Hello there! What's up? Thank you for still checking out this story and keeping up! Sorry that I haven't updated in nearly a month...had to keep writing new material. It nagged away at me. Anyway...I'll be posting chapters 5-6. I have 7-8 written...I'll post those in a few days to make up for my tardiness. :) After this, you will see Cedric's evil behavior start to rise...and just for a heads-up...in chapter 7, more will surface and so on and so forth...though I will bounce between that and showing more Cormac/Colin action because they're the primary focus.

Chapter Five-Mahogany Door

"Thank you, please come again." Colin bid an elderly woman farewell as he handed her a box of raspberry tarts. Taking a break from the counter, he gazed out the window at the passing townsfolk. Each were waltzing merrily about, going wherever with whomever. The sun was shining, a light breeze scattered leaves throughout the street on that early November afternoon. It's been three days since his visit to Rosethorn Manor. Colin had a wonderful time there, despite the very minor incident.

He's wondered if they'd follow through with their owling, though he didn't worry about it! As if his very thought came into being, a tawny owl with bright gold eyes flew by and tapped on the loading dock window in the back.

''Hm? Ok, now who do you belong to?" Colin whispered to himself as he met the owl on his perch. Reaching into the hanging bag of owl treats, he held one out to the giddy bird. He wolfed it down and flew away. Colin took the letter and a small blue pouch it left behind.

''Now who sent me the message?" His eyes scanned over a family crest with a motto written in Irish, so there was no dispute this letter came from Seamus.

'-Fortune favors the bold- Not a bad motto, especially when I consider the bloke's personality.'

Breaking the seal, he returned to a chair near the front as he began reading.

'-Greetings, mate! What's up? Anyway, I'm here writing in hopes you'd accept another tea proposal. We had such a good time when you came and it was a lot better to have a quartet instead of the usual trio. Also, I was hoping you could tell us your schedule so we can sort hanging out in between work and your other mates. I can't believe Susan hardly mentioned us much! We're a lot of fun! I have half a mind to pinch that carrot-top the next time I see her. Before I totally forget what I'm saying here...my chipper owl is Diarmuid. He's liable to hop off the desk in a frenzy when he's excited. Funny, that's what Dean said I almost do when I get that way. Send your reply when you get a chance. Oh, and if you accept...could you do me a humongous favor and bring that apple and blueberry crumble? I sent the galleons in advance. Can't wait to hear from you! ~Excitably yours, Seamus.-'

'Heh, I should have known that's what the pouch was for.' Colin chuckled as he jiggled the small leather bag.

'I should consider making an entire list of our products, framing it and giving it to Seamus to hang on his wall...or stuff him in the supply closet. Wait, that's a bad idea, he'd devour everything and Mum would murder him then me.'

He failed to notice a visitor walk in and wait at the counter, smiling at him.

"Hello, my sweet."

Colin slightly cringed at the smooth tone. Folding the letter and tucking it into his pocket, he put on a small smile.

"Afternoon, Cedric. How may I help you?"

The brunette sighed calmly. "Oh, Mother wanted me to be a dear and pick up a Bavarian cream cake she ordered custom-made. She's throwing a dinner party and your mum's cakes are spectacular. She had to have one."

Colin nodded. "Bavarian cream cake. Ok, let me check." the blonde scanned through a book with recent orders. "Yep. One three-tiered Bavarian cream cake for Diggory. I'll go get it." Colin headed through the kitchen doors.

Cedric tilted his head as he admired the blonde's retreating arse, thankful they were in such form-fitting trousers. 'If it were up to me, there would be no need for you to work. I'd be the provider and come home after a long day, you'd greet me at the door, we'd have a nice home-cooked meal and shag nearly every night before bed. It would be absolutely mind-blowing...especially when you're under me, screaming my name.'

"Here you are!" Colin chirped setting down the enchanted green box, stirring Cedric from his wishful thoughts. "All your mum or whomever has to do is open the box and the cake will levitate out and onto whatever surface you need. It's also charmed not to smudge the icing or fall if you happen to bump into something. I hope your mum enjoys it."

Paying the blonde handsomely for the tedious work, he smirked. ''I'm sure she will. And so will I this evening. Take care, darling." Surprising Colin with one kiss on the cheek, he turned on his heel and headed out the door. Walking down the street, Cedric's smirk settled into a thin line.

'I recognize that crest on his letter. That's Finnigan's. What the hell is he doing sending my Colin a letter? Are they friends? Why? That boisterous leprechaun lives with that...that thing! Ugh, I don't even want to think of my sweet associating with the likes of McLaggen! Colin's too beautiful and perfect to even consider befriending that monster. I don't think I should worry much, Colin's too smart. I'm confident enough to know that creature will never have him, because I will. And I intend to have him in due time.'

