Angelina Johnson.
"And just pay attention to that staircase there." Percy shouted to the first years. "It leads somewhere different on a Friday."
"Please tell me he is joking?" Harry whispered to Rose and Ron. "I can't even remember how to get back to the Great Hall."
"There must be a quicker way to Gryffindor tower." Rose agreed. "I'm making a mental map of all the long corridors and hidden doorways so far, but I can only remember so much"
The first years continued their tour of Hogwarts, taking in the portraiture on the walls, with the resident paintings waving at them in welcome as they passed. Eventually Percy paused in front of a portrait of a fat lady, the first years now out of breath, sweaty and physically tired. Looking up Rose couldn't help but sigh with relief, If the stories her family had mentioned in the past were true, this was the entrance to Gryffindor Tower.
"The Password for this week is 'Pig Snout'" Percy explained. "If you forget it, you will have to wait here for another Gryffindor to let you in."
At his words the portrait swung open revealing for the first time an oval bricked tunnel that led into a red room. Ducking through the hole in the wall, the first years shuffled into their new home.
The Walls were a rich burgundy colour, decorated with tall tapestries that hung from the midnight blue ceiling. Positioned strikingly were three candlelit chandeliers made of iron, illuminating the room in warm light. A roaring fireplace on the left hand side of the room was a welcome sight, instantly creating a very cosy atmosphere. Above the mantlepiece was a bookshelf laden with second hand books and a notice board with advertisements and information on after school clubs. Scattered in groups across the room were comfy armchairs and squidgy sofas each accompanied by a large table. Though the room was round you could see a wall of bay windows ahead, but the pitch black night obscured the world outside. To the right hand side of the fireplace were two identical oak doors engraved with 'B' and a 'G'. Rose presumed that these must lead to the boys and girls dormitories. As much as she was in ore of her new surroundings, her heart sunk slightly as she realised that Smutz was nowhere to be seen. The other two must have had the same line of thought as Ron touched her elbow, pointing to the floor in disbelief.
"He has only got himself a bloody fan club." He whispered.
Sighing in relief, Rose observed the small group of students huddle around Smutz, cooing over the new dog. Smutz was clearly relaxed as he was on his back, with his legs stretched out making every inch of himself available for pampering.
"Oh my God, he is the cutest thing I have ever seen." One girl squeaked to her friend. "How do you think he got here?"
"I don't know." Her friend replied perplexed, mushing smutz's beard up in her hands. " He must be a Gryffindor mascot or something? We have never been allowed dogs in here before."
The girls continued to mollycoddle Smutz, unaware that they were being watched by Rose and the boys. More students started to congregate around him, all waiting curiously for a chance to fuss the new pet. A boisterous looking girl knocked Rose's shoulder as she barged past her with such force that she knocked Rose into Ron. Walking past the queue of patient students, she pushed one of the boys out of the original group, blocking his path and leaning over Smutz in inspection.
"Are you going to share that dog anytime soon?"
She was very large, her masculine hands hovering over a roll of fat implying where her hips should have been. With a flushed red face, her blond hair that was styled into a girly bob unfortunately contradicted the rest of her appearance completely. The boy she had pushed rubbed his arm vigorously looking truly hurt by her brutality. Rose quickly concerned that this girl might accidentally hurt Smutz, rushed over to the group gaining all of their attention.
"Actually" Rose began diplomatically, trying to address anyone but the boisterous girl. "I am more than happy for anyone to fuss Smutz - but he is my pet dog and you follow my rules if you want to fuss him… just to let you know."
The group all looked at Rose, surprised that a first year would walk in and directly talk to them all so openly. The two girls that were currently fussing him looked extremely disappointed that they couldn't keep the dog. It was the boisterous girl's look however that made Rose hesitate her actions, she looked unperturbed replying harshly;
"Whatever, it's my go next, okay?!"
Her thumb indenting her chest as she replied making it quite clear that it wasn't a question. She then turned and walked to the nearest seat looking at Smutz the entire time, her fingers twitching in impatience.
"Well this is unexpected" Rose muttered to Ron and Harry as they subtly watched. "That girl scares me."
"She scares all of us." Ron blurted, looking at Rose with a concerned look.
"She reminds me of my cousin Dudley." Harry muttered with a shiver. "I never wanted to imagine what he would look like as a girl. Shall we take that comfy couch over there? Then when she is done petting him, we can kidnap Smutz back."
"O-kay" Rose responded still a little shocked. "I guess it's better than standing here awkwardly."
The boys led her to the nearest couch, Rose elusively glancing over her shoulder as she sat to make sure he was really okay. They sat making small talk for a while, not wanting to make it obvious that they were observing the girl too often. A couple of times Ron would glance over giving Rose the sign that everything was still okay.
"You okay?" Harry whispered next to her.
"I'll be fine." Rose nodded timidly. "Its just because I'm getting tired and I know it's daft but I actually want to have a cuddle with my own dog."
"Its not daft Rose." Ron sympathised. "Hopefully the novelty will wear off soon."
