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✣ABOUT THIS ROLEPLAY✣
Rafe, Marilyn and Carter have been quite the love triangle since they first came to Hogwarts. Marilyn and Carter started out on what looked like a wonderful relationship. However, Rafe fell in love with her, wanted her for his own, and eventually made it so. Carter moved on to a few other beautiful Slytherin blondes, but the question remains: Did he ever truly get over his first love? Marilyn recently broke up with Rafe because she thought he abandoned her almost a year ago when she was captured by her father. Now, Rafe is travelling through Europe to find Marilyn's father, so she could finally live a life in safety. Meanwhile, Carter has invited Marilyn to spend the summer with him and his family as the travel over England and explore its ancient treasures.

xx
Character Icons thanks to Robyn!

✣CHARACTERS✣
Rafe Lycaon ⇨ MoviegoerKinz
Marilyn Force ⇨ Miss Marilyn
Carter Phillips ⇨ LilFox06
Misc. Werewolves ⇨ MoviegoerKinz
Benjamin Force ⇨ Miss Marilyn
Anya Phillips ⇨ LilFox06
Raoul Lycaon ⇨ MoviegoerKinz
Jasper Force ⇨ Miss Marilyn
Laurie Phillips ⇨ LilFox06
Steve Phillips ⇨ LilFox06

Rafe didn't stick around have the train pulled in. As soon as the coast was clear he apparated out of there. He didn't need to see the love of his life take off with his best mate. He still had hope. It was that hope that kept him going. He immediately apparated into his room at his father's castle in Romania. Rafe felt a strong bolt of anger rushing through him as he thought about Carter and Marilyn spending the whole summer together. He yelled in anger, then punched his bed post, shattering it and causing the canopy to fall on the bed.

"We have punching bags in the gymnasium, Son," said a deep voice behind him.

Rafe knew it was his father. He couldn't look at him. Rafe was struggling enough with Marilyn, he didn't need a lecture on how to act. "I'm sorry Father." Rafe took out his wand and fixed the bed so it looked normal again. "It's just...it's Marilyn." Rafe took a seat in a leather chair by the fire place.

Raoul took the seat across from him. And stared at his son. Raoul could see his son was in despair, he'd been in the same situation with Rafe's mother, Rachel. "I know this can't be easy for you and once you've connected that bond will never be broken. You may love again, even if you can't see that now, but give it time to--"

"I don't want time!" Rafe yelled. "I just want her! Maybe I should've told her...maybe I should tell her and--"

"Jeopardize her safety." Raoul hated to see his son go through the same thing he went through. "Rafe, this isn't going to be easy. When you're mother left I was devastated. There wasn't a day that went by that I didn't think of her or you... I should've stood up the council and set things straight that I made my choice and I would turn you when you came of age. But, I was a coward." Raoul reached out and placed his hand on his son's shoulder. "I didn't fight for Rachel, but you can fight for Marilyn."

Rafe appreciated everything his father had to say. He felt bad for his father. He could only imagine how hard it was to let go of his mom...and him. "Thank you father. I won't let you down." He grinned. His mind was racing with ideas of how to get Marilyn back.

"Good." Raoul gave his son one last pat on the back and headed towards the door. "I'll leave you to your thoughts." He began to shut the door, "Oh and Rafe...please don't destroy the furniture it's from the 14th century." He smirked and exited the room.

Rafe knew what he needed to do and went to his desk and grabbed a quill and paper and began to write:

Rafe folded up the letter and stamped it with red wax seal. He looked out the window and whistled a little tune. A great horned owl came fluttering up. He attached the letter to the leg of the owl. "Take this to Marilyn Force and when you return make sure you're not followed." The owl hooted in agreement and Rafe gave him a treat. The owl went fluttering off in the distance. Rafe took a moment and packed up a few things before apparating to France.

Telling Carter she'd return shortly, Marilyn walked the length of King's Cross...Something very strange had happened during this particular train ride...Something Marilyn had been both pleased...and a little confused by.

Reaching into her pocket, she pulled the tricky galleon out. While she walked, she continued to glance down at it.

Bewildered. That's what this feeling was...

Jasper had made contact...

Continuing, she came across a small break in the wall, ducking inside of it, at once. It had crossed her mind that maybe it wasn't her brother...but perhaps someone who'd figured out about the galleon and stole it. And then she realized that none of her father's goons were smart enough. Going a bit deeper into the break, the blonde felt someone stepped behind her.

"Marilyn..." Her pulse skyrocketed and her forehead was beading with sweat. It was almost too good to be true...Whirling around, wand at the ready...she glared, "When I was eight years old, what gift did you give me?" She held her wand steady, watching with baited breath as he stepped closer. His wand tip lit up, his face thrown into relief. Jasper was smirking.

