Wanting Something More
Chapter Eleven: Wanting Respite
Brittany's mind had been in a torrent of pain and hope the past few hours. As her group, now doubled with the addition of the Gryffindor Quidditch team, moved up the stairs. They were a determined force to be sure. Everywhere Brittany looked a reassuring face was to be found. She was safe, at least for the moment. She barely registered the small smile placed on her face.
"What do you think if we blow up Malfoy's bathroom. That'll put him out for at least a month." Seth suggested to Seamus Finnigan. "I mean that man spends almost as much time in his bathroom as his bed."
Seamus smiled. "You know Black, I like the way you think. I have a knack for blowing things up."
Seth laughed. "So I've heard. Your 'knack' is legendary."
Ron snickered. "He wasn't even trying those times."
"Oh quiet, Slug Face." Seamus taunted good naturedly.
"Slug Face! What are you? Twelve?" Ron shot back.
Brittany let lose a small chuckle. "Play nice Seth."
"I didn't even say anything!" He protested waving his arms.
"You were thinking it." She countered with a knowing smirk on her lips.
"Felling better?" Scarlett asked her best friend.
Phoenix smiled at the pair. "Course she is. Potter showed him what for? Right Potter? No one messes with the Golden Boy."
Harry nodded his head from the back. The closer to the Portrait of the Fat Lady, the safer he felt. "That's right, um, Rivers?" He sounded unsure.
"The one and only." Nix replied with a smirk. No one but Brittany noticed Scarlett's blush.
Gabriel was keeping to himself, sticking close to Phoenix and Serena. "You're so cocky Nix." She retorted.
"You bet your knickers." He smirked. "Cocky, I am. We faced Malfoy and won."
Brittany hung her head a little. "Potter faced Malfoy and won." She whispered.
That sobered the group like a slap in the face. The ugly truth of the matter was now there in their faces. Without Potter stepping in it was unlikely any of them would have made it out unscathed.
Ginny shook her head. "Harry's great and all, but we had numbers on our side. Draco's a bitch, but he's not entirely stupid. He knows when to run. You've got half the D.A. on your side right now. We're not going to be fought off easily Brittany." She replied kindly.
"Thank you Ginny. I never thought of it that way." Brittany tried her best to smile.
Blaise smirked. "A retelling of the Bubblegum Shampoo incident is in order once we get to the Common Room, eh little one?"
Brittany perked up at the mention of her wonderfully executed plan. "I'm sorry I did not warn you as well. You were a victim to."
"No hard feelings little one. Malfoy deserved it. I see the famed 'Fat Lady.' Does she sing on occasion?" Blaise smirked at his attempt at a corny joke.
His sister groaned and the Gryffindors laughed. "Do not ask her to try it ever. It's horrible." Ron winced.
The Fat Lady having heard this huffed. "I take offence to that remark. Password." She hissed.
"Crimson Sword." Harry replied quickly.
The Fat Lady swung open and the way to the Common Room was open. The large group piled through and was met with cheers. At least until they saw the rag tag group of Slytherins with them. The silence was deafening. At least until Harry spoke up.
"There was an incident earlier and we are offering hospitality to these people. If you would not mind we would like the common room to ourselves. I would appreciate it." Harry spoke kindly to his fellow Gryffindors.
Neville stood up and nodded his head. "Let's go people. Harry needs the room. We can congratulate him later. Besides this is the one who led our Harry to the snitch without alerting her own Seeker." He stated pointing at a smiling Brittany.
The rumors had started after the match but Neville had heard it from Luna, who had a way of knowing what was going on in their school. She was a special one, that Luna. The Gryffindors were now much more amicable to the group of Slytherins. They took a few minutes to move their activities upstairs to their respective dormitories.
The group let out a breath. Brittany stopped for a moment and a thought passed her lips. "Where is Granger? She should be here. She's a brilliant witch."
This had earned her points with Ron and Harry quickly. "''Mione is off checking something for us. Golden Trio stuff." Ron smirked feeling important.
"Oh, I'm glad she's alright. I was worried for a moment." Brittany nodded feeling slightly foolish.
"That is a nice sentiment Zabini." Said feminine voice was heard from upstairs.
Hermione came down the stairs and had a scowl on her lips. "Harry James Potter! A few first years came running in here screaming about you and he getting into another one of your fights. I told you to lay low."
Harry had the sense to look abashed. "It was for Zabini. Malfoy molested her and then attempted to get his hands on her again. I wasn't about to let him get away with something like that."
"Sweet Merlin! Your common rooms are so much better than ours. Ours are so stuffy and cold and dank and, other words used to describe a dungeon." Brittany gasped. She was trying to pull focus from Harry.
Ron smirked. "Yes, Gryffindor is so much better than Slytherin."
"I never said that. Houses don't matter, people matter. At the end of this year you'll be out in the real world where Hogwarts Houses were just a thing of the past." Brittany spoke softly as she moved like a moth to the flames. She was drawn to the roaring fireplace.
Ron stood mouth gaping. "Ron close your mouth, you'll attract flies." Hermione chastised. "Can someone tell me what happened?"
All eyes turned to Brittany and Harry. Harry looked at his shoes and then over to Brittany. She placed her hand into the flames. All but Brittany's friends moved towards her. "Watch out!"
"I know you live in a dungeon and all but fire is bad." Seamus snickered.
Brittany turned pulling her hand back free of burns. "Fire doesn't affect me easily. Nor does it to Blaise, it has to do with the Elemental Veela in our blood about ten generations back. Before you ask neither he or I am Veela. It's very diluted, we just have a high resistant to fire."
She smiled softly. "Brittany has always loved fire. Her room back home always has one going." He laughed.
Hermione shook her head. "Will someone please tell me what happened that you are all here?"
Brittany sighed. She turned with her back to the flames. "Would you like me to start at the very beginning? Get it all over and done with?"
Hermione paused at the haunted look her eyes cast. The back glow of the fire did nothing to help the shadows of her face. "If it's alright. I was just curious."
Brittany shook her head. "Nonsense an explanation is warranted."
