Chapter 1

Part 1

I watch Guy's shadow as he passes me and sigh internally. He is such an incredibly attractive man. Slim yet muscular frame, glossy long dark hair, gorgeous crimson eyes…. And his movements, he manages to glide rather than walk along the corridor and like a real shadow he makes no sound. I don't understand why he hasn't got his own fan club. I suppose he's not the most sociable of people, with the academy students anyway, I've only ever seen him chatting to the princes and their valets. But that is one up on Guy, I've only ever seen him glare at people and he most certainly has a fan club, the fiercely territorial Avari afficionados, allegedly you have to ask their permission to talk to Guy. Which I found out too late and am now on their people they most want to drop dead list. Hmm, if I was going to make up a fan club for Jasper what would I call it, they like a bit of alliteration here so... perhaps the jaunty jasperines or jolly jasperettes…. Although neither of those really say Jasper to me. They have nothing in them pertaining to his perfection. Perhaps Jasper's Jewels, I chuckle to myself because I am that childish…

"Agh." I shriek in surprise as a force rips into my hands sending my books and pens flying. Girly giggles emanate from the gang of three women in front of me. To pick my items up would leave my head in a vulnerable position. Attack would be safer, I bet I could take all three of them easily; just a little slap and they'd be running away crying and pissing their knickers. However, I would then be the aggressor…. I so want to do it too, well not slap them, more punch them in the face, I'm fed up with this bullying. Unfortunately, it has been drummed into me that true victory is victory over yourself; and anger your first enemy.

The woman with the black hair, steps forward and kicks one of my books. If only I could use magic, I'd float my things back into my arms and continue past them.

"My word, whatever happened here?" Jasper is at my side, he gracefully stoops down and picks up one of my pens and hands it to me.

"She just threw them in the air, perhaps she had a fit." The brown-haired woman glances over my shoulder.

Behind me is Guy, looking particularly fed up. The trio make a show of helping Jasper, while I stand there like an idiot until my arms are full once more. I curtsey and thank him.

"Please allow me to escort you to the infirmary and…"

Guy interrupts him, "Not necessary, come."

Part 2

Both men, of course, know the truth of the situation. I guess Jasper was merely playing along because he thought Guy would want me to be safe… While Guy, no doubt, thinks I should fight my own battles.

While the trio swoon over the masterfulness of Guy's voice, I make my escape and hurry off to my second lecture of the day. It has also been drummed into me to be aware of my surroundings, I need to be more careful and stop letting myself get distracted with thoughts of a man I inherently know is not right for me. Nor I for him.

My very first glance of him, many moons ago now, told me that A) I fancied him and B) My lust was completely unrequited. There was nothing in his eyes to suggest he thought me anything other than average and he followed Guy without breaking step. I was merely yet another student who just so happened to be in the corridor heading the other way.

Further acquaintance has not improved matters. Jasper's smile is always perfectly schooled, nothing upsets it, no circumstance is above his ability to deal calmly and efficiently with it. Not just the book thing just now, we have had several such moments. Like when I tripped over one of the Avari Aficionados' feet whilst carrying my stew in the refectory. Guy was having a serious chat with Lynt, and I watched in horror as the carrots, potato and broth flew in his direction. However, Jasper showed no such alarm, he did some magic, my stew returned to my bowl before it had got even halfway to his master, then he calmly removed the bowl from my shaking hands and placed it next to my friend Sherry's, as if this was a normal everyday occurrence, no more stressful or taxing for him than popping a chocolate into my mouth is for me. It's almost like he has a sixth sense for preventing disasters, where Guy is concerned. As an aside my hands were shaking with fury.

I sigh, being calamity prone and having a somewhat quirky nature, at least for this world, I am drawn to Jasper's calm, respectable dependability and yet at the same time repelled by the fact that he is flawless in everything. I would find being his paramour stifling and boring. I know this but still I want him.

Part 3

For my last activity of the day, I have Lynt's lecture on potions. I've always been good at both chemistry and cooking; potions is similar. And although levitation is still beyond my grasp, infusing potions with magic seems to be something that resonates with me. I merely remember the feeling of my magic flowing into Aquia, after he'd accidently put a piece of glass tubing through his palm, and replicate it. Accidents aside, normally it's an easy relaxed class too, as Lynt having directed us to the pertinent page in our textbook, always curls up at the front desk and falls asleep.

Our ingredients have all been laid out ready, I assume by Tino, and as usual I sit next to Aquia at the back of the class. He gives me one of his special smiles and I return it, I love him as my bestie because he is the ultimate sweetheart, encouraging, friendly, humble, patient... I just wish I was the type of woman who falls for the guy next door. Although then I'd have Guy as a brother-in-law! So perhaps it's lucky that I'm not.

