Alyss came to a sudden stop and stepped from the hearth and huffed. She should have known the floo would leave her looking a mess, but hey they had managed to get out of the castle. Dusting herself off, she reached for her wand. A slight jet of air zoomed from the tip and cleaned the rest of the powder off her. Yes, that was so much better now. Storing her wand again, she looked up and followed her friend.

Leaning up against the counter, she looked around. "You know all these broom look similar year to year," she sighed. Every year it was the same look, how boring is that?

Kyle looked over his shoulder as the bell above the door chimed twice more. Matt and Victorie were sitting in an out of the way booth, which was typical of couples, and Rose was standing beside the bar, digging through her bag. He waved the bartended over. "One for her too. Put it on the Tuck tab, she's with us." He said, nodding towards his brother. The Bartender knew them both quite well, and had often asked them to play in the bar on Valentines day to entertain the patrons. Of course, they always did. Hey, it got them free drinks every year. He looked side long at Rose and smiled a weak, half smile. "Take a seat, I got it." He said, as the bartender lay her butterbeer on the bar.

Matt looked over at the bar where his brother sat. Rose was not somewhat near him, looking as if she'd lost something in her bag. He warched as Kyle called the bartender over, and ordered another drink whigh he lay infront of the red head. "Well, that looked promising." He said to Vic, taking a sip from his tea while wrapping both hands around the mug to warm them up. "He dosen't often buy girls drinks. Well, not during school when it's still technically illegal. On tour, different story." He shrugged and looked back to Vic, and smiled.

Victoire smiled as they seemed to be interacting, if only a little. "Well, I suppose that's a step in the right direction," She nodded, turning away from the pair of awkward lovebirds and facing Matt and she took a sip of her own drink. Adjusting her scarf on her neck, Victoire frowned a bit. "I'm sorry about all of the trouble. I want Rose to be happy, but I never thought that it would take this much to open her eyes and her heart to what is right in front of her." She laughed a bit at her own words, knowing she sounded a bit silly. "I swear to Merlin, if it weren't for Rose being my cousin and Kyle being your brother, these two would have no chance in Hades of receiving my matchmaking help."

Victoire laughed at his comment. Right he is, She thought humorously. Simply being alone with him seemed to make the stress of the situation ebb away. The warmth from his hands and from her drink had warmed her up quite considerably. Hearing his request, she nodded and began, "Sure, of course. But afterwards, can we please go looking for a dress?" Leaving one hand linked with his, Victoire quickly took another sip of her drink before leaving a few galleons on the table for payment. Swiping up the jar filled with blue flames dancing about, she failed to notice his mischievous expression. Maybe the cold had numbed her reaction time along with her nose. She pulled Matt along quickly, hoping that Rose and Kyle wouldn't notice that their departure would leave the two single kids alone with each other.

Victoire stepped into the shop, the movement of the door causing a bell to ring and a clerk to glance over at the entering duo from the register. Paying the teens no more attention, the clerk went back to his business. "Hm..." Victoire scanned the glass counter for various things. "It depends; everyone's different. Does your mother like anything specific? Rubies, emeralds, diamonds, anything?" Her eye caught a stunning diamond ring gleaming off in a corner under the protective glass, but she said nothing. This trip was for Matt's mother, not for her to go and purchase jewelry for herself. It wasn't like she could afford any of it at the moment, as all of the money in her pocket was to go towards her gown for the ball.

"Yeah... It is rather dull. Do you think I could custom order these things? Can you imagine a team with deep blue broomsticks?" Meg said fiddling with a broomstick that was left on the counter.

"Maybe you should get in to broom design. They could use somebody that knew... you know... anything."

Rose smiled. "Thanks." she said taking a seat next to Kyle. "I can pay you back later. I just didn't grab any money this morning. I forgot all about Hogmeade this weekend." she said with a little laugh. Yeah. 'Forgetting' was a complete understatement. She had been so buried in homework she didn't even know it was a Hogsmeade weekend.

Rose laughed. "Seriously? Because I see you like 5 times a day. You must not be looking hard enough." she said. She then took a slip of her butterbeer. "This is fantastic. You're a lifesaver." she said letting out a content sigh.

"But seriously. I've been good. Just been busy with holiday homework. I just finished though. So now I can properly enjoy the break." she said. "What about you? How have you been?" she asked.

"You're going to be all alone during the holiday?" Rose asked sadly. "Why don't you come with Victorie? The Weasley clan loves having people over." she said. She really couldn't bear the thought of being alone during the holidays. "Or you could always stay here. The thought has even crossed my mine a few times to stay here during the holidays." Every time her cousins got in a fight (which was pretty often) she'd thought about staying at Hogwarts.

Alyss ran her finger over the counter and made a face as she blow the dust off her finger. "You know I would rather like to see that," she laughed as she pushed off the counter and wandered about the store.

Yes, they all looked the same and there was definitely something lacking in the design. Boring was just what it was, extremely boring! "You know, I might just have to think about it. But you so could be on to something."

Rose laughed. "True. But aren't you the least bit interested in how the other half lives? Anyway. I'm sure it won't be a bother. My parents wouldn't be able to stand it if you didn't have someone to spend the break with." she explained. "I honestly wouldn't dream of it either. That is, if you don't mind sharing a room. We have kind of a large family when we all get together."

Meg laughed. "You know. I have a team and a vault... or three... filled with gold... we could start our own broom line..." she said walking around the corner and peering back to where the man went.

"Finally." she said catching sight of him.

Soon the new racing brooms were presented to her.

"Shall we head back?" she asked holding an armful of brooms.