She stood and began to spin her story. "Draco Malfoy bane of my existence has been a constant in all my life. He and Blaise had been friends since nursery. I hated his guts; he just rubbed me the wrong way I guess. He was a manageable prick when we were growing up. His parents and mine had this fanciful idea in their minds ever since my birth I was to marry him. He thought so as well. I was adamant in my belief that I would disappear before I married the git. It was not spoken of for years." She noticed everyone was standing and watching her. "Let's sit down. It's a bit of a long story."
Everyone proceeded to sit, but not all the sofas were facing each other. The Trio took care of that quickly. Brittany eyes a wingback chair and moved towards it. Ginny spoke up. "Brittany, that's Harry's chair."
She froze instantly. "Sorry, it just looked so inviting." Color rushed to her cheeks.
Harry shook his head. He moved the other wingback closer to the fire. "There, better?" He asked her softly. Though I would not mind if you joined me in mine. Without Ron around. He'd just spoil it.
"Much thank you. Nothing like story time in front of a roaring fire." Brittany sat down and closed her eyes.
When she opened them again they were once more the stormy grey Harry had seen before. "As any female knows, once you hit your teenage years the parts arrive, and boy did they hit. Over night it seemed I grew a foot grew an ass and two breasts. Quite a feat." Everyone chuckled. "Either way, the next time Draco Bloody Whore Malfoy came to visit us over the summer he was back in full swing. I hid with Scarlett, or Phoenix, and something Seth." She made sure to point to each for the Gryffindors unsure of their names. "A year passed. I was fourteen when Malfoy decided I was old enough to be his."
Brittany paused and looked down. Not even Blaise or her parents knew this part. "Malfoy attempted to force himself on me when I declined. He did not expect the swift kick to the shin. He began cursing. I kneed him in the chin and ran off. He kept away from me for the most part after that." Blaise slammed his fist onto the arm of the sofa he was sitting upon.
"You didn't know?" They asked him.
Blaise shook his head. "You never told me. Britt, I could have stopped this years ago This was what you came crying to me about all those years ago."
Brittany looked at him and her smile fell. "You and I both know who mother and father would have believed. I kept silent and so did he. You kept him away like I asked and it was over. I just wanted to forget it happened." She turned back to the group. "It was soon after that I became fascinated with Fred and George and their inventions. Whenever Malfoy came too close, BOOM, a well placed Weasley invention was used to deter him. It worked for years. Last year he attempted to grope my ass. I switched out his hair product with the Bubblegum shampoo. Before I could remove it Blaise used it as well. The next three weeks their hair was bubblegum pink and stuck out at all sorts of odd angles. That kept him at bay till just recently actually. Last year he was too busy with his 'job' to torment me. A part of me is thankful, while a part of me regrets I could not distract him enough so he would fail. I'm sorry Potter. If I had known…"
The Gryffindors were shocked. She was referring to Dumbledore's downfall. "It is not your fault Zabini. None of us knew." Harry reasoned reaching over and giving her hand a pat. Brittany took comfort in the small gesture.
"I have always gone to Snape about the incidents at school. He kept them private to Blaise would not go and start fights like he did a few nights ago. Snape has always been against Malfoy and I. He knew the boy was on a destructive path." Brittany explained. Snape had always seemed like he was annoyed by her, but he was kind whenever Draco attacked her.
Harry nodded his head. Perhaps he'll be willing to give me some leeway in helping you then.
Brittany nodded. "So this summer Malfoy had convinced his parents to make good on the arrangement. Father is all for the idea. We have wealth, but the Malfoy's have it in spades. I was originally meant to marry him this summer, but with pleading and a few choice words to mother Blaise and I secured a loop hole. I find a suitable replacement by year's end and I am off the hook. I have a year to fall in love with a suitable male and vice versa. Secure a proposal and impress father, and then I'm free of Malfoy. He knows this as well. He is fairly confident. The usual list of candidates won't be coming forward. He's got them running for the hills. He's biding his time, with shows of dominance and owner ship. After a year, I'm done."
Brittany took a small breath and slumped forward. "As it stands I have a trick up my sleeve, but until I find someone 'worthy' father approves of I'm stuck. Not to mention I would like to be in love as well, but if it keeps me from Malfoy the closer I get the more I'll take anything I can get." She snickered. "Besides there is always death. That'll show him."
Seth glared. "I won't let you do that Brittany and you know it. If it comes down to it, I'd marry you if I had to." Harry bristled at the notion again.
Brittany shook her head. "Marry you Seth? I'm not sure that's a very good Idea. Malfoy'd kill you in a heart beat. Besides I know where your heart lies. I'm not letting you sacrifice that for me."
Blaise glared at her. "I rather you just get disowned."
Brittany snorted. "That won't stop him brother. You and I both know this. It's either marriage or death. He might even be desperate enough to knock me up just to force my hand as well."
The Gryffindors were disgusted by Draco's actions. "You can't be serious." Ron growled.
"Malfoy's get what they want." Brittany replied simply. "It's a fact not a line."
Ginny hissed. "Not anymore they don't. We'll keep him off of you Brittany. If you're into older males there's always Charlie."
Brittany chuckled. "The Dragon tamer right?" Brittany considered this for a moment. "I'm not sure. You are all purebloods, though wealth is low. He'd have to be powerful as hell. Powerful enough to…" Brittany's hand moved to the necklace hidden under her shirt.
"Brittany Ann Zabini!" Blaise hissed.
Brittany stopped immediately. "Sorry Blaise, it was just instinct."
Ron became offended. "Is our brother not good enough for you Zabini?"
"It is my fault Weasley. It's a secret. Blaise does not want it revealed." Brittany replied. "No offence against your elder brother at all."
"What is this secret? What are you hiding from us? We agree to help you, you'll tell us." Ron shouted.
Blaise shook his head. "It is only for us to know. Word gets out and our Ace in the Hole is now her curse. If Draco touches it, I don't even want to think about it."
"Touches what?" It was Harry who asked this time. He was also fighting a snarling in his mind about all these males being offered up to Zabini. I need to calm down. So long as she's safe that's all that matters.
Brittany looked towards her brother and sighed. "Its-"
"You haven't even told Scarlett!" Blaise yelled.
"I'm telling her now." Brittany shook her head. "No friendship breeds from secrecy." She pulled the necklace from under her shirt.
