"Really? You sure?" Rose asked allowing him to take her hand. "You don't have to. Really. I'm fine with just whatever is in the Great Hall." she said. Before she knew it she was already inside the restaurant and he was calling her beautiful. She blushed a little. Merlin. She didn't do well when she was embarrassed. This could be interesting.

Victoire smirked, knowing that her actions had taken an effect. "Tired already?" She asked softly, turning her head to examine his peaceful expression and closed eyes. Without waiting for a reply, she gingerly lifted herself from the couch and made her way towards the bedroom. Picking up a cotton sheet from the bed, she wrapped it over her arms and carried it over to the couch. Quickly slipping off her boots and kicking them too the side, she resumed her former position next to Matt, covering the both of them with the sheet. If he wanted to sleep, she would let him. Besides, the previous night hadn't been the most restful. For now, Victoire wasn't tired and was simply content with lying by his side as he napped. If she fell asleep as well, it would be fine as well.

Matt shrugged a little and wrapped his arms around her again. "No, not tired. Just lazy." He replied, lying back on the couch. He opened an eye, and smiled warmly down at her, as she lay her head on his chest. He mindlessly ran his hands through her hair, enjoying the feeling of a girl in his arms again.

Kyle shook his head, smiling. "No, I inisit." He said, leading her towards a small table near the back. A few of the female students in the resturant giggled as he passed, but he ignored them, and pulled out a chair for her. "C'mon, sit down." He looked up at her, hazle eyes shimmering in the sunlight from the large bay window behind him.

"You know," Victoire began, closing her eyes, "After all of the drama, I almost completely forgot about Rose and Kyle. You think they ever met up?" Victoire pursed her lips in thought, hoping that fate somehow had brought the two stubborn students together. 'Cos it seemed as if no other force besides Merlin would be able to push the two into spending time together.

"Just give him some leeway; let him get the girl, even if he happens to steal a song here or there," Victoire took her hand to brush her hair from her face, replacing her hand back on his chest once more. "As for Rose, I hope she finally saw the light. I saw her briefly and she seemed a bit... different, a little more confident than she usually seems. Good for her. And I don't even know what to think about Al and his mystery woman." She laughed at the thought of it.

Rose giggled for a second. "Okay." she said. She followed him to the table. "So what do you recommend?" she said looking down at a menu. He looked up at Kyle. She was a bit blinded by the sunlight, but that didn't bother her. Maybe this would be fun.

Victoire's closed eyes snapped open as she rose off of Matt's chest, propping herself up on her bent elbow as she gave him a rather intrigued look. "Alyss? Alyssandra? The Slytherin Prefect?" She asked incredulously. "I was expecting a fifth year Hufflepuff, at minimum." So that's why Al had chosen to hide the identity of his date. Didn't want to be viewed as a hypocrite or have Victoire tease him for snagging such a gorgeous girl. Laughing, Victoire laid herself back down and shook her head, "I never would have expected this pairing. I'll have to badger him about his date later. That hypocrite."

"That's Al for you," Victoire scoffed, fighting the urge not to send a jinx after him the first chance that she got. "Besides, I don't mind being out of the gossip mill, being yesterday's news. It'll be nice to walk around without the occasional whispering and pointing." Of course, Al would despise the attention. He got enough for being the son of Harry Potter, so there was a possibility that he could become furious if people began adding Alyss to their daily Potter conversations. But Matt's touch made her feel better, made her anger subside as he ran his fingers up and down the length of her torso; a small chill ran up her spine. "Tease," She chided with a small smirk.

totally missed a post, sorry
 

"That sounds great to me." Rose said still looking at the menu. She looked up and caught Kyle flirting with the waitress. "So... how often do you come here?" she asked unsure of what else to say. "You seem pretty at home here."

"I've got a better idea. We don't need anyone's permission. It's not like they can kick us out. I'm showing up to charms on Monday wearing a ball gown." Meg said continuing to sift through clothes. And in potions I'll wear one of my night-on-the-town outfits."[/b] she said matter-of-factly. "We are going to start something. And girls everywhere will envy us."

Alyss laughed softly. "I could so show up to History of Magic in my dress from masquerade," she smirked as she pulled another robe out and made a face. "Seriously, that's the worst they can do to us?" It wasn't like it was grounds for expulsion or something. They wouldn't possible do that to them. They did know move half the board of governors and all. Moving down the racks, she stopped and pulled out a rather nice long robe, pulling it close to her, she looked in the mirror. "Girls envy us already, but I so know what you mean."

Matt smiled and shrugged. "You're a fine one to talk." He said, laughing darkly. He stopped, and wrapped both his arms around her, pulling her in as close as he could. After the events of that afternoon, he just wanted to feel her in his arms, and forget about whatever Lex had done, or said. The girl was not worth his while to get upset over, not when he had something so perfect here and now. He sighed contently and closed his eyes once again. "So, what did you want to do later, or are we just staying here all day?" He asked casually.

"Not all that often. But Matt is. He ALWAYS takes his dates here, considering this is the only decent resturant anywhere near school." He said, taking a sip from the glass of water on the table. "They just know me as Matt Tuck's brother, and treat me the same as they would him." He rolled his eyes a little.

Meg laughed. "Oh, they aren't going to do anything. Anything against us that is. I'm sure that in fact some of the staff may join us in our protests." she said. She grabbed all of the blue items of the rack. "So... do you think I need any more of these?" she asked holding up different dresses. She of course didn't need more. But she was a girl. A classy girl at that. And girls like her could never have too many dresses.

"You know... you talk about your brother a lot. Are you... I dunno... embarrassed or something about him?" Rose asked. In her opinion people that talk about other people a lot were trying to hide something.