Alyss stood before a display and tilted her head slightly. Their own line of brooms would be interesting. Glancing back to her best friend, she smirked. "You know, I like that idea Meg." Everyone would WANT one!

It would be the talk of the school and beyond. Yes, she really liked the idea.

Walking back to the counter, she nodded and glanced to the window. The snow was really coming down now. "I believe so, it's not getting any better outside."

Victoire sensed the change in his tone of voice, causing the corners of her mouth to frown ever so slightly. Her parents had always been happily married, so she had never had to experience the pain that came with divorced parents. The palpable tension in the air had never been present at any of Victoire's family gatherings. She wanted to grab his hand and reassure him that he wasn't alone, that there were many others just like the Tuck family that went through the same thing every year. He didn't need to look for reasons to justify the split; sometimes, marriages were simply not meant to be. "Oh," She sounded almost surprised as her opinion on the jewelry was asked. "They're gorgeous." And that they were. The jewels sparkled under the dimmest of light.

Meg smirked. "Yup. I'm full of them." she said commenting on her idea for them designing brooms. Balancing all the brooms against one hip she managed to still keep her saunter while walking.

She headed over to the fireplace and grabbed a handful of powder. "Hogwart's - Jacobsen's Office" she said with a grin. Oh yeah, this was too easy.

Rose laughed. "I think all people all like that." she said. she of course didn't mind seeing family with their significant others, but anything more than holding hands was far too much to witness.

"So were you dragged down here as well?'" she asked. "I was told I was needed to help locate a gown for Victoire... but it appears she's not very interested in dress shopping at the moment."

Which was a shame, but there was a fire up in the Gryffindor tower calling her name.

Kyle laughed a little and nodded. "I was told I was needed to keep mat sane while watching his woman try on said gowns." He said with a smirk. "I think he said something about going to get mum something for christmas too, so that's probably where they went. I'm sure he'd have dragged me with him if they were gone to look for dresses." He looked out the window, seeing what the weather was doing. Thankfully, the snow storm was starting to subisde, and now the flakes were gently falling. Several first years were having a snowball fight in the court, and a group of carolers were walking around. He was somewhat shocked to see who was the groups leader. He called the bartender over. "Two hot chocolates to go, please." He said. The bartender nodded and headed off to fetch their drinks. He turned back to Rose, and pointed to the gorgeous girl in front, snow caught in her long purpley blue hair. "I don't care how badly she ruined Matt's life. She's still got one of the most angelic voices I've ever heard. You've got to come hear her sing." He said, as the bartender came back and handed him two paper mugs of hot chocolate.

Matt nodded, and examined the earings a little closer. THey weren't overly expensive, like he'd thought they'd be. White gold with emeralds hanging from a white gold chain. Very Slytherine. "I think she'll like them." He said, nodding to the clerk, who took them to wrap up. "I'll just be a few minutes. You go on over to the dress store, and I'll be there when I'm done." He said, trying not to give his secret adjenda away.

Al had been wandering about the various shops looking for something for Alys for Christmas. So far, he'd found nothing. And from what he heard floating around, Meg Isley was none to thrilled about the fact he hadn't asked her best friend to the ball yet. But did he really have to? She was his girlfriend, so wasn't it safe to assume that she'd obviously be attending with him. He'd been about to enter Honeydukes, when the sound of carolers caught his ears. But it wasn't your typical christmas song they were singing. It was and acapella version of the Swan Lake theme. He'd seen the ballet several times wit Victorie and could recognise the tune in his sleep. But this was unreal. The voice singing the main melody was fantastic. Perfectly pitched, and clearly well trained. He turned and saw the girl who'd caused Matt's distress back when the twins had played their show. Les, Lisa? Something along those lines. Her hair gave her away instantly, as did the piercings. But her voice... He couldn't help but watch helplessly captivated by how clearly the unsusally high notes rang free from her mouth. It seemed effortless.

(OOC: Link to the song. This woman never fails to amaze me. *Swoons endlessly* YouTube - The Agonist - Swan Lake (A Capella))

Victoire nodded, although she had wanted to window shop just a bit longer. But he was right. Giving him a peck on the cheek, she opened the door and made a rush to the nearby dress store. The warmth of the place hit her immediately and seeing racks and racks of gorgeous gowns made her smile. The wizard money in her pocket seemed to burn as she itched to spend it. There seemed to be a perfumed scent in the air as a few witches made their way about, randomly browsing. She made her way up to a random rack and began searching through gowns, knowing there were many that she would love to purchase.

Rose smiled. The things they'd do for family. She then looked to were Kyle was pointing. "Umm... okay." she said unsure of what her cousin would think of associating in any way with that girl. "Lead the way." she said.

Victoire jumped when Matt approached her. She smiled, a few dresses already on her arm. She turned her head to face him, but through his grin she saw something different. She attempted to ignore it for the moment; it was probably the cold eating away at her nerves or something or other. "Okay," She breathed, picking up a few dresses from her arms, "What do you think? The red one, the white and black one, the ruffled one?" She examined them and rushed off to the dressing room, knowing that Matt would tell her which one looked the best. She knew she might be putting him through torture, but it wouldn't be long. She wasn't sure how long she would be able to stand the damned cold and snow any longer, and it wouldn't be a long time before they would have to be heading back.