Guy strides into the room, both Aquia and I straighten up in shock. Guy gives us a very fascinating summary of our last lecture and instructs us on what we are expected to achieve in this one. Having the background information elevates the tasks at hand into a far more interesting one than normal. I turn to Aquia. "I had no idea that…."

"Silence," barks Guy.

Aquia trembles, then turns away from me to focus on his task. I feel bad for bringing Guy's wrath near my friend. I will have to be on my best behaviour.

Having opened my book at the right page, I survey my desk again. I seem to be missing my set of scales. I'm about to tell Guy then remember his silence order. Perhaps if I put up my hand. I raise it, he ignores me. I check the instructions keeping my arm in the air. There are a lot of steps to get through, Guy is still ignoring me, and I haven't the time to wait any longer, but no problem I'm good at eyeballing things.

Part 4

All is going well, my potion has turned from a lilac to a vibrant red, just as the textbook says, well almost, it actually uses the word pink, however seen in a certain light... anyway I'm sure it's fine. I have one more ingredient to add, a dried sliver of the luminous fungi. At present it looks similar to dried shiitake not luminous at all. However, according to Guy, the fruits glow in the light of a full moon, even when dried like this. It is very tempting to squirrel some away to check that out, because I mean how cool... I glance up at Guy, he is busy reading through sheets of paper, his mood darkening as he turns the pages. He puts a heavy line through the writing he has just viewed. I think he must be marking.

The recipe calls for half an ounce and as is the norm, plenty of each ingredient has been provided. He will never notice or know. I slip some into my pocket and guestimate the amount to add to my potion. According to the instructions this is a critical point, the fungi must be ground up and added slowly whilst stirring.

I'd imagined it would crumble to dust with a few hits of my pestle, however the pieces stay resiliently sliver like. I pound until my energy flags. Other students are already showing Guy their results, I assume they have used magic rather than brute strength. Maybe if I add it while stirring vigorously…

Bubbles effervesce from the edges of the fungi, I stir harder. The potion is turning into a brown sludge colour, this is not right, it should be turning light blue. The bubbles are now all over the potions surface, and the liquid is rising. Really fast and the fungi have caught light. On instinct I throw myself at Aquia knocking him to the floor as my cauldron explodes, raining brown gunk over me. I lift my dripping form off him. "I'm so sorry, are you ok?"

He freezes his mouth semi open, as a shadow falls over us.

Part 5

Yikes… I turn around. "I'm sorry Guy, I'll get right on cleaning up the mess."

He ignores me and turns to the class. "The lesson is over. Place your labelled potions on the back bench and leave."

I have no idea if I am included in this order or if I can salvage any of the gunk to label with my name. Equally I'm not sure where to start cleaning.

As the other students including Aquia hurry outside, Jasper glides into the room as if Guy summoned him my magic. Without saying a word to Jasper, Guy leaves too.

"Oh dear, Miss Poppy. You had better go and get yourself cleaned up. I will take over here." Jasper's eyes flicker with amusement, he finds my misfortune funny. This is a side of Jasper I've never seen before. Perhaps because I only ever see him in public when he's acting the perfect valet, as is befitting such a master.

Although Jasper is obviously still laughing at me in his head, I can't just leave him to this mess. "No, I will help, this is my fault after all."

"No need." He motions with his hands and within minutes the room is spick and span once more. All the equipment is clean and back where it belongs, the benches as if newly polished.

Feeling superfluous, and oddly disappointed, I curtsey my thanks and leave. Jasper once again rose to the occasion with efficiency and grace. And yet those eyes, that amusement, perhaps there is more to Mr Perfect….

Chapter 2

Part 1

Prince is most distressed to see me as I squelch into my room, "Milady, whatever befell you?"

I reassure Prince that I'm alright, explain about the explosion then distract him by mentioning the luminescent fungi, before heading towards my bathroom. As my hand rests on the doorknob there is a tap at my window. Prince opens it to a bird holding an envelope. "Mistress, oh happy days you have a letter from Master Guy."

Not sharing Prince's joy, I open it with some trepidation. Guy must have been incredibly angry with me to have written rather than said whatever to me in person. Oh, he wants me to make up the potion properly. However, I have to provide my own ingredients. I wander how much they will cost, the headmaster kindly gives me an allowance, however I've been saving up for a particular dress I've seen in town, so I hope it won't set me back too much. At least I have the samples of fungi.