"A Slytherin green acoustic..." Marilyn didn't give him time to finish as she threw her arms around his neck. She almost cried but realized the tears would be lost on Jasper. He just wasn't the emotional kind. "It's good to see you alive and healthy..."

Marilyn pulled back, laughing slightly herself. "I could say the same for you." Remembering the dangerous situation he'd placed himself in, she smacked him. "...How dare you use that potion? You could have been found out...and you know he would have killed you..." Jasper started chuckling as she said this. He might have found it amusing, but the fear in Marilyn's eyes was very real. "I've been terribly worried..."

"What do you think I've been doing all this time? I worked out the kinks in that potion..." Something was very different about him...and Marilyn, as a woman, picked up on it immediately. His face seemed...rounder, maybe? There was a definite light in those sharp green eyes. He was...happy? "Everything is being worked out...Besides, someone's been keeping a very close eye on you..."

Jasper knew...He knew that someone had saved her..."About that...I received a letter from this secret admirer...He claims to have saved me..." Yea, he knew something. That stupid smirk never left his face. "Okay, well...You aren't going to tell me anything. I know." The nod she received confirmed her suspicions. "I wish I had more time...but I've got to get back..."

Jasper's face seemed to take on a more thoughtful quality...His eyes were burning into hers, as if looking at her very soul. "I know you're going to be with muggles this entire summer...Don't let your guard down, though. Until we finish this, you aren't truly safe..." Marilyn didn't ask how he knew...Nor did she inquire to whom we referred to...Something told her he wouldn't give that information up, whether she asked or not. Simply nodding, she gave her brother one last hug.

"I love you, Jasper..."

xxxxx

Making her way back to the train platform, the blonde looked around for her companion...

Carter waited off to the side of Platform 9-3/4 for Marilyn to return. Once she was back, he motioned for her to follow him outside the station. He pushed the cart containing his trunk and her things outside the station. "I left Apollo with Josh." he said in case she was wondering. "He wouldn't want to be stuck traveling the muggle way." Plus Josh was going to be on a farm this summer. Apollo would be in an all-he-can-eat field mouse buffet.

"Oh, and my sister doesn't know about school quite yet." he added seeing his family. He headed straight for them.

"Family. This is Marilyn." he said motioning to the blonde beside him. "Marilyn. This is my mum and dad. And here's my baby sister, Anya." he said rustling the little girl's hair a little.

"I am not a baby Carter!" the girl shot back swatting Carter's hand away from her hair. She then looked the blonde called 'Marilyn' over. "Do you like tea parties?" she asked eagerly. "Carter refuses to have them with me anymore." She then smiled innocently.

"Hey! I thought we agreed to keep that between us."

"We also agreed that I wouldn't tell your friends that you watch girl movies with me." She smirked. "Whoops." she added before giggling a little.

"Yeah... that's my sister for you." Carter said with an awkward laugh. At least Marie wasn't there. His sister loved teasing him in front of her. Really, she loved anything to do with Marie.

"Well, we're glad that you could join us Marilyn. And you can call me Laurie." the blonde woman said. "I hope you like pie dear. We've got some waiting in the car. My little boy loves his apple pie."

Carter blushed slightly and shifted his weight between feet. Yeah... maybe this wasn't such a good idea.

"You can call me Steve. And I'll take care of that little man." the brunette man said taking the cart from his son.

Carter stood there still blushing for a minute. Apparently none of them understood the word 'behave'...

Marilyn followed him over to where his family await. She understood that his little sister wouldn't know about Hogwart's yet. It was a lot to take in that a sibling could perform magic...and she couldn't.

Being magical herself as a small child, Marilyn attend a muggle daycare for a few months. Her best friend had been a muggle boy. He'd seen her do accidental magic. After that, he'd called her some pretty nasty names...Well, nasty in the eyes of a 5 year old.

As a familiy, though...they seemed like a perfectly normal, happy bunch of people...Marilyn couldn't help the grin that stretched across her face.

"Are you kidding me? I love tea parties!" It reminded the blonde of her grandmere' and herself years and years ago. "And if Carter wants to be sweet, he can join us...because it'll be so cool." It wasn't that surprising to the Slytherin that Carter would have done these things with his little sister. The small child was totally adorable. "Maybe we can even get him to play dress up!"

Carter was going to kill her...She knew it. To her defense, though...It did sound fun...

"You know, Apple pie is one of my favorite things in the entire world. I'd like to try it." Just from being around this group of people for five minutes warmed her from the inside out. She felt a little jealous that she couldn't of had that herself.

No, instead she had a family of psychopaths that would stop at nothing to have things exactly the way they wanted. She would have bet every galleon her family owned that they had never once put limitations on their son like You have to date a Pureblood and keep the line clean...or No sports, Marilyn...You're a young lady....It was a little distressing.