Kyle lead her outside, handing her a cup of hot chocolate, and into the gathering crowd of people around the four singing girls. "She's been in a lot of musicals and operas with me and Matt." He said quietly, trying not to interrupt the groups songs. "And she's a musical genious. I remember when she was reworking that classical piece into an a capella piece... She blew everyone away with it." He looked back to Lex and smirked a bit. Her voice was sending shivvers down his spine. And apparently Al's too. Rose's cousin was not five feet away and was pretty much drooling. "Al seems to be enjoying it if nothing else." he said quietly.

Matt looked between each. "Not white. No one wears a white dress unless their getting married." He said, taking the white dress away, and hanging it on a near by rack. "And I'm not sure about the ruffles. The rest I'd have to see on to give a proper judgement." He said, looking at the remaining ones. He senced something in the air tense, and hoped that she didn't think something was going on with him. Because there was, he just refused to acknowledge it.

Alyss smirked as she looked back to to Meg and then the hearth. "Yes and one of these days we'll have to get them all down," she replied as she gave the shopkeeper a last look and headed for the fireplace.

Reaching for the floo powder, she stepped into the hearth and winked before tossing the powder at her feet. "Howarts - Jacobsen's Office."



Eira realized something was completely off as she noticed her office door was ajar. She would never leave it so, especially whilst she was not there. Peeking her head inside, she noticed the last flicker of emerald flames in her fireplace. Someone was apparently using her fireplace.

Pulling the door open, she glanced around. If they were going to use her floo to leave, they would have to return the same way. And what that happened she would be there. Setting her supplies down on her besk, she took a seat in her chair and waited.

"Alright, then," Victoire answered, frowning at the choice. The dress was gorgeous, but he was right. Even if she wasn't attending her own wedding, she would have looked like a snowflake at the Yule Ball. Snatching up the other gowns, she went to one of the few dressing rooms near the corner of the store and began to change into the ruffled dress. She dressed rather mechanically, knowing that something was up that he didn't seem to be telling her. After slipping into the dress that she chose, she quickly examined herself before opening the door and stepping out, smoothing out a few creases as she waited to hear Matt's opinion.

Matt took a seat on a rather large, comfortable arm chair as he waited for her to change. He'd been in the same position several times before with Lex. Every time she'd needed a nrew outfit, she'd drag him to the muggle shopping mall and he'd spend hours watching her try on different things. At least this store had comfrotable chairs... Perhaps they'd had complaints from other men that they needed some proper seating. He looked her over quickly, eyes lingering on hers. There was something in them that gave away the fact that she knew something was wrong inside his head. He forced the thought away and exaimened the dress a little more. It fit her perfectly, hugging her every curve, and gently floating away at her hips. "It's a little conservative." He said, looking her up and down again. It had a cap-sleeve and a fairly tame neck line. The style reminded him of something a 1950's movie star would wear to a red carpet event. And that didn't suit Vic, even if she had that blonde bombshell quality.

He looked around the room and spotted a deep purple dress hanging on a rack in the corner. "What about that one?" He said, nodding towards it. Something told him she wouldn't go fo it. It was rather slinky, and low cut, but he had a feeling she'd look fantastic in it.

(OOC: Dress. I actually wore this to my high school graduation in black. From the back - http://i654.photobucket.com/albums/u...87605_5498.jpg
From the front - http://i654.photobucket.com/albums/u...87598_3911.jpg)

Victoire folded her arms over her chest as Matt expressed his opinion. He was right, in a sense, but she did quite like the dress. Did he want her to freeze in that low neckline that he was suggesting? She strutted over and pulled it off of the rack, taking it along with her into the room. Before closing the door, she began, "I guess it doesn't hurt to try." She quickly slipped out of the more-conservative dress and slipped on the purple number. She examined the design; it was pretty, but she was having quite a hard time tying the damned string into a bow on her back. Opening the door, she had one hand on her back, holding the strings together, as she inquired, "Can you help me tie it?" She turned her back to him to show him her dilemma, taking her free hand to brush her hair from her back. Once Matt had helped her out, Victoire would be able to get a better look at the dress on herself in the mirror.

"Well she does sound brilliantly." Rose said accepting the hot chocolate. She then smirked looking over at her cousin. "Yes he does..." she said slowly. And if the boy knew better he could stop ogling. He was supposed to have a 'girlfriend', right?

"Ugh. Why can't there be a civilized broom shop here? I always feel like I'm getting looked at. It's creepy." Meg said emerging from the fireplace. She took a step out and wiped off the front of her robes while balancing the brooms on her hip.

She looked up to notice the door was open. And Professor Jacobsen was right there. Merlin, that was the last time she'd listen to Aly's plan.

She flashed a bright smile at the Professor. "Hello there Professor Jacobsen. Fancy a ride?" she asked. She couldn't very easily hide the fact that she had 5 against the rules for students to own broomsticks.

Alyss looked up from her spot as she emerged from the fires and dusted herself off. Hearing Meg's comment, she looked up. "You know that shopkeeper wasn't all that...." she smirked as she thought back to the keeper. But before she could finish her thought, she notice they weren't alone. Jacobsen was there! "Hello, Professor...." Yeah, they were in for it now!
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Jacobsen shook her head. Why didn't it surprise her that it was Prefect Dewley and Miss Isley. She really should have guessed it would be those two. In all her time there, she had never seen the two of them apart and if one was usually present, the other wasn't too far behind.

Taking note of the brooms, she raised a brow and shook her head. "No, I wouldn't fancy a ride, Miss Isley," she frowned. "I would like to know just why you are in procession of those and why you are in my office." She was sure they would try to sell her some outlandish story. The two girls were rather intelligent, but Eira wasn't born yesterday.

