He gently pushes her so she falls back on the bed, her eyes wide with the fear and the anticipation of feelings so foreign to her. The room clearly belongs to him, with boyish décor and a messy desk. Or perhaps it's not his room. Perhaps it belongs to another boy. Man? She doesn't know. All she knows is that it's him. He's here, with her. He's here, planting his knee on the bed as he loosens the buttons of his shirt and leans forward above her.
"Wh-what are you doing?" she stutters as he brings his face down to her neck.
"Something I've been wanting to do for a long time…" he grumbles, his voice muffled in the crook of her neck.
"But I'm not ready…" she pleads; even as she shivers from surprise when she finds herself moan at how unbelievably gentle he is.
He lifts his head and looks at her. "I'll prepare you," he says with so much promise in his eyes.
She bites her lips.
If only she knew how mad it drives him every time she does that.
He wants to bite them too. He wants to bite her everywhere.
He lifts himself and she turns over, taking the clothes off of her masterpiece of a body. He loves that she doesn't need to be told what to do.
He helps lift her to her hands and knees, and kisses her shoulders and the back of her neck.
"You are so precious," he whispers before his hands make their way down to the place he thought he'd only see in his dreams. She whimpers at the pain of the intrusion. "You are so beautiful," he groans when he realizes his body can't wait anymore. He knows its time.
He loves this.
He loves the sound of their skins slapping against each other and the sound of her panting. His own growls, his tight grip on her hips; leaving reddish purple marks.
She's exhilaratingly lovely.
But then there's a BANG and she's gone. She's suddenly gone before he could finish and he's left cold, empty and unsatisfied more than ever…
…
Fucking shit.
I stirred awake to the sound of construction on the street below with a throbbing headache and a rock-solid dick.
Cursing, I threw an arm over my eyes to block the goddamn sunlight. I tried to go back to the incredible dream I was having about her.
It had felt so fucking real. It was like she was right there in my bed. If I closed my eyes, I could picture it again; her back arched while I tugged on her hair, slapped her creamy ass and rode her like a little pony.
I smirked to myself as I imagined the look on her face if she ever found out about my dreams. At first she'd look like a fucking tomato with her face as red as her hair. And then she'd start stuttering like a broken cassette. And then she'd repeat her stupid speech about how much she hated me for eighty-seventh time. Of course I didn't buy any of her crap.
She wanted me.
She just didn't know it yet.
I felt my head buzz and I found my cellphone under my pillow. I unlocked it to check for messages and emails. I was a little startled when I saw half a dozen missed calls from Dante in the past twenty minutes. He'd also left me four voicemails and I pressed play on the first one.
"There's been another break-in. The entire place was trashed and they fucking stole some of our equipment too! It has to be Carbon! I know it! The little rat wants to fuck with our heads before Friday. Can't handle defeat. I swear on my dead mother's grave I'm gonna bury his ass six feet under! Don't you even think about trying to stop me this time…And get the fuck to the office already!"
I could feel the blood drain from my cock and make its way to my head by the time I was done with the voice messages. I got up and stood there, running my hand through my hair in frustration.
This was the third time in the past two and a half months that I'd have to call a repairman and a contractor to put my fucking dry walls back together! And how the fuck was I going to get my equipment back?!
I cursed and slammed my fist on the bedpost before going into the bathroom. I had to clear my head and think about how I was going to deal with Carbon. I didn't want to take the offense but now I had to resort to drastic measures if I wanted to send a message. The constant break-ins and vandalism wasn't good for my business. Fuck, I'd have to refund my customers or extend their contracts until I got this shit sorted out. I wanted to punch my shower tiles but I didn't want to fuck my hand up until after I fucked Carbon's head up. I sighed and stood there, letting the hot, massage jets fall across my back. Carbon needed to be taught a lesson but even amidst the jumble in the head, the only thing I could see when I closed my eyes was her.
I thought about all the ways I could love her curvy, little body in the shower.
I could gently turn her towards the wall, her palms against the tiles, and place wet kisses across her shoulders and on the back of her neck. I imagined she'd whimper and pant as I readied her with my fingers to take me. And then I'd slam into her without warning, warranting a shriek from her. I would pound into her from behind. She'd protest but no fucking way would I stop.
Shit, she was so tiny.
I wondered if she'd be able to take my dick. I wondered if she'd taken dick before. Probably not. Her bright blue eyes had grown huge and teary when she thought that I'd fucked her while she was out. I shook my head and chuckled as I turned off the water and grabbed a towel. That wasn't my style.
I'd rather hear her scream.
I had to stop thinking about her. It was easier in the beginning when I wanted to get rid of her peachy, little ass. But the more she insisted on sticking around, the more I realized there was something about her that I never saw in any of the other girls I came across.
She was innocent as hell; of that I was certain. She'd been a frightened, little mouse at Wood's shithole of a party last weekend. The way she tried to scramble behind the house and the way she pleaded with me in Wood's room not to hurt her…I smirked. Only I knew how much I'd enjoyed seeing her scurry to get away from me. Catching her was the exciting part. She also had a bit of a rebellious streak. The other girls I knew loved praise and attention but she resisted me. I could definitely enjoy fighting her.
Preferably naked.
I needed to see her again. Especially after that damn date, I was having a hard time getting her out of my head now more than ever. She wanted to hate me and a part of her was scared of me, I could see it. Her big blue eyes were so expressive. She couldn't hide anything behind them. She was fidgety too, when I touched her. But even despite all that, she'd relaxed in my arms and held on to me during that sob song. She's felt so perfectly warm and soft. She'd smelled incredible. Like lavenders and honey.
I couldn't forget about her even if I tried.
Not after how she'd loosened up around me last night. Did she trust me? She did let me take care of her at the end of our evening. Why the hell did she do that?
Fuck, if I knew how her pretty brain worked. I had to stop this distraction. No more thinking about my angel until after Carbon is dealt with.
I wrapped the towel around my waist and headed out to check my phone for any more updates. I saw a message from Dante.