Rose laughed. "Yeah. I know what you mean. I guess. It's not really the same with my cousins and I. But it has happened before. Luckily we all have enough of our own lives now that it never happens anymore. But when we first got out here we were always compared to each other. And compared to our parents." she said. "Maybe you should get away from him for awhile. Not like ignore him, but just to refresh yourself on who you are."

Jay wasn't use to being alone on the day of hogsmeade trips but today as he woke up far later than he typically would have he found this girl less day to be quite relaxing Meg and Alyss were probably already gone which was not big deal he smirked as he finally climbed out of bed and rummaged through his clothes. usually he had to actually take time to dress for these trips because Meg and alyss were hogwarts version of the fashion police and he would have never heard the end of it untill he changed. He pulled a faded old rumpled pair of jeans that had been deamed inappropriate by the girls from the bottom of his trunk along with random t-shirt.He paired the outfit with a pair of Structure Triax sneakers before he headed out of the dorms on his way to hogsmeade.

"I... I'm not sure," Victoire frowned slightly, thinking of what to do. "I have the urge to go back to Hogsmeade and spy on Rose to see if she's met up with Kyle, but I won't. After walking up and back, I think I've had enough trekking for the day. Unless..." She paused, a small smile coming to her face. "Want to head down to the Quidditch Pitch? Show me some of your skills?" Victoire wasn't too agile on a broom and was quite tired of being laughed at by her family for looking out of her element while in the sky. It'd be nice to return home over the summer and show them wrong.

Kyle shrugged. "Yeah, that's easier said then done, when you live on a tour bus all summer, and in the same dorm all the rest of the year." He said with a light laugh. "It's fine though. Sometimes it's got it's perks. I don't think I've waited in line to get into a club... Ever." He smiled a little as the waitress came over for their orders.

Matt smirked a little. "I havn't played in forever. But I'm still one of the best Slitherine's ever had." He said with a sarcastic sigh. "So I guess I can show you what I've got... Later." He pulled her in close and kissed the top of her head. "I havn't heen on a broom in a couple years, now that I think about it. I've never home over the summers, and I gave up here when Jay took over as captian." He thought for a second, trying to remember if he still had his broom here, or if he'd left it home. Unable to remember, he shrugged, and turned over onto his side, facing her. He placed a kiss on her lips once again, his hand running through her hair.

Alyss grabbed all the green robes, that looked decent and laughed. "You know, we could always try it and see what happens." she shrugged. Pulling a few green dresses from the racks, she held one up to herself. "You know it's not a matter of needing them, but on wanting them," she laughed. They really didn't need them, but again what girl didn't want to have more dresses and stuff. "You know we would always find a use for them."

Jay enter Hogsmeade and made his way up the stone walk to the the quidditch shop for some broom polish he glanced through one of the shop windows as he passed and saw Meg and Aylss practically wiping out a few of the dress racks and suddenly he was even more thankful he had over slept because well this one one trip Meg could carry her own bags for a change. He smirked smuggly to himself as he stuffed his hands into his pockets and continued on his way to the quidditch shop.

"Whatever you want, mon amour," Victoire smiled, happy to do whatever she pleased. She felt good being around him; not insecure or nervous, but completely comfortable. She hadn't felt this way around a guy in a long time. Brushing some dark strands of hair from his face, Victoire took her hand to brush his cheek lightly before giving him a soft kiss. "You're not just the best Slytherin's ever had. I'm beginning to think to you're the best I've ever had, the best that I ever will have. And that makes me phenomenally happy."

Victoire succumbed to the kiss, taking her hand to run through his raven black hair. She sensed something different in that last kiss, something that held more of an electric charge, more passion. "I think you're the one that's too kind," Victoire laughed softly as she twirled a lock of his hair around her finger. "I would have never imagined that a Tuck would go for a Weasley. It's almost against the laws of nature." She smirked at her own statement.

"I could say the same for you," Victoire smiled softly, finding it hard not to get lost in his blue-eyed gaze. "My family... well, you probably already know about them." She couldn't help but laugh; it seemed everyone in the wizarding world knew the story of her famous uncle, Harry Potter, and the dark wizard that he had defeated. Her aunt Hermione and uncle Ron had also become quite the superstars once the world had discovered what a helping hand that they had given to Harry. Victoire was grateful to only be a niece of the trio and not a member of their immediate families. She remember how hard it had been for Rose and Al when they had first arrived at Hogwarts, people poking and prodding as if they were artifacts in a museum. Victoire had gotten her fair share of badgering about her famed relatives as well, but definitely not to the same degree that her cousins had.

"My parents aren't exactly too partial towards those connected with Slytherin, with everything that happened during the war, but I think I could get my mother to change her mind about this. I'm sure she'd love you. But as for my dad, I don't think he'd take to the idea of us dating. It would take some help from my mum, but I think he would eventually learn to accept it. Besides, he would be one to talk; he's not exactly pure wizard himself." She laughed darkly, remembering having been told the story of how her father had been viciously attacked by a werewolf.

Meg laughed. "Agreed." she said holding up some more blue ones up to herself. "You know what... I might actually be tired of blue. Baby blue, royal blue, dark blue... It seems like the only thing I own is blue. Let's switch." she said looking over to Aly and her green dress.

Rose shrugged. "Well you have all year right now. Unless you're planning on leaving during the school year." she said. She took a sip of her water. "Or you don't have to. It was just a suggestion. I mean... kinda like after breaking up with someone you center and find out who you are." she said with a shrug. "If I were to ask you who you are what would you say?"

