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Bed or perhaps on the balcony over some breakfast and coffee. She had just purchased a French Press for the flat so that they could elevate their coffee experience. Even if she had to really regulate her intake and not over do it. When she was within that sweet spot of caffeine, it actually benefited her performance ability. Or...coffee in bed? Best not think on this too long or else she would turn into a tomato again. "Of course I do," she laughed and gave his chest a couple of soft pats as they walked. "You are very handsome." No offense to the trolls, of course. "Do I want you to...what? Carrying me? Wouldn't that be a terrible burden to you? Besides, my feet are quite mended now. I can manage...even if we took it at a bit of a jog...or even a sprint?" Her arm unraveled from around his so she could dance her fingers down his arm and over the back of his hand, upon which she gingerly turned it so they were palm to palm and slipped her fingers in the gaps between his. |
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"My worries are gone. Thank You so much. the bar maybe low but i have cleared it" At least he got her flustered. So win for him. Lets not talk about how easily he can make it happen. Please and Thank You. Its adorable she thought it was because of her feet and not him messing with her. Not to mention she was lighter than his book bag. If he wasnt using magic to make it lighter. "Pick you up and run to the Trolls...you are never a burden....also good to know about ur feet...its ok i'm just joking tho we should speed walk there since i dont want to miss a thing" He says before bringing up a hand and kisses the back of her hand quickly. |
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She still wore socks more often than not, though David was privy to the rare occasion in which she took them off. Something that had happened completely subconsciously and by the time she had realized it happened...she also realized that it was not something she felt as self conscious about. At least not when it was just David around...even if her feet still had their deformities and fair share of minor injuries. Blushing, her hand tingling and sending a shiver all the way from the back of her palm to nape of her neck, she smiled and nodded her head in agreement. "A speed walk then. Surely there will at least be seats in the back we can slip into." And with that decided, she took her first couple of steps forward before glancing back at him with a sweet but mischievous smile before continuing her strides with just a bit more vigor. |
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Those rare occasions were certainly worth all the effort. AND THE RACE BEGAN..the walking race since David didn't want to walk too fast and make it awkward and he want to walk in pace with her it make it enjoyable for both of them. "Usually you take seats in the back for other reasons you know" He cant help it. |
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Light on her toes as ever, it was a walking race that she could easily win if she so desired but she was far more interested in keeping in stride with David so that they could arrive together. And when they did, with mere minutes to spare it would seem, she looked up curiously at him as they walked along the back row for seats with a good view. "...what reason is that?" Pausing her step for a moment, Delilah looked ahead at the stage and decided that this seemed to be a good spot. "Is here okay?" |
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Has David not mentioned yet today that he loved it when she asks innocent questions like that? Even if maybe more these days she was just playing along. It was still a lot of fun. "The reason is we can make some noise and distract ourselves doing some naughty things and not have to worry about anyone hearing us or caring" but in this scenario, he was more than happy holding her hand " You picked the best seats we could get at the last minute I have no complaints" |
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Again, she really ought to have figured out what he was alluding to. However, when someone mentioned 'naughty' things, she tended to consider mischievous matters and despite herself was now imagining David leaving graffiti on the bench or loading his hands up with popcorn or some sort of messier snack food to throw at people. Both seemed entirely unlike him, so she could not imagine why he would even want to tease her on such matters. Not to mention how she would never condone such things. "But then wouldn't we miss out on the show?" she asked, the pieces clearly not falling into place since there was no rouge to her cheeks. "That is a good thing...considering we have very limited options," she laughed softly before scooting a little closer to him and resting her head upon his shoulder. |
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"True but the hope would be that I would be making you feel so good you would stop caring about the show" Hopefully, some small pieces were falling into place now and if not he was giving up since hope was lost and it was time to move on. Her resting her head on his shoulder was proof he wanted her to enjoy herself here. He never watched troll ballet either so he was kinda looking forward to it as well. "We seemed to make the best of limited options don't you think" He was definitely thinking about Atlantis right now. |
