It was so noisy all around the common room. There were several students who were excitedly getting a travel bag ready for their winter holiday, something that both James and Emily were doing by checking to make sure they had everything. Afterall, they also had presents for their parents which had been sent to the school by mistake. This was thanks to James for not putting the right address and only when four packages were sitting on his bed one afternoon a few weeks ago. He had spent a long time in his dormitory with Lily to wrap up three of them, while Emily was asked to do the last. Suspecting it was a piece of jewelry judging off the size of the box, she had left with a smirk on her face.

Determined to simply go shopping in Muggle London when they got there, Emily laughed as she waved to her brother, him calling her back needing more help.

"EMILY!"

"Figure it out!"

Daphne was waiting for her to walk down for breakfast and for the long walk to the station. Her blonde hair was braided down into a mermaid tail again. She'd been wearing that a lot and it seemed to be a favorite of Arlo's, as she had seen him tugging on it a few times over the last few months.

"Are you heading home for holiday?" asked Emily tugging the bag over her shoulder noticing she didn't have one too. Daphne looked a bit dejected at the words but shrugged her shoulders.

"I'm not. Mum and Dad are in France with my grandparents. Nana isn't doing well. So, they didn't want us there in case anything happened," admitted Daphne pushing a tear away. "I'll have Eric here. It will be fine."

Emily's heart went out as she listened to her friend's words, a pang of sadness washing over her at the thought of Daphne spending the holiday season alone. She couldn't bear the idea of her best friend feeling isolated, especially during a time meant for togetherness and love. Without hesitation, Emily reached out and laid a comforting hand on Daphne's arm.

"Daph, why don't you come home with me for the winter holiday?" she suggested, a glimmer of hope in her eyes. "My family would love to have you, and it would be wonderful to have you there with us too. Get Eric too!"

Daphne's gaze flickered with uncertainty, her eyes searching Emily's face for any hint of dishonesty. She had always been fiercely independent, preferring crowds over the solitude of family gatherings. But there was a warmth in Emily's invitation, a genuine sincerity that was hard to resist.

"I...I don't know, Emily," she hesitated, her voice faltering slightly. "I'm not sure if I would fit in or if your family would even want me there. And I can't speak for Eric either."

Emily shook her head, her expression one of reassurance and understanding.

"Daphne, you're my very best friend, and my family will love you just as much as I do. You belong to be surrounded with love and laughter. Please, consider coming home with me. It would mean the world to me."

"I don't know Emmy," she said softly watching as the Marauders walked loudly by each carrying a bag. James continued walking with Sirius who was arguing about the second large bag he was forced to carry.

"Prongs, this is insane! You don't even know if Lily to coming to visit over Christmas!"

"I will have it just in case!"

"You're an idiot!"

Smirking, Emily turned back to Daphne extending her hand. "If you want to please let me know. I'm heading down to get some breakfast."

Daphne nodded and stayed rooted to her place as Emily left hoping her friend wouldn't spend the time alone but respected her choice all the same. Taking long strides toward the Great Hall, she quickly sat down seeing Arlo a few spots from the door. Sitting down, he smiled as he ate oatmeal and raisins.

"Morning Emily," he muttered between bites. He already had regular clothing on, including a thick wool sweater and knit stocking cap to cover his ears. Emily knew he had gotten sick during his recent Prefect patrol and ended up in the Hospital Wing for an ear infection for a few days. His legs extended through black jeans, covered by black winter boots with some dragon scales lining the ankles.

"I see you're heading home," she said pointing to the suitcase beside him on the table. There was also his dark chestnut, thermal lined winter coat lying over it. Sitting her items to the right, she reached for some toast and eggs, and tossed a bit of salsa on it, thankful for the taste.

"Yes, well Mum said I was needed for some construction around the house, so I'm hoping it's nothing serious. My Dad is old as bloody hell so he shouldn't be doing any of that stuff, but Mum is quite young herself. I'm sure it's nothing bad, at least I hope not. Anyway, have you seen Daph?"

