harry!" Hermione laughed and hit Ron lightly.
"Don't complain. It's a good habit for Harry to pick up. Then he can be one of us 'damn morning people'." She lifted a hand in a mock salute. "Goodnight, Harry. Sweet dreams." She glanced away too soon to see the look that crossed his face at her last statement.
"Yeah, sweet dreams alright." He muttered and disappeared up the stairs.
"What is up with him?" Ron asked Hermione, shaking his head. "There is something that is just not right with that boy. I can't figure it out. Did he tell you why he wasn't here like he said he'd be?" He fished for information, knowing he'd get nothing out of Hermione. The girl was like a vault, there was no getting anything out of her.
"Yeah, but don't ask about it... He'll tell you eventually." Hermione sighed and moved closer to Ron on the couch. "It takes a little time for Harry to get used to things, y'know." She ran a hand lazily across his thigh and up to his chest before letting it rest there, fingers splayed over his heart. She smiled as she felt it thud gently under her touch.
"Did you tell him about... y'know... us?" Ron stuttered, definitely feeling the effects of Hermione's caress. He placed his own hand over hers and used his other arm to pull her closer. He enjoyed feeling her warmth pressed against him. He kissed the top of her head gently and stroked her cheek.
"No, I didn't tell him yet." Hermione gave a small sigh of contentment, snuggling closer to Ron's toned body. "I think we should tell him together." She smiled and turned her face up to look into his cool blue eyes. Instead of seeing the peaceful sky blue she was used to, however, she saw an electric blue that seemed to burn through her. She blinked as she saw the passion and lust in those eyes, not realizing that she had the same look in her own.
Pulling Hermione up, Ron closed the space between them easily, pressing his lips to hers. He felt her return the kiss, soft yet demanding. Her lips moved over his in a sweet caress and her tongue played at his lips. Ron let her have the control and allowed her entrance to his mouth, giving her roaming rights. She used her tongue to find her way, exploring every crevice, as her hands found her way under his robes and to his nipples. She laughed as he gave a gasp of surprise when she pinched one.
Having had enough of being submissive, Ron rolled himself on top of Hermione, pressing her into the couch. He leaned close to her, trailing kisses across her lips and cheek finding his way to her ear where he nipped affectionately. "Together," He whispered heatedly, licking her ear seductively. "I like the sound of that."
*~*~*
A/N: Okay peoples. Thanks for all your wonderful reviews. You guys are fangoriously awesome and your reviews are to the limit!!!! I really appreciate it. Sorry it took me so long to update, but as my crazy ass beta reader already shared with you... I am lazy as hell. Keep reviewing... You are my motivation... you and my beta reader's threats of bodily harm... j/k... kind of... not really... she is crazy... I mean... I really appreciate my beta reader, N.C. PsyChick as a writer, editor, and friend... yeah that's what I was trying to say... Yay for me!!!!
Chapter 4
Harry walked dazedly back to Gryffindor common room. Friendship be damned, he wanted Blaise. They had parted not long ago with a short, sweet kiss that left Harry's brain rather foggy. He couldn't think of anything but Blaise's warm, soft lips on his own... not that he wanted to think of anything else.
In no time at all, however, he had reached the portrait hole. "Homo erectum," Harry mumbled before the Fat Lady could ask. She closed her mouth and swung open to reveal the entrance to the common room. Harry had barely set foot inside when he was assaulted by Hermione's voice.
"Not feeling well, Harry? Oh, that was rich. 'I think I'll go back to the common room'." Hermione mocked him, obviously none to happy. "We came back here thinking that you'd be waiting, but nooooo. Of course you weren't here. You only told us that you'd be here, why would you actually show?" Harry looked at his feet, suddenly ashamed although he couldn't figure out why.
"I'm sorry, Mione. I was coming back here, honestly. I ran into someone on my way and we had some butterbeers. I wasn't expecting to be caught up like that." Harry had conveniently left out exactly who he had run into and was hoping that he'd get away with it. He was disappointed to see Hermione frown deeply.