He placed his arm around Rose, comforting her and giving her side a squeeze. A repulsed sound was heard from behind their heads and Ron thinking it was the open affection quickly whisked his hand away not wanting anyone to get the wrong impression.
"I can't believe someone was actually allowed to bring a dog here" a disgusted voice rang out from behind them. "They aren't even nice pets."
"I know Angelina. I can't imagine anything worse for you right now. Especially as nothing will compare to your beautiful cat. You must miss her terribly?" A girl said in a soothing Motherly voice.
"Its not the point Alicia. That dog is ugly and gross." Angelina snapped.
Rose whipped around, her face sending a clear message to "Angelina" that she had heard what she had said and that she wasn't impressed. Angelina was pretty, with a plump face and beaded jet black hair, but her eyes weren't friendly. Sending a clear warning herself, she had her eyes narrowed at Rose clearly not caring that her words were upsetting or rude.
"If my dog offends you that much, I suggest you just don't look at him." Rose stated bluntly.
"How could Smutz offend anyone?" George queried clearly confused.
Rose turned her head slightly to see George standing close to the sofa with Fred, Lee and Edward behind. George jumped up onto the arm of the sofa, nudging Rose with his shoulder in an affectionate way.
"Making friends already Rose?" He said whispered, amusement laced in his voice.
"Its a natural talent of mine clearly." Rose replied dryly. "Smutz has somehow offended that girl called Angelina by simply existing in the same space that she is in."
Though she answered George subtly she prayed that Angelina could hear them talking.
"Is this true Ange?!"
George changed his position so that his body was now casually leaning across the arm of the sofa with his head in his hand. Looking directly back at Angelina, George though confrontational was still smiling, waiting for her to reply. Angelina however was wearing a look of shock and confusion, wondering why George seemed to know this new girl and why he was standing up for her. Lost for words and distracted by her new audience she kept looking over George's head to Edward, her eyes intense and her skin glowing. As if knowing why she had gone so quiet, Fred chuckled joining Lee and Edward taking a seat on the comfy armchairs across from George.
"Where is Smutz anyway?" Fred asked the group.
"Over there." Rose replied in a muttered tone, so only the group could hear her. "I wouldn't mind getting him back sooner rather than later though."
The boys looked over to where Rose had indicated, smiles appearing as realisation hit with who had Smutz captive.
"You mean Matilda Pudge?" Lee said with a smile.
"I didn't catch her name." Rose replied stiffly. "But she is very- confident that's for sure."
"You know what they say Rose, big size, big in.. personality!" Fred added with a cheeky grin.
"Yeah she might have Smutz as a snack." George said thoughtfully. "Maybe we should get him back promptly before it's too late."
Rolling her eyes at George, she looked back at Matilda who was pushing Smutz's belly with such force that she was causing wrinkles to form around her hands. It was a miracle that she wasn't breaking his ribs. Reading the clear shock on Rose's face, Edward said gently.
"I'm not very good with animals, but would you like me to go over and talk to her for you?"
Smiling gratefully, Rose gave a couple of small nods. Edward stood looking confident, he was about to head over to Matilda when Lee interpreted;
"Don't bother Oliver, Matilda and I go way back. I'll get your dog back for you Rose, just give me two tics."
He rose with confidence, his chest puffed out and shoulder back. He strode over to Matilda gallantly like this was the most important quest that he couldn't fail. With everyone now watching Lee, most of the group didn't notice Lee's seat quickly taken by Angelina who had clearly been waiting for an opportunity to come over.
"So how is everyone" She said airily, addressing the older boys only.
"Not too bad, and yourself Angelina?" Fred replied with an amused look.
"Why I'm fantastic thank you Fred." She said with a warm smile. "And how are you Oliver? I sadly didn't manage to speak to your earlier at the train station, but you did look pretty preoccupied. Were you saying goodbye to your new girlfriend?"
Angelina said 'girlfriend' whilst looking at Rose, a malicious glint in her eye. Smirking at Rose's confused frown, she tossed her hair in an over dramatic way, the braids hitting Fred directly in the face. The move went unnoticed by Angelina as she began playing with the ends of her hair, looking directly at Edward innocently, waiting for him to respond. Rose couldn't help but look at Edward too, compelled to see what his reaction would be. Feeling like she was eavesdropping on a private conversation it annoyed and surprised her that in that split second she was disappointed to hear he was already taken. She couldn't help the look of disappointment show as she scolded herself, annoyed that she hadn't seen this sooner. Edward was a lovely guy, she had only briefly met him and she had already become smitten on how kind and friendly he was. Not to mention that the man was a living God for crying out loud, of course he wasn't going to be single. Rose awkwardly continued to observe, waiting with heavy breaths to see what he would say. Her eyes showed surprise when Edward's eyes darted quickly towards her, before looking back to Angelina who now looked embarrassed.
"My girlfriend?" He asked bemused.