His father, Steven, grabbed their things from Carter and Marilyn smiled at him. "Really...Thank you." Glancing back at the Gryffindor, she noticed he was just staring ahead at his family members...If the blush was any indication, Carter was embarassed...Grabbing his hand, she pulled him with her. "Come along, dear."



Seeing her had been the spark he needed. How long had it been? 7 months? 7 months of not knowing what condition she'd been found in...

Jasper had long since moved from his Tuscan Villa..having heard intel that Benjamin was hoping to capture him, as he had Marilyn...His uncle was stopping at nothing to make sure everything would remain going his way. The search had been on for him, he knew. Having heard it from the man's mouth himself. He'd somehow found out about the Villa in Italy...

It'd been time to downsize...and a small flat in Chelsea had been ideal.

Apparating home, he immediately set off for his study. Once there, he sat the desk pulling paper and parchment.

Quote:

Rafe Lycaon,

Marilyn has been safely seen off with Carter Phillips. It has been my understanding that you have put together a team of your own kind that will handle this sensitive matter.

Furthermore, it's to my knowledge that you are in a position to go after Benjamin. If I'm not being too forward, you will need my assistance. Below, I've listed a safe address that we can meet and talk in person...

Jasper Force

20 Rue D'orsel, 75018 Paris, France

Calling his owl, Osiris, he attached the letter, looking the bird in it's peculiar black eyes. "Romania. Be very careful..."

"And why are we doing this again?" asked a young woman, snuggling close to what appeared to be her husband, reading a The Daily Prophet on a bench at Platform 9¾.

"We're to keep an eye out on the girl until her father is taken care of. It's our orders." The man didn't take his eye off the newspaper. His tone was low, trying not to be overheard, but it was so busy with students bustling about being greeted by their parents that it wouldn't make a difference.

The woman scoffed. "I didn't know our job included babysitting."

"Hush, Larentia!" The man folded up the newspaper and placed it on his lap then put his arms around her shoulders. "Rafe may be young, but he's one of the best leaders we've had...he's sent us on some great missions, we should be grateful, especially what he did for us..." He placed his other hand on Larentia's stomach. "If he didn't stand up to the elders we wouldn't be able to have a child of our own."

Larentia smiled and lay her head on the man's shoulder. "I am grateful Randall, I would rather be in France right now with the rest of the pack with more dangerous work."

Randall grinned. "You're in no condition to be doing dangerous work in your condition."

"Oh fine..." She frowned. She always liked more adventurous missions like last summer, but things had changed now that she was pregnant. "Now where is this girl, I saw her get off the--"

"Mum, Da'," called out a young boy as he rushed over to Randell and Larentia.

"Um, hello son," Randall said awkwardly. The boy was actually his nephew and was asked to help out on this little mission. "Did you have a good trip on the train?"

"Yeah, everything went fine, no trouble at all." The boy grinned as he sat between his "parents." The boy was apparated onto the train shortly after the train left under an invisibility cloak and was asked to keep an eye out on a certain blonde. Rafe didn't want to take any chances whatsoever and started the mission almost immediately. Of course he was on the train, but he thought it best to have someone else there because he knew Marilyn wouldn't let him be anywhere near him after their last discussion in the Great Hall. By telling his "parents" there was no trouble, it was actually code that there was no kidnapping attempt.

"Good to see you're doing well, Kurt. I swear you've grown a foot since we saw you just a couple of hours ago." Larentia ruffled the boy's hair. She then looked through the crowd again, but didn't seem to see what she was looking for. "Randall, I don't see..."

"Shh!" He nodded towards a break in the wall. "She's meeting with Jasper, he wanted to see her before she left with those Mudbloods this summer."

"Ick!" Kurt made a face. "I can't believe Master Rafe made a connection with someone who associates with Mudbloods." Kurt was a pureblood, like many of the Romanian werewolves and was raised in the traditional prejudice sense of hating all those who didn't come from the highest pedigrees.

"You better be careful what you say Kurt." Larentia thumped him in the back of the head. "Those Mud-- Muggleborns are what we have to keep an eye out all summer and Rafe is close mates with one of those Mud--Muggleborns. So, I would watch what you say!"

After that, not much was said between the three of them, but they laughed and giggled as they were a happy family while keeping an eye on the muggle family and the two blonde Hogwarts students.





Rafe was sitting at a cafe a few blocks away from the Eiffel Tower. He was keeping it casual and enjoying a latte.

"Voulez-vous une autre tasse, Monsieur?" asked the young giggly waitress.

Rafe looked down at his cup. It was almost empty. "Uh...oui, s'il vous plaît." He gave the waitress as dashing smile and went on her way. Rafe continued to look at nearby building that had a few of the same shady men go in and out every hour. Next thing he knew one of his men sat in front of him. Rafe was shocked, he told them not to make contact unless it was the utmost importance. "I thought you were to be stationed in Romania, Lowell?"