"It doesn't take all day to have some butterbeers, Harry. Where were you... and exactly who was it that had you caught up this entire time? They must have been pretty special to distract you for such a long time." Hermione smiled at Harry's deflated expression, knowing she had caught him. "Explanation time."
"Could I maybe talk to you alone, Hermione?" Harry was nervous now. Ron could not know about this... he just couldn't. Running a hand through his messy black hair, he bit his lip hoping that Hermione would catch his drift. He saw understanding dawn on his friend's face and allowed himself to be pulled to the far corner of the room. "Thanks." He mumbled, acutely aware of Ron's eyes on them.
"Okay, we are semi-alone now. What is going on and why can't Ron know?" Hermione looked at him anxiously, wary of what exactly her friend was trying to hide. She saw Harry blush furiously and knew suddenly what was going on. "You are involved with someone, aren't you?"
Harry turned a deeper shade of red and simply nodded. Then suddenly he shook his head. He and Blaise weren't exactly involved, at least as far as he knew. Hermione looked as confused as he felt. "I'm kinda involved, I guess." He stammered. "I'm not quite sure what you would call it, but it's nice, y'know."
Hermione smiled at her friend and reached out to brush some stray hairs from his emerald eyes. "I'm happy for you, but why on earth do you feel the need to keep this from Ron?" She saw the happiness in Harry's eyes dim a little and felt worry pooling in her gut. "Tell me, Harry, you can trust me."
Harry ducked his head as though he were ashamed and said nothing. Hermione was getting anxious again, something was wrong here. She bit her lip and thought hard. What could possibly be up with Harry's 'relationship' that Ron couldn't know about? It couldn't be a girl that Ron liked, could it? But after the talk she and Ron had... No... It couldn't be that. "Harry, tell me... Is it someone that Ron likes?"
"Oh, Hermione, don't be daft, it doesn't suit you." Harry looked up at her, staring into her soft brown eyes. "Ron likes you. It's not that... it's just..." Harry bit his lip and opened his mouth to continue, but no words came out.
"It's a boy, isn't it, Harry?" Hermione should've known. That would be the only thing that might keep Ron from being completely supportive, unless it was a Slytherin. She doubted it was a Slytherin though. Harry hated them as much as Ron did.
Harry looked thoroughly ashamed. "Yeah, it is." He looked nervously at Hermione, expecting to see disapproval in her eyes but saw only support. "You... You're okay with that?" Harry asked tentatively, not sure of what to expect.
Hermione broke out into a grin, laughing at the look of shock on Harry's face. "Why the hell wouldn't I be okay with that? I'm okay with you and I'll accept you no matter what. We are friends, y'know." She watched as Harry visibly relaxed.
They had been standing in the corner failing to actually sit down in the chairs until that moment. Harry sank into a soft, cushiony chair that was crimson with gold trim while Hermione daintily sat in the matching one across the small table that they normally play chess on. Looking at her friend lean back casually in the chair smiling happily, Hermione realized she still didn't know who Harry was 'with.'
"Umm, Harry," Hermione said quietly, "You still didn't tell me who it is." She was quite happy that Harry was relaxed enough to not think much of telling her who it was, but when he mumbled the name she had to hesitate. "Who did you say it was? I don't think I heard you correctly." She saw Harry blush.
"Blaise Zabini."
"Zabini?!" Hermione screeched. She saw Harry cringe as people turned to look at them curiously and lowered her voice to a whisper. "Are you serious? I mean, he is a Slytherin." She shook her head in disbelief, wondering when Harry had thrown all his inhibitions out the window. Then realizing that he had tensed again, she threw him an apologetic look. "I didn't mean it like that, Harry. It's not like I mind or anything, it's just that... I mean... Merlin, no wonder you didn't want Ron to know."
Harry nodded solemnly, stealing a glance at Ron who was eyeing them suspiciously. "So you really don't mind? Everything is okay?" He smiled when Hermione nodded, her bushy brown hair swaying in agreement. "Good, I'll be able to talk to someone." His grin had widened as he said this, but faded when he saw the stern look on Hermione's face. "What? What now?"