"Yes! She was absolutely gorgeous Oliver, even if she was a little on the short side. You know, the pretty BRUNETTE you were with?" Angelina again looked at Rose as she emphasised the word. "You said goodbye on the platform earlier, before embracing her."
"Oh her" Edward responded, his voice laced in sarcasm, "That BRUNETTE would be my SISTER Alice."
Edward shock his head, exasperated by Angelina's attitude. He returned he gaze to Rose, his eyes indicating that he was apologising on behalf of Angelina. Picking up on the look herself, Angelina shuffled awkwardly on couch, sulkily looking between Rose and Edward. Rose couldn't cope with the burning glare of Angelina anymore so decided to look over towards Matilda and Lee, hoping by doing so she could avoid the awkwardness. As her spine tingled from Angelina's stare, Paranoia startled to feed into Rose's thoughts. She felt like she was talking normally to everyone in the group equally, so why did Angelina think she was being too forward with Edward? Worried she had made a fool of herself without realising it, Rose felt a slight blush appear on her cheeks.
Lee eventually came back empty handed, apologising profusely that Matilda wasn't finished with her 'Play time' just yet. Edward, clearly eager to leave Angelina's presence as quickly as possible without looking rude, got up gracefully from his chair. Without communicating to them what he was doing, he walked over to Matilda, carefully crouching down next to her so to not alarm her. Matilda's eyes grew to twice their normal size when she realised that Edward was talking directly to her, her mouth bobbing slightly like a goldfish. Mesmerised in a semi trance, she scooped Smutz up and handed him to Edward without hesitation, content in Edward's presence. Edward nodded at Matilda in thanks, turning on the spot and smoothly walked back to the group before she could change her mind.
"Bloody hell he is good." Ron whispered to Rose. "Hopefully you won't have to deal with her ever again."
Edward gave Rose a small smile as he handed Smutz to her gently. She noticed that its was done more awkwardly than necessary as he seemed cautious to avoid skin contact.
"There you go, he doesn't seem too traumatised." Edward spoke bemused.
"Thank you for rescuing him." Rose replied gratefully.
Smutz jumped off Rose's lap and curled up under her legs, feeling more safe slightly hidden from sight. Laughing at a joke Fred had just told to the group, Ron gulped his eyes wide, hitting Rose hard in the stomach to follow his gaze. Professor McGonagall, stood at the entrance to the Portrait hole. Her eyes focused on Rose. Beckoning her over with her finger, Rose sighed subtly as she got up, walking towards her with a hesitant step. What could she have done already?Looking around, her stomach dropping as she noticed her friends were now watching her interaction with McGonagall, a mixture of amusement and surprise written on their faces.
"Hello Professor." Rose said cautiously. "And to what do I owe the pleasure?"
"I am here to congratulate you." McGonagall replied sarcastically, only her eyes indicating amusement.
"For making Gryffindor?" Rose replied stunned. "You didn't need to come all this way to-"
"I am to understand that you have managed to twist the Headmasters robe in regards to your bloody dog?" McGonagall snapped
"Maybe." Rose said vaguely, her blush giving her away.
"No I am not surprised." McGonagall clipped. "Just like your Mother. I hope this isn't going to become a habit- breaking school rules to suit your agenda."
Rose nodded slowly, wanting to make it as obvious as she could to her Grandmother that she understood.
"I understand that you are responsible for your dog and his needs, so myself and Professor Dumbledore have given you permission to be able to access the castle grounds whenever needed, as long as it is at an appropriate time, or on the rare occasion because it is urgent."
"So I don't have a curfew?" Rose asked, looking up surprised.
"You most certainly do young lady. I don't want any reports of you out at all hours just because you can. This is purely so that you can take him out before bedtime, and during the night if he needs it, nothing more!"
"I get it. Thank you." Rose replied quickly.
Pausing she looked straight into her Grandmothers eyes before she continued;
"I mean it. Thank you."
Professor McGonagall nodded, a slight smile playing on her lips.
"Good. Here is a letter addressing all the details we have just gone over, you may need it if you pass paths with Mr Fitlch."
She handed the envelope over to Rose adding quietly.
"I know you were stressed earlier about becoming a Gryffindor but please know that I would have been proud of you wherever you would have been. I have written to your parents to inform them of the wonderful news, now please try to get an early night for heavens sake and take Smutz out sooner rather than later. You don't want Mr Filtch on your wrong side already."
Before Rose could respond, McGonagall turned on her heel leaving through the portrait once more. Pausing a moment astounded, Rose could have sworn her Grandmother had whispered "Sweet dreams" as she left. Walking back to the group, she couldn't help but notice that the majority of them were eagerly waiting for her to tell them what had happened. Only Edward seemed content, relaxed looking out the window.
"Well?" Ron said, slight amusement in his voice.
"She just wanted to give me this." Rose replied, handing him the letter which he eagerly opened on her behalf, Harry leaning over his shoulder to read it himself.
"She basically explained I can take Smutz out for walks or toilet break whenever need be." Rose explained to the rest of the group.