"She was in the common room," answered Emily after taking a bite of toast. "She said something in the way of staying because her Nana. But it sounded bad from her parents. I invited her to spend it with me and James, but I doubt she'll come. She's head strong in her decisions."

Smirking, Arlo nodded in agreement as he gulped down a large bite of oatmeal and started fanning his mouth. Startled by this, Emily reached over to grab a cup of orange juice and practically threw the cup into his hands, but his eyes were closed.

"Arlo! Open your eyes! Bloody hell! Open your mouth!" she demanded, trying to hold him still with one hand and the cup in the other. For being a Ravenclaw, the man sure didn't listen well….

"HEY! That's my friend!" said a loud voice behind them. Finally, Emily got him calmed and turned to find the source of the noise. Standing before her was David, in long navy-blue pants with a dark heather gray sweater covered by an army green tweed coat falling to his mid-thigh. In his pockets sat his hands as was a knit cap for later. It framed him nicely and for a moment, she stared observing his figure feeling strange.

"He was choking!" she said harshly trying to decipher his body signals but cheerful all the same.

"He ate too fast again," muttered David slapping Arlo's back a moment or two who nodded accepting the cup from Emily's hands finally.

"You're an ass David," said Arlo taking one gulp of the orange juice and placing the cup back down. Emily was standing with her hands on her hips staring at the boys with concern.

"Well, I cared enough to get you to drink," said Emily softly taking her leg out of the bench and reaching for her items.

"And I thank you for that. I'm done with this though," stated Arlo pushing the bowl away.

Arlo stood up taking a hold of his items and motioning toward the doors. David had turned with them and was standing very close sandwiching her between them. They walked out on the long journey to Hogsmeade station, while others took to the carriages instead. A sense of warmth and anticipation filled the air, as David and Arlo spoke about their holiday plans. Emily listened carefully, thinking how odd it was for them to mention traveling away each year for summer and winter holidays, but she also knew the wealth David's family had. They were extremely wealthy from her memory as his father was a court wizard in his prime. Arlo had money as well, but nothing like she and David. His family was unique in that his parents had caused quite a stir as their age difference was so drastic, there was more than twenty years between them. It was not uncommon to wait till older to have children, that's what the Potters had done.

Emily smiled as she reached for David's hand and he smirked gently as he continued his conversation with Arlo, who was busy talking about politics in Muggle London. As they arrived, the trio made their way onto the platform eyeing the sea of students all busy trying to warm up before the doors opened for them to board. A sense of excitement and anticipation filled the air. The bustling platform was alive with students and visitors, the sound of chatter and laughter mixing with the shrill whistle of the departing train. The warmth of the train enveloped them, its cozy compartments beckoning them to settle in for the journey ahead.

Just as they were about to board the train, a familiar voice called out to them, causing the three to turn in surprise. Standing before them was Daphne, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes as she grinned at their shocked expressions. Beside her stood her brother Eric, who wore a bemused expression that bordered on reluctant amusement. They both had a suitcase beside their legs but in Daphne's arm was also her favorite pillow from the dormitory.

"Daphne! What are you doing here?" Emily exclaimed, her eyes widening in disbelief at the unexpected reunion. Running over she wrapped her arms around her neck and hugged her deeply.

"I couldn't bear the thought of spending the holiday without you," Daphne replied, her voice filled with warmth and affection. "Thank you inviting us!"

Eric, on the other hand, crossed his arms and muttered under his breath, "Being stuck at Hogwarts alone didn't sound too appealing either."

Despite his grumbling, a faint smile tugged at the corners of Eric's lips as he exchanged glances with Arlo, who couldn't help but chuckle at the siblings' playful banter. Going in for a quick hug to Emily as well, they all boarded finding a compartment near the front. Each of them laughed as they removed their coats and threw them in a pile near the door. Just as David threw his in the pile, Emily grabbed his hand throwing it back at him. She had on a sweater underneath her coat but upon looking at the clock, she saw they had nearly an hour before leaving.