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"David," she hissed while giving his shoulder a very light whack with her open palm. If it hadn't been for the gentle fanfare of music that began to play, she very well may have forgotten about the show. "...behave yourself...while we are at the zoo..." she mumbled and squealed under her breath while wiggling just the tiniest bit in her seat. She couldn't tell if she was relieved or not when the trolls began to tip toe (it was a stomp but she could tell they were trying their best to tip toe). Hugging his arm once again, Delilah returned her head to his shoulder only to lift it one more time so she could smile at him and give him a little kiss on the cheek in agreement. Now...no more distractions. Just enjoy watching your kin perform, David. |
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AND there it was the hissing whisper of his name from her lips. David was waiting patiently for it since they had sat down. He even got a whack. Happy day for this troll. Asking him to behave at a zoo of all places was asking too much. Cant act like an animal anywhere else so why not at the zoo. That sounded wrong but lets go with it. "This is me behaving myself at a zoo. Its not like we are at a 5 star restaurant where i would probably be worse" It was the truth. He gave up making anymore points when she kissed his cheek. No boredom where since lets face it he would be far more annoying when bored. "You think i could stomp that well" He whispered to here a few moments later. |
They could swing by their favorite bakery on the way home! "Worse?" she squeaked while giving David yet another firm tap on the shoulder. Perhaps the funniest part of this whole exchange was that she wasn't sure if he was being serious or not, such was the risk of dating a troll. "You can...behave less once we are back at the flat," she laughed under her breath before giving him another peck on the cheek. And they were going back to the flat tonight, yes? Unlike Atlantis, there was no final portkey (or submarine) back to Paris so in theory they should not be stranded and their hands forced. Not that staying over in Atlantis had been a horrible experience - quite the contrary, it had been wonderful. The troll ballet was rather charming and the colorful tutus were a fantastic accent to the whole aesthetic. Especially when the strings of ribbon were brought out and the trio of trolls performed with those...though it was a real pity that they were getting all tangled up. It was only a matter of time before the knot turned too tight and the trolls fell over. Delilah, for one, would not be laughing at such a thing. "Hmmm?" she questioned, her attention clearly hyper focused on the performance. "Oh...I think...you would have to make quite the effort to accomplish that level of stomping. You are quite light on your toes." |
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“You have a deal. But we have a stop to make before going home” It was for food and he was just having fun and making it vague. Also this is another great reason for them being in the back. Nobody cared much that they were talking. You know David was finally paying most of his attention to it and was wondering why the strings in the first place. Trolls are not the most coordinated beings in the world and just seemed like a recipe for disaster. This internet troll on the other hand had a good chuckle at them getting tangled up. “Only to stay out of your slapping range. I do like it though” Hopefully she did not catch that and was still hyperfocused and some real trolls |
It wasn't a threat, David! It was...more of a genuine promise and one that actually understood the subliminal message between the words. A shocking revelation, truly, but it was also a necessary defense considering how his current behaviour was going to cause her cheeks to hurt from all the blushing and smiling. What a problem to have...she felt...so lucky. "What do you mean?" she asked, leaning towards him a bit so she would not need to raise her voice much and disturb the other patrons. The music was quite loud and the trolls' feet very heavy, which meant every sauté, jeté, and assemblé send a tremendous echo throughout the amphitheater. Speaking of heavy feet, weren't you meant to be behaving yourself, David? Delilah was rather engrossed in the performance, so she did not thoroughly hear what it was he had said. Something about staying out of the way of something or another, perhaps? "You? Purposefully stay away from something?" she laughed and turned to smile at him properly. "You know perfectly well that you cannot resist doing something once you've had your mind all wrapped around it." |
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“I mean I have a surprise for you after this is all done.” He tried to say that was innocently as possible to mixed results. He gave behaving a good old college try but in the end he cant stop what he is. We will leave Delilah to answer that question. “True but I would try and stay away from your slaps…and kicks. Those hurt more” |