"Yes, sir." The man took off his sunglasses and put them on the table. He smiled and acted like he came across an old friend he hadn't seen in years. "I've come on behalf of a letter that arrived at the castle." Lowell slid the letter over on the table.

Rafe took it, then opened it in his lap. He couldn't help, but smile at the news. He handed the letter over to Lowell. Lowell read over the letter and memorized the address listed below and then placed it over the candle til it caught on flames. Rafe nodded to Lowell, signalling him to go. "And be careful and discrete." Rafe smiled. He sensed they were close and with Jasper's help, he would settle the issue once and for all. But, he wanted to send a man in instead just to make sure it wasn't a trap, plus Lowell had special skills that far advanced Rafe's.

"Yes, sir." Lowell put his sunglasses back on. He made his ways through the streets of Paris. He could've just apparated, but he was commanded to keep a low profile, so thought acting like a muggle would be best. He came to 20 Rue D'orsel and knocked on the door. "Bonjour, Je cherche des Jasper?"

Jasper gathered his things, preparing for this meeting. He felt sure that his letter wouldn't draw out the young boy automatically. No, Rafe was much too smart for that. It'd most likely be a henchman he'd be dealing with at first...

So, in the event that something unexpected might happen...because wolves were unpredictable...Jasper loaded an arsenal of things, shrinking them to fit the pockets of his trench coat. Double checking his wand, he apparated to the hostel he'd chosen for this particular meeting. It wasn't a place he frequented...but he knew the muggle folk over the area...and they knew Jasper...

They knew what Jasper was capable of.

He'd procured his room, making sure that it was completely locked down as far as protection would go. It wasn't big...but it didn't need to be for what he was using it for.

Something buzzed in his pocket...and Jasper smirked, pulling out the small sliver cell phone. Yes, it was a muggle contraption...but it was completely useful. Flipping it open, he seen the text he'd been waiting for.

Quote:

Une étrange homme est dirigé votre façon.

There was a knock on the door...and Jasper smirked. For extra protection reasons, he glamoured himself, something he'd taught Marilyn years ago. Putting on a fake, cheerful smile, he opened the door.

"Service de chambre sont vous?"

Lowell didn't know really what to expect. He had heard a few things about the guy he was supposed to meet, but didn't know what to expect. He was already using his heightened senses to listen to the activity take place in the room. There was definitely a witch or wizard inside by the crack of them apparating.

"Non." Lowell's voice was deep and he wasn't taking any funny business. He was very serious about what he did and didn't mess around. "S'il vous plaît anglais?" He wasn't about to continue this conversation in French. He preferred Romanian, but English was a close second and was known by many universally. Lowell brushed past the chipper blonde, who looked like he was made of plastic and belonged in a toy box.

"I'm here to meet a Jasper Force, you are not him." Lowell paced around the room and looked for any hints of an ambush. He dropped his wand out of his sleeve and into his hand in a split second. "You're going to tell me where he is, or things are going to get...complicated." Lowell put his sunglasses in his jacket pocket, then slowly turned around and kept his wand by his side. If this was an ambush, it wouldn't be a very good one and Lowell would have the man in front of him killed before anyone else arrived if he had to. "Now, I'm only going to ask you once, where is Jasper Force?" Lowell tilted his head and squinted. Rafe had given each of his men a profile on the people to look out for and this wasn't one on the list, which made him very irritated.

Glamoured Jasper surveyed the guy closely. The fact that Rafe himself had not shown first was a given...The younger boy didn't know if it were really Jasper sending that letter. It could've been anyone of Benjamin's crew. Even if the crew themselves we're that smart, his uncle Benjamin was.

Pulling his own wand and pointing it at himself, he whispered the counter-spell. His glamour melted away instantly. "I do apologize for my candor...I needed to be sure." Pointing at the door casually, it closed and sealed itself, a visible black mist settling in front of it.

Motioning to the small table, Jasper took his seat. "I meant no ill-intent...but I can't afford even the slightest mistake." This guy seemed highly suspicious...Good.

"I do understand fully why Rafe Lycaon himself has not come...but it's imperative that I speak with him directly."

"Expelliarmus!" Lowell shouted and Jasper's wand went shooting out of his hand and into his. "From now on we will need to have a security question to ensure it is you, but please don't ever let your guard down." He took a seat across from Jasper and handed back over his wand. Lowell kept his wand out on the table. He didn't like the whole glamour thing or metamorphasing for that matter. Accalia was a metamorphmagus and always pulled pranks, but she was great at disguises, which made her an asset to their pack.