"Hey, I'm going to literally run into Hogsmeade really quick," she said pulling David up with her. "Be right back!"

Pulling David with her, they raced to the village hurrying to grab last minute snacks for their group. Lost in the allure of Hogsmeade's enchanting atmosphere, they ventured further than intended, engrossed in their explorations and enjoying each other's company. It was only when the distant sound of a whistle pierced the air that they realized with a sinking feeling that they were far from the bustling Hogsmeade Station.

"Oh no, we've lost track of time!" Emily exclaimed, her eyes widening in alarm at the realization that they were running late for the train's departure. Their hearts pounding with a mixture of panic and determination, David and Emily raced through the winding streets of Hogsmeade, the familiar sights passing by in a blur as they focused on reaching the station. Turning sharply, their feet slamming against the snow as they rushed, hearing the five-minute warning as well.

"Shit!" muttered David, his cheeks were red in haste. "Hurry Emily!"

"I'm trying! I'm not fast, nor athletic!"

David's expression mirrored her concern as they hurried back, the urgency of their situation pushing them to quicken their pace. The last and final blow signaled loud and clear, the ticking clock showing 11:00 and the departure of the Hogwarts Express. The distinct sound of the train's engine roaring to life reverberated through the air, its impending departure a stark reminder of the consequences of their delay. With a final burst of speed, David and Emily dashed onto the platform, their breaths coming in ragged gasps as the Hogwarts Express pulled away, dread flooding through them as they watched in anguish.

"SHIT!" shouted David ripping off his knit cap and throwing it down in anger. "SHIT, BLOODY FUCK!"

Emily was gasping for air as she held herself up on her knees. It took several minutes for them to look at each other as their hearts sank hearing the distant horn blowing loudly. The sound of the departing train's whistle echoed through the air, chugging away towards London, a haunting reminder of their missed opportunity to board. Breathless and crestfallen, the reality of being left behind sinking in with a heavy weight. The bustling platform suddenly felt desolate and empty, the absence of the departing train and their classmates casting a shadow of disappointment over their faces.

"We missed it," Emily said, her voice filled with a mixture of disbelief and frustration as she stared at the now-empty tracks. She felt tears coming on suddenly as being foolish to think she had the time. It was only an hour! Why had she been so stupid!

David clenched his fists in frustration, a sense of helplessness washing over him as he realized the implications of their tardiness. The prospect of being stranded in Hogsmeade, far from Hogwarts and their friends, loomed ominously before them. But he turned around seeing Emily let out a heart wrenching sob. Seeing her shaking in place, he walked over wrapping her arms around his back and his own around her back for comfort.

"Hey, you got me! I'm here. You're not alone. We are here together," he whispered trying hard to calm her down but seeming to fail at doing so. "We're safe!"

"But we missed the train! Now… our friends… they don't know where we are! They must think we are… we are on… on the train somewhere…. But … we … we aren't! I was so stupid! We shouldn't have left!" she cried against his chest. "I don't even have my wand!"

As the realization of missing the Hogwarts Express settled in, David's mind raced with possibilities. With his legal age, he having turned seventeen on December 8th, and knowledge of Apparition, a daring idea formed in his mind - perhaps they could Apparate to Hogwarts instead. However, a wave of concern washed over him as he considered the risks involved, particularly with Emily, who had never experienced Apparition before.

"Emily, I have an idea," David said, his voice a mix of determination and uncertainty. "I can Apparate us to Hogwarts. I know I've never done it with someone else before, but I think we can make it."

Emily's eyes widened with a mix of disbelief and excitement. The prospect of Apparition was both thrilling and daunting, especially for someone who had never experienced it before. Yet, the urgency of their situation left them with little choice but to trust in David's abilities, but this remained unchanged as her eyes got wide.

"I know I can Apparate us to Hogwarts," David said, his voice filled with a mixture of determination and uncertainty. "But I'm worried about the risks. I don't want to hurt you."

Emily looked at David and was confident in his skills, but the idea of the unknown consequences gnawed at her.