"Still," Victoire couldn't help but laugh as well. She could just imagine her father, Bill Weasley, face-to-face with Matt Tuck. Now that would be a sight to see. "I think I could get him to loosen up. It would all work out." A little pang of homesickness struck her at that moment; she usually tried not to think of Shell Cottage while she was at school, but it was hard to not imagine that she was back near the sea. Sighing, Victoire tried to push the nostalgic thoughts of home away for the moment. "But hosnestly, I'd be a bit more scared for Rose. If and when she and Kyle ever got together officially, I'm not sure how my uncle and aunt would react. They're completely anti-Slytherin, through and through. I wouldn't be surprised if they locked Rose away in a dungeon to keep her away from Kyle." She frowned; so many people of the previous generation had ridiculous stereotypes floating around in their memories. The stereotypes had been justifiable in the past, but now they were almost seen to be unfounded truths.

Matt nodded. "So I've heard." He replied, once again, running his fingers up and down her side. "Don't worry about it. Something tells me that those two aren't getting together any time soon." He frowned a little and yawned lazily. "On a lighter note, it turns out we've already got a full tour schedual lined up, starting the last day of the year. All of the US first, then Canada. Then it's back to europe for a while, and from what I hear, Japan." He smiled excitedly andsighed. "Mum sent us an owl last night and Kyle told me over breakfast."

Kyle frowned a little, not know how to answer. "Honestly, I've got no idea how to answer that question." He said thoughtfully. "I'm a musician and an artist? A person who cares more about the welfare of other people then his own? I dunno." He started, stil not knowing what to say. "By honestly, how many seventeen year olds can answer that?"

Victoire frowned, knowing that he spoke the truth. Only Merlin knew what would happen between Rose and Kyle. "Really?" Victoire smiled, "That's amazing! I-" She paused, the corners of her upturned lips falling a bit, "Wait... how long are you going to be gone?" Her joy had immediately melted away as she thought of Matt being away for so long. This was something that he loved to do, wanted to make a living out of, and she supported him all the way. But she knew, beginning on the first day of the tour, that she would have a long, hard road ahead of her; at least, until the tour was over.

Rose shrugged. "I guess you're right." she said. "But most have a pretty good idea. Like me... I loathe transfiguration but live for charms. I never want to be an auror. Bunnies are my favorite animal. And unicorns are my favorite magical animal. I'd do anything for my family. And I'm terrified of something happening that would cause me to see a threstal. Let's see... I think my goal in life is to have a kid just like me. I want to do something that helps others. But not in the typically way. I want to help people that noone would normally think to help. Like going to talk to muggle families about Hogwarts."

Alyss glanced over and nodded. "I know what you mean. I do have a lot of green and to be completely honest I actually did like how I looked in my masquerade dress. It wasn't green but I loved it," she replied as she handed over the green dress in her hand. Seriously, who would have ever thought a Slytherin would like being in a red dress. Blue was one thing but red was not Slytherin of her at all. Picking up a blue dress, she held it to herself. "You know, maybe she should switch." she smirked a little. "It would confuse some people."

Matt caught her faltering smile, and couldn't blame her in the least. "A year... Maybe two." He said sadly. It tore him apart to admit that he'd be gone away from her for so long, and that there was nothing he could do about it, short of quit the band he fronted. "I know, it seems long. But we can apparate to each other whenever. My hotel room will always be open. And I'll be home for holidays and birthdays." His own smile faded, finally coming to the realization that two years was too long. "I know this isn't the life you want. And I fully understand if you chose not to do this anymore. It's hard. Just... Don't give up on me yet."

Kyle listened to her speaking and smiled a little. Beautiful, smart, and a helping hand. "Personally, I think that sounds like a great idea. Maybe then they wouldn't hold their muggle borns back, or send them to asylums. I've heard of that happening." He frowned a little and took another sip from his water. "It's great that you want to help people. And that you already know what you want out of life. I wish I could say the same."

Victoire took his hand in hers, forcing herself to fix her withering smile, "I don't intend to give up, ever. I've never been with anyone that I know I won't see for extended periods of time, so it's just new to me." Although she tried to smile on the outside, her stomach was twisting into knots. She knew that the time for them to part would be coming soon, and she had a feeling that saying goodbye might be one of the hardest things that she would have to do. But knowing that she could apparate when she pleased made her feel better, if only a little bit. "But you have to promise me this," Victoire's half-smile turned into a full smirk, "Promise me you won't go hanging around those trampy groupies?"

OOC: Welcome darlin'! Jump on in whenever. :)

Al had finished his shopping hours ago, and the twins little gig didn't do over so well. He'd been left with a group of crazed fan-girls asking him when they'd be back. And to be honest, he didn't think they would be. Eventually, the bar owner kicked the under-agers out and resumed business as usual, which also left Al wandering about the village with neither cousin. Vic had gone off after Matt, and Rose seemingly went with Kyle. A good turn of events there, he thought. Rose might have finally warmed up to the shyer twin. He looked at his watch and smiled. It was about time to leave, and attend his date with Alyss. He finished off his drink and left the bar, heading towards the place they'd chosen. But she was nowhere in sight. Al forwned a little and looked around, still not seeing her. He took a seat on a bench and waited. Perhapse she was just running behind with her shopping...

"Like I've said before, you're too good to me," Victoire smiled, leaning forward once more as she gave him another sweet kiss. She would definitely miss these when the time came for him to leave. She would possibly be jealous knowing that he would be on stage in front of countless adoring fangirls, all vying for his attention. But in her heart, she knew that Matt would never cheat on her. His words oozed honesty, and she soaked them up like a sponge.

Victoire gladly, wordlessly consented to Matt's suggestion. Why dwell on the future when it was better to live in the present? She crushed her lips against his, her hands reaching up to entwine around his long raven hair. That had always been something that Victoire had found attractive in men: long hair. As a friend had put it before, it had always been nice to have something to hold onto. Victoire had felt the lust in his kiss and her heart simultaneously thumping faster, causing the color to rush into her cheeks and turn them a shade of rosy red. So mother had always been right after all: being in love made one's blood boil.