"Master Lycaon will present himself when the time is right, but his security is at great risk by meeting with you." Lowell was always serious and never joked around. Rafe was the only one that had ever broken that barrier and got him to laugh. He had no problem in following Rafe, especially for such a special cause. A connection was something that could never be broken. Rafe had risked his life, even though he barely even knew Lowell, and helped him rescue his daughter from a clan of vampires. Lowell would give his life for Rafe. "Rafe has put himself in the limelight directly. He knows he is being followed and is waiting for Benjamin to strike. To sum things up, he's hoping to get captured, though the highest consultants have advised him otherwise."

Jasper had anticipated wand removal...It was something Benjamin and Lucas were huge fans of. However, he let it go...deciding not to get upset with this straightforward werewolf. He needed them collectively as an ally if he wanted to get Marilyn back safely...Meaning he'd have to play nice.

This news about Rafe wanting to be captured, however, was a bit discerning. "I do hope he realizes how foolish that is. Is there anyone who will go on the inside with him?" Jasper knew much more about the operation than this pack of wolves did. What did the young wolf think? That Benjamin wasn't going to be prepared for such an onslaught? Ben was well aware of Marilyn's lycan boyfriend, as he'd named him...Jasper needed more details about this half-cocked idea. He needed to speak with the man himself.

"I do not mean to come off rude...but you are not whom I'm wanting to speak with. Your Master Rafe has an emotional investment in this, as do I...Marilyn. I fully expect to speak with him directly."

"We already have someone on the inside, Accalia has taken the identity of one of Banjamin's men." Lowell stopped. He didn't feel like he should explain anything to this wizard. His kind was so beneath his own, but again he was there for the mission and had to keep such prejudices to himself. "Master Rafe has good intentions for his capture, and is willing to sacrifice himself for her if need be. I've never seen a man so committed to one woman. We assume he wishes to get captured to endure the tortures and humiliation that she endured. But, we never questions Master Rafe's intent." Lowell felt a slight pang of guilt for speaking out of turn. Rafe's father, Raoul, would have a man beaten for making assumptions, but Rafe was different. He encourage his people to speak their mind and be open.

"You don't need to speak to me about Master Rafe being emotionally involved...he's connected to her and that's something that can't be broken." Lowell wasn't about to go into why his master hadn't come. Lowell arose from his seat. "He's at the Café Constant. You will meet him there tomorrow at noon." Lowell made it sound more like a command than a question. He gave Jasper a nod and then darted out the door no questions asked.

Jasper was a little surprised at the tone this wolf was taking with him. His only argument was that young Rafe had made a connection with Marilyn...

Well, as far as Jasper was concerned, this meant nothing. Millions of people made special connections everyday...As for Jasper, however, he had watched her grown up. Watched her blossom into a beautiful, intelligent, striking young woman. He'd been there to kiss her forehead when she'd hear Benjamin and Amelia fighting. He'd taught her how to truly rebel and play a muggle instrument. Jasper had been there for EVERYTHING.

The wolf knew nothing of it.

...But before he could respond, said wolf was gone. Jasper should have known the dogs would be rude. Completely uncivilized group of creatures...

Standing from the table, he began to pace. Perhaps he'd had to follow the mute's orders and meet with the young master tomorrow...

Anya clapped her hands excitedly. "Oh good." she said with a wide grin. She loved that Carter came home for the summer. She liked it more when Carter brought friends with him. It got so boring over the summer with just her. Although, it had been better recently since she met the boy down the street with the kite.

Carter's mum grabbed Anya's hand and led the way out of the station. His dad followed behind.

"Sorry about that." he said finally snapping back to reality. He followed after her with a bit of a grin on his face. "I think they like you." Well. He was pretty sure his parent's like everyone. But Anya liked her.

"Oh. And by the way. I'm not playing dress up. So, there's no point in trying to convince me."

They followed his family out to the car. When they arrived he held the door open for Marilyn. His parents were putting the trunks away and his sister was busying herself in the front seat working on cutting the pie.

"So. Erm. What do you think? You ready for a whole summer of this?"

Marilyn grinned at the small kid, immediately taking a liking to her. Anya was lovely...Seeing her took the blonde back to simpler times. She wanted to do something nice for her...but it'd have to wait until they got home. Well, to Carter's home...

It was so adorable how Carter was apologizing..."Stop it. I think it's great. You shouldn't worry so much..." She smirked, looping her arm into his. "You should just give in, by the way. Dress up can be really fun."

When he opened the door for her, Marilyn smiled. This was the thing she loved about Carter. He remained a gentleman no matter what the situation was. "I've been ready every since you invited me to come."

Looking back at the muggle car, she climbed in carefully. She was a little scared. "Um, Carter...Are you sure this is safe?"