Having showered, I lay in my bath trying to relax after my day fraught with mishap. It's not easy, the varied disasters run through my head on repeat. To calm myself I practice infusing the water with just enough magic to keep it at the perfect temperature. Then feeling a lot better, I close my eyes…. and see Jasper, his eyes flickering with amusement.

"Miss Poppy"

I start, sit up in my bath to see Jasper in real life and sink back under the all too clear water.

"Are you alright?" there is a noticeable amount of panic in his tone.

"Yes, why wouldn't I be…."

His eyes remain focused on mine, waiting for me to continue.

"Apart from wanting to get out of the bath. Can you wait outside, please." I don't bother to keep the irritation from my voice.

He bows deeply to me. "As you wish."

Part 2

I come out of my bathroom, fluffy towel wrapped comfortingly around me and spot Jasper. I obviously didn't communicate clearly, I'd meant outside my room, not outside my bathroom. Oh well, what does it matter. "Why are you here?"

"Several students are complaining about a myriad of maladies associated with your potion splattering them."

Dread makes me stiffen. "Is Aquia alright?"

"None of it reached him. Thanks to your swift action."

Phew, I'm so glad Aquia is safe. "I'm fine thank you and as you saw, I was totally drenched in it. Perhaps the diverse symptoms are more due to overactive imaginations."

Amusement is back in his eyes. Obviously my looking like a swamp monster emerging from its slimy marsh really tickles him. "I am sure my master will be relieved."

Of course, Jasper is not here out of concern for me, but for Guy. Perhaps because the accident happened under Guy's watch, so any problem with me would cause tons of paperwork for him.

"Master Prince, was telling me all about your new acquisition."

Of course, Prince did, as usual he shared my excitement. It is tempting to lie. However, I'm in so much trouble anyway what would be the point. "I wanted to check if it worked and there was plenty spare."

"That is a totally different fungi from the one I put on the desks. I fear you will be disappointed."

"Oh." I am and it must show on my face. Then it dawns on me what Jasper has implied, and I laugh. What comes around goes around as they say. "Erm, can I offer you some tea."

He scoops the fungi off my desk, "Perhaps another time, my master will want to see these."

As Jasper leaves, I remind myself of our complete incompatibility. He sorts out problems, I cause them. That may superficially sound like the ideal partnership; however, it is not. I should neither be upset that he couldn't be bothered to let his gaze drift while I was in the bath nor that he didn't wish to spend any more time with me than he had to.

Part 3

I'd checked my calendar after returning from town, full moon was due the day before Guy wanted the potion finished. Which made sense considering I'd managed to buy everything I needed for the potion in town, bar the fungi. It had not been a cheap experience. I will just have to get over that dress. My issue is that most of the clothes in this world just aren't to my taste. I mean where are the trousers for women, the shorts, the miniskirts, the joggers, the tee-shirts and where are the belts; all the men get lots of belts. When I'd first arrived here, I thought the princes gave of a steampunk vibe. Not true of the woman's wear which is firmly prissy Victorian. But that dress was so beautiful, not only was it in two of my favourite colours purple and black, it was everything I could dream of for a dress, leather, lace, velvet, gorgeously embroidered bodice…. and it had belts.

Anyway, tonight is the night for mushroom gathering. I have my lantern and instructions from Dia on where to find them and I am setting of early so that I can scout the area out while it is still light.

"Miss Poppy, please wait."

I pause as Jasper heads towards me. "I too, need to acquire some of the mushrooms you seek. I know exactly where they grow. Shall we go together, we'll be back in no time."

"That's fine my me."

Jasper's idea of "in no time" and mine are not at all the same. Still, Jasper is excellent company, his tone has lost its overly polite quality, and I feel that he is genuinely enjoying chatting with me. And he is so knowledgeable about everything, he knows all the plants, all the wildlife, and has so many interesting stories about them. I can't believe I once thought that he was perfect but boring and if the sun wasn't already beginning to set, I'd wish we had longer together. But according to Jasper we are nearly at the location and I'm already stupidly feeling bereft. We walk by a large tree with purple mushrooms growing from the base, which is odd, I could have sworn we've passed by that exact tree several times. However, we couldn't have, Jasper knows these woods like the back of his hand. That is the problem with forests, lots of trees look alike, and it is all too easy to get lost. I am so glad I have Jasper with me as a guide. Especially as we are nowhere near where Dia directed me, the little…

"Here, we are."

We enter a clearing and I gaze transfixed at the glowing toadstools. "Wow, they are so beautiful." I smile delighted at Jasper, and he smiles back warmly seeing the enchantment on my face.