Meanwhile, back at the bakery, Colin was rubbing his cheek. 'Ew! What a blindside. I really should keep my guard up around him. The bright side is that he didn't proposition me again. Well, I can think later. I have more customers to attend to.'

At home that evening, Colin was sitting at his desk and scribbling down his response to Seamus.

'-Hey Seamus! In regards to your invitation, I accept. I'd love to come by for another cup of tea. As for my work schedule, I'm part-time. I work 3-4 days a week (Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday) and maybe more if my mum needs it. But that's mainly during holidays. I'm free this weekend to drop by and Mum's giving me the whole next week off since I've been working so hard. If you'd like, I could hang some more with you guys. It's up to you. And yes, I will be bringing the apple and blueberry crumbles. Mum laughed when she learned you wanted a large sheet of both. I believe she's more than grateful of your insane desire for her sweets. Apparently, you're one of her best customers. The owl delivering this is Pumpkin. I named her that because of her eyes. She's sweet and you can pet her. Let me know what you think when you get this. ~Happily awaiting, Colin.-'

Sealing the envelope, he handed it over to his black and brown-speckled owl. She hooted softly before taking flight.

At Rosethorn/McLaggen Manor...

"You see this one? I think we should try it." Seamus pointed to a rather interesting position on page 23 of his new magazine.

"Hm..that doesn't look too difficult. I think we shall." Dean smiled as he rested his head on Seamus's shoulder.

Cormac rolled over on his chaise and faced them. ''Didn't you two already try out every position known to man? I figured you must have from researching the last batch of dirty magazines you have in your possession."

Seamus smirked "Apparently not all of them! This is a new month's issue, by the way. If ya don't believe me, check it out. I don't even think you've done this one."

"Oh really? Try me."

Seamus turned the material around and showed him.

Cormac raised his eyebrows. "Well, I'll be damned. I don't remember using that one and I remember all the ones I have used."

Seamus snickered. "See? I told ya!"

A tapping sound alerted the men to a gray owl with black and brown spots. "Hey! That must be Colin's owl." Dean pointed out as Seamus scrambled to the window. She perched onto the table across Cormac. Giving her a treat, the Irishman took the reply and opened it.

"What does it say?" Dean queried, peering over his shoulder.

"Colin accepted our invitation, he's free this weekend and has the whole next week off...and he's bringin' those crumbles!" Seamus exclaimed with a goofy grin.

"And, he said if we're up for it he can hang out over the week he's off from work." Dean repeated as his dark eyes scanned the script.

Cormac stirred at that line. 'He's...he's coming over again? I admit, the first time was a bit torturous but it did level out somewhat. It was actually kinda nice. I honestly didn't think he'd ever consider returning. Maybe there is a chance he will after all? Hopefully? Ugh, I dunno.'

"Write Colin back and tell him this Friday evening is good for him to come over. And I love his owl. Pumpkin...such a cute name." Dean twittered as he stroked her plumage.

"So mate, what you think? Colin's visiting again." Seamus asked Cormac.

"Oh, it's fine. As long as he doesn't hit me."

"Don't give him a reason to...and there we go! Send this back to your master, girl.'' Finnigan gave Pumpkin the reply and she soared off into the night.

Colin allowed Pumpkin inside. Before placing her into her cage, he took back the letter. ''Ok, Friday evening it is. Glad I have something to look forward to after work. Thank you for traveling such a long way, sweetie." He stroked Pumpkin's wings and she nipped his fingers affectionately. ''Well, off to bed I go."

After lunch at Saoirse's Sweet Nothings Bakery...

"Colin, could ya do me a favor? I need ya to pick up these ingredients. I've literally just ran out. These are very delicate and I don't trust that delivery man as far as you can throw 'im." Saoirse handed him a list.

"Of course, Mum. I'll be back in a little while." Heading twenty minutes down the street, Colin walked towards the market when he caught Dennis and Nigel hanging out near the pub. He approached them. ''What the bloody hell are you two doing skipping class?"

Dennis scoffed. "Calm your tits, big bro. We're not skipping. Class let out early due to a nasty Potions explosion. The fumes escaped through the halls and they evacuated us from the premises."

Colin narrowed his eyes. "You're not the ones responsible for the explosion, are you?"

"Feh, even if we were, we would admit to nothing."

''Isn't that peachy? Anyway, since you two are roaming aimlessly, how about assisting me with Mum's list? She ran out and it's a big one." He held out the parchment. Knowing how irritable she gets without her materials, they accepted.