Matt arched at eyebrow at her rather huffy reaction to his comment about the ruffled dress. "Hey, you asked." He said, and she snatched the oher dress he'd suggested from the rack. Her attitude was not very plesant. But when she stepped out and asked for his help he stood and walked over to her, pushing her long blonde hair over her bare shoulders. "I'd rather be untieing it, but..." He said softly in her ear with a smirk. He took the strings from her hand and slowly tied them in a bow, and let his hands slide down her shoulders, then her arms, before he wrapped his around her waist. He turned her toward the mirror and smiled. "This is much better." He said, his hands resting on her hips. "Not too over the top, not too conservative. It's very you."

Kyle laughed a little and shook his head. "Ive seen that look before when it comes to Lex. Hell, I've had that look before. Matt nearly killed me for it..." He shrugged and lead her out of the group of spectators, and down the path towards the high-end dress shop. He figured Matt would need saving, and Victorie might want the opinion of her female cousin. "So..." He said casually, sipping his hot chocolate. "You going to the ball tomorrow?"

Victoire smirked at his comment, but not wholeheartedly. He had made a rather quick save by whispering sweet nothings into her ear, but Victoire forgave him all the same. Maybe he had run into a rather angry caroler on the way to the shop and that's what had been the cause of his mood in the first place. Besides, she was the one who had dragged him down to Hogsmeade in the first place. Cocking her head to the side slightly, she examined herself in the mirror. With Matt's hands on her hips, they did make quite a nice pair. The color of the dress complimented her hair, and a small smile appeared on her lips. "I like it," She nodded slowly, her hand tracing over one of the eloquent designs on the dress.

Victoire smiled at his compliment, but the corner of her lips turned down ever so slightly as he diminished himself. What was with the self-pity? Wasn't Matt one of the cockiest guys at Hogwarts? "Don't be like that," She spoke softly, a lopsided smile on her face as her hands found their place near his. Her eyes stared at their faces in the mirror, her gaze traveling to watch the reflection of his gorgeous eyes. "You'll look quite debonair. I'll have to make sure that the other girls in attendance don't try to steal you away from me." She squeezed his hand slightly, but there lay a bit of menace behind her words. Victoire had far from forgotten about Lex and her conniving ways. At least it seemed like Victoire's ex, Teddy, wasn't trying to get his leg over. Lex was quite a different creature, it seemed.

"An errand." Meg replied simply. "And I couldn't possible have let my owl carry these in this weather." she said motioning toward the window. "And it was very crucial that they get here today." she then paused. "In all honesty, I think I deserve some sort of award for humanity. I can't believe people actually send owls out in blizzards. I think I'll start a campaign against it. Thanks for your support in the cause." she said as she headed for the door. The chances of actually getting away with just changing the subject once where quite slim, but if done enough times perhaps she would forget what they were talking about it the first place. It's worked plenty of times before.

Rose followed Kyle down the street toward the dress shop. She shrugged at the question. "I'm sure Victoire will tell me she'll simply die if I don't go... but I haven't really made any plans to go. I figured Victoire and Al will be just fine without me." Plus that meant the common room all to herself and no more annoying questions about why she wasn't dating anyone. It would be a relief, if only for a few hours.

Victoire took a quick glance in the mirror and spoke, "This is lovely; it works just fine." Slipping out of his grasp, she made her way to the dressing room and quickly changed into her winter clothes before removing herself and all of the dresses from the small stall. Putting the undesirables back on a nearby rack, she smiled as she gazed at the purple dress. "Whoever knew that you had such taste?" She laughed softly as she made her way over to the clerk at the register. After paying the reasonable sum and grasping the paper bag firmly in her hand, Victoire reached out her free hand to take Matt's as she made her way towards the door. The flurry of snow seemed to be worsening by the minute. It was a wonder that the carolers remained rooted to their spot. Someone in the group of carolers looked familiar from behind, but Victoire couldn't quite tell who it was. Maybe a familiar Gryffindor.

Matt smirked. "I just saw it there and thought it'd look nice on you. I don't claim to have any real sence of what's in, and what's not." He joked, taking her hand. He'd been about to leave when Kyle walked in. "Hey bro." He said, looking over his twins shoulder at Rose. "Hello to you as well, Rose." He glanced over at Vic, a small smile playin at his lips. "What brings you here?"

Kyle looked dead into his brothers eyes, and gave him 'it's-not-what-you-think-it-looks-like' look. "We just came to see if you need rescuing, and if Victorie needed the advice of a woman." He said, glancing down at the bag is the blonde's hands. "But it seems that you've finished your shopping..." And by the looks of things, they were about to leave. Not good. Not good at all. The carolers were dispersing because of the weather, and if he knew her as well as he did, Lex would bee-line right towards them. She had the tendancy to hang around them during the christmas holiday. Normally, it wouldn't be too bad because Matt was single and she could flirt with him, and do whatever else all she wanted. But now with Victorie in the picture, this was only going to cause some much unwanted drama.

Victoire was pleasantly surprised as Kyle entered with Rose at his side. "We're good," She smiled, nodding at the two. It would have been nice to have had Rose and Kyle in there, possibly for Matt and Vic to mediate if any tense vibes arose, but things seemed fine all the same. Her faith was renewed in Rose ever so slightly. "Unless Rose needs a dress," She began, her gloved hand on the door, "I say that we go before we become snowmen in this weather." Her breath fogged the glass on the door, the wind audible inside of the store. She had no idea who she would encounter once they stepped outside.

OOC: Hey, I'm taking over the character of Lex for Stacey. I was apart of the original version of this RP and haven't done this in awhile, so it might be a little rough.