Oh? A surprise? If she had been paying more attention to the discussion and less so on the trolls and their performances (particularly fretting over the one whose slipper had come untied a bit and not it seemed like tripping on either those or the ribbons they were dancing with truly inevitable) it is very likely that she would have followed his train of thought. However, this was not the case and so her eyes widened with wonder as she rested her chin on his shoulder. "Really?" She would have given him a playful but firm tap on the arm for that comment...had it not been for the inevitable finally coming to pass on stage. It was like one of those quidditch collisions that you could not look away from despite desperately wanting to. Or, well, Delilah did tend to watch a lot of matches from the gaps between her fingers because she was nervous for the players at such top speeds so it was not a perfect comparison. In any case, ribbons knotted, slipper ties stepped on, tutu's yanked, and massive bodies toppled. A majority of the audience erupted into laughter, herself not among them, as the curtains fell on the stage suddenly and it announced that the show was over. Thank you, enjoy the rest of your day at the Scamander Zoo. "Oh...my...you don't think any of them are injured, do you?" |
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We know it's hard to pick which trolls to focus on Delilah. You probably made the right decision and choose the ones on stage and not the one leaning on you. Alright Alright back to real trolls, David could have told you before even getting here that giving some trolls and ribbons like that would only lead to disaster. But he loved to be proven wrong. “Really Really. But I want it to be a surprise” And look David was right. It was like it was all happening and slow motion and he had to admit this made it all worth it. Even if he wanted to see the thunderbird more. He could not help but laugh at the absurdity of it. Trolls tripping. He needed a good laugh. “You would think that first” the idiot nudged her lightly. “Im sure they have some people in the background to handle it. I would be shocked if this is the first time something like that happened. Did you enjoy it even with my meddling?” The most important question right there. |
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Smiling, Delilah lifted her finger to poke his nose. "You're sweet." And, really, whatever the surprise ended up being - even one that he thought up on the spot at the last second and had not been the initial plan at all - she was sure to be delighted by it. There was just something about this that was unsettling, but it did not stop her from giggling nonetheless. "I'm sure you're right," she nodded before slipping her hand into his. "Where to next?" |
Kath and Sage <3 His confidence was oooooozing, much to his surprise. Solomon had not, in fact, picked her up at 8, because he had no suitable transport for the two of them, and would rather start the date AT the destination as opposed to an awkward journey there. He thought he was really smart for that decision, and he had never even had a date before! ALSO - it wasn’t even 8, it was around 2pm. The location of the date was completely his idea, too, and he currently had no idea whether Sage would be happy about that or not, but the slight drizzle and unpredictability of the weather so far gave him pause. Of course he was wearing his famous beanie hat, so hopefully Sage would have opted for some head protection as well. He waited outside of the zoo, his posture alluding a calm and collected appearance, however he could feel it slipping the longer he waited. Things had become much easier since establishing that Sage like, liked him a little, as it left less to the imagination. Solly liked to not be embarrassed, so she had better hurry herself up. |
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Sage tugged on the hem of her orange top just a bit as she approached the zoo and took in the sensational aroma of petrichor and tried to bask in the giddy sensation she felt over Solomon knowing her well enough to invite her somewhere outdoors rather than cooped up in some stuffy cliché eatery listening to people chew with their mouths open. Suddenly feeling self conscious about everything, the Slytherin pulled her dark sage green cardigan over her middle once she spotted him with his dashing hat - and no hat for herself because it would be an absolute insult to her braided look to cover it up! Wait, so...wait...now how was she supposed to greet him? A handshake? A hug? A kiss on the cheek? Fist bump? Elbow tap? Head nod? High five? Curtsy and bow? Ugh. Panic briefly crossed her lightly dolled up features as her steps drew her closer but she managed to pull a smile at the last possible second and step into some sort of pseudo confident and immaculately sassy persona. "Well, well, well, what do we have here? Waiting for someone?" she greeted with a little playful flick to his hat to make sure he knew that she knew he was acknowledging a preference in aesthetic. And then the panic slipped back in and her eyes darted around for some sort of inspiration which thankfully came from another couple waltzing on in to the zoo arm in arm. Pivoting slightly, Sage practically pecked his cheek like a chicken after some seed and slipped her arm through and around his and sashayed a step or two right to his side. "So...inside we go then?" |