Hermione frowned at Harry. "You still have to tell Ron. He is your best friend, you're gonna have to tell him eventually." She saw him lower his head, crestfallen, and reached across the table to grab his hand. "Look, Harry. I am your friend no matter what. You will always be able to talk to me if Ron doesn't get over it soon. But make no mistake about it, he WILL get over it."
Harry kissed Hermione's hand gently and placed it carefully on the table. "I know, Mione, I'm just not ready yet." She smiled in return. "Of course, it will happen in your own time. Just know that the longer you wait, the more it will hurt him that you left him out on the secret. Now then, how about we talk later and let Ron join us. You know it's killing him being out of the loop."
Harry smiled and nodded, relieved that he had taken the first step. Ron would have to wait... that just wasn't something he could deal with right at that moment. He pushed his glasses up the bridge of his nose and called out to his friend. "Oy!!! Ron!!! Come over here, let's play chess or something!"
*~*
Draco heard the grinding of stone as the dragon moved out of the way to admit a visitor. He frowned, hoping that it wasn't Snape or Zabini. He didn't feel like sharing his feelings or dashing anyone's brains out on the mantel just now. "Speak your piece." He called out to whoever was invading his privacy. He wanted to just get down to business so that he could return to wallowing in self-pity face down on the couch.
"Oh, Draco, where are you? Stop playing around. We have to get to work on setting the plan into motion. Remember?" Pansy stood just inside Draco's quarters glancing around disinterestedly.
Draco heaved a sigh of relief. It was Pansy, thank Merlin, it was Pansy! He rolled onto his back and sat up, turning to look at her. "I'm right here. Sorry about that, I thought you were Snape or Blaise or something else horrific."
Pansy was by far Draco's favorite person. She could actually be seen as his best friend if you considered Slytherins to be capable of friendship. They forged a bond between themselves long ago when they thought they would one day have to get married. One could guess that they kind of grew on each other after that, watching out for each other, telling each other secrets. Pansy was the only person Draco allowed to see his true side. They were in no way attracted to each other but rather appreciated the companionship.
While Draco was staying with Snape after being disowned, he had contacted Pansy and let her know they were off the hook. Things immediately lightened between them and they became even closer. This is why Pansy so readily agreed to help Draco win Harry over. She truly understood his feelings and sympathized. The person of her dreams seemed out of reach as well... Seamus Finnigan. Oh, how she wanted him! From his sandy hair to his sexy accent... but he was a half-blood, and a Gryffindor at that! It could never work out.
Pansy smiled at him, her hard face softening as she looked at Draco's pale, worn visage. He looked so sad, and she doubted that if she were anyone else whether he would have even shown himself. "Ah, cheer up, Draco. My plan is practically fool-proof. The only way it will backfire is if Zabini gets a brain and a heart... and I doubt either of those will happen soon enough to mess up the plan."
"Don't you think it is kind of cruel to Harry, though?" Draco finally voiced his fear about the plan. "It is toying with his emotions. He might get hurt in the process and I don't want him to break down." He looked down at the floor and brushed his hair out of his eyes.
"Look at it this way, Draco. At least if he breaks down, you'll be there to pick up the pieces. He'll get over it, I promise." Pansy walked over, plopped (as daintily as a girl can plop) down onto the couch behind Draco and pulled him to her. She stroked his blond hair and rubbed her hands down the length of his arms. "You've got to think about this logically."
Draco smiled and leaned back into Pansy's arms. "You're right, Pansy. Damn you, you're always right." She laughed a full, throaty laugh as he pinched her arm.
"Bitter are we, Daaaarling?" Pansy stretched out the term of endearment in a mockingly sweet way. She laughed as Draco flinched.
"Come on, Pan, those days are long over."
"Oh really, Dray? They are? When were you gonna let me in on the secret?"
"You're teasing me! How dare you?!"