Part 4

I float back to the academy on such a high, that even the sight of Guy scowling in the entrance hall fails to bring me back to earth.

"Tell me," he says, "how long does it take to harvest a toadstool?"

"As long as it takes to find the right fungi to go with." I laugh to myself; I am so witty.

His scowl increases from level 5 to 50 and I'm suddenly aware of my human frailty.

"I'm so sorry…" We did rather amble but surely health and safety get you out of any fix. "To go any quicker would have been dangerous. You know, because of the roots and things, and it being so dark…" I trail off under Guy's stare, then rally once more. "Jasper took us there as quickly as he could, they were deep in the forest…"

Jasper chuckles finding my words hilarious, on another occasion I'd have been glad, who doesn't want to have an attractive man think you're funny.

Guy says amusement in his voice, "You don't know my valet at all well, Miss Poppy."

"To think that my own master would say such a thing." Jasper sounds hurt, yet I feel it is as fake as his perfect valet smile and merely designed to amuse Guy further.

I wonder if Guy and him are always like this in private, bantering and winding each other up? I feel left out of the joke. "What does Guy mean, Jasper?"

"I cannot say." The look Jasper flashes my way, as he gives a small shrug, is overly innocent. Another look to add to my Jasper collection. Who knew he had so many expressions.

Guy looks at Jasper pointedly, "Come."

Jasper bows to me and follows Guy. Leaving me to ponder what Guy meant. To my surprise, the expression on Guy's face before he turned from me was one of sympathy. Surely Guy wasn't warning me off his valet, insinuating that Jasper isn't the totally proper man he appears to be, was he? Does the forest only contain that one tree with purple toadstools? Looking back some of the things Jasper said could be considered mildly flirtatious if one wanted to. And I guess on a subconscious level I did, because by the time we reached the academy, I was certainly getting warm fuzzy feelings towards him, rather than merely admiring his physique.

Part 5

Prince is delighted when I show him my mushroom, he flies in loops around my room then hovers to admire it. I cannot afford to get the potion wrong again; I decide to wait until morning when I won't be so tired.

Sherry and Rio are already at breakfast when I arrive. Rio is a B rank and Sherry an A, perhaps one of them will help me. I put down my tray and ask Sherry first.

She smiles prettily at me, with an odd undertone of predator. "Of course, we're best friends, it would be my pleasure to be able to help you."

I grin back in relief, pick up my fork and tuck into my breakfast with relish. The academy chefs do a fantastic cooked breakfast, one thing that certainly beats living by yourself.

I test the last potion and smile as the paper in front of me hovers off the table. I let a second drop fall on it and it floats higher. I would high five Sherry but I'm not sure princesses do that around here. "Thank you so much, I almost can't believe we got it done in time. You know you will make an excellent professor one day; you are so patient and explain things so simply."

She gives me a wicked grin, "It wasn't for free you know; I have questions."

I check the clock. "Well, they had better me quick, I only have an hour left to get this to Guy, and I need to write my notes up."

"Rumour has it that you were seen arriving back late from the forest looking rather cosy with Jasper?"

More a statement than a question I think, and personally I wouldn't describe walking next to someone, as they carried a mushroom in each hand cosy.

"You like him, No?"

The clock is ticking, and I know that Sherry is one persistent princess. However, I'm not prepared to discuss my feelings for Jasper, even with myself, I'm too confused by them and him. "I think he's a good-looking guy. I mean who wouldn't," I say before legging it.

Chapter 3

Part 1

As I've given up all hope of ever saving up for the dress, I decide to thank Sherry by buying her a treat for her help with my potion and saving me a rollicking from Guy. I've heard there is a perfume shop in the backstreets where you can create your own signature scent from the many bases and notes on offer. I can't quite decide if Jasper deserves a treat too or not. I want to buy him one, but then perhaps my motives are not as sensible or altruistic as one would hope.

"Good morning, Miss Poppy." Jasper greets me and my heart flutters. Since our walk in the woods, I've definitely been getting the impression that he goes out of his way to spend time with me.

"Morning, Jasper."

"Are you off to town on a shopping expedition, perhaps?"

Smiling, I explain, only mentioning Sherry of course. Jasper looks concerned and recommends another perfumery in the main shopping complex, saying the back alleys are unsafe and a labyrinth I could easily get lost in.

I feel like he is manifesting more Tino vibes, however with his valet face so firmly in place, I don't feel close enough to him to tease him about it. "But they don't let you create your own scent, and I really want to have a go. I'll be fine…."