Lexi smirked to herself as she watched the shoppers stare at her in various forms of awe. She knew just how well she could sing and loved the fact that it got her attention from others. The fact that she could hit high notes that most couldn’t even after being trained was something that she was very proud of. As she looked at the group of admirers, she spotted a couple of her fellow classmates. Noticing one person in particular, Albus, staring at her and almost drooling almost made her laugh, but her attention was drawn away when she saw Matt out of the corner of her eye. She watched for a moment to see where he was going and frowned when she saw him with none other than Victoire Weasley. She definitely had to do something to fix this situation. She may have been the one that caused their relationship to end, but she wasn’t going to give up on everything they had been through without a fight. They had a history together.

Noticing that the carolers were dispersing, as well as the shoppers who took some time out of their schedule to stand and listen, she walked over to the group, grinning mischievously. “Hey boys,” she said, purposely ignoring Victoire. "Rose," she added, acknowledging the other person in the group.

Victoire's question was almost immediately answered, albeit not by anyone she would have wanted to have spoken. Lex had strolled up to them out of the blue. She hadn't even heard the door to the shop open and close. What a sneaky little minx. Why Albus Severus Potter thought she was drool-worthy was a wonder to Victoire; Alyss was better fit. Alyss might have gotten her fair share of men, but she at least she wasn't purposely hurtful to other girls. She pursed her painted lips as Lex purposely ignored her. Maybe it wasn't such a bad thing; pretending like each other didn't exist was something that Victoire could get used to. She said nothing to Lex, but grasped Matt's hand more tightly.

Her face was taut as her eyes narrowed. Lex had thrown quite the fit the other day, but was she prepared to throw one in public? Only Merlin knew. Victoire would stand her ground. She was prepared to play nice, but only if Lex would do the same.

Matt's heart nearly stopped when Lex walked over. This girl has to be able to read minds or something... He thought bitterly. "Lex." He saaid flatly, slipping his hand from Victorie's, and putting it around her waist instead. He pulled hisgirlfriend in closer, eyes staring down Lex, daring her to say anything more. "What brings you out here?" He asked cooly. He wasn't about to let her see that hearing her sing, and seeing her again was getting to him like it use to. She'd known for years what her voice did to him, and he knew she'd take advantage of that as much as she could.

Kyle let out an audible sigh, and rolled his eyes as Lex walked over. "Just what we needed." He said quietly to Rose. "I might need your help breaking up a catfight in a minute, because I know that's what she's here for." He looked up to Lex and all but forced a smile. When he was alone with her, he'd be civil, and a friend, but he knew that if Matt wittnessed it, he'd be furious. Matt was under the impression that Kyle should hate her as well, even though nothing was done to him. Yes, he was still mad at her for ruining his twin's life, but he wasn't going to lose a friend over it. He'd told her off many times for doing what she did, and she was genuinly sorry. But Matt was having none of it, which put Kyle in a very awkward position. "Afternoon." He said.

OOC: Welcome back!

Victoire could feel the tension in the atmosphere and far from making her uncomfortable, it made her angry. She was prepared to fight if it came down to it, but it seemed that Kyle was trying to simmer down the situation. Lex knew exactly what she was doing and, even though Vic didn't want to admit it, her manipulative ways were working. A fire burned in her eyes. If she spoke, her words were likely to come out in a bark or a hiss. Rather than cause a commotion, Victoire stayed silent once more, her mouth tight. Kyle seemed to be taking the lead in getting the group out of the terse atmosphere, but she wasn't sure how long his leadership would be able to stand against Lex.

Victoire closed her eyes for a moment before opening them, taking a deep breath as she didn't bother to protect her weather-bitten face with her scarf. "It's not your fault," She murmured, her chest tight as her breathing was short. Victoire didn't dare look behind them. Matt had left Kyle and Rose in an awkward situation, but it was good that he had taken her away and pushed past Lex. "It was me and my lack of a gown that brought us here. But I don't blame myself, either." Her eyes narrowed as she pictured Lex in her mind's eye. "She'll be back. I don't doubt it."

"We were just leaving." He snapped back, pushing past the girl and taking Rose's hand to lead her away as well. When the pair were out of earshot of everyone else, He dropped her hand and shook his head. "That girl will stop at nothing, I swear!" He muttered. "I'm really sorry you had to see that." He looked down at Rose and smiled a little, albeit weakly.

Al had been to caught up in watching the performance to notice the weather start to pick up again. But as everyone began to leave, he snapped back into reality in time to see Matt and Victorie all but run from the dress shop, followed soon my Kyle and Rose. That was odd, Victorie running from a shop with clothes? He shrugged and walked farther down the street to finish his shopping when he spotted the pretty purple-haired girl from the singing group. He had a funny feeling that she may have had something to do with sending his cousins and the twins running like that, because of her history with Matt. He gave a smile as he passed her by. "Great job back there." He called plesantly.

Matt forwned a little and shook his head. It was clear she was upset by the whole ordeal, and he was as well, but for an entirely different reason. He stopped just before they reached the path and pulled her into his arms, holding her close to his chest. He lowered his head and rested his ontop of hers. "She can come back as many times as she damn well pleases. But she's not taking me from you." He said softly, arms tightening around her in a warm hug. "I'm yours, for as long as you can stand me. And as soon as she realizes that, she'll stop this. She'll have to." He placed a kiss to the top of her head and sighed. "I love you, you know that... At least, I hope you do."