"I'm not teasing you..."
"That's what I thought! You know better."
"I'm mocking you!"
"You little wench! You know I hate that!"
"That's why I do it, idiot."
Draco smiled at the familiar banter as he turned to look at her, settling on the opposite end of the couch. He loved Pansy dearly, as a sister anyway. He had always wanted a sister, but Pansy was as close as he ever got. He was forever grateful for her presence...
"Pan, could we please move on to more pressing matters?"
"You mean like how you're gonna get into Potter's pants?"
"That is exactly what I mean; now you're getting it. What a good girl!"
Pansy gave no response other than hurling a pillow at Draco's head.
*~*
"I'm gonna head off to bed." Harry smiled at his two friends who were currently fighting over Ron's 'sorry excuse for a Potions essay.' They hardly glanced up at him as he turned toward the stairs. "Goodnight. See you in the morning. Are you gonna wake me up for breakfast, Ron?"
"Yeah, sure, mate. Bright and early... hold on... you up on early on a Sunday? Oh yeah, you've lost it." Ron turned to Hermione and shook his head. "I don't know who that is, but that is NOT Harry!" Hermione laughed and hit Ron lightly.
"Don't complain. It's a good habit for Harry to pick up. Then he can be one of us 'damn morning people'." She lifted a hand in a mock salute. "Goodnight, Harry. Sweet dreams." She glanced away too soon to see the look that crossed his face at her last statement.
"Yeah, sweet dreams alright." He muttered and disappeared up the stairs.
"What is up with him?" Ron asked Hermione, shaking his head. "There is something that is just not right with that boy. I can't figure it out. Did he tell you why he wasn't here like he said he'd be?" He fished for information, knowing he'd get nothing out of Hermione. The girl was like a vault, there was no getting anything out of her.
"Yeah, but don't ask about it... He'll tell you eventually." Hermione sighed and moved closer to Ron on the couch. "It takes a little time for Harry to get used to things, y'know." She ran a hand lazily across his thigh and up to his chest before letting it rest there, fingers splayed over his heart. She smiled as she felt it thud gently under her touch.
"Did you tell him about... y'know... us?" Ron stuttered, definitely feeling the effects of Hermione's caress. He placed his own hand over hers and used his other arm to pull her closer. He enjoyed feeling her warmth pressed against him. He kissed the top of her head gently and stroked her cheek.
"No, I didn't tell him yet." Hermione gave a small sigh of contentment, snuggling closer to Ron's toned body. "I think we should tell him together." She smiled and turned her face up to look into his cool blue eyes. Instead of seeing the peaceful sky blue she was used to, however, she saw an electric blue that seemed to burn through her. She blinked as she saw the passion and lust in those eyes, not realizing that she had the same look in her own.
Pulling Hermione up, Ron closed the space between them easily, pressing his lips to hers. He felt her return the kiss, soft yet demanding. Her lips moved over his in a sweet caress and her tongue played at his lips. Ron let her have the control and allowed her entrance to his mouth, giving her roaming rights. She used her tongue to find her way, exploring every crevice, as her hands found her way under his robes and to his nipples. She laughed as he gave a gasp of surprise when she pinched one.
Having had enough of being submissive, Ron rolled himself on top of Hermione, pressing her into the couch. He leaned close to her, trailing kisses across her lips and cheek finding his way to her ear where he nipped affectionately. "Together," He whispered heatedly, licking her ear seductively. "I like the sound of that."
*~*~*
A/N: Okay peoples. Thanks for all your wonderful reviews. You guys are fangoriously awesome and your reviews are to the limit!!!! I really appreciate it. Sorry it took me so long to update, but as my crazy ass beta reader already shared with you... I am lazy as hell. Keep reviewing... You are my motivation... you and my beta reader's threats of bodily harm... j/k... kind of... not really... she is crazy... I mean... I really appreciate my beta reader, N.C. PsyChick as a writer, editor, and friend... yeah that's what I was trying to say... Yay for me!!!!