Jasper was right, the back streets are a total confusion of alleyways and dead ends. I wouldn't describe myself as lost as such. I mean I do know where I am, in the backstreets, I'm just not sure how to get from here to the perfumery or anywhere else.

"Oi, gorgeous…."

I ignore the caller and walk on. He already looked drunk and it's still so early. My arm is pulled back, and I find myself way too close to the man's beer belly.

"Please, unhand me, sir."

His face turns sly, "First gis'us a kiss, love."

Part 2

I've been practicing with Aquia to control my magic, not as in kissing him but in taking off my choker and holding his hand. Therefore, I shouldn't leak any magic, however it is still a definite no. His eyes are a beautiful blue that remind me of Toa's, however his dark hair is lank with grease and I'm actually worried my blouse will pick up his stale body and booze odour.

I try again. "I already have a paramour thank you, please release me."

He laughs and another couple of drunks swagger over to us. "I'm sure he wouldn't begrudge me one li'le kiss, nor me mates."

I twist my hand out of his grip, he backhands me across my cheek. I slam my knee into his groin and bring my fists down on his neck as he doubles over in pain. Spin to block a punch from his skinny mate, grabbing his wrist and pulling to help his momentum carry him past me. Sidestep out of the way of drunk number three, faint a punch and kick his knee. Spin again and to my surprise find skinny bloke is now on the floor groaning along with his friends.

I take a breath. Unlike when confronting the students, I felt no anger, only the joy of movement and the satisfaction of a punch or kick well placed. Unfortunately, anger and alcohol are strong pain relief, they won't be down for long. I turn and hurry back the way I came, knowing that I was very lucky indeed that they'd already drowned their wits in moonshine.

"Impressive." A man is leaning nonchalantly against the wall.

Those eyelashes, that jaw, those cheekbones, that nose. I've studied them so hard and often, I could draw them and hang them on my wall, if that wouldn't be totally creepy. But why I wonder isn't Jasper wearing glasses, I'd been told he can see next to nothing without them. And why a blond wig, I prefer him with dark hair to be honest. However, he does look dead sexy in his casual clothes and his eyes even more engaging than normal.

Part 3

As I walk past him, I say sarcastically, "Thank you for your help back there."

He pulls himself away from the wall to walk at my side, flashing me a cocky smile. "You're welcome, love. These backstreets are no place for a pretty lady like yourself." He pauses as if to reflect on his word choice.

"Pretty, love," I snort, narrowing my eyes at him. "I'm not some silly woman who's easily impressed by such banal pleasantries."

"However, you are one to be swooning over a dress, no? Not your ordinary dress either that. Normally, respectable ladies know not to venture into the back of shops that exit into the alleyways."

"I love that dress, what are you inferring."

"That there is good reason you don't see your friends wearing similar outfits."

Trying not to feel upset, I quickly change the topic. "Have you been following me, all that time, hoping I wouldn't notice you?"

He lays an arm around my shoulders, in a way more overly familiar than even Fenn can muster. "Caught."

I've no idea if he means I caught him, or he caught me. However, I am relieved to know that I was always safe because Jasper was looking out for me. I twist myself around so that I can bring my lips to his and give him a gentle kiss. He pulls me closer still and kisses me back. It is equally gentle, yet it sends a lightning bolt through my body. Running my fingers through his hair I chase after that feeling with my tongue and teeth, it hit's me again as he opens his mouth in surprise and again when his tongue strokes mine.

We pant as he holds me away. "What's that for, sweetheart?"

He is acting surprised, as one would if they were suddenly kissed passionately by a stranger. It occurs to me that Jasper wears his alter ego like a well-worn glove. He is not Jasper in this guise. "I thought it was the currency around here for stopping someone hold you."

He chuckles and releases me. "So, what's your business here."

I explain again about the perfume shop, and he offers to accompany me.

"Do you wish for another kiss?" he asks.

I'm puzzled until he raises our hands, I must have subconsciously reached for him. "I just don't want to get lost again… erm, what is your name, sir?"

"Sirius."

The dog star, "Sirius." I murmur his name, seeing how it sounds in my mouth. I need to remember it; he could be in danger if I were to call him Jasper.

Part 4

Like I initially thought, the perfumery is not that far into the backstreets. I must have taken a wrong turn almost as soon as I entered them.

My hand is still in his, as Sirius accompanies me into the shop.

We are greeted by the shop owner. "Please, take your time, look around, try out some scents and let me know when you are ready to make a purchase or perhaps you wish to create your own unique perfume."

I smile at her. "Yes, we'd like to make our own."

She hands me some strips of blotting paper and explains the process before moving away to serve another customer.