"David, I trust you," Emily said, her voice soft yet resolute. "But we have to consider the risks. I've never done this before, and I don't want to put either of us in danger."

He knew that he could transport them to Hogwarts in an instant. The urgency of their situation weighed heavily on him, the pressure to act quickly clouding his judgment. However, the instinct to find a solution overpowered his doubts.

"We don't have much time," David said, his voice tinged with urgency. "I can do this, Emily! Trust me."

Emily hesitated, uncertainty clouding her features as she grappled with the gravity of the situation.

"I don't know what if it doesn't work!" she said loudly. "I mean there are cases where people splinch …."

"Let's me try Emily!" he shouted a moment throwing his arms down. "I don't know what else I can do!"

There was pleading in his eyes as he, too, fought against their options. With a deep breath and reassuring nod, she tentatively looped her arms through his, their hearts pounding in anticipation as they Disapparate. David focused on their destination, the image of Hogwarts clear in his mind. In a sudden whirl of sensation and disorientation, the world around them blurred into a swirl of colors and shapes, the familiar feeling of being squeezed through a tight tube enveloping them as they hurtled through space and time. Despite David's best efforts to maintain control, Emily tried to hold on for dear life. His hands were clenching onto her tightly but finally moments later, they landed with a thud on the familiar grounds of Hogsmeade station. Breathing heavily, and exchanging wide-eyed glances, fear washing over them as they realized they had been unsuccessfully.

"We are fucked," muttered Emily pushing her hair back as she paced around the platform. "How long would it take to get back to Hogwarts now? David? David are you okay?"

David had sat down on the nearby bench panting heavily, his brows pushed together. His fists were sweaty and clenched in anger. He was mumbling under his breath as to why they couldn't get to Hogwarts by Apparating.

"Oyi!" called a voice down the platform loudly holding up a basket in their arm. It was the Stationmaster! "What are you doing on the platform?"

Looking back at David, she ran over to the Stationmaster and explained the situation. He listened kindly to her words seeing how unwell David looked after trying to Apparate them into Hogwarts.

"You tried to Apparate?" he asked David walking over and taking his temperature. "You don't look well boy."

"Why didn't it work?" mumbled David leaning against the wall of the building holding his side.

"Here follow me inside. It's a bit cold. And you're getting a bit too warm," said the Stationmaster kindly pulling David up. Following him inside, they sat down on one of the many benches waiting for instructions. He handed a cup of cooling tea to David and a warm cup to Emily.

"Why didn't it work?" asked David again pushing his hair back.

"As students, you can't do that into Hogwarts. You must have clearance to do that. Only certain people can like Albus or Minerva," he explained turning a bit to face a portrait.

"Because Dumbledore's the Headmaster—" thought Emily out loud.

"Exactly. Now please stay here while I try to get someone at the castle for you two."

Looking at one another, they waited a bit before David's head dropped onto Emily's shoulder as he fell asleep. He did feel warm, too warm. Maybe the attempted Apparation was having an affect on him. The Stationmaster spoke to one of the portraits a moment before it disappeared, probably taking the message to Dumbledore. As they were picked up by the Hogwarts staff, relief washed over them at the sight of familiar faces and the safety of the school grounds.

However, all was not well with David. Despite his attempts to feign normalcy, it was clear to Emily and the staff that something was amiss. His pallor was ashen, his normally steady demeanor now marked by visible signs of discomfort. He winced with each movement; his hand pressed against his side as if trying to stave off a wave of pain. Emily's concern grew with each passing moment, her worry profound as she observed his deteriorating condition.

"You don't look well. What happened during the Apparition?" Emily asked, her voice laced with anxiety as she reached out to support him against her chest for support. She blushed a moment as she realized she wasn't providing the best cushion as she was small chested, but he didn't seem to mind it.

David tried to muster a reassuring smile, but it faltered under the weight of his discomfort. "I think I may have overexerted myself," he admitted, his voice strained with pain. "I'm fine, just a bit shaken up."