Victoire felt Matt pull himself closer, their bodies pressed together as close as could possibly be. Her mind seemed to whirl at the speed that her heart was pumping. Was she going to do this; was she ready to do this? Her mind said yes and her heart did the same. If this had been her first time, she knew she would have hesitated. But now, her mind set was different; She wasn't a scared little girl, she was an independent young woman. Victoire momentarily pulled her lips away from his, taking a quick breath to try to calm her thumping heart.

Meg laughed as she took the green dress and held it up to herself. "You know... I was thinking... I've always wanted to see the Slytherin common room..." she said with a smirk. Well... if they were planning on confusing people might as well go all out, right?

Rose nodded. "Yeah." she said. "I guess. I've never really thought about it that way. I guess its kinda always been a dream that stuck with me, you know?" she said. She looked around to see where the waitress was. She was starting to get pretty hungry.

Meg vaguely looked up when someone greeted them. A little too cheerfully. Seriously, who would be happy to be here. True, it was better than being at Hogwarts, but it definitely wasn't Paris or Milan. "Oh... hi." random girl whose name escapes me. She was a Slytherin. Which meant she was pureblood. So Meg acknowledged her presence.

Alyss looked at herself in the mirror. The blue did looked nice on her. Glancing back to her best friend, she smirked. "And you know I've always wondered what the Ravenclaw Tower looked like inside." She had been up to the door and all but curiousty was getting the best of her. Besides it was just down the hall from the Gryffindor Common room as well. Oh the fun they could have with this.

Turning her head as she heard someone else approach them. That was a first, no one had ever interupted their shopping before. Turning completely, she noticed it was Ashley. She recongizined her from the common room and some classes. "Hey Ashley," she replied as she turned back to look at her reflect with another dress pressed to herself. "Just some retail therapy," she explained as she glanced at her watch. "Meg, it's getting late and I have to meet up with Al soon." She had really lost track of time and it wasn't polite of her to keep him waiting. Glancing at the storekeeper, she nodded. It looked like she would be making a rather larger purchase today after all.

Victoire smiled as he brushed a few strands of hair from her face. She could tell that they were thinking the exact same thing, their thoughts seemingly linked as one. "I-" She spoke, not sure of exactly what to say. She wanted to find the perfect words to say, just like they did in old, black-and-white, romantic films. But words seemed to escape her at the moment as she bit her red-stained lip in mild frustration; lovely time for her usual talkative self to shut down on her. "I think I'm ready." She finally breathed, glad to have had the words escape her lips.

"Is it time for that date already? I still can't believe you're going through with it. Eww. Gross. What if you two start dating? That would completely throw off our summer plans!" Meg said picking up a few more green dresses. She looked over at the girl whose name was apparently Ashley. "What's your favorite color? It isn't blue is it? I need some advice on more colors." she said. She hoped it wasn't. She was hoping to buy a new dress that was whatever color the girl said.

"That's good. My dad doesn't really acknowledge a lot of things about me. I think he wanted me to be a boy. He pays much more attention to Hugo." Rose said. Good thing her mum knew so much better. Otherwise she might still be getting dolls and other playthings for Christmas. She smiled as the food was placed infront of her. Finally!

Kyle laughed a little and shrugged. "Fathers tend to bond with sons more then daughters. Mum said it was the same way with her and her brother." He said casually. "So, what made you come to the show anyway? Last I checked, the hogs head wasn't ranked too highly by the famous trio. I figured your parents would have told you to avoid it at all costs." He smirked a little, and arched an eyebrow. He was still curious as to weather or not she actually read the note he'd sent her a few days before, inviting her to come, or if she showed up because Victorie had. He wouldn't care either way, he was just glad she'd come.

OOC: Mel, I posted in the off-site HISH, just incase you thought I ignored your post!

Alyss shook her head and took all her things to the storekeeper. She instructed them to just send them back to the castle. Pulling out her new clutch, she pulled out some galleons and glanced back at Meg. "Meg, I do love that green on you though and yes it's time for my date." she replied as the storekeeper rang her up. "It's just a first date and Al is a nice boy. How many nice boys have had the nerve to even ask me out?" Nice boys never asked her out, bad boys but never nice boys. It was a rather nice for a change. "Nothing will throw off our summer plans, I won't let that happen." she added as the storekeeper finished up. Turning back to Meg, she smiled. "Besides, who knows where this will really go. What's the likelihood of a Gryffindor and Slytherin really dating?" It was a valid question.

Alyss paid the storekeeper and turned back to Meg and Ashley. What was wrong with a Slytherin and a Gryffindor dating? Was she serious? "Ashley dear, have you hit your head or something?" she asked. "Just think of the hierarchy. We are still at Hogwarts and you know that old habits die hard. Besides, just think about who we are talking about." Maybe it would be different if it wasn't herself and Potter, but it was them and that made it a little different. "Besides, you know how the gossipers are out for dirt already. I mean with Meg and Jay broken up and all," she shrugged and looked to her best friend. Giving her a sad smile and mouthing sorry, she shrugged. "Seriously, this is just what they are waiting for."

After purchasing a new broom polishing kit and a few other quidditch related things Jason mdade his way bak up the street towards the three broomsticks passing the dress shop once again.

Rose shrugged. "Possibly." she said agreeing. Either that or she wasn't living up to expectations. Either way she had grown weary of caring. "Well you invited me this morning..." she said. Did he not remember? He had probably spent all morning inviting everyone. She suddenly felt foolish for thinking that he remembered inviting her specifically. "I mean you mentioned it at breakfast when you were looking for your brother. And after the lovely time I had last night I thought I'd come and you know, support your music."