Victoire smiled softly as they embraced each other, the fire and rage in her heart dying down. "Of course I know that," She answered consolingly, "I love you too. I'm not giving you up without a fight, and I don't think Kyle wants to see Lex around either." She laughed softly, knowing that she had to compliment Kyle on his fast save earlier. As her anger died down, she began to take more notice of the biting cold. Loosening her hold on Matt, Victoire began, "We should go before we freeze to death. And just in case she tries to catch up with us." She turned her head quickly to see if anyone had caught up but caught sight of no one.

Victoire was glad that Matt had agreed; her fingers were quickly becoming numb through the fabric of her gloves. When they reached the warmth of the castle and were in the Entrance Hall, she was much relieved. As she placed her hands on his shoulders, she smirked at his comment. "But of course," She laughed softly. "I hate to put your warmth to waste," She sighed, "But I have some coursework to finish up. After tomorrow night, we'll be off together for the holidays. We'll have plenty of time to catch up. And I don't want anything school-related standing in our way." She planted a soft, longing kiss on his lips before pulling away, a small smile on her face.

Matt laughed deeply against her lips and he kissed her back. "Alright. Go on. I'll be in the music room whenever you're done." He said, letting her go. "As much as I hate to let you go, I guess having the whole holiday together is better then homework." He smiled and took a few steps backwards. "Have fun darling." He said before he left and headed down to the dungeons. He entered the music room alone and sighed, feeling a little better then he had before. Still, the thought of Lex's voice flowed through his head, sending shivers down his spine. He picked up his guitar and sat down on the couch, and started mindlessly playing as he waited for Kyle to show up.

Al smirked a little as he looked over his shoulder. "Any time!" He called as he made his way back to the castle. He still had to find Alyss, to confirm that they were indeed going to the ball together. The only problem was actually finding her. That girl was everywhere in the run of a day, and it was nearly impossible to keep track of her. He went back inside the castle and shook the snow off. "Now, where are you..." He sighed, looking up at the grand staircase, wondering where to start.

Victoire reluctantly parted from Matt, making her way up the Grand Staircase towards the Gryffindor Common Room. After speaking the to the Fat Lady briefly ("Dear, why did you venture out into that cold? I was visiting one of the portraits in the first floor corridor and it was absolutely freezing! Are you mad?"), the portrait door swung open to reveal the crackling fire and many students huddled together for warmth. She laughed softly, knowing that she had much work to get to. The potions essay would have to be tackled sooner than later. She bypassed many younger students and went up to the dorms, wanting to finish up her work as quickly as possible so she would be able to rejoin her friends and cousins.

Jay made his way back through the castle afer returning his trunk to his dorm. He had been absent for some time to attend his father's funeral and help take care of a few things. he shoved his hands into the pockets of his pant and made his way down the empty corridor as he passed the old music room he heard te sound of a guitar and walked into find matt playing

Al jumped a little as a voice spoke to him. He turned and smiled as he saw Lex. He probably shouldn't have. If Victorie or Alyss had seen, they'd probably kill him. "I was just wondering were I should go first to look for my girlfriend." He replied with a simple shrug. "I was supposed to meet her in Hogsmead, but I never saw her anywhere, so I assumed she's around here somewhere on duty... Keeping an eye on the first years and such." He said, looking back up the stairs. There certianly was a lot of places he needed to look.

Matt looked up at Jay walked into the room. "Hey man." He said, starting in on something he was working on. "How've you been? I heard about your dad... I'm really sorry." He glanced up at his housemate and offered him a seat on the couch opposite him. "I'm here if you need anything you know. Both me and Kyle are."

" Been Better, Been worse,' he answered with a shrug. " It's all right I'll be fine. how have things been while I been gone?
he asked curiously.

Al shrugged a little. "I figured you were firneds with Alyssandra too, seeing as she was pretty close with the twins." He said lightly. There was venom in her words when she spoke of Victorie, which he understood. If someone had been dating Alyss after they broke up, he wouldn't be happy either. But Lex was taking it to a bit of an extreme. He wouldn't try to break them up, like she was obviously trying to do with Matt and Vic. "Well, if you see her in the Slytherine commons, let her know I'm looking?" He said, heading up the stairs, towards the library. That was the only place worth going on Hogsmead days anyway.

Matt nodded slowly, understanding what he meant. "Lex has been just as insufferable as ever." He said with an annoyed tone to his voice. "She's not going to let up... But I think I have something that might make her at least back off." He said, lowering his voice. He pulled the small, square box from his pocket and passed it to Jay. "I bought it today for Vic. Think it's too much, too soon?" He'd been aftaid he was rushing things when he'd bought it, but the more the thought about it, it seemed to be the logical choice of action. She'd already said she wasn't giving him up without a fight, and he'd already sworn himself to her. So why not make it offical that they'd be together forever? He pulled the top off the box to give Jay a batter look at the ring that lay inside.

" That's typical tho isn't it." Jay said as he sat down across from Matt as he continued to tell him about Lex's latest ranting. then he pulled out a box and asked if it was tomuck to soon. " To by a girl jewlery? Nah. most girls lke that sort of stuff." Jay arched his brow when Matt started to talk about forever." wait.. You aren't talking like diamond earrings are you?" Jay asked as Matt opened the small box. " Matt.. this is a...ring.man..are you serious? " he picked the ring up and looked it over. " Your sure... Weasley?" He asked his tone lacked the superior bite it usually had when he talked about others.

Matt shook his head, a small smile on his lips. "I think so." He said, not looking up at Jay. "I mean, she can take it however she wants... I won't say anything when I give it to her. Like I won't outright ask. But if she assumes thats what it means, then yeah, I'm serious." He laughed a little. "I know it's crazy. We've been together a few months, and I already don't want to leave her... Who would have thought that I'd find someone who'd be more then a one nighter?" He said more to himself then anything, watching Jay look the ring over. Even Kyle hadn't seen it yet, or even knew what he was planning on doing. Matt knew that if Kyle knew, he'd try and talk him out of it, because it was too soon.