The Hogwarts staff, however, were quick to intervene, sensing the severity of David's condition. They ushered him to the Hospital Wing with urgency, their concern evident as they assessed his symptoms and sought to determine the source of his distress. It was only around one in the afternoon, as she sat beside his bed, his face contorted with pain. The gravity of the situation became clearer as both Professor McGonagall and Slughorn came to examine him over while Emily explained what happened. Madam Pomfrey worked diligently to stabilize him, her efforts focused on alleviating his discomfort and ensuring his well-being.

"You're lucky Mr. Luke," she said softly. "Most people don't come out of an Apparation attempt without severe damage to their organs. Miss Potter, would you please hold this against his temple. We need to cool him down before he quite literally combusts."

"Combusts? Like explode?" she asked fearful that he might do just that.

"Not literally speaking, but his body is fighting the castle's protection charms, which he's doing a fine job of, I might add Mr. Luke. However, his temperature keeps rising."

Guilt gnawed at her, the weight of their failed attempt at Apparition heavy on her shoulders. She vowed to never again underestimate the risks involved in such magic, the safety and health of her friends far too precious to gamble with.

"He should be okay after a day or so. I know these spells well. He isn't the first nor the last."

"So it was just the school's charms?"

"Yes, my dear. Mr. Luke will alright in a few days. His actions to get you both back to the castle are."

In the days that followed, David slowly recovered under the care of the Hogwarts staff, his experience serving as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless magic. As he regained his strength over the first week of the winter holiday. Professor McGonagall had come around stating how they could return to their homes for the holiday. However, for David that would mean spending it alone as his parents had already left on their vacation to Greece.

"What do you say about coming with me?" she asked kindly holding his hands together. "To Godric's Hollow?

"I don't want to impede on your family, and I certainly don't want to see your brother or Black." Frowning, she crossed her hands over his and pinched his fingers until he let out a gasp as it had pierced his skin. Looking her in the eyes, he caught the meaning and nodded quickly. "Fine but let's ask before we commit to that. Your parents should agree if I'm coming or not."

The next morning after Professor McGonagall penned a letter to her parents, they agreed to have David come with her. Emily's belongings were already there as Daphne had grabbed it, but no one knew where his suitcase was. That afternoon, the two stood in Professor Dumbledore's office, waiting to use his fireplace to Floo. In a whirl of emerald flames and swirling sensation, they were whisked away from the castle and transported through the intricate network of chimneys, hurtling towards the Ministry of Magic. Moments later, they emerged in a burst of green fire within the unfamiliar walls of a random office, but standing there was an Educational Coordinator waiting for them. Their hearts still racing from the adrenaline-fueled journey, they followed her all the way through the vast networks to the ground level of London.

Smiling as the stationmaster at King's Cross, who handed over a black suitcase with his initials on it, they waited until Mr. and Mrs. Potter arrived. The Educational Coordinator stood tall, her head on a swivel for anything around them.

"Next time, we won't risk it. We should have found another way," she whispered as they waited about ten minutes for them to arrive.

"Emily, darling, it's so good to see you. And David, it's lovely to have you here as well," Mrs. Potter said, giving them both a tight hug. Her hug was loving, quite unlike his mother's. David nodded politely at Mr. Potter, who extended the gesture with a firm handshake.

"Hello David. Emily has mentioned you a bit in letters," Mr. Potter said with a warm smile. "We are happy that you helped our dearest Emmy out last year as well."

Thinking back to that February day, it surprised her that they remembered that. Blushing, she saw David hadn't responded to that but merely said 'not a problem, Sir, just wanted to help'.

Smiling up at her mum, her father wrapped an arm around her before giving her a kiss on the cheek, they both happily saying they were excited to have her home finally. David followed behind a few paces back, holding his thoughts carefully as he watched Emily carefully. There was a difference than his and this he knew would be a hard remaining holiday. Maybe he shouldn't have tried his spell so hard because now he would be forced to play nice to the Potters, the Winter siblings, and to his disgust upon walking through the front door… Sirius Black.