Meg smirked. Yes, she did look great in that dress. She'd buy it. And then that Ashley girl said purple. Eww, she normally hated that color. She walked over and picked up one that wasn't absolutely hideous. She chuckled as that Ashley girl asked if none of that would matter once they left. Silly, silly girl. No wonder Meg had never met her before. She usually didn't keep company with someone which such ideals. But maybe she could be saved yet. Meg felt the need to educate said Slytherin person. She waved bye as Aly finally actually left. And she had mentioned Jay. And as a weird coincidence he happened to be passing bye. Maybe he wasn't so moody right now. And she'd be able to set things right between them. Truth was she missed him. They hadn't been broken up a whole day yet and with Aly gone it struck her. "Jay!" she called to him and then waved. Maybe he'd come in and say hey to her?

Victoire reappeared in the seventh floor corridor, looking both ways before she began to make her way towards the Grand Staircase. After sticking her wand in the chest pocket of her leather jacket, she smoothed out the creases of her jeans, feeling a bit odd about what had just occured in the Room of Requirement. It wasn't that she felt remorseful; Victoire felt quite the opposite about their romp in the room. It was just the simple fact that they were at school. Victoire had never committed such an act in school, and now reality set in about how much trouble they both could have gotten into if they had been caught.

She smiled inwardly, an overdue reaction having just taken place. Victoire felt quite smug, knowing that they had done the forbidden deed in such a setting. A small rush of energy flowed through her veins as a sense of rebelliousness took over. As she passed numerous portraits on the way down to the ground floor, Sir Cadogan noticed her smug expression and began galloping his way through the portraits, running over their occupants as he badgered her about the mischievous expression that had just overcome her. "Nothing at all, kind sir," She called behind her, causing Sir Cadogan to steady his horse as a look of bemusement overcame his painted face. Victoire continued her way down the stairs, Sir Cadogan having stopped his pursuit through the portraits.

Kyle smirked, pleased that she'd taken his mention of his show as an invitation to attend. "Aw, thanks." He said, poking around at the reminants of his lunch. "I didn't really expect you to come... Our music not really being you're scene and all. But I'm kinda glad you did." He smiled shyly, and glanced out the window at the sunset. It was getting late, and he was starting to wonder where Matt had gone, but no matter. He'd wait until she wanted to leave, and walk back with her. His brother could wait... Assuming he wasn't busy.

Al walked back into the castle, and up to the seventh floor towards the Gryffindor common room. His date had gone bust, and he was in no mood to be among the swarms of students at the feast. He flopped down into a couch and pulled a book off the table infront of him. If it were any other time, he'd look for Victorie, and talk to her about what had happened, or Rose for that matter. Neither girl seemed to be around. Rose was still with Kyle on their impromptu date, and Victorie... Well, he could only assume where she was and what she was doing with Matt. And just the thought alone made him want to punch the Slitherine again. He shook his head a little and flipped the book open, starting to read.

After Victorie had left the room, Matt showered, taking his time to let the water run over the his body. He got out and changed back into the jeans and t-shirt he'd had on before, and grabbed his hoodie from the chair in the corner of the room. He didn't intend on leaving the castle again for the night, unless Kyle wasn't back soon. He headed down the stairs, and out of the Room of Requirement, slightly saddened to see that Victorie was gone elsewhere. A smile spread across his lips as he thought of the afternoons events, and he casually strolled down the hall, his hands in his pockets.

Victoire pursed her lips, wondering what to do. She was up for some alone time at the moment, but what could she do besides simply strolling around the castle and the grounds? Hogsmeade was out of the question, as she would simply exhaust herself on the walk up and back. She entered the third floor corridor on a whim, the whiff of freshly baked goods hitting her. She smiled as an idea hit her, her feet beginning to take her in the direction of the kitchens. After quickly tickling the pear, she made her way in to grab a quick snack.

After a short while of going through the formalities with the house elves, a small paper bag was in her hands as she exited through the portrait hole. Victoire had decided to take some freshly baked bread, french bread of course, up to the girls' dorms. She could catch up on reading, write a letter back home, or do an assortment of things simply to pass the time. "Mardy bum," She spoke, the Fat Lady eyeing the paper bag that Victoire held. "Oh, how I wish I were still living. I do still miss freshly prepared bread, freshly prepared anything for that matter," The Fat Lady murmured, a small frown on her face before she reluctantly swung open to admit Victoire. Victoire simply giggled, stepping through.

Victoire approached the staircase that led to the dorms before catching sight of Al, a rather glum look on her face. Sighing, she turned and sat across from him in an overstuffed armchair. Placing her bag on the carpet, she crossed her legs as a rather diplomatic expression came across her face. "I'm guessing your mystery woman wasn't all that you thought her to be?"

"Yeah... it was a bit different than what I'm used to." Rose said in agreement. Actually, the place was filthy. And he was pretty sure the bartender was checking her out. And that was gross too. "Maybe next time you could have something a bit more low-key by the lake or something. That could be fun." Yes, the lake was much more her style. She yawned a bit. He looked out the window. The sun was setting already! Was it that late? She was sure glad she hadn't made plans for the day. She would have missed them.

Al looked up over the top of his book, a look in his eyes that was clear he wasn't at all pleased. "I'd tell you if I knew. She didn't show up." He said flatly, before immediatly returning to his page. "I assume you're afternoon went... Well." He said dryly. She wasn't wearing make-up, and her normally perfectly pressed shirt was wrinkled. "And please, spare me the details."