Found this spray painted on the wall of your office
There was an image attached and it was of the wall behind my desk in my now battered office. There was a message spray painted in red: You won't fight for long.
Carbon.
It was him; I fucking knew it. Fuming, I threw on a pair of jeans and went into the kitchen to put on coffee. If I didn't get coffee, I was going to seriously fuck up the face of the first person I saw and I only wanted to fuck up the face of whoever dared to step foot in my office. Hell no, I wasn't going to play defense anymore. I sent a quick message to Dante and told him to round up the men. We were going to pay Carbon a little visit today.
Suddenly my doorbell rang and I was immediately on edge. No, he wouldn't show up on my goddamn doorstep. I'd bash his head in the wall without a second thought. But then I remembered it was Thursday and I sighed in relief at the thought of Catherine coming by to clean my place, make me a nice breakfast and sort my life out. If she were fifty years younger, I'd put a ring on her.
When I opened the door, I was irritated to find that instead of my beloved housekeeper, it was a young blonde. And she was dressed in a tight, short maid dress that looked like it came from a fucking costume store.
"Who the hell are you?!" I barked.
She looked a little alarmed at first but then took deep breath. It was hard not to notice her breasts rise and fall when she did.
"Hi, Mr. M," she said, with cute, slight lisp. Was she batting her eyelashes at me? "I'm Caroline, Catherine's granddaughter. I've come by a bunch of times before to help her with the cleaning."
"Where's Catherine?" I demanded. I tried to recall if Catherine ever brought an assistant.
"She had a fall over the weekend and broke her hip. She's going to be away for a while but don't worry…I'm here to take care of you."
I glared at her but stepped aside to let her in. I noticed the sharp swaying of her hips as she walked in.
Fuck, her skirt was short! If I lowered to the floor, I would probably see her panties. I wondered what colour panties she had on…
"I think I know where all the cleaning supplies are," she said, pulling me out of my thoughts.
I narrowed my eyes. "Okay," I muttered motioning to the cabinet under the sink. "Go nuts."
I turned away and went back to my coffee. It was done brewing so I poured myself a cup.
When I turned around, I found her still rooted to her spot.
"I'm not paying you to grace me with your presence!" I said and took a sip.
She bit her lip and blushed. Why the fuck was she blushing?! "…I-I've heard so much about you…you've intrigued me for a long time."
"Again, why the fuck do you not have a mop in your hands?!"
"You're a busy man…and I just want to make sure you know…"
I leaned back against the counter and took a sip of my Americano as I watched her; waited for her to continue. I noticed she was staring at the floor, then around the house and then back at the floor.
I smirked; the little tart was avoiding looking at me.
"I want you to know," she said. "I'm here for you…in anyway you need. During the day…at night…"
My hand stilled before I could take another sip and I raised a brow at her. "At night?" I repeated.
She nodded. "I came by last week, early morning…and I was cleaning your bathroom and…and…"
"And?" I said. I took another sip of my coffee.
"I heard you on the phone…you were asking someone—a girl, I think—if she knows how to give a blow job…well…I do."
I choked on my caffeine. You had to be fucking kidding me!
Still choking, I barked, "Does Catherine know her granddaughter is offering suck my dick?!"
Caroline's face reddened.
I slammed my cup on the counter and she winced at the bang of ceramic and granite. "Okay, Caroline, I think it's time for you to get out of here and get another prescription for your meds."
"What…?" Her face was as pale as a ghost yet the puzzled look was there too.
"You heard me, get out, go home, have a nice day!" I said.
"But…but Mr. Mal—"
"Why are you still standing here?!" I snarled at her.
"I have to clea—"
"Out! I don't have time for this right now!" I dumped the rest of my coffee in the sink and went to the door, holding it open for her.
"Come back with your grandmother when she has you on a shorter leash!" I said and motioned for her to exit.
Caroline's entire body, including her long, sexy legs, was red as she hurried out the door. I slammed it shut when she was gone and took a deep breath.
I had way too much love and respect for my old housekeeper to fuck her granddaughter even if she did offer herself on a silver platter. And why the hell was this chick listening to my phone calls? I wondered if Catherine heard them too and a strange and unfamiliar feeling washed over me.
I believe it was mortification.
I went back to my room to wash up and get dressed. I rummaged through my dresser for my black t-shirt and made a mental note to do my fucking laundry since Catherine had to go and break herself. I put my watch on and shoved my wallet and cellphone in the back pocket of my jeans. I threw on a jacket over my t-shirt, grabbed my car keys and headed for the door. I sent a quick text to Dante that I was heading out.
Suddenly, I realized I'd forgotten my most important piece. I went back to my room and pulled open the drawer of my bedside table. I snaked my hand underneath all the useless junk in there and from the very back I pulled out my nine millimeter Beretta. I checked the magazine before securing it at the back of my waistband. I tried not to use it when I don't have to but that baby is more dependable than most men and I always need it on me.
I headed down to the lobby of my building. Usually I'd head to the mailboxes first since I haven't checked my mail for the past two days but today, I headed straight for the stairs to the underground parking. I walked by the reception where Dwayne, the security head for the building, was talking to one of the elderly residents.
"Morning, D," I said.
"Oh, wait up!" said Dwayne. I stopped and looked at him curiously as he finished up with the old lady who was now walking away. "I was hoping to catch you before you leave. Do you have a minute?" Said Dwayne
"Of course," I said and walked towards his desk.
Dwayne's voice became hushed, "Something came for you this morning. An hour ago I would say." He handed me a large, yellow, manila envelope and looked around us, as if to check that no one was in earshot. "Something's not right," he continued. "The guy that delivered it looked tough and came with back up. I'm pretty sure they were armed. I saw their car parked for hours outside before they came in."
I sucked in my cheeks and nodded. "Did they do anything funny?"
"Nope. Just a parked car on the curb. I can't do much about that."