*dot*

As Emily and David arrived at the Potter's house, the warm glow of Christmas lights welcomed them in. Mr. and Mrs. Potter announced that they had returned, and the sounds of four pairs of feet running down the stairs deafened the sounds of their friends asking many questions. Greeting them with loving smiles, happy to see them, Mr. Potter held out a hand for David, bringing him a spare bedroom where Eric had his items.

Surrounded by the joy and love of her family, he greeted everyone with a friendly nod. James stood tall and charming, much like their father, with a twinkle of mischief in his eyes that hinted at a shared history with Black. As they settled in for the holiday celebration, the lively chatter filled the Potter's home.

As the six teenagers surrounded the dining table, the aroma of a delicious meal filled the air, adding to the warmth and coziness of the home. David couldn't help noticing Black's presence casting a shadow over the festive atmosphere but mostly he was behaving. Locking eyes, a tension summered beneath the surface, their mutual dislike seeming hidden from the Potters for now. Hoping for a peaceful holiday gathering despite the underlying animosity between the two, Emily steered the conversation towards lighter topics and shared memories. However, the strained atmosphere lingered, a reminder of unresolved conflicts and past grievances was apparent. Mr. and Mrs. Potter presided over the table, their faces beaming with pride and joy as they looked at their children and their friends.

"So, how are your studies going, everyone?" Mrs. Potter asked with a smile, her eyes twinkling with curiosity. "Have you all been preparing for your O.W.L.s? You three will sit them later this spring?" asked Mr. Potter, pointing at his daughter and the Winters siblings.

"We're still a few months away from that, Dad," Emily replied with a laugh. "But we've been working hard in our classes and getting ready for the upcoming exams."

"Yes, Sir. I'm spoken with Professor Flitwick about the Healer program at St. Mungo's. I'm really interested in how medicine helps us," answered Eric softly, the attention from everyone unsettling.

"I don't know what I will do but I have noticed that about you Eric. You always have top marks in Potions! Like Emmy."

"I struggled with Potion one, but I did get an Exceeds Expectations on it," commented David pushing his food around his plate.

"Oh that's what you got right, Sirius?" asked Mrs. Potter, returning with desserts a moment later.

"Yes, Euphemia. I got mostly Es, no Os, but I passed enough to get into NEWT levels. James on the other hand—" said Sirius with a tease.

"You better not say a word!" warned James taking aim at his friend, a fork threateningly pointed.

David chuckled at the banter, feeling a sense of camaraderie by everyone around him. This was different than his dinners with his parents. Despite the tension that had simmered between him and Black earlier in the evening, he tried his hardest to loosen his spell but the effects still lingers after their long day together.

"What were you results, if I may ask David?" asked Mr. Potter munched on some roast beef.

"Well," David thought back. "I got Os in Transfiguration, Ancient Runes, and Arithmancy. I selected to continue with Ancient Runes for my focus. I've been considering a career in the Ministry of Magic, perhaps in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement or the Wizengamot. I wish to follow in my father's footsteps into the courts."

Mr. Potter's eyes widened slightly at David's response, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. "Ah, the Wizengamot. That's quite an ambitious goal," he remarked, his tone holding a hint of respect. "I remember your father, Octavius, getting that promotion. It was big news. Your family is not from England?"

"Thank you, Mr. Potter. My father did serve in the courts for many years, and his dedication to upholding justice and maintaining order in the wizarding world has always been an inspiration to me. My father's family are from Greek and the Americas, specifically Mexico. My mother is French and Spanish," added David quietly, his blue eyes observing everyone around him. His expression softened at the mention of his diverse and cultural background, a sense of pride swelling within him.

"You're all that?" asked Daphne. "Geez, Eric and I are just English!"

"We have more than that Daph!" argued Eric holding out his fork. "Our Nana is from Norway and Poppy's French…."