Kyle laughed a little. "Normally we don't play the Hogs Head. We got ambushed into doing it when we were shopping before school started." He said with a smirk. "We usually have this kind of thing either in the great hall for holidays, or people show up when Matt and I rehearse in the music room. Acoustic bar gigs aren't exactly our favorite thing to do... But the owner was an old friend of dad's..." He shrugged and finished off his drink. He noticed her looking out the window, slightly suprised. "Did you want to head back?" He asked, setting down his glass.

Victoire frowned, a feeling of sympathy overcoming her. But Al seemed indifferent; that was good, much better than being glum. Just as Al's eyes returned to the pages in his book, Victoire's eyes flickered over towards the flames in the fireplace as they slowly danced about. "I don't know what you're insinuating, Albus," She replied smoothly, not even bothering to look at him. Victoire figured that it was better to keep the events of the afternoon to herself and Matt, at least for the time being. There would be no use in affirming Al's suspicions at the moment anyways, as that would just fuel his negativity.

Victoire pursed her lips in silent defeat, not able to think of a proper lie to cover up his reasons. "Think whatever you'd like," She crossed her arms over her chest, still not meeting his gaze. It was obvious that Al cared, but he had to learn to let go. She didn't doubt that if she had told him about Teddy way back when they had done the deed, Al might have been surprised but wouldn't have said a negative word about it. Teddy was like Al's brother and he wouldn't have dared to have said a word against him. Victoire had been about to open her mouth, to let Al know that she had lost her innocence long before she met Matt, but she stopped herself. "After I left the pub, did you see Rose? It's not like her to be out too late."

"She was in one of those fancy looking resturants with Kyle when I left." He replied, stretching. "Seems like everyone elses dates worked out just fine today." He muttered bitterly. In a way, he was dissapointed that she hadn't shown up, and in a way, insulted. But the more he though, the more he saw how blind he'd been to think she'd be interested in him. She was no more shallow then the rest of the girls here. "Honestly, is there something so terribly wrong with a guy having a brain in his head, and actually being modest?" He asked, seemingly out of nowere. "It seems like all you girls want are guys who'd sooner rip a book in half then read it, and someone who'd fight another guy for looking at you the wrong way. It's kind of disgusting.

Matt had been sitting in the common room, playing the paino when the door opened and closed again. He looked up from the keys, seeing Alyss enter. "I take it you're afternoon with Potter didn't go so well." He called, as she quickly headed down the stairs to her dorm. With the dungeon being so abnormally silent, he knew she'd hear him regardless of a closed door. "Too bad. Dispite the rather nasty punches he can throw, he seems like a good guy. It'd be a nice change to see you with someone who wasn't just in it for a certian reason, like most of the guys I've seen you with in the last seven years." He called. He knew Alyss fairly well, being in the same house for so long, and attending the welcoming party every year. He'd gone with her a few times, and thought that she was a lovely person, when she was away from Meg. Not really his type, but then again, Victorie wasn't his type either... And look at them now. A smile returned to his lips, thinking back a few hours to their time together in the RoR, and then found himself wondering where she was now, and what she was doing.

A small smile lit up Victoire's otherwise mellow features as she heard the news about Rose and Kyle. "Good for them," She began, nodding slowly. Biting her lip, she began to attempt to answer Al's inquiry. "It just depends on the girl. Just like some guys are idiots while others are sweet and intelligent, like you and the Tuck twins," Her eyes met Al, almost as if daring him to contradict her, "Some girls are idiots and others have good heads on their shoulders, like Rose. You just have to keep looking, hun." She sighed before beginning once more, "And it's true that some people want to be with others simply for looks, and other people simply go off of personality. Unfortunately, it's the way that the world works. I'm sure---I know you'll find someone who deserves you, who'll make you happy and will appreciate the fact that you like to read literature and act like a gentleman. It just happens to be that your date today wasn't that one special girl. But, who cares? There are an infinite number of girls out there, you just have to be aware."

"Yeah. We probably should. My cousins must be worried. I'm usually not anywhere without them knowing. They might think I got kidnapped or something." Rose replied. Although she didn't always get along and agree with her cousins, they were her best friends. And they always knew where she was. She didn't want them to worry.

Al snorted, picking his book up again. "Ok Vic. You keep living in you're little prefect dream world.... Where Matt Tuck isn't a prick, and girls are actually not untollerably shallow." He said sarcastically.

Matt continued playing, but looked up at her with a sympathetic look. "Really Alyss, You'd be suprised." He said with a friendly smile. "Look at me. You know my history with women, and now I'm so..." He laughed, shaking his head a little. "I'm with someone who I actually care about more then anything, and who cares about me. It happens. And for all you know, Potter could be the one who changes your mind." He had never been so optimistic in his entire life, and felt a little odd telling her this. But his new found love and trust was doing wonders for his mind, and outlook on life. "Owl him, and tell him what happened... Apologize for something for a change."

Kyle nodded. "I know what you mean. Matt tends to worry when I don't come home." He said with a smirk. It was the truth. If he wasn't home on time, or not home at all, he'd get drilled with questions by his brother. Their mother had learned long ago not to question their whererabouts, and never worried. But Matt was always watching his back, which he was greatful for and returned the favour. Kyle stood from the table and laid a few gold coins on the table, enough to cover the meals, and a tip. "C'mon, let's get going."

"Don't be such a sod." Victoire retorted, hurt etched in the lines of her face. Taking a breath, she tried to speak in a serious tone, "Whatever happened to us? Before this year even began, you were cordial, like you've always been. But after Matt comes into the picture, you speak to me like I'm an immature first year. I know you don't like him, but if you absolutely cannot be kind to him, can you at least try to be polite with me?" Victoire crossed her arms over her chest, her attitude not defiant but rather determined. Her eyes were glued to Al as she awaited his answer.