The Snitch from the earlier game opened its wings and flew out from Harry's pocket over to the silver heart. Brittany gave a small giggle as its wings grazed her hand. "Is that what was attracting the Snitch earlier?" Ginny asked.
"It might be?" Brittany was unsure. "It's magical; it might have been attracted to it."
Hermione was interested. "Magical how?"
Blaise sighed. "It is imbued with Brittany's power. It was meant for her engagement. If the man could open it he would be hers. He has to have more power than her own, and with our unique bloodline it would have to mix well with her own. Promoting powerful heirs that our mother wishes her to have."
Brittany blushed. Seamus reached out for it and Brittany hissed and clasped it in her hands tightly. Do not touch it. You touch this you are possibly proposing to me now. In addition if father would not approve, which I am certain he would not, and you happen to open it, this becomes useless. It's a one time deal."
Seamus pulled back his hand and Hermione caught the glare Harry was sending the male. Harry knows he swings the other way, so would the locket. It's made so that powerful heir's will produce, sexual compatibility is also a measure they add on those things. Hermione wondered aloud. "They still use those old fashioned matchmakers in this day an age?"
Blaise chuckled. "We come from an old family. Meet our Ace in the hole."
Brittany just shook her head. She was feeling bombarded. She shifted uncomfortably. The females took immediate notice. "Brittany would you like to take a bath and wash the Malfoy off of you. I am sure the small bathroom in my room would do you wonders. No need to run to the Girls Dormitory." Hermione suggested quietly. Also poor Harry seems so tense. When he admitted he had been talking with her and thinking about her I had no idea what to think. The poor guy's already fallen he just doesn't know it. Let's see if she could feel the same.
Brittany seemed to perk up at this idea. "A nice hot bath would be amazing Granger. Thank you."
"Why don't we join you? We can gossip and have some nice girl time." Scarlett agreed.
Serena smirked. "We'll make you all pretty a slumber party with Gryffindors. This will go down in the history books."
Ginny stood up and grabbed Heathers things. "We'll go grab some extra things for you all and join you." She smiled.
Heather nodded. "I knew this would be an amazing idea. I told you Gin, Brittany is not a bad person in the least."
"Let's go you. I want to have some girl time. It's too tense in here." She giggled.
Seth turned red. "What are we supposed to do?" He asked Brittany.
Brittany shrugged. "Plot Malfoy's death?"
Ron nodded his head. "That is a brilliant idea Zabini."
The males all nodded, more than ever death was in their minds. Though Blaise spoke up. "You forbade me from killing him remember."
Brittany was already being rushed up the stairs by her friends. "Yes but I never said you could not plot."
With that the door opened to Hermione's prefect room and then it was shut nosily. Serena was just a tad excited. Soon enough Ginny and Heather quickly moved to Hermione's room and rushed inside. The girls were obviously planning on getting to know one another. The males were stuck outside with more dastardly thoughts.
Ron turned to the elder Zabini now that they were alone. "You honestly had no idea he was doing that to your own sister? You could hear the torture in her voice."
Blaise wanted to yell, he really did. Unfortunately he knew that he should have seen the signs. He should have been watching closer. He could have protected her so much better had he known. "I wish I could tell you I did. I was not even able to protect my own sister. I'd have sent that git running three years ago."
Seamus shook his head. "Chin up mate, if you couldn't tell none of her friends knew not even the girls. Girls tell each other everything. If they didn't know don't be too hung up over it."
Blaise shook his head. "I'm supposed to protect her from the world. I could not ever protect her from my best friend. Now I'm going to kill the little shit for ever looking at her."
Phoenix nodded. "There you are Blaise. I thought we lost you to that really depressed guy for a second. I've known Malfoy was bad news from day one. I just never knew I really should have been planning his murder. So many wasted years."
Seth grumbled. "I've wanted him dead longer than you Nix. I'm related to the bastard." He shook his head.
Gabriel shook his head. "I may not be very violent, but even I think it'd be nice if someone offed the prick." He added in a subdued tone.
Harry had kept quiet. It was absolutely despicable what Malfoy had done over the years. Brittany Zabini kept the incidents very G rated. He could tell she was hiding a fair amount of the abuse from them. She had admitted wanting to die rather than be with Malfoy. He has pushed her around for years. It was obvious. More than that he tormented her and she did not want to trouble her brother. The fear she felt from that one line stuck out. He shook his head. "Is it true?" He asked.
"What? That I think poison would be the best way to end his life?" Phoenix asked confused.
"You doubt her?" Blaise bristled in defensive mode. Could I have been wrong about Potter?
"No, her way out. Is it true?" Harry asked again louder this time. I can't let her do it. I'll protect her from herself if I have to.
Blaise nodded his head. "Afraid so. It really is a shit loop hole. Brittany has been getting around our parents for years. She's a master at manipulating the rules to suit her needs. They simply gave her no quarter. The other alternative is Malfoy giving up. That's not looking very likely."
Seth shook his head. "We could always start sending Brittany off to meet males willing to challenge Malfoy."
Harry shook his head. "That list is small Black. Are your parents Gryffindor haters?" At this point even if they are, who cares.
Blaise, Phoenix, and Seth smirked. "Not at all. They are not entirely fond of them but they are no where near as bad as the Malfoy's, or most other Slytherin families you know."
"You have a bit of Slytherin in you yet Potter. Very intuitive and crafty. The only house not affected by Malfoy's dictate on Brittany." Seth smiled. I knew I was not wrong about him. He's the one alright.
Ron shook his head. "You can't possibly think a Gryffindor will," Ron did not want to continue his statement. He wisely chose another. "Not all of us are so easy to sway Harry you know that."
Harry groaned. "I know that Ron. I don't think this will be easy at all. Besides the short list is even shorter. There are very few able to really stand up to Malfoy."
Blaise smirked. He's thinking what we were thinking let's just see what Potter has in store. "Who would you recommend Potter?"
Harry scratch the back of his head and thought about it for a while. He wanted to be honest. If he came out and said his name first his brother might react poorly. He was in hyper protective mode. "Neville Longbottom is a decent choice. He is infatuated with Luna Lovegood though. Seamus comes from a pureblood family, but we all know he bats for the other team." Seamus smirked at that. It was news to the two Ravenclaws and the two Slytherins.