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“Hey.” He had no idea what kind of greeting would be appropriate either. His brain told him it was probably important to set the tone of the date. For example, if they’d greeted with a hug then he wouldn’t feel so awkward about hugging her later, too. Or holding hands. THE THOUGHT OF IT SENT HIM INTO A SPIRAL. Spiral over. She kissed him on the cheek. Solomon smiled, “Yeah, waiting for some pretty girl.” Yes, he did refrain from adding a usual sarcastic remark such as ‘do you see one?’ Because he didn’t want to be THAT guy. He pulled her into a tight squish when she linked his arm with hers. “Yeah, yeah. I have our tickets already. What did you want to see first?” Solomon led the way to the entrance, realising he was getting ahead of himself already. He would compliment her outfit (etc) shortly, hopefully, but his mouth was dry right now. |
Sage had taken enough quizzes in Teen Witch and Witch Weekly to know that you HAD to set the tone of the date in the first few second of the date and different greetings implied different things, motivations and desires, with the date ahead. Only problem was that now she was completely blanking on all the options and what they meant - translating ancient texts in the Futhark alphabet and complicated bindrunes were easier to remember! But, thankfully, her modest attack of his cheek was well accepted and Solomon even initiated a hug almost immediately after ... which was very nice ... but also an indication she should have gone in for a hug right off the bat but whatever. "We'll, you must have downed some Liquid Luck because one has arrived," she smiled but refrained from accenting her words with any fluttering of the eyelashes. "Oh, wow, really, you did that?" she replied wide-eyed and nearly tripping over her own feet as the fell in stride with him, completely flabbergasted but also incredibly impressed. The tripping was to do with nerves rather than any shock. The surprise, however, had zilch to do Solomon falling into the traditional role of paying for the date or her nerves all to do with the shock that he was so well prepared - this was Solomon, after all. Sage wasn't one to swoon over traditional roles and there were no pumpkin pasty points for pulling out her chair or opening her door, but she wasn't against them either and it was kind of nice to be treated to something. But...she would be paying for their breaktime drinks and snacks, let's just make that clear now. "Oh, well, I figured we could start at one end and make the loop all the way around back to the entrance. More practical and efficient than zigzagging all over the zoo and we are less likely to miss something interesting. BUT, the Sphinx Riddle at three is an absolute must." |
For the record, he was VERY pleased with the cheek kiss, though he likely wouldn’t have been brave enough to initiate that himself, so this was a GOOD development. Perhaps now the end of the date might be a bit easier for it to happen on his part. He didn’t need to be clued up on Witch Weekly to know the standards of a typical date, although not falling for stupid stereotypes would be interesting… Hopefully she didn’t think him buying their tickets would come across as the guy paying for the date. Which was exactly what he was intending, of course. He grinned, wholeheartedly. “Yeah, I think you’re right. You do look alright.” Solly hoped she would understand that what he really meant was you look great! He let his smile linger as he looked at her, before regaining consciousness and clearing his throat. Sage seemed shocked by his organising, which he could understand, actually, because he was a lot of the times a bit slow. “Of course I did. A week in advance, I’ll have you know.” His tone was of someone who was very proud of themselves, indeed. “Sounds good to me, but I suck at riddles.” No good being on his team, if teams were to be a thing. “Maybe we can catch the end of Troll Ballet if we’re quick?” Because it was, in fact, Thursday, because I said so. Solomon REALLY wanted to witness this, and once he had passed over their tickets to head inside, he tugged at their linked arms and tightened them a bit. He yearned to hold hands but it was likely too soon. Too weird. It’s not like she was his girlfriend. |
Wow. What happened to not being that guy, Solomon. Maybe if he had been stuttering or otherwise showing any semblance of nervousness she might have been better equipped to read between the lines, but she had not quite gained that upperhand where she had him on his heels and was (uuuuuuuugh) seeking actual validation. Still, she refused to let her confident shield crack and only rolled her eyes at his reply. "You're ridiculous." Okay, that lingering smile helped a little. A whole week? The Slytherin's jaw dropped, literally, as she gawked at him. "That is impressive," she blinked. "And good to know that you do know how to plan ahead. Ought to come in handy for NEWT preparation." Not to be a complete buzzkill but Sage was determined to not let her friends drag their feet when it came to their second set of examinations. She was still feeling some sort of way about her curse proof plan flopping with a certain Hufflepuff. "Liquid Luck strikes again because it just so happens that I am very good at riddles," she almost sung as they walked on and she hugged his arm. Sometimes she would swing by the Bronze Knocker to hear the riddle of the day, not because she had any desire to check out the Ravenclaw common room but just to know that she could do it if she ever wanted. Solving a riddle of the sphinx to her resume? Yes please with extra whip on top. Sage quickly put two and two together. This troll ballet, which they could just see on a tapestry at Hogwarts for the record, was something