Two hours later, they came out of the market with their supplies in hand and headed back to the bakery. "Thank Merlin, you're a lifesaver. And...what are you two doin' out o' school?" Saoirse eyed the two 17 year-olds in suspicion.

''Potions explosion, which they're apparently not responsible for. At least that's the story they gave me." Colin responded as they shrugged innocently.

"Right, anyway...thanks again. I need you at the counter and I need to be in the kitchen." Charming the bags inside, Colin went back to work while Dennis and Nigel snagged a few sweets from the kitchen.

At six o' clock, Colin headed home, showered and apparated to Rosethorn Manor. Dean was the one to greet him this time. "Welcome back, come on in."

"Thanks for having me. Parlor?"

"You guessed right."

Taking their seats in the same second story parlor, Colin took his tea with cream and three sugars. Peering around the room, he saw it was only him, Dean and Seamus. "Is Cormac coming?"

Dean sat down his teacup. "He should be. You know, he actually wasn't vehemently against you coming back."

"Really?"

Seamus grinned. "Really. He said it was fine...as long as ya don't hit 'im again. I told him ya won't unless he gives you a reason to.''

Colin chuckled, shaking his head. "I don't believe that'll be necessary." He heard a noise behind the door. "Hm?" A large, hunched-over body silently lumbered his way in and shyly glanced at Colin before claiming his seat. The blonde smiled. "Hey, Cormac."

Cormac replied "Hi, Colin."

" 'Bout damn time, ya angry lummox! You're late for your guest." Seamus chided his best mate.

"Shut it, Finnigan. It's my house and I'll be late if I want to."

"All right guys, chill. You can bicker when he's not here.'' Dean intervened calmly.

Seamus huffed, changing the subject. ''Damn it, I'm starved. Are the house elves finished with it, yet?"

Dean took this as an opportunity and inwardly smirked. "No, but I think we should check. Come along." Seamus took the subtle hint and left the two blondes alone.

The clock ticked as they sat in awkward silence. Cormac was fidgeting as he moved to get comfortable in his armchair. Colin was slowly sipping his tea. 'I vowed to reach out to Cormac, why not try now? We're by ourselves, so I hope this lessens the pressure.' "This is a very lovely manor you have here, Cormac."

"Yeah, I guess. Parents left it to me."

"Do they live here with you?"

"No, they live in another manor of ours in a separate province."

Colin nodded. "Oh. Well, at least you get to see them sometimes."

"Yeah."

"Any siblings?"

"No."

"I have a little brother, Dennis. Technically, he's approximately my height so he's not that little.. but he's 17."

Cormac took another sip of his tea, then answered. ''Colin, may I ask you something?"

"Sure. Anything."

Violet eyes locked with his own. ''Why didn't you run?" '

Ah, so it has come to this.' Colin returned. "That would have been extremely rude."

"I don't understand. You should have. I mean, everyone has. Nobody can stand looking at me for more than a minute, yet you have managed for much longer. How is that?"

Colin set down his cup and looked him square in the eyes. ''I'm not everybody else. I know not to flee when I see someone whose appearance vastly differs from the norm. I didn't run because it would have been wrong to treat you that way. You are a person and should be treated as such...not like the plague. I know how the townsfolk saw and reacted to you and I can guarantee you this, you will not ever see or hear me act like them."

Cormac sighed "You don't even know me."

"I don't have to know you to treat you with decency and respect. You deserve that."

Cormac was silent. He's never had anyone other than family and his best mates speak to him in such a reassuring and consoling way. After all the people he's done wrong, the last thing he thought he deserved was kindness, especially coming from a gorgeous boy such as Colin. He stared at his face, which now displayed a gentle smile and bright sky blues that shimmered in the firelight. Cormac opened his misshapen mouth to speak until Dean came in.

''Dinner's ready! Come on down, mates."

"Guess we'll go now, huh?" Colin stood as did Cormac.

"I'll...I'll show you to the dining room." Colin thought he heard a slight crack in his smooth voice but decided to leave it alone.

During dinner, the four of them had a little livelier conversation...Cormac was participating. He would much more when it was usually the three of them, but since Colin was present, he was a bit apprehensive. He hasn't had other company in so long, it's understandable.

"Colin, your mum did say she was giving you the entire next week off, am I correct?"

He answered Dean. ''Yeah, she did. You'd like to hang some more?"

"It's better than that. How about you come spend the week here, including tomorrow?''

Cormac nearly spit out his drink at the suggestion. "Uh, should you really be asking him that? I mean, you just met him not too long ago.''