"Seamus, gay? That explains somethings. Like Ernie for instance." Phoenix chuckled.
Harry just shook his head. "Really? Wow there goes another off my list." Blaise admitted.
"You have a list Zabini?" Harry asked.
He smirked. "Of course I do. She's my little sister. I've had a list for a few years now it took major cuts this year. Now the few left your whittling away." He paused. "You know the last ones left better than I would Potter." And you and I both know you are the only one.
This made the Gryffindors pause. Blaise Zabini was considering Gryffindor matches for his little sister for years? It certainly explained why he so easily came to them for help.
"I would even throw Ron on the list but he and Hermione, they are meant to be those two." Harry snickered.
"Don't put me on that list Harry. I would not marry Zabini. No offense, but I have my girl thank you very much."
Blaise just nodded. "You've been crossed off since sixth year Weasley no worries."
Ron blanched and Harry just continued with his list. "Dean is another possible, but he's never really faced off with Malfoy before. He's a talented wizard though. There are always other houses we could consider."
Gabriel shook his head. "Most of our Sixth and Seventh years are either too focused with school, matched up, or unable to match Malfoy. I had thought about it too. Gryffindors are really our only option."
"So Dean is it?" Ron whistled. "I would not like to be in his shoes right now."
Blaise shook his head. "There's one more. He's been on my list since Brittany turned thirteen. Fourth year did it for me." Blaise hinted.
Harry knew exactly who he meant. He realized this before as well. To put himself in that position, would he even want it? To marry a girl he barely new to protect her from Malfoy? Was that any way to love, any way to live? Sure she was pretty, and from what little time they had spent together he liked her. Maybe even more than he cared to admit at the moment.. He did not want to decide their fate, they barely knew each other. He wanted her agreement as well. Though it would make sense to get her brother's permission first as her father was an unreliable source. It was a lot to ask.
If Harry were honest with himself he could at least consider it. But there was so much left for him to do. He could go into the final battle with Voldemort and die, taking both their lives. What kind of future would that be for any female? There were a lot of burdens placed on his shoulders already. Did he want to add someone's heart as well? Could he fall in love with her enough to want to be with her and go into the final battle knowing if he lost or died that he would leave her unprotected and alone, not to mention heartbroken? It was a lot to ask of the boy turned man. He could do it, but only if there was something there. He was not sure of her own state on the matter. They were just speculating anyway. There was no need to think so deeply, not until he could ask her himself. In private if her friends allowed. Which he doubted would happen.
Blaise has shushed the others. Harry needed to consider his options deeply. He had every bit of faith Harry would make it out of the final battle alive. He waited a moment and spoke as such. "You are the boy who lived, Potter. You alone can walk into battle with you know who and have a good chance to walk away alive. You alone scare Malfoy enough to give him pause. You are the only one on the list and you and I both know it."
Ron snapped. "You can't just expect Harry to drop everything to do this. It's not the only way."
Harry shook his head. "He has a point Ron. I'm her best chance. But I will not agree to this just like that. I won't say no, but your sister said she wanted love more than anything else. I'll give it a shot if she is willing. Other than that I will uphold my word to her and you and protect her from Malfoy." Harry finally stated.
Phoenix smirked. "I knew there was a reason I liked you Potter. You'd do Britt just fine." He nodded his head.
"I agree." Gabriel whispered. "She's a passionate girl. She's just too kind to protect herself the way she should."
Blaise nodded his head. "Thank you Potter. You really are one of a kind." Blaise laughed. "Just the thing for my darling little sister. She'll be so mad we are not involving her in this."
Brittany stood at the top of the stairs by herself. "Involving me in what Blaise?" She asked innocently.
The girls had just entered Hermione's room when the rush of estrogen hit them. Hermione laughed as they all moved to the bathroom and gasped at the large tub, big enough for six people to fit comfortably. The stripped out of their clothes and jumped into the warm water Hermione had originally intended for herself. The heated water and soaps and bath salts in the water instantly soothed their nerves.
"You enjoy this room all to yourself Granger?" Serena moaned. "You are one lucky girl."
Hermione blushed. Ginny shook her head. "Oh this last name stuff is awkward. We are all going to be friends. Let's start by calling each other by our first names."
Brittany nodded her head. "I agree Ginny. I had to stop myself, a few times already."
Heather just smiled brightly. "Good then I would not be the only one. This would have been awkward. This is why Ginny is my best friend. She is just so easy to get along with."
Scarlett blushed and nodded her head. "I am glad I mean we are all naked in the same bath together."
The girls all laughed at this. They continued with small insignificant talk for a while getting to know one another and learning they all really were compatible as friends. It was not a big shock to them as the minutes wore on. It seemed that this was a long time coming. Brittany apologized again for taking so long. Ginny just brushed it off. The stereotype did this not Brittany. The girls were really enjoying themselves until one of them decided to bring up a very valid point.
"Brittany, if you were to find someone worthy of your father's approval, would you marry them if you were not in love with them?" Hermione asked softly.
"No. I may accept the proposal and then break it off later if that were acceptable to him, but I really do not want to marry for anything other than love. Girly and corny as it is, its true." Brittany sighed.
Ginny just nodded her head. "All any girl wants is to be loved. Nothing to be ashamed of. I have five older brothers and I still want to find the right man to love."
Scarlett looked at Ginny confused. "I thought you and Harry Potter were a big thing, in love and ready to marry."
Brittany looked down for a moment and brushed the slight squeeze to her heart off. It was natural to feel jealous of anyone with Harry Potter. He was the epitome of a male protector. He was the end all be all perfect male.
"He and I are more like brother and sister than lovers. It just became awkward after a while. Harry is one of my closest friends. That's all there is to that. I love him like the sixth brother I never had."
The girls laughed at this. "I can't imagine growing up with so many brothers." Serena admitted. She was an only child as it was, and to imagine six was mind blowing. "I could not handle it."
Heather shook her head. "I would not have minded, her older twin brothers are quite the pair."
Brittany smirked. "She still won't tell me which one she was in love with. I've been wondering for years." Brittany laughed.
Ginny nodded her head. "I could never figure it out either. I mean it's hard enough to tell them apart at times. She can in an instant. I doubt she'll ever tell. She enjoys leading us on for too long."