As the dinner conversation continued, Mr. Potter turned to the teenagers with a smile, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. His gaze shifting from one teenager to the next as everyone spoke loudly about their future goals. None were as quiet as David though, he noticed the young Slytherin was staring at his daughter. Distracting him about the complexities of wizarding law and the responsibilities of it. And so, the evening unfolded with laughter, shared dreams, and a sense of camaraderie that transcended differences and brought the teenagers in many rounds of shouts about different paths to go. The conversations turned to their own future and aspirations, the teenagers shared their dreams and ambitions, each one eager to carve out their path in the wizarding world.

As the night wore on, Emily found herself caught in the middle of the unspoken rivalry between David and Sirius, torn between loyalty to them each, but that warming sensation was there again. It was nice and she had a hard time watching Sirius when she felt David's glaze on her the entire time.

Despite the underlying tension, the Potter household remained a haven of love and togetherness, a place where bonds of family and friendship transcended differences and conflict. Emily held onto hope that the holiday spirit would prevail and bring reconciliation among the ones she cared for.

*dot*

This was bloody impossible to get comfortable, when the bed was simply too soft. He was used to a firmer bed, but across the room, he could hear Winters talking in his sleep. Trying to ignore it, he kicked the blankets off his body, his pajamas riding up his lean body. Sitting up quickly, he exited the room, trying to remember where Mr. Potter said the bathroom was at. Opening a door at random, he heard a growl or a grunt from it and recognized the voice stopping him in his tracks.

"Black?" he questioned baring witness to the other laying in bed, his hands… well… they were doing something he himself had done… but it was embarrassing to see it done by another male.

Blushing a deep red, he slammed the door shut and ran from the room to the Potter's den, mentally bleaching his eyes. Finding a bathroom downstairs, David closed the door behind him and leaned against it, trying to calm his racing heart. He splashed some cold water on his face, trying to jolt himself fully awake. Screaming at himself at having viewed that, he had to admit that many of the rumors were true about the Gryffindor. It was strange but he was also jealous at what he saw. David thought to his own and it couldn't quantify the comparisons in a single sighting.

Merlin, it was veiny and had length, his mind screamed. Maybe, he didn't realize it was him. Maybe there was nothing to worry about. After using the toilet, he washed his hands and splashed water on his face again trying to rid himself of the image. Failing a few times, he returned to the den, finding comfort on the sofa there. Eyeing the grandfather clock, it read 4:10a, so maybe a few hours of sleep before anyone woke up.

Sometime later, the sun was shining in his face as the lovely sense of cinnamon filled the room he lay in. Brushing off the quilt off his shoulders, he saw Mr. Potter sitting opposite him in a large red armchair.

"Morning," he offered reading the Daily Prophet taking a large portion of space in front of the man.

"Good morning, Sir. Sorry, I was having trouble sleeping."

"It's okay. I've seen Sirius and Emily fallen asleep there before too when they were young. You kids must love that sofa."

Sitting up suddenly and feeling gross again, his hands pulled the quilt off and he stood up quickly brushing his hair back. The cool breeze wrapped him in a cinnamon-like smell. There were distant voices in the kitchen, mostly feminine ones.

"I take it that mentioning my daughter has stirred you this morning," chuckled Mr. Potter. "Sit down, before someone see you."

Looking down, he saw what her father saw, and sat down promptly pulling his legs up. Looking down, he muttered a sorry before his body calmed down. After some time, David watched Emily and Daphne enter the den, carrying a tray of breakfast foods for them both. Emily had her hair gathered in a messy bun above her head, it half falling out. The sun was streaming through the den windows, as she set a tray on the coffee table as she entered, balancing it carefully with one hand as she smoothed down the silky fabric of her pajama set with the other. She wore a stylish two-piece satin pajama set that exuded a subtle elegance, the light blue fabric adorned with delicate white piping and a playful floral print. The top was a button-down shirt with a relaxed fit, while the bottoms were a pair of matching shorts that flattered her slender legs.

David tried his hardest to ignore the view in front of her father, but the struggle was hard to maintain eyes contact with the sight robbing him a chance to do anything.

"Good morning, Daddy, David," Emily greeted them with a warm smile as she poured coffee into their cups. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the scent of the warm pastries she had placed on the tray, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere in the room.