"Thanks for telling me," I said in a deep, low voice. "Anything weird happen, make sure you let me know…and keep everyone in the building safe, D."
"I always do."
"And you're damn good at it," I nodded. Dwayne stood up straighter and nodded. "See you later. And don't hesitate to call me if you feel the need."
Dwayne nodded and I headed for the doors to the stairwell. It wasn't until I was sitting in my car that I tore open the large, yellow envelope like a savage. For a moment, the thought that it was poisoned crossed my mind.
But I knew my enemies didn't want me dead yet.
So I ripped the yellow apart and pulled out the papers inside. Horror washed over me when I saw they were images; printed out pictures some fucking creep had been taking for God-knows-how-long. I could feel the blood pounding at my temple and I slammed my hand on the steering wheel so hard I made it honk for a full five seconds. I turned on the ignition and swiftly reversed out of the parking. With one hand on the wheel, the other holding my phone, I dialed Dante's number.
"It's a fucking emergency!" I roared on the phone.
"What happened?! Malfoy?! Where are you?! What's going on?!" I heard Dante say.
"Carbon just crossed a huge fucking line!"
"What happened? Where are you?" Said Dante.
"I'm on my way to you. Listen, I need three of our best fighters on guard duty. This…this is top priority. I'll explain everything when I get there."
With that I hung up.
Whoever had dared to fuck with me, was now going to beg for the mercy I'll never have.
…
"Victoire wants to know how you feel about pale lavender?" Mum asked me at breakfast one morning.
"I don't really harbor deep-set emotions towards it. Why?" I muttered as I poured myself a cup of warm milk.
Mum rolled her eyes at me. "Bridesmaid dresses, silly."
"Oh," I said. I'd almost forgotten about that.
"She's torn between lavender and periwinkle. I personally prefer periwinkle for you, love. It'll really bring out the blue in your eyes," Mum said to me. I tried to pay attention but I was having a really hard time feigning interest. It wasn't my wedding so I didn't care about the colours. I'd wear whatever Victoire tells me to wear.
"It's her choice, I guess," I shrugged. "I'm going out today," I said.
"Where are you off to?" Mum asked.
"Just going to hang out with Ben. I need to go to replace my sneakers and he offered to go to the shopping center with me."
"Alright, spend wisely," Mum said. This time, I rolled my eyes.
I dressed in a pair of mid-length denim shorts and a loose Mickey Mouse t-shirt to beat the heat.
"You look positively ready for Disney World," Ben joked as I got in his car.
"Must you always comment on my appearance? You spend a lot of time taking note of me," I retorted.
Ben's ears turned pink but he chuckled it off. We arrived at the shopping center of my nightmares. Strangely enough, I didn't feel the fear or that sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach. I supposed it had to do with Ben being with me.
"I want to start going to the gym," I said to Ben as we walked towards the first sports store.
"Why? You're already fit," Ben said.
I shrugged, "I want to build muscle. To be stronger."
Ben looked at me funny. "But why?" He asked. "All of a sudden?"
"It's not all of a sudden," I said. "I've been meaning to work out for a while. I think everyone should be strong enough to defend their own self."
Ben stopped and stared at me as we arrived in the store. I walked on and looked at a pair of black and white running shoes.
"Rose, do you feel unsafe?" Ben suddenly asked me in a low voice.
I looked up at him; he was standing next to me, looking down at me with concern.
I shook my head and looked away, back at the shoes. "Why would I feel unsafe?" I muttered.
"Are you sure…?"
"Positive," I said firmly. We went back to our search for running shoes but I could tell Ben could feel something was off.
Which is precisely why he bought me an ice-lolly after I'd found and purchased the perfect shoes.
"Are you hungry? You want a cheeseburger?" He asked as he stood in line at the fast food counter.
"I'm alright," I said. "I'll wait for you at that table."
I made my way over to the table and suddenly I had the strangest prickly feeling at the back of my neck. I felt like someone's gaze was following my move. I turned my head to look around the food court but no one seemed to be looking my way. I could swear though, from the corner of my eye, I'd felt a head follow my direction.
Maybe it was just me…I waited at the table for Ben and worked on my candy-floss. Ben arrived shortly after with a double cheeseburger, fries and a soda. Of course I attacked Ben's potatoes much like I'd done with Malfoy's.
I didn't tell Ben about the strange feeling I'd had earlier. There was a ninety-nine percent chance it had been in my head. Ben would think I was vying for attention or drama. I wasn't special and nor did the earth revolve around me.
…
Our report cards arrived one Monday morning and so did my OWL results. Breakfast was unpleasant to say the least.
"An 'A' in History of Magic?! Young lady do you have any idea how important that class is?!" Mum scolded me as she thoroughly looked over my OWL's results. Mum, of course, was disappointed about that one Acceptable to even notice the Outstandings. I grunted in frustration.
"Mum, I still have the highest mark in the class," I insisted. "Everyone else got a P or below except for me and one or two other people! Obviously it wasn't my fault!"
"Not your fault?! How irresponsible of you!" Mocked Hugo. Of course he found all of this very funny.
"Hugo!" Dad scolded, whacking him on the arm with a spoon. He turned to mum, "Hermione, come on, that is a pretty dry subject."
I think he once said to me 'having grades like yours was a surreal dream for me when I was your age'. Mum on the other hand thought I should always get at least an E.
"Ron! Stop telling her it's okay to fail!" Mum exclaimed angrily.
"You failed?!" Hugo interjected.
"Of course not!" I said, "Mum, I didn't fail!"
"Hermione, come on, she got an O in everything else, well except for Ancient Runes, but that's still an E. Her results are fine," Dad insisted before turning to me. "Go, Rose, run along and don't forget to take out the trash. It's your turn this week."
…
As the week went on, the excitement about the carnival was growing in the chatter amongst my circle of friends. It was the first time the carnival was coming to our town and everyone was making predictions about what attractions there would be.
"I wonder if they'll have a roller-coaster?" Said Emma.