"I can tell them apart if they aren't beside each other. And finishing each other's sentences." Brittany admitted.
"Most of us can as well, but she can tell them apart when they are in sync looking and sounding exactly the same. It's frustrating."
Heather just smirked. "I have a gift. That's all it is."
"Come on tell us who it is?" The girls minus Hermione begged.
Hermione had seen Brittany's defeated look the one instant it was on her face. Hermione was brilliant, and quick on her feet. Brittany, even just a little, sought Harry for protection. Even when her brother arrived on the scene as she later explained in private what happened while waiting for Ginny and Heather to return. Harry had saved her, and when Malfoy arrived to claim her it was Harry she had clung to. She told her that it was because she did not want to chance Draco touching her. Hermione saw through what she was subconsciously hiding. She knew that Harry was the only one who could protect her, more than she was letting on, even to herself. Harry had come to the same conclusion himself.
"I said no!" Heather yelled. "You'll find out if it ever works out and we get married."
The girls groaned. Hermione spoke up. "Brittany have you ever give thought of Harry as a candidate?" Because if you have then this solves at least one of your problems, and Harry's. He's in knots about you already.
This has all the girls turning their heads. Brittany had flushed pink and began to stutter. "Wow I'm feeling really dizzy. It is high time I get out of the bath."
The girls were on her faster than a pack of lions on a lone zebra. "We'll get out, but not so fast missy."
Brittany turned wide eyed and blushed. "A few times as a possibility."
Brittany jumped and was out of the tub like lightning. She grabbed a towel and began furiously drying herself off. The others were quick to follow after her. Ginny stood next to her and smiled. "Harry Potter hmmm. A girl could do worse." She teased.
Brittany continued to hide her face. Scarlett joined in. "He is quite handsome and very protective from what I've seem. I doubt she could do better."
Serena laughed. "Our little Brittany Zabini, wanted by Draco Malfoy, and wanting Harry Potter. You do so enjoy your contradictions."
Heather laughed. "I knew you were watching him. Admit it you have been for the last few years."
Brittany shook her head. "Maybe. Not for the reasons you all think. I've seen him over the years. He's a very kind person, except to Slytherins, but Malfoy really caused that. He's always looked nice on his broom. It's not the He's Harry Potter thing either. He's just a really good person. I could see being happy with, possibly falling in love with him even. Also I've always wanted a White Knight kind of male, and Harry is the best out there."
Hermione just shook her head. "Harry does have yet to face Voldemort. There is no guarantee he'd live." Can you put your faith in him.
Brittany shook her head. "If anyone can face off against that monster and live its Harry. He beat him once, and he was a baby. He'll beat him again. If there is any justice in this world, Harry will avenge not only his parents but anyone who's ever lost a loved one to that evil thing." Brittany was so adamant in her belief and it showed.
Hermione smiled. "That was very Gryffindor of you Brittany."
Brittany blushed. "Can we please change? I'm freezing here. I'll just put on my clothes if I have to."
Heather shook her head. "Nonsense you are about Ginny's size and bit bigger in the chest area. Though you butt is really small. I thought you said you grew one." She teased her friend. She did whine about her lack of a caboose.
Brittany blushed. "I did, if you can believe it was even smaller."
Scarlett laughed. "She was a stick. A Straight up and down line."
Brittany pouted. "You may be short but you have beautiful curves. I'm still pretty sticky. I have two bumps on my chest. It's really the only difference. Serena is the real bombshell."
Serena just rolled her eyes. "I pay for it every day. I've enjoyed being odd enough that the males only stare but never touch."
"Harry's a leg guy." Hermione supplied.
Everyone turned to her. "Yup. He's got a fetich I think." Ginny laughed. "You'll never have to worry about your chest. It's long legs under a skirt that sets him off."
Brittany just blushed awkwardly. Ginny smiled and handed her some spare pajamas. "Here I think these will fit you nicely."
Brittany smiled and gave her new friend a hug. "You really are a wonderful person Ginny."
Brittany inspected the gold top and crimson bottoms. "I've always liked these colors. Emerald does not do much for my complexion." She laughed.
The girls joined her and each was dressed in various pajamas. With their hair towel dried they sat on Hermione's rather large bed and chatted amongst themselves. The subject kept finding it's way back to Harry which never failed to cause a blush to flow onto Brittany's cheeks. It was getting later into the night, nearing nine o clock in the evening. Brittany smiled stood up.
"I wonder what my brother and the others are up to." She wondered aloud.
"You know if we don't go check on them they might have it in their mind set to actually go kill Malfoy." Hermione sighed. "Harry's protective but he can be rash. It he's convinced it's the right thing he'll do it."
Brittany's eyes widened. "He can't. If he's sent to Azkaban who'll send Moldybutt to hell where he belongs?"
The girls began to snort. "Did you just call the Dark Lord of all Evil, Moldybutt?" Ginny gasped out between burst of laughter and gulps of air.
"What's in a name. Why should we fear a name? If anything we fear the man, but seriously. It's a name. And had he chosen Moldybutt for himself none of us, or our parents, grandparents and the like would have ever fallen to him." She reasoned.
"You are so telling Harry." Heather laughed. "He'll crack up. Heck they all will. Let's go."
Hermione took a moment and paused. "Let Brittany go first before we all stampede down there."
Scarlett turned to Hermione. "Why Brittany, alone?"
Serena smirked. "To see if she and Harry Potter could share a mutual attraction of course. We would take away from that."
Scarlett shrugged. "Shouldn't Hermione go with her? She knows Potter as well as anyone."
Heather smiled. "She has an excellent point." She smiled to her elder friend. "Hermione go with her, just keep out of sight."
Ginny whispered in Brittany's ear. "Don't be afraid to be yourself around him. Harry hate's fakes above all else. Be yourself and from what I've seen you'd do just fine."
Brittany nodded her head and walked with Hermione to the door. "You guys will come out though right?"
Heather laughed. "We'll chat in here for a bit and Hermione can call us out there."
Brittany nodded her head and smiled shyly. "You know, now I can't stop blushing. I had not even fully admitted to myself the possibility of Harry Potter."
Scarlett just laughed. "Go get him girl."