Rose got up and followed Kyle out. "Thanks again for the food." she said. She would have to write home and let her parents know that they needed to send more money.

Matt took the letter from her hands and placed it safely in his back pocket. "He'll get it. I promise. And if you know me at all, you'll know I'm good to my word." He said with a smile. "I'll be sitting in the same general area as them at the feast, so it'll get into his hands for sure." He stood from the piano and looked at the grandfather clock in the corner. It wasn't quite time to head down yet, but he felt like wandering. "I'll see you later." He said, grabbing his hoodie from the couch and leaving the common room.

Al snapped the book shut, glaring at his cousin from across the coffee table. "You're acting like one!" He said, frustrated. "You stay out all night with a guy you just started dating, and act like nothing happened. You're blind to the fact that he's the biggest flirt in the entire school, and will tell a girl exactly what she wantes to hear to get her into bed. You refuse to believe the fact that he IS going to hurt you. You're being as naive as a first year!" He dragged his hands through his hair, then down his face. "Honestly Vic. You're my cousin, and my best friend. I care about you more then anyone in the whole world, and I've seen you hurt once before by the same kind of guy. I don't want to see it again. But if you insist on being so stupid, I'm not going to be around when it falls apart, and you get your heart broken." He spoke, anger and bitterness in his voice.

He wasn't going to admit the fact that the real reason he was being so cold towards her, was because he was jealous. Jealous of the fact that she could find someone so easily, and that she had someone who loved her. Somewhere inside, he had a feeling Matt was really not so bad. They seemed happy enough at the concert, while Kyle did his solo things. But the overwhelming feeling of jealousy wouldn't let up. Both his cousins were abondoning him for the Tuck twins, leaving him totally alone. He had no other real friends in school, and apparently girls took no interes in him. He felt empty, and completely isolated.

"Don't mention it." Kyle said with a warm smile. In all honesty, he was completely satisfied just spending an afternoon with her. No amount money could really compare to how much he wanted to be with her. He stuck his hands in his pockets and looked around the now almost empty street. The sun had almost completely set, and lanterns lit the path to the school. There was a slightly romantic feel in the air as the pair walked up the path, and it took everything he had not to pull some rash move, like pulling her into his arms and kissing her. He looked off in the distance, trying to ignore the fact his heart was pounding out of his chest.

Victoire's jaw dropped, not being able to comprehend Al's brazenness. "You-I-" She stammered, not sure of how to respond to his harsh words. Al's words stung; he knew just how to push her buttons and how to make her think. But she knew that she and Matt were perfect; she could just feel it. And like she had decided before, she was going to stick through the pain and grief that others gave her. They wouldn't understand, and most never would, of how it felt to be in love. "I think I'm going to the dorms. See you at the feast." Victoire promptly stood up, a rather contemptuous look on her face as she stomped up the staircase as quickly as she could.

Upon reaching the dorms, Victoire was pleased to find that they were empty. She slammed the door shut and took a seat on her bed, lying down as she kicked off her shoes. Staring at the top of the four-poster bed, Victoire frowned as she thought hard. Would Al ever get this through his thick head? Did he realize that she was in love, that she didn't care about Matt's past? She smiled a bit morbidly, wondering if Al would behave differently if he had only known about what she had done with Teddy, and what, or rather who, she had done in France. He'd probably blow to bits if he knew.

Alyss smiled and gave him a nod. "I know and thank you for doing this for me. I so owe you one now," she said as she glanced at her watch. It wasn't time for her rounds, but she wasn't sure if she wanted to go to the feast yet. Hearing Matt, she looked back up and nodded. "Okay," she replied as she saw him leave. Now, did you really want to go down to the feast, or maybe she would just head out to the lake for a little bit.

Running back to her room, she grabbed a light robe and hurried out of the common room and then off to the lake for a moment of thought. She needed to catch up with Meg again and maybe even Jay. Perhaps, she would jsut go to the feast and say hi then leave for rounds early.

Al rolled his eyes as his cousin left the room, and slammed the door to her dorms. She really was quite upset with him. But as much at it hurt to see her mad at him like that, he couldn't bring himself to apologize, when he knew he was right. No matter how much she could try, she'd never change Matt, and make him the person she thought he was. He picked his book up once again and settled in to the couch again, suddenly not really looking forward to the feast.

Matt roamed the halls of the school aimlessly, hands in the pockets of his hoodie, his sleeves pushed back to his elbows. He'd found a way to charm his muggle iPod to work in magical communities, and had his headphones in his ears as he walked along, listening to some music. His thoughts were elsewhere, and his feet carried him where they pleased as he looked off in a daze. Instead of remembering what had happened not long ago with Victorie, his mind drifted back to his time with Lex. It had started out just like this... Too perfect to believe. And it had been. He sat down on the empty staircase, knowing most people were at the feast, and rested his elbows in his knees, head hung low. He hoped to what gods that were that this time it would be different, and no one would interfere with his girl.

Victoire woke from a short nap, her eyes immediately travelling towards the clock. The feast would start soon, so it was best that she got going. Sitting up and yawning, all it took was one quick look in the mirror to see that see needed to clean up a bit before heading downstairs. It was already bad enough that Al had deduced what had happened; Victoire didn't need to whole school whispering about her un-made-up face and wrinkled shirt. Taking her wand, she murmured a quick spell as she waved it over the wrinkles of her shirt. Soon enough, it looked as good as new, as if she had manually ironed it. Thank you, Grandma Weasley, She thought, a small smile coming to her lips as she proceeded to look for her cosmetics bag.

After a few minutes, Victoire had cleaned herself up to satisfaction and made her way out of the dorms. She stopped before descending the stairs, wondering if Al was still down in the common room. Taking a few steps and peeking down the stairwell, she saw Al still reading his novel. Taking a breath, Victoire descended the stairs and approached Al on the couch. "Would you care to go down to the feast with me, or would you rather...?" She trailed off, hoping that Al would accept her olive branch.