Mr. Potter looked up from his newspaper and nodded in acknowledgment, his gaze briefly flickering over Emily's outfit before returning to the headlines. David, sitting on the sofa, paused mid-conversation as his eyes widened slightly at the sight of Emily bent over the tray to get David's coffee and pastry.

"Good morning, Emily," David said, his voice a touch huskier than usual as he reached for a croissant on the plate, his fingers lightly brushing against hers. Emily's cheeks flushed slightly at the unexpected contact, but she maintained her composure as she fixed David with a playful smirk.

"I see someone's enjoying the breakfast spread," Emily teased, her eyes dancing with amusement. David chuckled softly in response, his gaze lingering on her for a moment longer before he returned to his food.

"This is really good," he mumbled under his breath thoroughly enjoying the sights and smells in front of him. As they ate and conversed, the morning light bathed the room in a warm glow, casting a soft sheen on Emily's satin pajamas and illuminating her features. Her easy elegance and quiet confidence added a touch of sophistication to the simple breakfast scene, showcasing her impeccable taste and effortless grace. The two Potters talked about the day's events that didn't necessarily require him, but it was fun to hear Emily debate with her father the importance of education post Hogwarts. Her legs were tucked under her bottom, her toes tapping his thigh a few times.

As they finished their meal, Mr. Potter rose from his chair and patted Emily's hand affectionately.

"Thank you for the delicious breakfast, my dear. You always know how to brighten my mornings," he said warmly. Emily smiled in response, her eyes sparkling with warmth and affection for her family.

"You're welcome. Mum made them yesterday," she commented turning slighting on the sofa as her father began walking away.

With a final glance at David, Mr. Potter with gathered the empty plates and cups in his arm, her satin shorts swishing softly as she moved gracefully around on the sofa. The moment lingered in the air, the subtle tension between Emily and David palpable yet unspoken as they shared a fleeting glance that spoke volumes in its simplicity and complexity.

Her knees were pushing inward as her arms draped over the back, her face turned to David.

"Thank you for breakfast," he said brushing several hairs from her face.

"Mum says I had to put it together, because you and everyone outside us Potters are guests."

"I won't mind something more," teased David pulling an arm around her waist and making her giggle loudly, as he tickled her. Shrieking in surprise, they laughed as he spent several minutes finding her tickle spots. Finally after they were panting and her hair was spread over his legs, she rested against his leg as she played with her wand, letting small showers of light to emit from it. They were red and green.

"Those are our colors—"

Looking up to him from his lap, she smirked. "They are Christmas colors."

"Yes, red for Gryffindor, you," he lightly tapped her nose, "and green for Slytherin." He repeated the same on his nose.

"You're silly," she said sitting up and getting very close to him. "I never thanked you trying to get us back. Was very Gryffindor brave."

"No it was my shrewd Slytherin determination," said David feeling Emily's body enclose itself over his legs. Watching carefully, his hands remained by his side a moment before sitting on her hips. Her hazel eyes stared into his blue eyes, feeling all sorts of love impossible to tell them all. Her hands cupped his cheeks before she leant forward gently placing her lips on his. Her elbows rested on the back head rest, and her torso was touching his. That's how close she was, and she knew what this was causing him. She had to feel that against her thigh.

As David listened for any noise, she stayed there locking lips with him until letting up after a several kisses. Somewhere behind them, they heard a soft noise as Emily looked up, freezing in place.

David looked over his shoulder letting out a soft groan, seeing the person behind him. It was Sirius, a coffee mug having dropped from his hands, staring at the two in close embrace. Emily visibly gulped and yet he kept the hold over her hips. There was no way he was about to let her up and reveal the massive hard on he was currently sporting. Sirius narrowed his eyes before turning to walk away in a huff. Taking a quick moment to offer him a kiss, they parted ways; Emily to her room to get dressed and David to the bathroom, where he spent several minutes doing exactly what Sirius had last night, feeling ashamed he was doing this in the Potter's bathroom.