Carter chuckled lightly. "You're going to have to make it sound much better than that if you want me to even think about giving in." he said. But he was completely serious. He was not about to play dress up.

"It's fine. Don't worry." he said after she got in. He climbed in after her. "This is called a 'seat belt'." he said reaching over her. He pulled it across her and buckled her in. "You'll have to wear one every time you get in a car." he explained. He then scooted back into his seat after noticing how close he had been to her. The proximity was as intoxicating as it had always been when it came to her.

Just as he buckled himself in, his parents got back in the car. His mum passed back two little plates each with a slice of apple pie on it. Carter took them both and handed one to Marilyn. Then handed her a fork after they got passed back.

"We'll be spending a few days in London." Laurie said as they finally got moving. "Anya wanted to do some shopping today. And there's a new exhibit at the art gallery I wanted to see tomorrow. Then you know you're father, he can't resist seeing the Tower every time we're in town." She then smiled at her husband.

"I figured you two could find something to do to entertain yourselves while we take Anya out."

Carter smiled and looked over at Marilyn. "I was thinking we'd go out to dinner." he said. "Marilyn is a fan of sushi. So I thought we'd go check out one of the places in the city."

He then turned his attention to the pie in his hand. He happily took a bite. "This is great mum."

Carter said he wasn't going to play dress up...but Marilyn would figure out a way. Perhaps he could dress up as a Prince Charming...They were just as crucial to a princess's life as anything else. Without a Prince Charming...there was no happily ever after...

-snort- Yea, right...

The blonde nodded at him uneasily, gripping his hand throughout the entire car ride. Yea, she was new at actually riding IN cars. With her father's business ventures, Marilyn had taken many pictures with cars, but never IN them. His mother had given them both pieces of pie, which had been phenomenal...It had actually helped to calm her nerves some.

Carter's dad pulled up to the hotel and everyone got out. It was a really nice hotel...and Marilyn had to wonder how much this was costing them...Then she remembered what Anya had said about her mother being a doctor...and Marilyn sighed. It made her feel weird to have people spend any kind of money on her...

Marilyn attempted to grab her things...but Carter's father, Steven, insisted on carting her things into the hotel. Picking up her bag, she looped her arm into Carter's walking beside him with ease. To an outsider, they might look like the perfect couple, both blonde, attractive, and well dressed.

Marilyn wanted them to be that couple again.

Once they reached the rooms, the blonde felt a little confused. Leaning into Carter, she whispered carefully in his ear. "Um...Are we sharing rooms?" She tried to keep the distress out of her voice...but failed. For someone who shared with several girls all year round, one would think the Slytherin wouldn't have any issues. He just smiled and tugged her along.

There was only one room...but there were rooms built within the room...If that made sense. The main sitting area and bedroom was done up in clean white and gossamer curtains. It was very chic...Off to the sides were two separate rooms, one with a balcony and another with a smaller setting.

Excusing herself so she could freshen up and change...Marilyn ducked into one of the rooms. Making sure it was locked securely, she went to work on her hair and makeup. Magic was the only reliable why to get it done, really.

Carter hugged his parents and kissed his sister good-bye. Then he went over knocked on the door Marilyn had disappeared through. "They just left." he called through it.

He went and sat on the couch and flipped through the list of nearby restaurants before writing down the address and telephone number of a suitable one. "The car ride wasn't that bad, was it?" he asked. In other words... it hadn't made her sick, had it? He'd feel awful if it did. Travel like that couldn't really be avoided when doing things the muggle way. But, a part of him didn't mind that she had been scared. No... he did enjoy the feeling of her hand in his. In fact, he'd enjoyed all of the attention Marilyn had been giving him. With every hand hold and arm loop he wanted more and more contact with her.

But there was plenty of time for that. They was no need to rush into things. They had a whole summer together. A whole summer to reacquaint themselves. A whole summer to figure out what exactly they were to each other.

Best of all, it was a whole summer away from Marie and Rafe... the two people who would do everything in their power to make sure that nothing happened between them. It was also a summer away from Caroline... who... had kissed him on the train ride back -- something he hadn't told Marilyn.

While Marilyn was still in the room, Carter busied himself with moving their luggage to their destinations. His parents were in the room with the balcony, Marilyn would be in the smaller room, and he would be sleeping in the bed in the sitting area while Anya was on the couch.

"Ugh, I can't believe we have to act so common," scoffed Kurt. "I mean who travels this way? It seem like a metal death trap!" He crossed his hands in the back of the car. Kurt was thrilled at the idea of helping out on a top secret mission for Master Rafe, but to act like a common muggle family...that was just boring.

"It's not going to be so bad, boys your age would love to do what you're doing." Randall gave his looked back at his "son." Usually, Randall would be feeling the same way Kurt was, but he was starting a family and had new priorities, like taking it easy. The thought of having a son or daughter in the world brought a smile to his face as he looked over at his wife who was typing away on a computer.