Rose smiled as they headed back to the castle. It was one of those nights that were just so perfect. The air smelled fresh, and that temperature was just right. She saw the castle in the distance. It was just like the night before. Two fantastic nights in a row. She was a lucky girl.

Victoire simply frowned, solitary as she watched Al wordlessly leave. Of course he wouldn't have accepted her attempts at peace; he had inherited the somewhat bipolar personality of his father. Sighing, she made her way out of the portrait hole and down the stairs, hoping that the feast would bear a nicer atmosphere than the one that had accompanied the common room. On the way down, Victoire spotted Matt sitting on one off the last few stairs by the Great Hal. He looked dazed. Bending down, she kissed his cheek in an attempt to break his reverie. "Good evening, love," She smiled, all traces of her recent distress masked away.

Kyle looked down at her, seeing her smile and felt his heart fluttering inside his chest. Without really thinking about it, he reached out and took hold of her hand gently. There were so many things he wanted to say, to tell her how he felt. But he knew that to do that was to end their friendship. And even if it ment nothing more, he didn't want to lose that. The sun had gone down completely, and in the distance, he could hear the tower clock chime the hour. The feast was being served. Not that he was hungry, he just needed advice from Matt, and possibly Victorie. Of course he knew what his brother would say, 'go for it' was always his answer. He sighed lightly as the reached the doors of the castle. "I guess you're wanting to get back to your commons." He said softly, turning to face her, and taking her other hand in his as well.

Seeing Matt on the stairs caused Al to roll his eyes and walk past the older boy, only to be stopped. "What." He said flatly.

Matt pulled Alyss's letter from his pocket and handed it over. "I was told to give this to you, and you only." He said, trying to be ad friendly as possible, even if he was still not particularly happy about the earlier punch in the face. Al just took it from his hand and left again. His eyes turned to Victorie a moment later, earlier thoughts melting away. "good evening to you as well." He said, standing and placing a kiss on her now lipsticked lips.

Victoire took his hand in hers, beginning to slowly lead him down the stairs. "No sight of Kyle yet? Rose is still missing. And Al, unfortunately, is not." She frowned, not being able to help poking fun at her cousin. She loved Al, but when he behaved like a mule, he deserved to be treated like one. As for Rose, she hoped that things had gone well for her in Hogsmeade, whether or not she had met up with Kyle or not. Maybe once she returned, she would be able to calm the savage beast that had taken over Al.

Victoire frowned, not quite sure of how to respond. Part of her wanted to answer him in the affirmative, but she felt that all of Al's moods weren't necessarily caused by his general dislike of Matt Tuck. "Honestly," She began, "I know he obviously dislikes you for some odd reason; don't ask me to elaborate, because he doesn't seem to have a decent reason to hold his grudges. But at least for today, I think most of his hatred stems from the fact that he was stood up. His date never showed up, so he was in quite a fierce mood when I found him in the commons." Victoire felt empathetic towards her cousin; if only Al's date had shown up, then he would have possibly been as joyous as a tot when Victoire had encountered him. Alas, that had not been the case. "But don't feel bad. I think he hates me, as well, so we're in the same boat." Victoire attempted to laugh, although that frown still remained glued to her face.

Victoire smiled softly as she sat with Matt, grateful for not having to sit across from a moody Al at dinner. It was going to be bad enough to have to deal with him if she encountered him after the feast. But as for now, she was glad that her dinner wasn't spoiled. Crossing her legs, she looked over at the staff table, counting the professors herself. "I'm not quite sure," She pursed her lips in thought, "Maybe they made a mistake? Or maybe someone from the Ministry is here; I wouldn't be surprised."

Matt shrugged, not know what was going on. He was curious as to what was going on, and hoped the headmaster would explain soon. He reached across the table and took her delicate hands in his, turning his attention back to his love. "No matter, we'll find out soon." He said with a loving smile.

Al sat down alone near the end of his normal house table, and unfolded the parchment he'd been given. Reading it over several times, he found himself even more confused. Alyss was apologizing for standing him up? Now that hardly made sence. Who apologized for that kind of thing. He looked up, trying to spot the girl in the crowd, but soon found she wasn't there. He sighed and refolded the parchment, and put it in his pocket. Perhapse he'd go meet her on her rounds later after all. His attention was broken when the headmaster stood at the front of the room, and the sounds for chattering students immediatly stopped.

"Students, and staff." The headmaster began. "As you may, or may not know, our current flying instructor Mrs. Perry has taken the next year or so off, to be with her new baby, and husband." The headmaster smiled fondly at the sea of students. "So because we have first years who need to learn the ways of the broom, we have a new professor taking over for her."

He waved his hand towards the hall doors, which opened revealing a young man on the other side. "May I present you all with our new addition, and former student, Professor T. Lupin."

Alyss quietly made her way toward her house table with an indifference smirk on her face that caused some first years to slide down and out of her way. She still had it and just the look on her face scared the firsties. Pouring herself some water, she looked up to the staff table as she heard the Headmaster's voice. What? Yet another new professor? she thought as she heard the doors open and noticed the young new professor. Blinking, she shook her head. Was it really who she thought it was?


Eira didn't partially like the feeling of the room upon her entrance before the feast. She had noticed the additional chair and that sparked some concern for her. Letting the concern stew, she continued on with her meal until she heard the Headmaster. Listening to what was said, her eyes followed along with all the others as they rested on the young man behind the doors. Since when had Hogwarts employed so many new and young professors? she asked herself as the news finally settled in. Oh, she could just sense it already. The year was going to be rather long....