Brittany shook her head and left before her friends teased her any more. She moved to the balcony and caught the tail end of what her brother was saying. "Just the thing for my darling little sister. She'll be so mad we are not involving her in this."
Brittany stood at the top of the stairs and moved closer to see them. What on earth is he plotting now? "Involving me in what Blaise?" She asked innocently.
The males turned to her voice and looked at her stunned. She wore Gryffindor colors without any hesitation. They had to admit they suited her well. Brittany's face was flushed. They assumed it was from the hot bath. Only Blaise could sense what her reasons might be. She moved down the stairs and walked over to them.
Brittany ran a hand through her semi dried chestnut hair and sighed. "Fine, don't let me in on your little scheme. Don't think for a minute I'll let you do anything illegal. Neither will Hermione for that matter."
This was new. How fast did females make friends? "Did you just call Hermione by her first name?" Ron asked confused.
"Yes we agree that it would be awkward if we were all going to be friends. Besides all of us sitting naked in a bath would have made it awkward." She admitted freely then blushed. "Sorry I still had a little leftover girl mode in me. Males, right, talking about anything naked is bad for your brains."
This caused a laugh to pass around the room. Brittany smiled and then moved and sat on her brother lap like she had been doing for years when she felt uneasy. "You're plotting something without me, involving my self Blaise. I don't like it when you keep things from me."
Blaise just shook his head. "You kept quite a lot from me over the years I'm entitled to this." He would not give in so easily.
Brittany shrugged and lounged on top of her brother. "Plot any good murder strategies for Malfoy while we were gone?"
Phoenix took the stand. "Of course. Poison."
Brittany rolled her eyes. "You've been saying that for years. Did you finally decide on one?"
Phoenix laughed. "Why pick one when you can use them all. We want to be thorough."
Brittany surmised the information immediately. "You were not planning his death at all were you?"
Blaise shook his head. "No we did not get very far. We were side tracked. And Finnigan is determined that blowing him up is a far better suited punishment."
Brittany groaned. "Yes that would be subtle."
Seamus smirked. "Who ever said we wanted to be subtle."
Blaise answered before his sister could. "Because subtlety and murder are both art forms. It is fitting they go hand in hand."
Brittany just swatted at his arm playfully. "You know me so well brother dear."
Harry was silent. Seeing Brittany in a much more cheerful mood eased the tension in the room. She really was a kind, albeit unique person. Now that she was out of that skirt he was able to think a bit better. "You think we were plotting something else?"
Brittany turned to him and it took all her willpower not to blush. "You were planning my future. If killing Malfoy is truly not in your best interests at the moment, taking away what he wants is easier and somewhat more pleasurable." She shrugged. She sniffed the air and groaned.
"Blaise, did you seriously not put on clean clothes after the match?" She groaned.
Blaise glared at his sister. "Four hours from breakfast till now. I have worn these clothes only fours hours and I showered. Are you saying I stink?"
Brittany thought for a moment and smirked. "Someone was too worried to put on deodorant."
Blaise flushed. "You little wretch."
Brittany jumped off her brother's lap and hid behind Phoenix, Gabriel, and Seth. "It's not entirely my fault, blame Malfoy."
Blaise jumped up after her and she sped of around the common room. She was jumping over furniture and flipping over this and that. She was quite graceful on the ground. She saw her opening and ran towards Harry's chair. Seth stuck out his foot just enough and Brittany fell face first into Harry's lap. For a moment no one moved. Brittany raised her head and stuck out her tongue at Seth.
Blaise just laughed as he moved to sit back down. She was a wily one his sister. In a good clear headed mood she could look after herself. She obviously felt safe here so the respite from the problems with Malfoy was welcome. Rarely had he seen his sister so alive. "Alright I'll let it go. Anyone mind sharing some deodorant so my sister does not flee at the smell of me?"
Seamus nodded his head. "Why not? Could do with some more myself I really worked my ass off today. Come with me."
Brittany smiled. Once they were out of sight she moved away from Harry to the chair she was sitting in earlier. All but Brittany noticed Harry's sudden disappointment flash across his face. Out of the gutter. Harry screamed to his mind.
She turned to Seth. "So my evil fellow Slytherin. Other than attempt to embarrass the heck out of me by I assume plummeting me to the floor. What did you band of geniuses come up with? I expect great things from Phoenix and Gabriel especially. You two aren't Ravenclaws for nothing."
Harry flushed a bit and noticed how easy Brittany talked with her friends. She was kind to them, open with them, played with them. She was not disturbed by their opposing house, she treated them the same she did her brother. She treated all of them the same, even the Gryffindors. Well as close as one could, considering they were siblings.
Seth smirked and turned to Harry. "Ask him, he's our new ringleader I suppose."
Brittany snorted and turned to Harry. "Sorry that wasn't aimed to you. It's just there has never been a 'ringleader'. Someone suggests something and we go with it. No pecking order. It's just our natural way." She shrugged.
Ron smirked. "I would have pegged you as the ringleader Zabini."
"That's only this year. It concerns me, and to be honest, I'm not the 'leader' they help me as much as I help them. I'm no leader. I've just been placed into a position of great importance. Once this is over I'll gladly hand over the limelight." She shook her head. "Being in the spotlight really sucks too. Everyone watches you, waiting for you to fail it seems."
Harry was shocked. A Slytherin, a female at that, who does not like the limelight? Well she was not your run of the mill female. She seemed like one of the gang. It was not as shocking the more he thought about it. He turned his head and focused back on the others to find Brittany staring at him. His cheeks flushed a little and he coughed.
"Yes?" He asked her politely. If you keep staring at me like that I might just start blushing in front of the guys. Ron will never let me live it down.
"Seth said to ask you, so again, what brilliant plans for my future did you think up leader of this band of misfits and whack jobs." She smiled brightly. "Sorry, I think the realization I'm safe for once in my life is making me crack a bit. No pressure, wow it's exhilarating."
"Perhaps it's time for good little girls to go to sleep." Blaise snickered coming out of the seventh year Boy's Dormitory.
Brittany shot a glare at her brother and scrunched her nose. "You still stink, go shower. I am not five years old anymore Blaise. I can go to sleep when I want. Besides I want to get to know our new friends. Go hang with the girls."