Again, Kyle sighed. "I hate to say this, but when you did what you did, the Matt you knew died. He's a different person entirely... He gave up on love, on finding someone like you. He said that without you there was no point in living... and I reallly can't cound the number of times I picked him up off our bathroom floor and stayed up with him all night to make sure he was alright." He looked up at the girl, a serious look in his hazle eyes. "But now he's finally past that. I can't see him go through that again... Because you and I both know that you're no good for each other." He hung his head. "I don't expect you to anything but move on... Let him live his life."

" Long as you know what your getting into and your sure thats what ya want." Jay said then a voice started to nag in the back of his head that he shold be trying to convince Matt to run and forget the whole thing because it when against everything the guy had ever stood for. He placed the ring back int he box and handed it to Matt. " It's a big change just make sure your ready for it."

Matt took back the ring box and looked at the stones shimmering in the light. "I know man, it's just... I don't know. Am I crazy? I mean, It's me. I don't do this kind of thing... Hell, I'm the king of hook-ups." He looked up at his one time friend, and found himself wondering why he was suddenly confiding in someone he hadn't spoken to in years, other then the occasional hello. "Like, It's really weird, you know? Ever since we got together, I don't want that life anymore. I want someone waiting for me to come home every night. I want someone to wake up with in the mornings." He laughed a little and lay the still open box on the table infront of him.. "It feels weird saying it... But that's what I want."

Kyle nodded. "I can understand that." He said slowly. "He's in the music room now, if you want to try to get him to hear you out. I didn't tell you that either, if he asks." He replied as he got up from his chair. "And if you need someone to talk to, I'm here, you know." he stretched and made his way to his dorm to finish his homework.

" It is weird for you about as weird as it is us actually having this conversation." Jay admitted. Sudden he realized he couldn't even remember what it was that had caused his friendship with Matt to actually end. Well neither of us ever really do what is expected do we?" he asked he looked towards the door in time to see it close." wonder who that was?" he asked.

jay continued to look towards the door and waited a moment it looked as though who ever it was either didnt hear or had already wondered off he looked back at Matt his thoughts took a different turn he found himself to curious not to ask. " Has Vic mentioned anything about Alyss and Al? they were hanging out to-" he was unable to hide the slightly jealouis edge to his tone as he started but his question was quickly cut off when Lex walked in and spoke. He wasn't to thrilled with the interruption but it wasnt worth making a scene over either. " Nevermind, not important maybe another time."Jay stood up shooting a geez thanks sort of glance at Lex before he walked towards the door. " See ya round Tuck." Jay said before he went out the door.

Victoire put the finishing touches on what seemed like her miles-long potions essay about the differences and similarities between two of the most advanced potions known to wizardkind, amortentia and felix felicis. She knew that she could have done a much better job, but did the professors really expect any student beside Rose Weasley to do work when the Yule Ball and the winter holidays were right around the corridor? Capping her ink bottle, stuffing her quill and essay hurriedly into her bookbag, she stood from her bed and meant to stroll back down to the lower floors of the castle. Someone she knew was bound to be hanging around. Maybe she would try the Great Hall, the Music Room, or the first floor corridor.

Teddy huddled near the fireplace in his office. His efforts to pack for the winter holidays had been futile. He had been lucky enough to be one of the teachers who had gotten off scot free, not having been made to stay and supervise the students who remained at Hogwarts during Christmas and New Years. He rubbed his hands together to create warmth. Hopefully, the Burrow, Harry's house, his grandmother's house, or Shell Cottage would be warmer for the holidays. He had received no word on who would be hosting the festivities.

Victoire had made her way to the lower floors and noticed Jay, his stoic look on his face. So he had returned. She had heard the news about his father, but had never really spoken to him and didn't want to make him feel awkward. Besides, would Rigdon ever deign to talk to a Weasley, even though she was dating a Tuck? This was the time to find out. "Hey Jay," She smiled softly and rose a hand in greeting. "Nice to see you back."

Alyss shrugged. Okay, maybe she had underestimated Jacobsen's arrival time back to her office. But it wasn't like she wasn't able to possible talk her way out of this mess. She had done it time and time again. "We were just retrieving something for the school quidditch teams, Professor," she explained. "It was meant to be a gift from the board of governors. We shouldn't even be talking about it, but...." he added. It was a bit of a stretch and all, but it did sound feasible. She was about to add more, but then caught sight of Meg's movement and tried herself to move toward the door. But no Jacobsen was there before they could get through the door.

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Eira listened to both girls and shook her head. Okay, it was possible that it was true they were on business from the board, but she would have to look into that personally. Seeing their intent to escape, she stood from her seat and flicked her wand at the door, sealing it. "Yes, that is very humane of you, Miss Isley." she replied as she motioned for both girls to sit. "And Miss Dewley, an errand for the board, really?" She really didn't think that was possible, if it was true, he would have been informed of it, or at least heard of something. "It is rather terrible outside and you do realize that you both have left the grounds without permission and used the floo network, which I may add is off limits to students. What do you really have to say for yourselves now?"

Matt heard her say she wasn't giving up, even though he'd told her how serious he was about Vic, and it made him even more angry then before. As she left, his blood was boiling. He grabbed the closest object, a vase of somesort, and with a frustrated shout pitched it hard at the stone wall across the room, shattering it into a thousand pieces. He sank down onto the couch and hung his head, burrying his face in his hands. "I can't do this." He whispered to himself, as the tears finally fell from his eyes.