I look around in awe, there are so may little bottles. Then feel overwhelmed. This idea although well-meant is beginning to feel foolish. "I have no idea where to start."

"What's this friend of yours like, hmm, throw out a few words."

"Pretty, princess, pink, flowers, gossip, teasing, kind, clever."

Sirius smiles and guides me over to the base note section and we look at the writing accompanying the bottles. "Hmm, how about amber for sophistication and vanilla for sweetness." He drops the two bases onto one of my sticks and wafts it in front of me.

"Mmm, it smells so lovely and cosy like a warm bath, back home."

I drop some musk and sandalwood on another stick. "How about this?"

"It smells great, warm n woody, not the sort of scent I'd give a young lady, mind. "

We try a few more combinations, before moving onto the other two sections and between us choose notes to go with the base Siris first suggested.

The shopkeeper says she thinks we have chosen well, the neroli will balance the sweet base and the bergamot freshen the aroma. She disappears out the back and remerges with a pretty little bottle. I have my suspicions that she is merely selling us a premade fragrance that best matches our suggestion. However, I've had so much fun creating the scent with Sirius, while at the same time sussing out his preferences; I don't mind.

Once we exit the shop, I pretend to have forgotten something, and asking Sirius to wait for me, I hurry back into the shop to purchase another scent.

Part 5

Sirius guides me out of the backstreets. "You should be ok now, sweetheart."

I smile at him. "Thanks, for your help. Can I repay you with a drink?"

"For all those hours of my time, I think you owe me three at least."

I laugh. "That sounds fair. Come on."

I drag Sirius to my favourite bar. I'd never bring Jasper here as it lacks sophistication, however the music is sublime and although the bar has couples and groups of friends, it usually has enough single people enjoying the atmosphere to make me feel comfortable. Sirius, I find out, is an information broker, spy for Guy in other words, a horrendous flirt and he likes his liquor strong.

I say he is a flirt because on exiting the bar to moonlight, having spent his time with me indulging himself in suggestive banter, he offers to walk me back to the academy. I pout, "There's a curfew, I won't be able to get back. Why not take me home with you?"

"I live the other side of Colde, and my room would hold no appeal for a nice lady such as yourself."

I snuggle my body next to his, "It would have you; I don't need anything else."

"You shouldn't look at me like that, love. Not unless you're prepared to bear the consequences."

I drag his head down to mine and give him a teasing kiss.

"Ok, minx, I'll book us a hotel."

Sirius takes me to a hotel and books us a room, while I pen a letter to Prince, with the almost truth that I'm staying overnight with a friend. To my surprise our room is luxurious with soft red and gold furnishings. Sirius stands about as far away from the bed as he can and asks, "So, what now?"

Recently, my feelings towards him have shifted, true, I'm still totally in lust with him, however, now I know him better, I have more tender emotions too, very tender in fact. Otherwise, I wouldn't be here. "Close your eyes."

He does with a smirk. I pull his top over his head, leaving his arms caught. His eyes open, complete surprise showing on his face. I'm not sure what he was expecting, perhaps that I'd strip off and hop into the bed, allowing him to do a runner. But I've felt his kisses and there is no way I'm letting him deny us because of an upbringing that's made him think 'nice' women don't want this.

I bop him on the nose gently, "Naughty, I haven't said you can open them yet." His eyes flicker with lust as they gaze into mine. "Sirius, close your eyes."

"Ok." He chuckles, closing his eyes again. "I'm calling your bluff." Yet it's obvious what his body is hoping my next move will be and I have no wish to disappoint him. However just in case his mind isn't in agreement, I'll edge towards it slowly, not merely giving him a chance to say no, but teasing him into saying yes.

Chapter 4

Part 1

Movement eases me out of a deep sleep, the sound of water awakens me properly. Oh, Sirius, you made me call your name so often, I'm scared I'll use it for Jasper. The room is still in darkness as I climb out of bed and wander towards the shaft of light coming from the bathroom, is this what a moth feels like.

However, it's not the light that calls me. I walk under the shower.

"I have work to get to."

The making of red coffee, to help a certain someone start his day, I expect. "Really," I tease, " I thought you'd ply your trade later, come the evening when tongues are loosened. Besides I'm just here to help you wash." I roll the soap around in my hands and reach for him.

He catches my hand, holding it still. "And you have lectures to get back to at that academy of yours. I have finished washing."

He climbs into the bath. While I give up and soap myself, I feel his gaze on me. Sirius is no longer looking committed to restraint.

I wash of the last of the bubbles and climb into the bath too. "There is a curfew remember, and my lectures are not until much later… please," I whisper against his lips.