"And you can be accompanied." Ron said browsing through the letter.
"What?"
"Yeah says it right here." Ron said pointing to the line.
"Why didn't she mention that bit?"
"Dunno, but that's cool. No curfew."
"Thats what I said! But apparently I still do."
"From over here it looked like she was telling you off." Angelina giggled, covering her mouth with her hand clearly grinning. "Take my advice. I wouldn't get on the wrong side of McGonagall if I were you, she doesn't take fools gladly."
Looking at Fred who winked back, Rose quickly caught on that Angelina didn't know the family connection. Gaining her own grin in acknowledgment she turned to Angelina politely replying;
"Thank you for the tip. I take it that you have crossed that line?"
"Oh God no! Professor McGonagall absolutely adores me." She said with a slight whine to her voice. "I think I one of her favourite students.
Smiling and nodding at the comment, though secretly finding it hard to believe, Rose looked around on the floor looking for Smutz, purposely trying to avoid any Weasley eye contact.
"I suppose I should take him out before it's too late.. Ron have you seen him?" Rose whispered in panic.
She swivelled around quickly, scouting the floor for any sign of him or Matilda, the latter nowhere to be seen.
"Ah! Smutz is right here." a velvety voice replied amused. "He seemed quite eager on saying hello and now he has gone to sleep on my lap. I think the Matilda episode exhausted him."
Eyebrow slightly raised, Rose couldn't help a small side smile. Edward looked like a natural, his long elegant fingers slowly brushing Smutz's back soothingly.
"I thought you said that you're not very good with animals?" Rose replied jokingly.
"I'm normally not! They do tend to avoid me at all costs, honestly. There does seem to be something about this little guy though, he isn't scared at all."
"Why would he be scared of you?" Rose asked confused. "You don't eat little dogs do you?"
George coughed loudly, whilst Fred and Lee looked a little shocked. Edward however, momentarily paused stroking Smutz, looking up slowly, a cheeky smile playing on his face.
"I can hand on heart say that I have never eaten a dog." Edward admitted, chuckling to himself. "But it is rewarding I have to say, to finally meet a pet that I can stroke."
"Well he is the new Gryffindor mascot." Harry added jokingly. "He is just doing his job."
"Would you mind if I take him out later?" Edward asked curiously. "You can say no and I would completely understand. After all, I am a stranger to you and you have no reason to trust me with your dog. But I don't need a lot of sleep, so I could take him out for you and then you are free to go to bed."
Rose looked at him in surprise, her eyebrows raised in shock. Was he hinting it was time for them to leave? Edward clearly thought she had got the wrong message too as he quickly added;
"Not that I want you to go to bed so soon…"
"Ooh.."
Rose nodded, a small delicate smile confirming the mistake but she now didn't know what to say. It really was a kind offer and she did strangely trust Edward. Looking at him, she could see his body had tensed up, ready for rejection.
"Thats a really kind offer Edward.."
"Edward?" Angelina screeched, shooting Rose a mortified glare.
Rose jumped, forgetting about Angelina being present. This was the second time that evening that she had become lost in her own private universe with Edward. Ignoring Angelina's comment completely Rose replied;
"Would you be okay doing that? I don't want you to get into trouble with Filtch."
Edward's shoulders sagged, looking immediately less tense. He leaned into his armchair, grinning broadly.
"He's never caught me sneak out yet."
Rose grinned back glad to hear that he wasn't completely perfect if he broke the rules. The room slowly started to grow quieter, the light becoming dimmer and the sofas starting to empty. Rose could start to feel the niggling sensation of sleep creep throughout her body. Sighing contently she looked at Ron's watch not surprised that the time was already half past midnight.
"I think I'm going to have to go to bed." She muttered to Harry and Ron "If not, I'm never going to get up."
"That doesn't sound like a bad shout." Ron replied yawning. "Coming Harry?"
"Right behind you." Harry agreed, standing up.
"I think I will head up as well." Angelina acknowledged, stretching her arms up and pushing her chest out. "Night boys."
She smiled sweetly at Harry and Ron as she passed nodding curtly at Rose before making her way up to the dormitories.
"Are you sure you're still okay taking him out?" Rose asked cautiously.
"I'm actually looking forward to it." Edward replied. "Can I let him off the lead to give him a run, or would he not listen to a stranger?"
"You can take him off the lead, and of course he will listen to you, you saved him earlier!" Rose laughed warmly. "But as long as your okay, I'm off to bed."
"Sweet dreams" Fred said sleepily. "Don't let the bedbugs bite."
Harry, Ron and Rose sleepily made their way to the two small oak doors that were on the opposite side of the room. Pausing outside the two doors, Rose turned to the two boys with dreamy eyes.
"Sweet dreams you two."
"Night." They both said sleepily. "Shall we meet you down here for Breakfast?"
"Mmmhmm." Rose nodded with a yawn. "Sounds fab."