"I don't know but there has to be a Ferris wheel! All carnivals have Ferris wheels!" Gushed Sophie.
"I read on the website they'll set up an arcade in the warehouse!" Said Al.
"And go-carting!" Said Ben.
"Will there be a photo booth? You know people never just take photos in there!" Squealed Priya.
"Please, Priya, it's an all-ages event," I rolled my eyes in response.
Once we were done talking about the activities, the girls starting gushing over what to wear to it.
"Ladies!" Sophie said. "It's a carnival, not a music festival! No need to dress like a Bohemian nomad!"
I never heard from Malfoy since our date and that had been more than a week ago. I didn't know why that bothered me but it did. Actually, bothered was an understatement; I hated that. I felt rejected and I wanted to be the one to reject him! Just the thought that maybe I'm not worth staying in touch with after a first date. I had to stop thinking about what made Malfoy dislike me. Maybe it had been my attitude. He did demand I 'cut it out'. But then according to Malfoy, my 'feistiness' is 'arousing.' His words; not mine. Maybe it was that stupid slow dance. Why the hell did I have to slow dance with him?
Why was I not entirely satisfied with the fact that Malfoy had finally left me alone? Wasn't that what I wanted all along?
Oh but I was so wrong. Little did I know Malfoy would not let me go so easily.
I believe I'd shrieked at the top of my lungs when I found a figure sitting in my chair in my dark bedroom one night. It was right after I'd come out of the bathroom where I'd had a quick shower before bed. I rushed to turn on the lamp.
"Malfoy! What the hell is wrong with you?!" I yelled. "You bloody scared me! How the hell did you get in here in the first place?!"
I believe he'd also used 'muffliato' around my room because no one seemed to rush in frantically.
Malfoy sucked in his cheeks and I could see the smirk in his eyes as he scanned my towel-clad figure. I tightened my grip on the fabric.
"You're always so welcoming," he drawled.
"Why are you even here?!" I asked.
Malfoy got up and walked around my room to my bed. "Your bed is a lot cozier than mine," he said, taking a seat. I watched him finger the duvet and my pillows. It was quite strange.
I went in my closet to put on my pajamas and when I came back out, he was sitting at the edge of the bed looking at a photo frame. He'd picked it off my desk.
"You've a very genuine laugh," he said keeping his gaze low on the photo.
I stood in front of him with my hands sternly on my hips
"We have to talk about this," I said firmly. "You can't just break in here whenever you feel like it. Please use the doorbell, at least."
Malfoy looked up at me. I took in a sharp breath when I saw a dark bruise on his left cheekbone. Upon closer inspection, I also saw there was a cut on his lip and another bruise on the right side of his forehead hidden behind a few dark blonde locks. What the hell had happened to him?! I knew I should have kept my hands to myself but curiosity got the better of me. So with shaking fingers, I moved the hair from his forehead and gulped. I tilted his head when I saw a cut near his right ear.
"What happened to you?" I whispered, not taking my eyes away from the cut and then the big bruise on his forehead.
Malfoy was the strongest person I knew and seeing him bruised made me wonder who could hurt someone like him? Did they beat him? Had he been in a fight? A bar brawl? That didn't seem like Scorpius, though. Then again, since when did I really know him? I was only brought out of my thoughts when I realized his hands were on my hips. Since when was he holding my hips? I looked at him and found him staring at me with bright eyes and just a hint of a smile. It was warm. And gross.
"So someone finally decided to teach you a lesson, huh?" I said.
Malfoy smirked. "I can assure you that he's in a worse state than I am."
"Pity."
Malfoy snaked his arms around my waist and looked up with an amused expression on his face. "Sorry, I didn't get smashed into ground meat."
I tried to hold back a laugh. "I could've put you in marinara and eat you with spaghetti."
It was weird but Malfoy and I both burst out laughing. When we stopped, neither one of us said anything. Soon there was an awkward silence. Why was I laughing with Malfoy anyway? We were NOT friends! Looking down, I realized he still had his arms around me.
"Get your hands off of me!" I quickly said and struggled in his grip to get away.
"But you smell lovely…like the beach," he said with a small groan.
"Malfoy!" I said turning red. "Why are you even here, again?"
"I thought seeing me battered would make your day better," he shrugged.
I stopped struggling and looked at him, wide-eyed, "Seriously?"
Malfoy smirked, "Of course not. I know you were concerned, just earlier."
I glared at him. "I was not!"
"Of course you were, angel."
"I'm not your angel," I quickly said.
Malfoy ignored me. "You were all quiet and touchy," he pointed out.
"Only because I was wondering who to send flowers to," I said. "I'd like to express my gratitude to whoever did this little artwork around your face!"
Before I could even form another thought, Malfoy had us turned. I hit the mattress face down and he was on top of my back, my arms pinned underneath me.
I turned my head to the side and tried to look over my shoulder. Struggling, I yelled, "Get off! Malfoy!"
"Call me Scorpius," he said.
"Get off of me!"
"You know," he said, bringing his face next to mine from behind. "I see a slew of beautiful women everyday but none have quite captured my mind as you have."
I took a deep breath and tried to lift up.
Malfoy gripped me tighter, putting down more weight on me and I grunted from frustration.
"What is it about you?" He whispered.
I didn't respond.
"It must be your eyes," he said. "You're not as brave as you pretend to be. Your eyes always give you away. Did you know that?"
"And that turns you on?" I said in a low voice. "That I'm frightened?"
"Actually it's the fact that you refuse to cower."
I didn't say anything. I felt the prickliness of Malfoy's stubble at the skin of my neck. And then Malfoy's lips kissed my neck and my eyes grew wide. It wasn't one of those pecks I give my mum and dad. It was an open-mouthed one and I'm pretty sure he just licked me!
"I'd been wanting to do that for a while now," he whispered in my ear. "You taste even sweeter in real life."
I finally found my voice again. "Have you lost your mind?! What the hell do you think you're doing?!" Now that his grip was lax, I elbowed him in the gut. "Enough of this! Get off me right now! Or I swear to God I'll hurt you even more!"