He grabs me into a kiss, and I know I've beaten Guy.

It's now hours since I last saw Sirius, however I still can't get him out of my head. I want to spend the day in bed with Jasper, not attend lectures. I've been so good, worked so hard, I deserve a break.

"Good afternoon, Miss Poppy." The corridor is empty bar the two of us, yet there is nothing in Jasper's voice to hint at the intimacy we've shared.

I look at him in shock, as having bowed his greeting he walks straight past me, and he's gone before I've recovered enough to think to greet him back.

Unease worms its way into my thoughts. I know that Sirius is Jasper. But does Jasper know that I know. I go over what I can remember of our interactions yesterday. I accused him of following me, however he wouldn't necessarily have twigged from that. I kissed him though, made love to him, surely, he wouldn't think I'd behave in that way to a man I'd just laid eyes on… although I can imagine why other women might, if that man was Sirius.

Part 2

I've had no interactions with Jasper, bar when he politely greets me in passing, for over a week now. As for his alter ego, he has made no attempt to contact me. But then why would he, when he couldn't even be bothered to ask my name. It grates now that I called his, over and over, but he never called mine once, how could I not have noticed at the time.

I knock on Letty's door. "Hi, I was wondering if I could pay for your worldly knowledge with a drink."

She laughs delighted and hugs me. "Of course, my treasure, I know the perfect bar."

It was a nice bar, very stylish and upmarket. So was the second and the third, however as the nights worn on, they have, shall I say, deteriorated in quality, until here we are in the seediest place I've ever been to in this world. And I still haven't been able to talk to Letty about my problem, although I reckon, I now know everything there is to know about her unlucky love life, which does make me feel a certain extra camaraderie with her, that was lacking in our relationship thus far.

She decorates our table with glasses. Gone are the pretty fruit ornamentation, that delighted me in other places, although they are still a myriad of colours.

While she contemplates which to drink first in a slightly unfocused way that I'm trying not to let disturb me, I finally say, "So, I met this guy…. Who I really liked, and I haven't seen him since, and I've been thinking about various romantic interactions I've witnessed between students and was wondering… if perhaps taking the lead isn't the done thing here?"

Letty inhales her next cocktail. "It is a sad truth, that certain men do not like forward women, see that clod to your left. She is all over him, he humours her, but you can tell he isn't interested. Although I imagine if no one prettier turns up her advances will pay off."

As I take a sip of my drink Letty holds up her compact mirror, and I nearly choke. The man she is so casually talking about is Sirius and the woman, who'd I'd say is rather pretty, is indeed all over him.

"He was interested," I say, then wonder, was he really… did I get confused because Jasper is such a fantastic kisser?

Letty gulps down yet another drink. "Of course he was, you're beautiful and sweet. However, a certain type of man prefers variety. They charm you with their smooth-talk, offer you marriage however as soon as they trick their way into your undergarments you never see them again."

"Hush you are talking so loud, he is that man," I hiss.

Part 3

Letty immediately glances at him, before turning back to me and saying without moderating the loudness of her voice one iota, "You fancy that ruffian, but I thought you had the hots for Master Spectacles Darkheart?"

Fenn slides into the seat next to me, "Treasure fancies Jasper, what salacious gossip is this?"

Is it a luxurian thing to have such a loud voice!

While the two shout details to each other about my non-existent love life, and the alleged look of adoration on my face as I came out of the forest with Jasper, I focus on the conversation between the pretty woman and Sirius. She is trying to sell him information, he doesn't seem to think it is worth his body. I tell myself that I really shouldn't care what Sirius gets up to.

Letty tugs my arm, "Drink up, the night is young and there are so many more pubs in the sea."

"Thanks, but I think I'll finish this drink and head back, I'm getting tired."

"Suit yourself." She staggers to her feet, as does Fenn, and they cling to one another as they sway along to the door. They are so wasted; however they are adults and I expect this is a normal occurrence, I don't need to worry… Besides I'm in no fit state to drag one of them home, let alone both. Neither can I finish the drink, however much Letty spent on it and raved about it. I'm done.

I'm about to leave when movement distracts me, Sirius is now with a different woman. The barman winks at him as he hands over the key, and then with his arm around her Sirius ushers her through a door leading to a staircase.

Can one die of misery? Unfortunately, it seems no more than one can die of embarrassment. I should go, instead I start to count in my head, imagining them climbing the stairs, entering a room…. I rush out of the pub and vomit in the gutter. Try and gather my breath and vomit again because I am nowhere near the first person to have had that issue tonight.