"I hate this thing!" Larentia was getting frustrated with the whole technology thing, but she was the only one in the pack who put forth the effort to learn about muggle technology. "I mean the firewalls are easy to get past and this muggle security is so pathetic, it's just so frustrating how slow it is..."

"Calm down, dear, we're almost there, you got the reservations right?"

"One room, two beds right next to the Mud--Muggleborn's family." That was something Larentia had to get used to. "Their room has already been swept and it's secure, we'll be able to record their conversation...just like the one we're recording now in their car..." She turned up the volume and heard them speak of dress up and a shopping day tomorrow.

"ICK! Shopping?! Do we have to go?" Kurt crossed his arms and slouched.

"It won't be so bad, remember we have to act like a happy family touring around England," Larentia smiled. She didn't mind the idea of shopping. She was seven months pregnant and couldn't fit in anything she owned. A little shopping sounded like a wonderful idea. However, if Marilyn wasn't on the agenda for shopping, she wouldn't be able to. Maybe they could split their little group for a few hours. There was no harm and making sure the entire family was safe right? "Oh thank goodness we're here!"

Randall pulled the car around to the front and a bell boy helped with the luggage. They went to their room.

"Well this looks cozy." Randall was trying to be as optimistic as possible. This was very much below par compared to the other hotels they stayed at. They would usually stay in a suite in the top floor, but this is what they would have to deal with. "Larentia...would you mind making it a little more at home."

Larentia took out her wand and transformed the hotel room from something simple to something way more elaborate and more at home. "There. Much better." She then put her wand away and got on her computer again. "Okay, everything's online. We can hear everything, but Rafe left strict instructions not to see anything. He thought they should have some privacy."

Kurt laughed at this. He had heard about operations his "family" and privacy wasn't an option. Most operations were evasive, but he understood Rafe was more modern and this was his mission after all and he was just a pawn in the game. Kurt hopped on the bed and yawned. He didn't realize how tiring a stakeout could be and within seconds we was fast asleep for a quick nap before they would be on the move again.

Randall tucked him in and went over by his wife and listened with her. He didn't understand a single thing about this technology, but he was amazed at the clarity. "You ready for summer?"

"I think I might actually enjoy this little mission." Larentia kissed her husband and continued to listen...



...Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away sat Rafe Lycaon at his usual cafe. He was drinking his usual latte with dark sunglasses on. He kept his eyes on the usual building. The activity there had slowed down, which made him even more nervous and anxious. But, now he had busy of his own to attend to. Lowell did well in making the arrangements for the meeting. Today was very fortunate because there was more of a crowd, meaning their conversation would be hard to hear.

"Monsieur, aimeriez-vous un croissant?" asked the same waitress he had the past couple of days. She was very flirty and attentive to Rafe. She was blonde and very much Rafe's type.

"Marilène, how many times do I have to tell you to please call me Rafe?" He spoke in English and new she spoke it. From the few conversations they had, she was a muggle girl studying at a university to be an English professor.

"Oui, monsieur... I men Rafe." She smiled at batted her eyes. "Zorry, eetz just zomezing I'm not used to."

"It's okay." Rafe smiled back. "And yes, I would love one of your amazing croissants." He watched her as she flipped her hair over her shoulder and made her way to the kitchen. "France really is a beautiful country." He sighed.

Marilyn was trying to decide what to wear...Never before in her life had she struggled with clothes. Having a fashion designer as a mother did have its perks. She always knew exactly what look she wanted to go for...but right now? Well, she wanted Carter to think she was beautiful. The blonde definitely wanted to catch his attention...

...And keep it...

"They just left." Carter said through the door.

Her heart began to race as a light bulb clicked on...They had NEVER been completely alone. At school, there was always someone there. It was usually Rafe...or Marie. Somehow, they'd always found ways to pop up. But that wouldn't be the case this time...

She and Carter were alone...

Of course, her nerves were doing nothing to help her at the moment. The blonde still needed to find something to wear...ANYTHING...She was beginning to bite at her lip, trying to think about what she'd brought with her. Peeking into her bag for the sixth time, something red finally caught her eye. Marilyn smirked. Carter would appreciate red, right?

She dressed with shaky hands, trying not to think about them being alone that much. Things were in a completely different ball park this time. They were older...Hormones were involved. Who knew what might happen...

Looking in the mirror to make sure everything was in place, Marilyn took a deep breath. Without a doubt, she looked beautiful...but her opinion didn't matter. She wanted him to think so...

Stepping from the room in her dress and best heels, Marilyn frowned. "What do you think?"