In a way it flattered him that someone cared enough about him not to give up just because he was with someone else. But it made him more angry that she couldn't accept the fact that they were over. Completely over for good. He didn't want anything to do with her anymore. He didn't want to see her face again, or hear her voice. He dragged his hands down his face, taking several deep breaths, trying to calm himself down. But nothing worked against the shaking. His hands trembled as he tried to pick up the ring on the table, clutching it in his fist.

Maybe Jay had been right. Maybe he wasn't ready to commit that much...

Kyle had been in the common room playing piano for a group of first and second years who sat around him in a circle, like he was some fantastic story teller. Several of the girls looked up at him with dreamy expressions, and the boys watched him intently trying to figure out how he got the girls to do that. The common room door opened, and he glance up, seeing Lex comming back in. She was upset, clearly she'd talked to Matt already. He finished up his song and got up from the stool, making his way over to her. He reached out and lifted her chin, her cheeks were streaked with tears, and running mascara. He frowned and pulled her into his arms, hugging her like he'd done several times before when she and Matt would fight, or if she was just having a bad day. "What happened?" He asked softly, rubbing her back soothingly.

It was weird, but even when they'd been dating Lex always came to him when she needed cheering up. In a way, it made him happy. It always bothered Matt, how close they were, but he was convinced she'd never seen him that way. She'd told him over and over that he was like the brother she never had, and that was alright with him. Seeing what she was capeable of whem it came to hurting people made him glad she wasn't interested in him. And he didn't mind being there for her. He was everyone's shoulder to cry on anyway. He'd be there for whoever needed him.

After briefly greeting Jay, albeit seeing that he wasn't in much of a mood to speak, Victoire made a small wave for departure and continued her way further down the castle. Matt had said to meet him in the music room, so she made a bee line for where she remembered it to be. Even as she entered the corridor and made her way to the room, a chill ran down her spine. Maybe it was nothing, but her intuition was screaming that something horrible had happened. Something that bode well for no one. Shrugging it off, she approached the door and made to grab the handle. Instead, she thought it better to knock. If they were having guy time inside, or something of the sort, she wouldn't want to intrude. Moving a few loose strands of hair from her face, she waited, stuffing her frozen hands into her pockets.

Kyle lifted her chin again and brused the tears from her cheeks. "Let him go." He said simply. "You won't lost him completely. The only reason he's upset with you is because deep down, he still loves you, because he knows you still love him. If you let it go, he will to. Then neither of you will be so bitter over this whole thing, and we can all go back to being friends." He explained. "I know my brother better then anyone else... Better then you did. He told me himself he wants to go back to the old days when it was the three of us, but he can't because of what happened. Just give yourself some space, and him as well. Breath for a while... You're smothering yourself in the past darling." He smiled warmly at her, much like a big brother would to a little sister who'd just skinned out her knee. "You're a beautiful girl, and I'm positive you won't have any problems finding someone else who'll love you. Maybe even better then Matt did."

Matt heard a knock at the door and looked up. It could only really be two people. Kyle, or Vic. He couldn't let Kyle see him like this again, knowing how much of a tole it had taken on him the first time. He didn't want Vic to see him so weak again, but he also told her to meet him there. "It's open." He called, voice still wavering horribly. He clutched the ring in his hand still as he looked up to see who it was.

Victoire heard someone reply to her knock and placed her hand on the golden knob of the door, turning the handle, pushing on the wood of the creaky door, and stepping in. The large room looked empty at first, until she noticed Matt sitting on the couch. His face wasn't visible, as his head faced the floor, and he clutched his hands tightly together. He seemed to be shaking. Her gut feeling had been right. Something horrid had happened. But she hadn't seen anyone else in the corridor or stepping out of the room! She wasn't sure of what to do. Was he sad or angry? Either way, he was extremely upset. She took a step forward, but didn't dare come closer. Shards of a broken vase lay against the wall nearest her. If he was going to explode, she would leave him to cause destruction by himself and wouldn't get in the way of his flying fists. "Matt?" She squeaked, a bit unnerved as she was unsure of whether to approach or not.

Matt looked up at the sound of Victorie's voice. It sounded odd and strangled. He forced a weak, tearfilled smile and shook his head. "You shouldn't have to see this." He said, roughly wiping the tears from his cheeks. Thats when he noticed the ring still in his hand, and the empty ringbox on the table top. He quickly reached out and grabbed it, standing from the couch and turning his back like he was trying to hide his face from her. Working quickly, he put the ring back into the box and into his pocket. He turned to face her again and walked towards her. All he needed was her arms around him, and he'd feel better. He slipped his arms around her waist and pulled her into his chest, hanging his head so his face was burried in her hair.

Kyle frowned. "Honesty, not that many people know what really happened here. The muggle guys from the band know, and their friends. But all anyone here knows is that you guys split, and it ended bad." He said. "Matt couldn't talk about it. I didn't have any right to tell people what happened. No one else besides the three of us here knew." He shrugged and wiped the rest of her tears away. "You wouldn't believe how many guys were after you when you guys broke up. I had so many people ask me what your deal was... If they were your type.... If I could hook them up with you. So really, you've got your pick of anyone here." He smiled a little, hoping this would cheer her up a bit. It was more then he could say for himself, after all. Girls fell all over Matt, and he got the left-overs, rejects, and people Matt had no interest in. And the one person he wanted, didn't see him at all.