Slowly the males were becoming less and less shocked by the ease in which Brittany treated everyone. Friends? She was so quick to judge them and she barely knew them. Then again she did have ties to Fred and George Weasley. They knew all of them well enough stories could have been told. Not all in a very nice light either.
"What if we don't want to be your friends Zabini?" Ron asked. He did not mean it, but he wanted to see how she'd react.
Brittany's eyes immediately darkened and tears began to glisten on her eyes. She gave a sniff and turned her head towards Ron and gave him her best puppy dog pout. "You do not want to be my friend?"
That cinched it for Ron. He hated girl's tears. The look was too adorable to ignore, and the way her lip quivered just so, it was not a face a man could say no to. Not without a serious lack of soul.
"I was just kidding Zabini, honestly." Ron held up his hands in surrender.
Brittany smirked, the look gone and she flashed the room a charming smile. "See we're all friends. And it is Brittany Ron; I don't want to get confused between my brother and me." She pointed to her friends. "That is Nix, he prefers it over Phoenix, that's Gabriel, and that is Seth." She turned to her brother. "That stinky man coming towards us is my brother Blaise." She nodded her head.
Blaise just snickered. "We all knew that already dear." He reached out to pat her head and she gave a warning glare.
"Blaise don't you dare-"
Too late her brother was ruffling her hair and tickling her side for good measure. She was thrashing around and laughing loudly. She begged him to stop. She turned pleading eyes to her new friends. Her old friends just laughed. Her eyes landed on Harry. "Save me Harry. He'll tickle me to death."
Harry was unsure what to do. He continued to sit there just watching her squirm and laugh. Her laughter was easy on the ears. She looked adorable flailing around trying to escape her brother. Seth leaned over and whispered to him.
"Blaise won't stop on his own. You better go save her."
Harry nodded his head and moved over to the pair. He tapped Blaise on the shoulder and he stopped. He shook his head and leaned in to give his sister a peck on the cheek. "I'm not stinky am I Brittany Ann?"
Brittany shook her head. "Not at all. Now go away you fiend."
Blaise chuckled and back away. Brittany shot towards Harry and hid behind him. "You keep him off of me okay. He's merciless. He'd tickle me till I passed out if he could. He's drunk with power."
Harry just shook his head. "You know if you wanted to sit in my chair with me all you had to do was ask." He flirted a little to see her reaction.
Brittany blushed and moved out of the way. "No, I don't want to impose. Besides your probably sore from that match. I'd make it uncomfortable." She moved back to her seat and smiled. "I wonder what the girls are up to?"
Harry was mentally pouting. He was happy she had not denied him instead thinking of his own comfort. Then again she might not have realized he was flirting with her, he was pretty bad at it.
Hermione smiled and shook her head. Brittany will fit right in here. She and Harry, I can see it working out. If he lives through Voldemort. I'll let her be with the guys for a while. She's really beginning to understand we'll protect her. She's a sweet girl. We can't let Malfoy taint her.
"I just came to tell you we are going to pass out for the night. Scarlett tells us you're a bit of a night owl. Hence you despise mornings. I'm sure you can keep the boys in line. Besides we don't want them running off to off Malfoy while we sleep."
Brittany just smiled up towards her. "I'll be sure to keep them in line Hermione. You can count on me."
Phoenix gave a yawn and shook his head. "Gabriel and I should head back to our Common Rooms. We'll be safe. We'll see you tomorrow Brittany. Behave yourself you loon."
"Yes Nix. Watch out on your way though. Night boys." Brittany smiled.
"You watch over our little nut bag, keep her out of trouble won't you?" He asked the males, his eyes landing specifically on Harry's.
"Of course. We won't let her out of our sight tonight. Right Blaise." Seth smirked.
Right." He agreed.
With that the Ravenclaws left the common room and returned to their own without incident. Brittany smiled and turned back to her brother. "So you intend to plan my future without even telling me?"
Blaise jumped. "You are insatiable, woman. You do not need to know all of what is going on."
Brittany shrugged. "I'll find out sooner or later." Brittany curled up on the chair. "I always do."
Harry just shook his head. This girl was a spitfire. She was interesting enough, and very kind. He could give it a shot at least. "Zabini," he began.
Two heads turned to him and asked, "What," at the same time.
Harry shook his head. "I meant Brittany. Are you really willing to have us plan out your life for you?"
Brittany chuckled. "Merlin no. That's why I wanted to know. I have a few ideas of my own, but I'm not sharing, not until one of you start. I'm not completely helpless."
Ron shook his head. He wanted to see the reaction. He wondered if it all possible, this crazy, oddball, whirlwind of a female could really go with Harry. Sure in the past few hours she proved she was not an evil Slytherin, sure she had proved she was a nice enough girl, but would she even want Harry?
Harry sighed. Might as well see if she would even consider it before I keep going. I need to know what she thinks of me. "We had a very short list, and pretty much crossed it down to two people. Dean Thomas, and, well myself." Harry was fighting his blush and winning for the moment.
Brittany smiled. "You boys still don't know about Dean?"
All heads swilled her way. "Oh he swings both ways. He's dating some fifth year Hufflepuff. One of Serena's friends knows the bloke. Can't remember his name. It was not really that important at the time. It was a few weeks before school."
Ron shook his head. "Did you hear Harry though, he named himself."
Brittany with no willpower left nodded her head mutely and tried desperately to hide her blush. "I heard."
Blaise smirked. Harry had missed the blush as she was looking their way. He looked a little put out. "I saw that blush Brittany Ann. Don't hide it."
Brittany's head burrowed deeper into her knees she had pulled up to her chest. "Shut up Blaise." She growled.
Seth smirked. "You little minx. You've been holding out on us all these years. You've never liked a single male at all. We were starting to doubt you." He said with a knowing tone.
That got her fully red in the face head to shoot up. "You say one more word Seth Black and I'll pummel you. You knew?"
"I had my suspicions." He replied vaguely. Best not to embarrass her too much, she could flee.
Harry had perked up at Blaise's comment but what Seth had said had his eyes locked on Brittany. Ron beat him to the question though. "Knew what?"
"Nothing. Just a little tidbit about Brittany I was once again right about." He replied. "It's not my place to share."