Jasper had arrived at the small cafe', noticing the crowd at once. It was ideal, he supposed...even though large groups of people irritated him. Checking the patrons, it wasn't difficult to spot the Romanian. The young person was immensely tan...A lovely blonde girl was speaking with him, and Rafe was eating up the attention. They spoke causally to one another, giving Jasper the immediate impression that they were familiar.

It would have made sense, really. Marilyn was wanting to be with this muggle, now. Rafe would have been smart to move on...Who was he to judge, though? His little sister was ridiculously beautiful and it made sense for more than one boy to be vying for her attention.

Rafe was looking after the girl appreciatively. Even though this boy was no longer with Marilyn, this bothered Jasper. Clearing his throat, he approached the table. He took a seat, not waiting to be acknowledged,"I believe have some things to discuss."

Rafe was keeping an eye on the waitress, but his view was quickly blocked by someone he would one day like to call 'Brother-in-law.' But, this wasn't the time to admit to something like that, especially the mentioning of a ring. It was common for the man to ask the father permission for his daughter's hand in marriage, but that wasn't about to happen, but the man sitting across from him would be the guy he'd discuss it with.

Rafe's eyes narrowed as he focused on Jasper, though you wouldn't be able to tell through the sunglasses. He hadn't changed much. Rafe didn't really appreciate Jasper's tone, but he was still putting on a show for those who were surely watching, so he had to keep his composure. He took a sip of his latte before even responding. "Very well... what are we discussing? The weather? Or perhaps this year's World Cup?" There was a sly grin on his face. He had to keep up a cheery disposition for his audience in the building across the street.

Jasper gave him a bored look, leaning back in his chair coolly. When the beautiful blonde waitress returned, he smirked. "Excusez-moi, l'amour... Puis-je avoir de l'eau?" She simply nodded, glancing at Rafe before she left a second time. "You've made quite an impression on her, haven't you?"

His water was placed in front of him seconds later, and Jasper smirked at the younger boy. "Hmm, she's fast isn't she?" This was said mostly to gauge the boy's temperament..."Is it coincident that she reminds me of Marilyn?"

The blonde gave him a smile as she appeared to be gossiping with one of her fellow female waitresses and occasionally glancing over at Rafe. "It's not a coincidence at all." Rafe brought the cup up to his lips covering them from what he was about to say. "Benjamin was the one that assigned her here." He cocked his head to the side and gave Jasper a sideways glance. "They're always watching." He took a sip of his drink and then set it down.

The blonde was too pushy and asked too many questions. But, the real slip up was her accent. It sounded to Belgium, which meant her story didn't add up about being a French girl just trying to become a English professor. Plus, he had her followed and did a background check. She wasn't too dangerous or anything, and he was having his fun. Rafe hoped he could perhaps win her over and bring her to his side. But, this was something he didn't feel he needed to explain to Jasper. It was too complicated.

"I don't think we want to waste each other's time, so let's just cut to the chase...I'm told you have some valuable information that can push things in my, excuse me...our favor." Rafe knew that Jasper cared very much for Marilyn as much as he did and would do anything to help her. Rafe just liked things going his way and done as quickly as possible without getting sidetracked. "By now, you know part of my plan, but I would like very much to hear your input." Rafe interlaced his fingers and placed them in front of him on the table.

Jasper nodded, turning to view the street he'd just ventured up. "I thought as much. She seems too eager to please..." As he faced Rafe fully again, there was a subtle nod, bringing his water up to his lips. "I know that Benjamin is about to move..." Setting his water down, he reached for the napkin and began to handle it, his eyes downcast. After a moment or so, he discards it back onto the table, along with what's carefully tucked inside. "Doua zile..."

Jasper didn't know much about the Romanian language, just the basics.

When Rafe inquired about his thoughts, the older man gave him a steady look. "I think it's risky. Your guy mentioned you had someone going with you. I do not think just one will be enough..." Jasper crossed his arms, settling back in the seat casually. "...No offense."

While he stare at the young man, something strange occurred to him...and a question bubbled in his throat that could not be contained. He needed to know. "L'aimez-vous ?"

Rafe reached over for the napkin and slid it over to him. He looked at it and smiled. With his wand tucked carefully in his sleeve he positioned it towards the picture and within seconds it disappeared in flames. Rafe simply nodded to acknowledge that he knew what had to be done.

"Yes, well, unless you're offering your services to go with me, I think I'll take my chances." Rafe wasn't at all serious with his sarcastic tone. He was offering Jasper a chance to go right into the lion's den. It was something he was planning on risking from the beginning, but he wasn't go to ask someone to go through what he knew would be almost unbearable.

Rafe wasn't expecting what was asked next. Part of him felt insulted, why would he offer to put his life through hell if he didn't love her. "With all my heart." Rafe smiled, but it quickly faded. "But, even if I make it through this, I can't say she feels the same way."