Nudging her arm as a final goodnight, Ron opened the door to the left and the two boys disappeared behind it. Feeling her spine tingle as if someone was watching her, Rose ignored the sensation and opened the door in front of her gently. In front of her was a winding stone staircase lit with torches that were hung in metal brackets. The light showed the walls to be painted burgundy red, with a waist height, elegant band of gold following the staircase up. Remembering Percy tell them that the first year dorm was the first door on the left, Rose turned on the spot, reaching out with her hand to open the door.
"Just one moment." A familiar voice hissed.
Rose paused mid action, turning to see Angelina half hidden in the shadows. Angelina walked forward slowly so that they were now face to face.
"If I knew you were the twins family earlier I wouldn't have been quite so confrontational." She said boldly.
"There was no need to be like that anyway Angelina, and I don't need Fred and George to protect me, I can stand up for myself."
"Clearly." Angelina said dryly. "I just hope we didn't start on the wrong foot, that is all."
"I don't think ill of you, no." Rose said blankly. "But if that is it, I really am quite tired."
Rose turned quickly, hoping to get away from Angelina as quickly as possible.
"There is just one more thing." Angelina said cautiously. "Stay away from Oliver."
Rose's hand was twisted on the doorknob, the door now ajar.
"Excuse me?" Rose interjected, thinking she must have misheard the threat.
"Just stay away from Oliver. I've seen the way you have been looking at him all evening. You may think that he is this sweet, friendly guy that you can be friends with BUT I'm letting you know that that's exactly how it's going to stay. Just friends." She hissed, emphasising the 'F' and the 'S'. "I don't know why YOU are calling HIM Edward instead of Oliver, and why he doesn't seem to mind you doing so, but Oliver Wood doesn't date okay? I wouldn't want you to get your hopes up and get disappointed. You wouldn't be the first and you're certainly not going to be the last girl that gets her heart broken from rejection."
Surprised by Angelina's gumption, Rose stayed quiet taken aback, unbeknownst how to reply. Taking a steady breath she braced herself for confrontation.
"Like you said, I think we are going to be just friends." Rose said crisply. "I'm sorry if it came across in any other way, I did't want to offend you."
"Oh you're not offending anyone!" Angelina replied sweetly. "I just don't want you to make a fool of yourself, after all he is older than you."
"Goodness me Angelina, you do offer you advice freely without hesitation don't you! First Professor McGonagall and now Edward- Oliver. You're clearly a GREAT friend to have around." Rose said bitterly, no friendliness left in her voice. " I however don't take threats and suggestions on board, I'm pretty stubborn like that. So on that note, I'm off to bed. See you tomorrow."
Opening the door and shutting it straight behind her, Rose leaned against it for a moment, pinching the bridge of her nose. After a second, she opened her eyes to her new surroundings. Four king size four poster beds lay two aside in the large circular room, each adorned with gold and red velvet bed curtains. The duvet and pillows a deep red, there was a golden throw at the end of each bed, which currently had the luggage of the new first year. Seeing her own bed directly in front of her, she sighed in relief knowing sleep wasn't too far away. Finding her washbag and pyjamas at the top of her case, Rose clipped the case shut, throwing it under her bed in frustration. There was a quiet disapproving tut from the corner of the room, making Rose's eyes instantly follow the sound. She had presumed the room still empty as the beds lay untouched but Hermione was indeed sat up in the adjacent bed slightly hidden from sight. From Rose's crouched position she could see Hermione continuing to pretend to read the book she was holding up, the cover upside down.
"You heard every word didn't you?" Rose muttered.
"Yes I did." Hermione said sighed honestly, lowering her book down. "And if you ask me…"
"I didn't" Rose said holding up her hand to stop Hermione from continuing. "Please, I don't want you to be my punchbag. I will listen to whatever you have to say on the matter tomorrow. But right now, I'm just going to sleep off whatever the hell that was first."
"Dually noted." Hermione said with a small smile. "But for the record, I think she is intimidated by you."
Rose shook her head in confusion, marching briskly with her wash bag into the bathroom. Sitting down on the toilet seat with her head in her hands, she breathed slowly in and out, trying to control her temper. What a day! Emotions swirled around in her head making her feel a burning pain in her heart, the breathing not helping the ache. She caught her reflection in the mirror, her violet eyes looking bitterly back. Rose grabbed her toothbrush cleaning her teeth with aggression, muttering swearwords and witty remarks about the people that had quite frankly pissed her off that day. What was Angelina's problem, apart from the fact she herself had clearly been rejected by Edward before? Maybe on more than one occasion too. How could the twins tolerate her? She was just so euuugh! Spitting the toothpaste out and tying her hair up, Rose reentered the dormitory grateful that Hermione had already pulled the curtains surrounding her bed shut. Shutting her own curtains and placing her comfiest pyjamas on, Rose crawled into the king size bed instantly consumed by darkness. After a while of tossing and turning, paranoia set in. Had she been flirty and made a fool of herself? Wasn't she just acting her normal self? talking as she would with anyone else? How else was she meant to act around him without ignoring him entirely? Rose reassured herself on the thought that if it still bothered her in the morning she would talk to Ron and the twins and see if they thought her behaviour had been odd. The most important thing was for Edward to not get the wrong impression, even if that meant avoiding him. That idea in particular bothered her more than she would ever admit out loud. Unconsciousness closely followed and Rose quickly drifted off into a thick deep sleep. Her dreams followed the sequence of the events of that day, her brain repeating the important bits to retain information. Her dream slowed upon the memory of meeting Edward for the first time, going off on a tangent and focusing purely on him for several hours. At least Angelina couldn't stop her dreaming about Edward. At around four there was a large knock on her bed making her wake up instantly, followed by hushed 'shhhh's' and giggles. Crawling to the end of the bed, Rose opened both curtains wide, staring at the girls in question groggily.