Brittany hid her head back into her knees and closed her eyes. "This is not happening." She groaned.
Harry was slightly confused. Either she would consider the idea or she would not. It was that simple. "Is the idea of being with me really that bad?" He asked aloud. He moved to cover his mouth when he realized he said it out loud.
Brittany's head shot up and she looked at him dead in the eyes. "No! I mean, not really. I'm just a little embarrassed that's all. It's not everyday you admit to considering someone marriage potential." Brittany did then slap a hand over her mouth and groaned again. "Someone please shut me up before I make an ass of myself."
Ron snickered and shook his head. "I think you'll fit right in Brittany."
"Thanks Ron. Really helpful." She groaned.
Harry had a lopsided grin on his face. "So you would consider it. Honestly I mean."
Brittany red faced and defeated put her knees down and looked at him again. She nodded a few times. The urge to hide was great, but she'd face it all the same. If she wanted to get away from Malfoy, then being to embarrassed to look at Harry would not help her.
"You've been considering this?" He asked her again in a kind tone. Up there in the owlry and again in the courtyard. That kiss she blew me. So she was interested. Then again she just learned he was in fact single so maybe that was why she had never approached me before. Well that and Malfoy tainting all Slytherins for me. Bloody Prat. Well guess what now I'm going to take the girl from you too. Harry cheered in his mind.
She nodded again.
"For how long?" He pressed.
Shit, an answer requiring verbal response. Brittany bit the proverbial bullet. "On and off for about a two or so. It was never a fully formed idea until recently though."
A few years huh. Now he just had to convince her she liked him as much as he was beginning to like her and then they would be just fine. They had a year. It could work. "Well then, Brittany Zabini would you like to go on a date with me during the Hogsmeade trip this coming October?"
Brittany blushed an attractive shade of pink and nodded. "I think that would be a wonderful idea."
"It's a date then." Harry replied. Yes! She's going to be ours. That darker part of his mind celebrated the victory.
Brittany whispered. "Could we maybe, study together or talk tomorrow? Get to know one another maybe?"
Harry gave her a very charming smile. "I would like that."
Ron just shook his head. "You know Brittany you have a way about you."
Brittany just shrugged. "I was born with it. Why do you think Malfoy is so damned adamant? He sees it to, and he wants it. It's both a gift and a curse."
Blaise chuckled. "Now you're being modest. I've never seen you blush so much you're entire life, little one. Have you really never liked someone before?"
Brittany turned and glared at her brother. "I love you Blaise, but I will hurt you."
Blaise rubbed his shin subconsciously. Alright, I give I give. I'll back off the teasing for now. Where the bloody hell do we sleep?" He asked turning to Ron and Harry.
Harry was too lost in thought to care. She really is a sweet girl. I'm going to give this a try. I promise. Besides I could do much worse, and I'll get to piss Malfoy off as a bonus. I mean really who doesn't enjoy a nice Malfoy beating anyway.
Ron sighed. "You two can sleep on the floor in my room I suppose. Just keep it down. I do not like to be up early especially on a day off." He warned.
"We've learned this from Brittany over the years. She can be a hellcat if woken early, the wrong way." Seth shivered.
"Once again. Screaming my name and jumping up and down on my bed while bashing pots and pans together is never a good way to wake someone up unless it's an emergency." Brittany hissed. "I can't believe you let him and Nix do that Blaise. It was only eight in the bloody morning, during the summer. We were twelve years old to boot."
Brittany glanced at Harry and noticed he was laughing. She blushed again. "I'll keep in mind to wake you gently if need be."
Brittany nodded her head. "I don't like being startled awake, that scared the bloody daylights outta me."
Harry just shook his head. "Perhaps we should turn in. Especially if we want a nice amount of time to study and talk tomorrow."
Brittany nodded her head in agreement and hugged her brother and Seth goodnight. She smiled at Ron, a little unsure and gave him a half a second half hug. She turned to Harry and blushed. She was frozen in her spot. Ron chuckled. "Cold feet already?"
Harry gave his best mate a halfhearted glare and shook his head at him. Ron was Ron, no matter what. He stepped closer to Brittany slowly. He didn't want her running off. He smiled softly to her and whispered. "You already hugged me once for saving your life today. You want to give it another go now that I'm actually expecting it?"
Brittany was embarrassed, the others were watching her. She had never done any of this stuff before. Hugging friends and family sure, but hugging a possible boyfriend, could be future fiancée that was a whole new experience for her. She nodded her head and moved timidly towards him.
She gave him a tentative hug, before Harry squeezed her tight. "No matter what, I promise to do what I can to keep Malfoy off your back. You'll be safe with us. We can even ask Snape to give you a private room under the circumstances. He must have heard what happened already. Both times. Get a good night sleep Brittany. You earned it." With that said he let her go and took note how small and fragile she really could be. Yes a damsel in distress indeed.
"Night Harry, sleep well." She whispered before rushing off towards Hermione's room. Ginny and Heather had watched this interaction silently as they moved towards the Girls Dormitory to make more room for the Slytherin females. They smiled to themselves. They would make a cute couple the pair thought. It oddly seems to fit.
Blaise called after her with a fake pout. "Oh sure, say goodnight to him, nothing for your sweet older brother."
Brittany was almost in the door when she whispered. "Night Blaise night Seth, Night Ron, tell Seamus I said night as well." She then shut the door and smiled brightly.
Ron turned to Harry with a smirk. "A Slytherin, huh. At least she's nice. A little weird but nice. Her hate of Malfoy certainly adds to her charm though." He laughed as he went upstairs.
Blaise and Seth followed him. Blaise turned and smiled at Harry. "Just do what feel s natural Harry. If it happens it happens. Just take it a step at a time."
Harry was left alone in the common rooms. He spent a few moments considering what he had just signed himself up for. A possible wife, well if he lived through facing Voldemort, at least he would finally have a start on his life. It could all work out. He'd take it a day at a time. He stopped when he realized he asked Brittany Zabini out of a date. He had not been on a date in almost a year. At least he had a month to plan it all. Harry moved towards the Boy's Dorm and whispered. "Night, Brittany. We'll see just what the future holds for us."
Edited to fit with other edits 1-14-2016