that he really wanted to see and had been anticipating seeing it for himself for at least a full week. She didn't really feel all that inclined to witness it herself but it was an equivalent exchange since he wasn't exactly over the moon about the riddle. "Troll ballet at two and sphinx riddle at three," she read from the pamphlet she had picked up on their way in while cross referencing the zoo's map. "We'll plan to be at the Troll Range by 1:50 to make sure we get decent seats and don't miss the start," she announced thoughtfully while folding up the map (and not unravel her arm from around his while doing so). "If we slip out just as they start taking their bows we can beat the crowd to the exits and start heading over to the African Safari without needing to sprint and make it over to the sphinx with time to spare." But if it looked like they may miss the start, he better know that she would be dragging him through the zoo at a sprint. "So, Aquatic Reef to start it is." Because there was no point in checking out the African Safari zone now with them swinging back around to it later in the day. "Unless you want to go play on the playground and go cuddle some puffskeins." |
He made a face of disgust when she brought up NEWTs. It wasn’t a subject he fancied discussing, especially on a date as he’d end up bringing on an even bigger sweat. His arm pits were already suffering as it is. “Well. Hopefully at least that works in my favour.” Solly wasn’t looking to start a deep conversation about his pending failure, more so create the affect that he wasn’t overly bothered about them. Which he was. “Should I be offended that you’re so shocked at my organisation skills?” He mused, not likely to actually become offended. Her confidence over the upcoming riddle was very cute, and not really surprising. Solomon smirked. “Can I be on your team, in that case?” If she was happy to do all the work then him being on the team wouldn’t be an issue, right? HA. Okay, he wanted to see it but not THAT much. He simply wanted everything to go perfectly today. Hence why he didn’t go over the top and bring her flowers and a box of chocolates. If he knew anything, it was that Sage would laugh at him for doing such things. Of course his organisation skills were nothing compared to hers as he listened to her quick planning of their route of the zoo. It sounded like a lot of information to him, so he just nodded. “Aquatic reef it is.” He said simply. The sarcastic comment about hugging puffskeins caused a snort. “Do I look like the type of guy that likes to cuddle strange creatures? Girls, maybe.” Solly tried to remain nonchalant. |
And with that, study dates were confirmed. Though she now knew how SOME boys viewed study dates as an excuse to do anything but studying, much to her disappointment, she trusted the Solomon would actually focus on the task at hand and not, well, best not get too ahead of herself here. She may even be able to recycle her little dueling game she had developed for OWLs and completely wasted on Reuben, with some upgrades because these were NEWTs. "I think you should be flattered because I am impressed," she shrugged with a small sideways smile. Let's focus on the positives here, shall we? Another amused laugh as she glanced over to him while they walked. "Obviously, yes." This wasn't like the fiasco that had been tug-o-war and she currently had no spite to use against him. Well, none other than the complete role reversal of him being the more confident one on the day...but it was easier to be that person when you held all the cards in your hand for the day in being the planner. "I'll make sure the sphinx doesn't take a bite out of you." Nodding in agreement and pivoting so their path was a little more direct towards the Aquatic Reef, Sage couldn't help but think a little more on the fact that there were trolls, mountain trolls, being kept here. They were sentient beings and even previously classified as just that, a being but because they were dubbed too aggressive and likely as dumb as the rocks they threw...they had been demoted to beast status. Well, if THAT was the criteria... she knew of a couple boys at Hogwarts who ought to be chucked into the zoo as well. Trolls had their on language, known to tame and ride graphorns, and supposedly even had their own brand of rudimentary magic. Some had even been hired by Hogwarts itself to serve as patrol officers and whatever! It seemed inhumane to have them in a zoo and tricked into performing a ballet so onlookers could laugh at them. Proper exploitation if you ask her. So, yeah, they could go watch the troll ballet..but Sage was going to be anything BUT quiet during it. But, for now, focusing on the current conversation and less plotting humiliation for magizookeepers. "I don't think you don't look the sort," she replied casually while looking at their looped arms and, in a complete spur of the moment decision, unhooked hers so she could slip her hand into his instead. Soooo much easier to walk this way. She had felt like she had been waddling almost while her arm was in his and having to overcompensate so her hip didn't swing into his with every other step. "Does that mean you think about maybe cuddling me?" Also totally nonchalant over here. |