The woman walks past me distain on her face. I go back to my counting, what is she doing out here so quickly, they could only have been together for a couple of mins. I know that's all it can take but you'd have thought she'd look a little flushed. Perhaps Sirius had information for her instead.

My head is spinning, I feel really unwell, and a little scared.

Hands grab my shoulders. No not tonight, the only defence I have let in my armoury is projectile vomit. I'm spun around, helping my stomach get into action.

Part 4

Sirius looks angry. However instead of berating me for decorating his jacket, he says, "You should not be so trusting."

I'm beyond successfully articulating that I have no idea what he is talking about.

"I'm taking you back to your academy."

The world darkens around the edges and my legs lose their strength.

I wake in the infirmary and groan. Toa comes over to me, "How are you feeling?"

Like a zombie on a bad day. "I'm feeling a lot better now. Thank you for looking after me, I know how precious your time is." As I ease my body off the bed, my head starts to thump and I'm sure if my stomach had anything left to throw up it would. Summoning strength from somewhere, I smile at Toa in a hopefully reassuring rather than worrying way. "So, I'll be returning to my room now." I pause remembering, "Did Letty and Fenn get back alright."

"I believe so." Toa sounds unimpressed. He has such exacting standards for himself as the crown prince of Qelsum, I doubt he's ever overindulged, not even on his favourite sweet treats. No climbing up walls on a sugar high for him. Although the thought of it makes my spirit feel a little lighter.

Having lied to Prince too, and sent him off to play for the day, I go straight back to bed. Hoping that I'll wake up again feeling back to my normal self. No hangover, no stupidly shattering heart over a man who doesn't have one.

"Miss Poppy, I heard you were unwell and have taken the liberty of making you breakfast." Jasper's hand is lightly resting on my shoulder, to wake me. Acting like the perfectly proper valet he is 100% not.

"Let go, you don't get to sell information to her, then touch me."

The hand on my shoulder flinches at my tone, then retreats. "I have been a fool, haven't I. You knew did you not as soon as you saw me, that is why you looked so relieved."

"Of course I knew, you look the same. Well, except the hair and glasses." I sit up hugging the sheets like a shield around me. "Why are you here?"

"Firstly, I was worried about you, it doesn't do not to eat, you know. And secondly it seemed like the perfect opportunity to offer you some comfort and perhaps… win you back from myself."

Anger boils within me. "You are the same person, you have the same body, what he does with his, you do with yours."

Part 5

He takes a cup from his breakfast offering and passes it to me. I've taken it automatically before my thoughts catch up. The warmth feels comforting in my hands and it smells wonderfully savoury making me realize how hungry I am. My anger fades away to sadness and I take a sip.

"I liked you so much Jasper. I acted the way I did because I wanted to be your partner. I wanted the opportunity to get to know you better in a romantic setting. I think that you and me, we could have been good for each other, good together." I feel my cheeks heating at my pointlessly belated confession.

"Truly? I think we could be bad together, surely that would be more fun. Can we?" Jasper gives me the filthiest of winks.

Which makes me giggle despite myself. Until I remember my issue with him and with a sigh say, "No, because I'm not willing to share."

His expression turns playfully pensive. "That is not a great quality to have in one's paramour. I would want you to share so much. Your memories, your tears, your laughter, your wit, your time, every inch of your body, your sighs, your groans… in fact I would have you share all of yourself with me and only me…." He trails off noticing my frown, smiles tenderly and adds, "I too know what jealousy feels like, it burned bright in me that night, you are so cute, I didn't expect you to know the tricks you did. As for my informant, I bought information from her, with coin. Sometimes I buy information with other information, however it has been some time since I purchased it by any other means. Since I first rescued you, in fact, and you smiled at me like I was your hero. However, I was busy at the time and thought from the way you looked at me, getting to know you better would wait. Become my paramour and I will share myself totally with you in return, and only you. Do we have a deal?"

For some unknown reason I feel inordinately shy as I say, "We do."

"Well, that's a relief, I'm not sure the shop would have taken this back." He passes a package to me that has appeared from nowhere.

I wish I could do that trick, hopefully one day. "I have a gift for you too, it's in my top draw."

The draw opens and the perfume I created for him flies into his hands. He chuckles, without opening it and asks, "Musk and sandalwood no, with a peppery top note."

I laugh too, "Caught." Then I unwrap my parcel and pull out the dress I'd so admired. "But, I thought…"

"I've had a change of heart, I believe it will look most well on you and walking next to your paramour will lend it respectability enough, you may even start a new trend." He winks at me.

My heart sings that I love him, but for now I'll keep that word to myself.