"We are sooo sorry Rose, we didn't mean to wake you!" Lavender said with a giggle. "We have stayed up all night! All night can you believe it?!"
"Doing what?" Rose whispered perplexed.
"Talking to the boys!" She giggles in a hushed voice
"Dean and Seamus." Parvati replied answering Rose's questioning look.
"And you're planning on going to bed even though you would need to be up in…" Rose looked at the wall clock "three hours and sixteen minutes for class?"
"Why not!" Lavender said with a shrug. "Its our first day, how hard can it be?!"
Rose looked at them exasperated by their nonchalant attitude. Pulling her bed curtains shut she crawled back into her still warm bed, looking forward to welcome sleep. Minutes ticked by as she tossed and turned longing for sleep to take her but it was no good she was now awake. Rose begrudgingly manoeuvred herself out of bed, her bones aching in protest. Looking at Parvati and Lavender on her way to the bathroom, she couldn't help but laugh at the sight. They had both crashed onto the same bed, curtains open and fully clothed. It was a miracle that they hadn't woken Hermione.
Taking a long hot shower, she took her time massaging the shampoo into her head, allowing the water to drain away any bitterness from the day before. Today was a new day, a day of learning, getting better equated and avoiding Edward so that no-one else would get the wrong idea. Cautious not to wake the other girls up but also thinking it was too early for her to change into her new uniform, Rose crept back to the bed and searched in her suitcase to find some appropriate clothing. Finding some comfy grey joggers and a white Lacey scalloped vest top, she pulled on some thick fair isle socks and a chunky knit white cardigan. Concentrating on her wet hair, she gave it a quick towel dry before tying it up into a high ponytail deciding that when dry it would be poker straight. Rose looked around debating what to do now. The quiet snores and breathing of the other girls only made her jealous of the sleep she wished she had, so reluctantly Rose made her way to the common room. The only comfort from this decision was that at least Smutz would be there for her to be with and if she was being optimistic she could at least take him out for an early morning walk. Creeping through the dormitory, she quietly opened the door and shut it slowly behind her. The common room was strangely cosy even though there with no one in site. The fire was crackling gently, the remnants of last night subtly present. The morning light projected an orange glow through the leaded windows, with the birds chirping morning song outside. Rose looked thoroughly around the room but it was in vein. There was no dog. She went over to the window seat, collecting a snuggle blanket that was draped across the closest armchair. Leaning her back again the wall of the alcove, her feet touching the other wall, she looked out at the view she couldn't appreciate last night. From this angle, she could see Hagrid's Hut as well as the forrest far beyond it. The forrest was huge, a blanket of thick trees over the landscape. No wonder it was forbidden, you could quite easily get lost in it. Rose didn't know how long she had sat there staring out into the emptiness, but a wet nose brushing her left hand brought her back to reality. Recognising it as Smutz, she warmly smiled looking down to her dog who was just as happy to see her, his tail wagging. She leaned over to stroke him just as he shook himself, his wet beard splattering her in cold water..he must have recently had a drink from somewhere.
"Awww Smutz, I've just showered " Rose chuckled. "And where might I ask have you been?"
"Was that addressed to me or him? A velvet voice answered amused.
Surprised, Rose looked up at Edward intrigued. She hadn't expected to see Edward this quickly into the day already, and definitely not alone. He was leaned against the fire mantle, Smutz's dog lead casually draped around his neck. Rose couldn't help but pause over his torso, highlighted by his tight maroon workout T- Shirt, it showed off his six pack and muscled arms. She subtly gulped, there wasn't a drip of sweat on him. Sweet Jesus her dreams were going to be good tonight.
"You took him out on a run?" She said in disbelief. "You really don't sleep much do you?"
Nodding a small nod, Edward turned toward the dormitory door.
"I didn't want to upset or frighten you. If I had known you were up I wouldn't have taken him with me. It won't do it again, I promise."
"I'm not upset that you did." Rose replied to his back, confused.
Turning Edward gave her a hard stare, reading her face for any sign that could give him a clue.
"Why?"
Feeling nervous for the first time, Rose responded truthfully;
"Because I trust you."
"You shouldn't do that Rose, I can't always be trusted."