"Well, he can consider this a chance to get to know us more."

Dean and Seamus not only checked on dinner last night but also schemed to make the best out of Colin's week off...the cheeky devils.

Seamus grinned widely at the blonde. "How about it, Col? You up for it?"

Colin pushed hair behind his ears. "Well, I'm never anywhere else other than work and home and occasionally with friends. So, I guess I can go home tonight and get a trunk packed."

"Perfect! It's settled then. Colin's spendin' the week at our manor." The Irishman happily rubbed his hands together, pleased with the outcome.

Cormac felt quite nervous. He was shy enough being around Colin for a few hours in two separate days. There was no telling how much worse it would be now that he's staying a week...near him. '

Oh shit. Now he's gonna be here...eating, sleeping, and...' he gulped '..showering under my roof. I dunno how much of this I can take. Dean and Seamus are here, so that's some discomfort lessened. Maybe I'm overreacting? I've had company plenty of times before. It can't be too difficult to do this again. I'm the host here and if I'm uncomfortable, then my guest will be too. If Mum and Dad make a surprise visit and see that, they will bitch me out to no end. They don't care if I'm grown or not. I'll just have to take it a day at a time, I guess.'

Colin averted his gaze to Cormac. "Once dinner is over, I'll go home, grab my things and return Saturday morning after breakfast. Um, are you sure you don't have an issue with me staying?"

The young master shook his head. "No, of course not. It's fine with me."

Finishing his rotisserie-styled chicken and vegetables, Colin apparated home and began packing after relaying the news and sending his friends a quick message so they won't be miffed if they write and he doesn't reply and they'll know where to find him if needed. Colin also pleaded with his mother to NOT say a word to Cedric or anyone else over where he's going because it's frankly none of their business. Dennis didn't give two shits so there was no worry about him blabbing. On Saturday morning, after shrinking his trunk and handing Pumpkin to his brother, Colin returned to Rosethorn Manor.

''Ok, I'm here."

Dean smiled. "Great! Let me show you to your room."

They took along the same route of reaching the parlor, only they had to venture down two more corridors and take a right. There were few doors that lined the lengthy hallway. Passing one door with a painstakingly-carved wooden frame, they stood in between two giant stained-oak doors.

"You see this one with the brass lions above the handles? This is Cormac's room. Don't go in unless he invites you. That doesn't exactly apply to Seamus and I...but you get why. To your right, that is your room. The two doors behind us, those are mine and Seamus's bedchambers. Separate for when we feel like sleeping alone.''

The dark-skinned man led Colin inside that guest room, which was one of multiple. Colin gazed around at the beautiful décor. It was elegant, tasteful...yet not too overbearing. The canopy, duvet and bedsheets were of an ivory color with gold trimming. It was silky and soft to the touch. The area rug and drapes matched the color scheme of the bed. The furniture was leather and carved wood, looking to be imported from somewhere in Europe and quite old. It reminded him of a place fit for royalty. Cormac's family might have had some centuries ago...only that information rested with Cormac. Charming his trunk to normal size, Colin began unpacking.

Digging through the bottom of his trunk, a hand knocked on the door frame. Startled, he spun around. Cormac was standing there, watching him. ''Sorry. Didn't mean to spook you."

"I-It's fine. Sometimes I get caught up in what I'm doing and the littlest things scare me. It's stupid. Well...uh..what do you want?"

He replied. "I just came to tell you that lunch is promptly at noon and the guys are off getting extra snacks. I dunno why, we have plenty in the kitchen."

Colin smiled. ''I wouldn't be surprised if these particular snacks are coming from the bakery."

"Neither would I." Before Cormac turned, he had to ask. "Uh, if you'd like, I can give you a tour? As you've noticed, this manor is pretty big.''

"Sure. I'd like that."

The master held a grayish hand with long and crooked fingers out to the hallway. ''This way.'' Colin followed him outside and throughout the house, taking in every door, staircase, lounging area, the indoor pool and gardens, workout room, ballroom, library. Although, there was one door in particular in the west wing that garnered Colin's attention. It was mahogany with a red ribbon tied around the knob. Amidst the several similar doors in that corridor, he surmised it was done to differentiate this one from the others...for some strange reason.

The blonde found himself walking slower, staring at the door. "Would you like to see our art collection?"

That snapped him from his blatant curiosity. Colin nodded "Of course."

Cormac raised an eyebrow as they walked side by side. 'I have a feeling I'll be catching you back here sometime tonight or this week.'

Hmmm...what could be hiding behind that door? Colin's going to do some investigating!