Malfoy rolled to the side and rubbed at his stomach. "Fuck! You little devil!" He groaned.
I quickly got up and fixed myself. I made my way to the balcony and held open the door for him. "I don't know how you got in here but get the hell out of my house right now," I said.
Still clutching his side, Malfoy stood up and strode over to me, towering over me.
I glared at him.
Suddenly, he fisted his hands in my hair and pulled me roughly towards him. His face grew hard.
"Ow, Malfoy," I cried out. "Let go…that hurts!" My voice became smaller and cracked when I saw the menacing look in his eyes. "Please, Malfoy…"
"Not so feisty anymore, are we, flower?" he said through gritted teeth.
He tightened his grip and the tension made my eyes wet. "Stop it!"
In a low growl, he said, "I do like the way you resist but I will love making you submit."
"Malfoy, please!" I clutched the sleeve of his shirt and tried to push his arm away. I knew I was in tears but I didn't cry.
"All in due time," he said, without breaking his glare.
And suddenly, he dematerialized right then and there, apparating out of sight.
I stood there in shock. I'd just been on the receiving end of not only Malfoy's affection but also his brute force. And all in the span of mere minutes. I didn't know how to make sense of anything Malfoy said or did. I didn't know what to think or what to do but I did know that he had hurt me. Again. He had broken into my room and asserted force on me and I was unable to do anything about it. Slowly I went to my bed and crawled under the covers.
I didn't come out until the following evening.
…
"I know I said it doesn't bother me but it does!" Emma said to me on the phone one evening.
She was having a harder time than she thought she would with the news of my cousin Albus's new relationship with Arielle Longbottom.
"Don't try to think about it," I offered. "Maybe focus on something else."
I heard Emma snort. "Could you possibly give shittier advice?!"
"I'm sorry," I sighed. "I just don't know what to say. I've never had to go through something like this."
Emma went silent for a moment but then I heard her click her tongue, "Right. Because you've always had all the boys fancy you back."
"That's not what I meant," I quickly said.
"Of course," Emma said sharply.
"I'm sorry. Emma, listen, maybe you could meet someone at the carnival," I suggested.
Emma snorted.
"Maybe ask someone?"
I tried to think if there was anyone I knew who fancied Emma, or anyone who would say yes if she were to ask them out? Damien and Lance came to mind but neither ever showed any interest in any of the Gryffindor girls in our year. In our house there was Nick Longbottom, Ricky Coote and Zach Riches. I didn't think Emma dating Arielle's brother was such a good idea and I was quite sure Ricky Coote and Olivia Quirke were going to be a thing soon enough.
"Oh I know, ask Zach Riches to the carnival," I suggested. "He's a really nice guy."
"If he's so nice, why don't you ask him out?" Emma shot. "Oh wait, I almost forgot, you're too busy screwing seventh years!"
"Emma!" I said in disbelief.
"You have Eric and Malfoy and apparently Alex Davies too!"
"What?!" I gasped. "Where did you get that from?!"
I heard Emma snort. "Don't play naïve, Rose! The whole school knows you're banging Malfoy! Oops! I meant he's banging you!"
And before I could respond and tell Emma off, the line went dead.
The bitch had hung up on me!
Angrily I scrolled through my text messages and prepared to send one to my dearest friend.
I wrote:
What the hell have you been saying about me?!
Apparently all of Hogwarts thinks you and I are screwing!
I'd rather chop my own ears off!
I swear to god, Malfoy, if I find out this was you…so help me, god, I will yank your little wiener off and feed it to my neighbor's pitbull!
I received a response immediately.
It read:
First of all, you are mine only and I don't share you or anything about you with anyone
Secondly, we will be. Soon.
And lastly, it's not 'little' by any standard.
I let out a frustrated scream, debating whether to chuck my phone against the wall. But before I could, it buzzed.
Malfoy again:
Please do not stress yourself, angel.
I promise will find whoever is out to tarnish your reputation and deliver them at your feet.
And I won't be nice.
My eyes grew huge and I furiously typed away:
NO!
Don't you dare get involved or hurt anyone!
You've caused enough damage as it is.
Malfoy:
Alright, if that's what you wish.
You know how to reach me if you change your mind.
Me:
Thank you
Btw - I am not yours
Malfoy:
You were mine the minute we entered the coffee shop.
Though I didn't care much for you then.
I turned my mobile phone off and shoved it in the back of one of my drawers. I couldn't believe Malfoy dared to bring up that horrible day and pass it off so lightly. The stupid coffee shop! I'll probably be scarred for life!
…
I was at the Potters' one evening and we were playing Quidditch after dinner; James, Al, Fred, Roxie, Hugo, Lily and I. We divided ourselves in half and I was paired with Al, Hugo and I in a team of three while Fred, James, Roxie and Lily were a team of four. Since two of our 7th year players graduated in June, we needed two chasers and James had been thinking of Roxie to be one of them. The other was definitely going to be Alayna since she came in 4th best last year and was always on standby. Although tryouts were still going to happen, I doubted there would be anyone better.
"Come on Roxie!" I heard James yell as he threw the quaffle to her. I readied myself in front of the goal posts. "Get it through the hoops!"
I saw Roxie with her game face charging towards me and I prepared to protect the hoops. I saw her take a momentary pause, suddenly unsure.
"Roxie!" James yelled. "You won't have enough time to think on the field!"
Suddenly, a bludger came out of nowhere; well actually, it was from Al. It hit Roxie in the gut before Fred could get to it. She lost her balance and in her struggle to get herself together, the quaffle fell out of her hands and Hugo caught it. He flew over to where Lily was at the opposite goal posts and scored.
We were all still in mid-air when we started arguing.
"If my beater had been there in time, Freddie!" Yelled Roxie.
"Out there on the field, you'll have to be dodging two bludgers while trying to score," James said.
"Yeah but I'll have two beaters trying to protect me too!" She shot.