"Then I won't always trust you, but in this instance Oliver I will let my dog decide who he trusts."
"I thought we decided that you would call me Edward." Edward replied bitterly, a hurt tone evident in his voice.
Rose paused, noticing his stung demeanour. She shuffled awkwardly before replying;
"I don't want to upset anyone by-"
"By what Rose? I want you to call me Edward. Do you want to upset me by going against my wishes?"
Stunned by the turn of events, Rose looked back at Edward only to see that there was amusement laced in his stern face. Her guilt quickly left her system as her own annoyance presented itself.
"Fine." Rose obdurately replied, a slight grit to her teeth "I will carry on calling you Edward, BUT don't ever question my judgement again. I can decipher your character for myself thank you and my heart is telling me I can trust you."
"Fine" Edward stubbornly agreed, before finally breaking out into a crooked smile. He started to open the door once again before turning and saying quietly "I'll be back as quick as I can, stay?"
Without thinking Rose nodded instantly worried she looked too eager. This already went against her plan to avoid Edward. Angelina's words of advice floated to the surface of her thoughts and she became worried that maybe on reflection she should have listened to them more. It could be possible that she may have been looking out for Rose after being burnt herself. He could after all, be the biggest player in Hogwarts. Why else would he be single? Cautious and staying on high alert, Rose leant deeper into the window sill, silently stroking Smutz's velvet ears. She dwelled on her thoughts of Edward, feeling instantly guilty that she should be so prejudice towards his demeanour. Edward seemed too sweet, too keen on not wanting to upset other people to be a player and also too cautious, too reserved to be mean.
The chill from the window made the goosebumps raise on her arm, with a slight shiver she shuffled in the hope it would keep her warm.
Before too long, Edward reappeared in a loose white t shirt and fresh set of deep grey joggers, his hair still slightly damp from his quick shower. Holding two steaming mugs of hot chocolate he indicated to the closest sofas and table closest to the fireplace. Gracefully getting down off the window seat Rose walked over and joined him, sitting on the sofa adjacent from him, instantly getting swallowed in the smell of his aroma.
"Thanks." Rose said with a smile, excepting the warm drink from Edward. "Did I miss where you can get these from?"
"On the windowsill in the dormitories, it replaces the water jug in the morning." Edward replied. "I thought you could do with the warmth and sweetness after an unpredicted early start."
"Your a lifesaver." Rose agreed, snuggling into the sofa and taking a long sip. "It also explains why I walked straight past and missed them earlier as I was in a hurry to leave."
"You are up particularly early I must say, I presume this isn't a common occurrence, or has it got something to do with your room mates pulling an all nighter?"
Rose smiled gingerly, chewing her lip at his accurate observation.
"Its got everything to do with my roommates and their all nighter." Rose agreed. "I was having a wonderful deep sleep too."
"I used to be like that." Edward muttered reminiscently. "Sleep is a wonderful thing."
"And your now the complete opposite? What happened?"
"Life I suppose." Edward answered with a sad smile, pausing to take a sip from his hot chocolate.
"I guess that means you get an awful lot done when everyone else is asleep?" Rose sympathised.
"This is true." Edward chuckled. "And luckily or some might see it as unlucky, my family don't sleep well either so at home I'm not alone."
"Do you have more than one sibling?" Rose asked curiously.
"Four. Adopted through a similar situation to my own, but we have wonderful adoptive parents Esme and Carlisle."
"I guess you could say the Weasley's adopted me in a strange way. I enjoy having 'siblings'" Rose nodded.
"I can tell that you are all really close." Edward agreed. "And I know they feel the same way about you."
"Are you close to your siblings?" Rose asked with interest.
"It's complicated.."Edward replied awkwardly, rushing a hand through his damp messy hair.
"It's okay." Rose encouraged, slightly embarrassed. "I don't want to pry."
Edward looked up with his lamblike eyes, portraying innocence and cautiousness.
"I'm not sure why I'm telling you this… Only Fred, George and Lee know… but just like you said earlier, my gut it telling me to trust you."
Edward paused, his eyed continuously looking at Rose, reading her every move. Not wanting to interrupt his trail of thought, Rose's eyebrow twitched very subtly letting him know that he could continue and that she would be listening.
"I am close to my siblings." Edward continued. "Especially Alice who is the same age as me, she was also briefly mentioned yesterday."
"I remember." Rose nodded, noticing Edward's avoidance of Angelina.
"I also have another sister Rosalie, and two brothers Emmett and Jasper-"
Edward paused, looking at Rose again with a strange look that could only resemble embarrassment.
"My four siblings are also dating. Jasper with Alice and Emmett with Rosalie. So as much as I am close to them all, its also pretty difficult being the only singleton in the house."
"I can imagine." Rose agreed. "But for the record, which bit of that information was meant to disgust me."
"You don't think it is weird that they are technically siblings and yet are dating?"
"Do you?" Rose asked seriously.
"No." Edward replied instantly, his look curious.