On the contrary, Solomon’s ideas on study dates were neither of those things. He simply just didn’t want to do them and found it difficult to focus, especially with the added pressure of another person. Knowing full well that friends weren’t purposely trying to pressure him, it just happened on its own and he was unsure if he would ever get over that. Despite the pending exams, Solomon was looking forward to going back after summer. Last term felt like such a mess for his headspace. Lots of stupid decisions, stupid crushes. Being in a date with Sage felt so simple to him right now, whereas a few months ago he’d have felt so freaked out by it. He WAS flattered, and wanted to give him a silent pat on the back to compensate his good thinking and organisation. “Well, I am.” Solomon grinned widely, and swung their arms ever so slightly. Solly wouldn’t even be surprised if Sage turned him down for being on her team, nor could he blame her. He snorted at her joke about the Sphinx biting him. “Very funny, I’m not that stupid.” Not stupid enough to go near any kind of creature like that. Okay, maybe a little. “What’s your favourite animal?” He asked, somewhat curiously, somewhat at an attempt at small talk. Huh. He could think of a few boys who could live here, too. Ohhhhhh… there was the hand hold. While he was gutted that he wasn’t quick enough to make that move himself, it made him feel a little giddy that they were finally at that point and he had to hide his smile. Like a little dork, he was. He clasped his hand back around hers and gave it a firm squeeze before relaxing it a little. He let out a small exhale at her next question, racking his brain on how to answer coolly. “Uhh…” he chuckled a little shyly before continuing, “I have thought about it, yeah. Actually I wasn’t sure if you were the cuddle type.” That was his way of hitting the ball back in her court. |
Sage selectively liked exams and preparing for those handful of subjects that she had dubbed worth her time. Solomon would find out once they got back to Hogwarts how rigorous but FUN a Sage 'Academic Boot Camp' could be. Although she tended to prefer to study alone just because others could drag her down, but she had perfected a process where she did the studying first and then studying with others was much more a review of what she had already reviewed and extra time ironing out the bits of concepts that she was not as solid on. And it was an excuse to hang out some more so...really...win-win all around. "You're such a dweeb," she teased affectionately with a little poke to his cheek. That too should be taken as a compliment, okay? Thoughts on trolls were weighing her steps down just a little, causing their path through the zoo to slow slightly, but it also could come across as her simply taking in all the sights of the zoo and the smaller displays and areas they were passing en route to the Aquatic Reef - the sign over the archway leading to the entrance now very clearly in visual range. The anticipation for what was in this area of the zoo was almost enough to take her mind off formulating her chant for the troll ballet. "You were the one who said you were not so good at riddles and sphinxes are known to have a low tolerance or incorrect answers," she pointed out with a hum and some spunk returning to her step. "I like reptiles...especially snakes." She blushed a bit as she heard what she had said and how it sounded like a line. "Actual snakes. My familiar is a Blue Eyed Leucistic," she elaborated as the blush crept just a bit more across her face but, hopefully, the thin application of makeup her sister had applied would mask it somewhat. "It's just coincidence that my favorite animal and your house mascot happen to be the same and you are also, technically, a snake. Meaning that I like snakes, like Aspen, and I like you and you're a Snake." Ugh, the table tennis match of nerves was a lot and exhausting. But also...kind of exciting? Being a teenager teetering on adulthood was ridiculous in some of the most interesting and humiliating of ways. His fixation on hand holding would only serve to amplify his dweeb status while also tickle her curiosity as to why he was placing so much emphasis on such a basic thing. Though, to be fair, she had only ever held hands with her sisters or dads ... so maybe she understood just a little why it was so exhilarating to do so on a date. It really did make walking together so much easier though! "I've never thought about it...I mean...I've thought about the act but not so much if I am a cuddler or not," she considered, the heat rising in her cheeks some more. "Never had anyone outside of family to do so with so...guess we get to find out." The zoo may not be the most practical of places to sort that out though so...maybe the train ride back to school would be the more practical and comfortable option? |
Whitty! <3 Friendship dates with Lux were the best! Adi, now “Think fast, Lux! The African Safari enclosure or the Aquatic Reef?” Being the gentleman that he was, the Hereford Hippogriffs coach was more than willing to allow Lux to make the choice. “I like that neither of us are ever bored of being here despite the countless visits. I always like trying to figure out what new creature has been brought in, if any.” Not that he really needed to think too hard since Hady was still employed at the zoo part time; she was his source for whatever good news she was able to reveal. Adi’s gaze trailed towards the direction of the Children’s Playground. Why did it seem like only yesterday his four kids had been playing there? Especially Ary, since he was the baby of the family and memories of him playing at the Playground were still rather fresh in his mind. Time certainly had zoomed by! |