"Your beater has other players to defend," said Fred.
"Don't ask us to go easy on you! Quidditch is not for the faint of heart, it's survival of the fittest," said James, rather passionately, if I might add.
I rolled my eyes. "Give her a break," I said.
"Maybe we should all take a break," Al suggested.
We all began to descend and just as we reached the ground, we saw Eric coming out of the house from the sliding door in the kitchen that led to the backyard.
He had his broomstick, his snitch and his gear on.
"You're late," said James.
"Yeah, well, I was busy," shrugged Eric. "How about another round?"
"Later," said James. "We're going for ice cream."
We all went inside for iced water and lounged on the couch. Al was seeing Damien and Lance tonight so he left shortly after. The rest of us rounded into James's car to go to the ice cream parlor. But then we realized there were six of us but only five seats.
Suddenly, Eric spoke, "Rose, why don't you come in my car?"
Before I could respond, James shot Eric a look and demanded, "Why Rose?"
"Why not?" Said Eric casually.
I looked towards Roxanne and she was bright-eyed and beaming at me while Lily was trying to hold back a smirk.
"Uh, sure," I said.
"Great!" Smiled Eric and I followed him to his car.
Once we were seated, buckled and on the road, Eric broke our silence. "I want to apologize," he said, keeping his eyes on the road.
I looked at him nervously, twiddling my thumbs as per usual. When we stopped at a red light, he looked at me with a waiting look in his eyes. "For what?" I said in a small, timid voice.
"For being rude at my party a while back…we, ah, never got the chance to talk after that…but yeah…I was really drunk. I wasn't thinking very straight. I'm really sorry. You deserve more respect."
"Thank you for apologizing," I said. "Very noble of you."
Eric glanced at me and gave me half a smile. "I do like you, Rose. You're very sweet and pretty."
I felt my face warm and I wished I wasn't flushing too red. "Thanks, Eric," I said with small chuckle. We were both silent for a while and soon it started to get slightly awkward so I decided to say something. But just as I started speaking, Eric interrupted me.
"I wanted to know, if you don't think too badly of me, would you consider going to the carnival with me? As my date?"
I was caught off guard and it didn't help that we'd already arrived at the ice cream parlor. He pulled into a parking space and turned the ignition off before turning to face me.
"I know I've left a sour taste in your mouth but I just need another chance. I'm not like that usually. I was really—"
"Drunk. Yeah you mentioned that. It's okay, I understand," I offered.
Eric didn't know what to say after that and we both saw James's car pull up next to his. "Listen, you don't have to decide now. You have my number, call me tonight and tell me."
"Okay," I nodded and we both got out of the car as James and the rest of the crew got out of the other car. I didn't fail to notice James's stare on both Eric and myself.
Everyone went in and ordered their ice creams and we found two tables of four at the back that were next to each other. They were attached to the ground so we couldn't pull them together, unfortunately. James, Fred, Hugo and Lily were at one table while Roxie, Eric and I were at the other. Roxie sat next to me and Eric across from me. We kept glancing at each other and he made loads of conversation with us, mainly me. Eric was being very sweet and I wasn't the only who noticed.
"Someone's going to think I'm the luckiest man ever, having ice cream with two beautiful women," said Eric with a wink.
"We get it, Wood, you're a charming piece of shit. " James rolled his eyes from the table next to us. "Quit wooing the ladies."
I giggled as I was about to take a lick of my ice cream and somehow I got some on my nose. Before I could get a napkin, Eric's thumb was there, wiping the ice cream off my face. I watched him lick his thumb and my eyes grew slightly wide.
"Never knew how delicious blackberry cheesecake is," he said.
Roxie and Lily giggled.
Fred smirked.
Hugo turned pink.
And James grunted dramatically.
…
Mum and dad had to leave for Bulgaria on the Friday morning before Sunday's carnival. Mum had a business trip and dad was accompanying her. They'd been arguing about it for the last couple of days. Mum wanted dad to "stay home and watch the kids," but only "over dad's dead body was Draco Malfoy whisking mum away on 'business trips' with him."
Draco Malfoy, I'd come to learn, was Scorpius's dad.
Hugo and I weren't supposed to know anything about their arguments but I'd overheard them late one night when I'd gotten up to get some water. Dad didn't like how Mr. Malfoy and Mum were working so well together. Mum thought he was just jealous. Some accusations were thrown around and Mum brought up the fact that after her new promotion gave her a higher position than dad in the ministry.
I went back to my room after that. I don't know what happened but the next morning, the two were completely normal and friendly with each other. There were even some kisses, 'I love yous' and winks thrown in the mix. I might have seen dad squeeze mum's butt when he thought we weren't looking. I hoped I was wrong.
The conclusion of all this was quite ridiculous. Hugo and I had to stay with Nana and Papa Granger. After we protested some about how we like being in our own home, our grandparents offered to come stay at our place until the following Tuesday night when our parents return.
On the Sunday of the carnival, Eric called me early in the day and said he would be picking me up. I told him my grandfather was going to drive Hugo and I but Eric insisted it was his job as my date. He also said Hugo could get a ride with us.
I made sure to dress real pretty. I'd told my friends about my date with Eric and they all helped me decide my look. My hair was down in its long, naturally wavy form and I'd used a light pink satin ribbon as a makeshift headband to keep my fringe out of my face.
I was dressed in a floral romper that looked like a skirt from the front and shorts in the back. It was completely strapless so I threw on a white, large-knit, cardigan with fringes along the hem. It was open-front and a little see-through like a beach cover-up. Emma and Priya didn't think I needed a cover-up but I wasn't too comfortable without one. With the outfit, we all agreed on my flat, tan strappy sandals with beads and string that tied around the bottom part of my calves. I had even painted my toes earlier in the day. They were a pretty bright red.
I thought I looked more appropriate for a festival or a concert but Sophie said it was the perfect look for a first date. But that only reminded me of my first date with Malfoy and at the thought of him, I became a worried and anxious.