"I presume they have never seen each other as siblings and therefore their feelings for one another is purely sexual attraction?"
"Yes." Edward replied admiringly.
"Then no, it's not weird," Rose replied with a sly smile.
They both instantaneously reached for their mugs drinking from them in sync, needing a moment alone in both their thoughts. After a brief moment in quietness it was Edward that instigated the conversation again.
"I overheard you speaking about your parents yesterday. Do you get to see them often?"
"Not as much as i would like." Rose smiled sadly. "They work in the muggle world, so I live with Aunt Molly and Uncle Arthur. They can't use the flu network as they obviously can't use magic and getting Muggle transport is expensive."
Rose wasn't embarrassed by this fact, it was what it was and she didn't see the need to hide their financial situation. Edward admired her for this, nodding in sympathetic understanding.
"And your Grandmother?"
Rose lowered her hot chocolate, surprised at the casualness of his question.
"I should add that I am one of few that know McGonagall is your Grandmother."
"I see." Rose nodded, a small smile hidden under the shock. "Well… We only ever got to see Grandma in the Summer holidays." Rose answered. "She has a little cottage in the Scottish mountains. It was where she met her husband before he died."
"That must of been a long time ago."
"Yes." Rose agreed. "Dougal McGonagall was his name, a Muggle from the local village. They met when Grandma worked at the ministry before she took up the teaching position at Hogwarts. He was a sailor so worked away a lot and therefore the term times worked in his favour. He died when my Mom was only three and Aunt Molly was six."
"Where did they grow up?"
"At Hogwarts" Rose replied in disbelief. "It was really difficult for my Mom when she had to leave. Such a cruel thing to do to someone who didn't know any different."
"That really is." Edward sighed. "How did she react when you got your letter?"
Rose smiled warmly, remembering the squeal of excitement her Mother expressed when the letter had arrived.
"They were both really proud." Rose replied her voice cracking, and eyes watering.
"Oh I'm sorry Rose." Edward whispered, looking mortified with himself. "And here you were saying you didn't want to pry and I'm dong that."
"Your not." Rose disagreed, wiping her eyes on her woollen sleeve. "I just need to remind myself to not take my time here for granted."
Edward nodded in understanding, his face conflicted.
"The twins mentioned that you are the Gryffindor Quidditch Captain." Rose continued, wanting to slightly change the subject. "Thats an amazing achievement, well done you."
"Quidditch is one of my passions yes. What position would you be if you could?" Edward asked curiously.
"Oh, good question." Rose responded thoughtfully. "I do love playing Chaser. At home, in our back garden, we have set up half an improvised quidditch court. The past summer I have been flying round on one of the rickety old brooms dodging vegetables that Fred and George throw at me with their much faster brooms."
"And did you manage to dodge them?" Edward asked amusement laced in his laugh.
"Most of the time." Rose said thoughtfully, "But it didn't help that there were two of them."
Edward chuckled, clearly the image of the three of them entertained his thoughts.
"There is a spare Seeker and Chaser opening this year." Edward mentioned casually. "Lets see who submits their form into Hooch, but if I'm not impressed i'll consider giving you a try out."
"I thought first years never got to play on the house team?" Rose replied a little stunned, her eyebrows raised.
"Its very unusual, but that can be because most first years are inexperienced and don't have the confidence. I've seen a lot of the same people apply for Quidditch positions year on year and to be honest, there is a reason why they don't make the team. If we go through the list and haven't found anyone, we can then bypass the Hogwarts rules and open up the tryouts to first years. From there myself and my Vice Captain can choose who we like best."
"And who is your Vice Captain?"
"I haven't made up my mind yet to be honest." Edward shrugged. "It has in the past been Angelina Johnson but I might change that."
"Oh!" Rose replied in surprise. "As in Angelina from last night?"
"Our relationship is purely professional." Edward urged. " And the Captain gets the overall decision remember."
"It's okay Edward." Rose smiled gently, she couldn't help think that Edward knew what happened last night. "Like you said, you might get loads of people apply and I'm sure they would be better than me anyway."
Edward smiled his crooked smile, implying that he disagreed but would for now stay quiet. For the briefest of moments he looked contently at her, before sighing outwardly in slight frustration.
"I think we should probably go upstairs and get ready for Breakfast don't you?" Edward said with a weak smile. "Everyone is starting to get up."
"Good idea" Rose agreed, trying to hide her slight disappointment.
"Thank you for keeping me company this morning." He said gently. "It really was a pleasant surprise."
Rose beamed her own silent gratitude, before bending down to scoop Scmutz off the floor. As she stood and turned, her heart twanged at the recognition that Edward had already gone. Confused by his sudden departure, with the only tell tale sign that he had been there at all his delicious scent, Rose couldn't help but think that Angelina's sudden appearance seconds later be the reason behind his sudden absence. Awkwardly standing there with her dog in her arms with Angelina staring blankly at her, Rose quickly departed, knowing full well that Angelina was expecting someone else.