I'd have to be stupid not to realize Malfoy had some sort of feelings for me. Not emotionally of course. I didn't believe him to be capable of emotions. It was physical. Maybe a little sexual?
He fully licked my neck the other day and the only time anyone ever does that is in movies right before the sex scenes! But then he was also violent and pulled me by my hair.
Whatever it was, Malfoy was a bully and that was for certain. And tonight, I hoped he wouldn't be there because I knew seeing me with Eric would make him mad.
I couldn't forget his reaction to Damien and Alex Davies at Eric's party a while back. He'd threatened to mutilate every single one of them! Oh Merlin! He'll go berserk if he finds out Eric and I are on an actual date! What if Eric and I start dating and he becomes my boyfriend?! Would Malfoy leave us in peace? I sure hoped so. I also hoped he wasn't going to come tonight. A carnival did not seem like Malfoy's kind of event. Oh Merlin, please don't let us run into him tonight.
I prayed the entire drive while I sat in passenger next to Eric.
"Did you hear what I said, Rose?"
"Huh?" I looked at Eric.
Eric gave me a curious glance before shifting his eyes back to the road.
"Sorry," I said, "What did you say?"
"I asked what you think of Roxie as a chaser starting September? Alayna's gotten a couple of chances on the field whenever our chasers have an injury but Roxie's completely new. What do you think, she's going to make the team?"
"Oh…well I don't know. I think James and Fred want her too."
"Well that's obvious considering how much time they're spending training her," Eric said.
"Yeah, but she won't make the team just because she's James's cousin," I assured Eric. "He'll do what's best for the team."
"I hope so," Eric muttered. I saw Eric's hand reach for mine but I quickly pulled it away and he covered up the move by resting it on the gearshift. I didn't know why I pulled but handholding felt strangely intimate. Even more so with my little brother in the back.
"Hey, Hugo, you're so quiet I almost forget you're here," Eric chuckled.
Hugo didn't say anything at first. "Yeah, keep me in mind if PDA ever occurs to you," he later muttered sarcastically.
Eric and I looked at each other and smiled sheepishly.
I could tell the carnival would be crowded and filled with people as soon as we arrived in the parking lot of the fairground. Hugo got out of the car as soon as Eric parked and said he was going to go find Lily and their friends. He told me he'd be in touch with me on the phone. He wasn't too pleased when I suggested he exchange phone numbers with Eric as well, just in case.
Eric and I walked in together and he was chuckling and calling me 'cute' everytime I clung on his arm and gushed about how bright and lively the place was. It was lit by colourful lights and the different playful tunes could be heard from all of the attractions. There were game booths with people trying to hammer goafers and throw plastic rings around the tops of glass bottles. There was also basket ball hoop game where young boys lined up with their friends to have a go at it. There was also a section with picnic tables and food vendors serving things like deep fried ice cream and cotton candy.
"Eric, we have to try deep fried ice cream!" I squealed.
Eric laughed. "Alright! We'll try anything you want!
And finally, we came upon the rides. Just as we had predicted, there was a huge Ferris wheel with an equally huge line-up of people.
"Maybe, we'll come back later for the Ferris wheel, when the line's not so long," I suggested.
"Whatever you say, hot stuff," Eric said with a snicker.
I flushed pink, a little embarrassed that I was acting like a child.
Eric led me to a booth with a game where you had to shoot water at colourful figures that kept popping up. We both had a go but he played better than me. Though not enough to win anything other than a plastic toy. Eric didn't like losing so he kept going at it and soon enough, I started to get annoyed.
"Want to get some cotton candy?" I suggested.
"Nah," Eric said. "I don't like cotton candy. You go get some for yourself and I'm going to give that game another shot."
"Seriously? But you already played four times…"
"I know but I'm pretty sure this time will be my best," he said eagerly. So we agreed to part for the time being. I found myself wishing he'd pay as much attention to me as he did this stupid game.
I walked around, pushing past the bustling crowd hoping I'd come across a familiar face. In the long line for the cotton candy, I came across a couple of my classmates: Olivia Quirke and Macy Bradley from Ravenclaw, and Kylie Montague and Monica Bletchley from Slytherin.
"Hey, Rose!" Said Macy before motioning for me to come join their spot in the middle of the line. The other girls greeted me when I reached them.
"Did you lot just get here?" I asked.
"Yup! And we came straight to the sweets," Macy replied.
"How's it going, Rose?" Kylie asked. "When did you get here?"
"I've been here for almost half an hour," I said. "I was at the games."
Monica Bletchley was talking to Olivia and turned to me, "I bet you got all O's in your OWL results, Rose."
I felt my cheeks pink. "Almost," I said. "I got an A in History of Magic."
Monica rolled her eyes and laughed, "You can't count History of Magic! I got a P! My mum was so mad."
I laughed but I wasn't surprised. I knew Monica usually cut that class. I'd hardly hear a response after her name was called during attendance. According to rumours, that girl spent more time in broom cupboards than classrooms.
"Well, Binns is a shitty teacher. He can't draw our interest," said Kylie and the other girls nodded.
"So are you here all alone, Rose?" Chimed in the shy Olivia.
"Olivia!" Kylie rolled her eyes. "Obviously not! She's here with sexy Scorpius!"
The other girls gushed and giggled. I shuddered. Sexy Scorpius? Someone pass me a barf bag.
My eyes narrowed and I didn't smile. "Actually I'm not here with Malfoy."
"It's okay, Rose, everyone knows," Monica winked. "To be honest I think you two would be lovely together!"
"What are you talking about? What does everyone know?" I asked confused.
"You two are hot and heavy," Kylie rolled her eyes again. "Merlin, Rose, you're so naïve sometimes!"
"We're not hot and heavy!" I quickly said.
But the girls didn't pay attention to me. They were looking beyond me and when I felt an arm wrap around me, I realized why.
"Are you talking about me, flower?"
The girls' eyes grew wide and as they giggled and repeatedly whispered the word 'flower.'
I turned to glare at Malfoy. I wanted to tell him off but I could hardly form my thoughts into words. My brain was too preoccupied by the knowledge that my peers thought Malfoy and I were 'hot and heavy.'
Before I could say anything, the vendor asked us what we'd like and I realized it was our turn. Malfoy suddenly butt in and bought five sticks of sticky, bubblgum-pink cotton candy for all of us and the other girls thanked him in synchronized, singsong voices.
"You're such a gentleman, Scorpius," said Kylie, the boldest one.
"Yeah, this is so good!" agreed Monica.
"Thanks again!" said Macy.
"My pleasure, ladies. Actually the candyfloss is a bribe. I hope you'll allow me to steal Rose for bit. I can't seem to go on for too long without her," Malfoy.
I just stood there shocked as the girls burst into a fit of giggles and 'oohs'.
"He's just doing this on purpose!" I quickly said. "We're not anything!"
"Sure, Rose! Whatever you say!" Said Monica before smirking.
"Don't worry, we'll make sure no one walks in on you lot in the photo booth!" Kylie said and all the girls laughed as Malfoy pulled me away by my arm. Once we were clear of them, I jerked my arm back.
"What the hell is your problem?!" I said as I dumped the cotton candy into the garbage can near us.
"I hear you're on a date tonight," Malfoy said, folding his arms. I wasn't really sure if it was a question or an accusation.
I was shocked at how fast news travelled around here. "How the hell do you know?!"
I watched as Malfoy looked to the ground and let out a forced chuckle. He looked back at me and put his hands in his pockets. I thought I saw slight curiosity in his eyes. "Well, for starters, I can't seem to keep my eyes off you tonight."
My eyes widened a little and I took a step back, suddenly caught off guard. "Oh…oh." After a moment of silence, I said, "Well…thanks, I suppose." I could feel my face warm and redden and I hated it.
I thought Malfoy would make some sort of snarky remark about that but I was glad he didn't.
I took a deep breath, "What…what do you want from me? Why did you pull me away in the middle of a conversation?"
"I thought perhaps you'd like to spend some time with me for a change," he said, his face serious as ever.
"You did?" I snorted. "So you can harass me again?"
"Is that what you call it?" He asked, teasingly.
I gave him a hard look. "Yes, Scorpius. When you hold someone down and lick their neck, it is, in fact, called sexual harassment."
Malfoy sucked in his cheeks and looked around before looking back at me. There was that strange glee in his eyes again and I could tell he was trying to hold back a smirk. The git!
"It's not funny!" Said I.
"Nor am I laughing," Said Malfoy.
"Why do you enjoy making me angry?" I huffed.
"Because that's precisely when I find you exceptionally enticing," he said, taking a step closer.
I narrowed my eyes. "If you find making me mad so appealing then how come you turn into a monster and shoot me down every time I threaten you?"
Malfoy let out a light snort and folded his arms at his chest. He looked amused. "Oh, flower, don't you ever make the mistake of thinking," he stepped forward and looked down at me. With a lowered voice, he finished, "That you could be a conceivable threat to me."
I stepped back. We were both quiet for a moment and I looked around me, wrapping my arms around myself. Was it just me who suddenly felt chilly?
"Look, Malfoy," I sighed, taking a quick look around. "I want to enjoy my night. I'm…I'm looking forward to something. Please don't…please don't ruin it for me."
Malfoy did say anything. He had that hard, dark look on his face and he only nodded. "What are you looking forward to tonight?" He asked in a low voice. I didn't expect he'd ask me about that so I was a little taken aback.
"I...it's not important," I said rather awkwardly.
Malfoy quirked a brow at me curiously. I turned my face away. I've been told my face tends to give everything away. I'm relatively transparent, unfortunately.
But there was no chance in hell that I was going to tell Malfoy about Eric and I being on a date tonight. Especially after that confrontation in Eric's bedroom where he'd threatened Eric's important organs. I mean, he already knows I'm on a date. What are the chances he knows who my date is? Until I can figure out a way to get Malfoy to leave me alone, I couldn't tell him about Eric if I wanted Eric in one piece.
I needed Eric to be able to father my children in case things work out and we end up together for the long haul.
"Well," I said, still awkward. "I guess…I'll…go look for my friends now?"
Malfoy cocked a brow at me, "You're asking my permission?"
"No," I quickly said.
"Enjoy your evening, flower," he said.
"I will," I replied, unsure of myself.
Why did that sound like he'd just given me permission to leave?
"I'll…I'll see you later, I guess," I said.
"I'll make sure of it," he said with a twinkle in his eyes. I pursed my lips and tried to smile. I failed horribly so I sighed and turned to walk away. But just as I took a step, I felt Malfoy take my hand from behind. It wasn't hard and forceful; just a gentle hold on my wrist.
I turned around, "Yes?"
Malfoy didn't smile but his eyes were softer and his voice matched them. "I really did mean it when I said you took my breath away tonight."
And suddenly, I found myself blushing. Why the hell was my face heating up?! No, no, no!
"Thanks," I quickly said and pulled my hand back. I had to get out of here as fast as I could before he really notices my red face. I turned around and walked off briskly in search of anything else or anyone else.
Malfoy's shabby attempt at flattery should not leave me flushed. Especially after all the times he'd been cruel to me. Was I that shallow or pathetic? A few compliments can make me forget that I'd been wronged at the hands of Malfoy?
Oh but he sounded truthful! I couldn't help that I found my thoughts drifting back to our mockery of a date. He had been kind. Just like he was now. He had touched me so gently when we'd danced.
Malfoy was clearly taken with me so it was entirely impossible that he hated me and was out to get me. The problem was that I kept forgetting: why did I hate him, again?
I didn't want to. There was something intriguing about him. The way his eyes twinkled every time I was near. The way his voice would get hitched and low every time he told me how beautiful he found me.
I was going to lose my mind if I didn't spot Eric in the next thirty seconds.
Bloody hell.