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Ooooh. What was she going to pick today? Both options were great and some of her favourites. ”Why not both?” She laughed. If there was enough time for that she was totally on board. ”Let’s start with the safari then see if we have time for the reef.” She nodded at what he said next. ”Oh, absolutely. I would love to work here. Hady is lucky to work here.” Even if it was just part time. Lux loved being a potioneer, but it was so special being around animals. ”Can’t wait to see what new creatures they have!” She noticed him looking at the playground and figured he was thinking of his kids. ”Feels like it was just yesterday that they were playing here.” Time sure flew by! |
SPOILER!!: Adi & I for the sweet Lux & Wifey! <3 Adi never failed to marvel at the fact that he and Lux managed to retain such a strong friendship despite all the changes in both their lives - family, careers… then again, this could be said with most of his friendships - like the one with Hady, for instance. But for this moment, it was just him and Lux taking some much needed relaxation. Both? EXCELLENT! “That’s perfect with me. Are you in any hurry to get back home? Me… the staff can hold down the Reserve until I get back.” In other words, Adi was free to be out for as long as he wanted to be; the Reserve was in capable hands. “The Safari it is.’’ And he headed in that direction. “The sphinxes are still my favourite to look at. Let’s say hi to Cleopatra and Antony first, shall we?” Adi chuckled. “You may not work here but you being a Potineer certainly helps keep my stock of Healing Potions from running out. You know I hardly have time to dabble with Potions now. I think Ary is more thrilled to be able to learn so much from you. Potions is one of his strongest subjects at Hogwarts.” The man nodded. “Just like yesterday,’’ he echoed. “Now the younger three are almost on their way to begin careers and have separate lives of their own. It’s funny how parents are never prepared for that sort of thing.” |
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It was crazy to think of how past time passes. It felt like just yesterday they themselves were at that stage of life. She still remembered being at Hogwarts herself. ”Ain't that the truth. I have a hard enough time whenever term starts.” That time was coming again soon. She signed. |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 “Wait. So does this mean I haven’t been stuck with you since way back in our Hogwarts days?” ‘Way back’ because they both were oldies now. Sort of. Adi certainly didn’t feel that way though! “Great, then we’re both happy, and that’s what was most important.” He linked an arm through Lux’s. When it came to the Reserve, there wasn’t any chance that he would get in trouble; not when he happened to be one of the bosses! As the friends arrived at the Safari, Adi nodded towards the Sphinxes in the short distance. “Geez, Lux. Why do you sound as though you have a crush on the sphinxes?” he teased. “Should I tell Bay he has competition?” This silly teasing was something else he was grateful for that stuck around as the years went by; they were some of the many highlights of his life. “I may have more time in the very near future,’’ Adi continued, gazing around at the rest of the Safari. “Ary’s interested in taking on more responsibilities around the Reserve so I’m letting him. He’s proved himself more than capable and well… it’s nice to know the Reserve will be kept at or even surpass the standards at which it’s at today. So, Lux, that means that someday soon, you and I can be back to brewing together!” Adi nodded. “It never gets easier. All we can do is trust that they’ll be okay to take on the world when the time comes.” But of course as parents, he and Lux would be there to offer suggestions and guidance. The two adults were always there for each other’s babies! |
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Lux snorted. "As if you haven't enjoyed every moment you've spent with me." She loved that they had the kind of relationship where they could tease each other. They've known each other for so long. It was crazy to think that there was a point where he wasn't in her life. Lux smiled and happily took his arm through hers. It was so nice to be here with the animals. She could never get bored of being around them. Adi's next comment had her laughing. "They are wonderful creatures. I'm sure that Bay will come to terms with it," she joked back. She knew that Adi found them cool too. As was everything else in the Safari. "Oh? That's great!" Both in terms of Adi having free time, and in terms of Ady getting more experience. "I know he's going to do a great job of it. I can't blame him either. The reserve is awesome." It was one of her favourite places to visit. Some of her favourite people were there, and of course there were the creatures. "This is exciting. We can definitely make a potion brewing date whenever you are available to." Since Lux was her own boss, she had all the flexibility. Lux chewed her lip, but nodded. He was absolutely right. And she was so glad that her children were growing up and learning so much at school. They were so bright too. "Our kids have all grown so much and will accomplish amazing things. I'm so proud of all of them." And she was always there for his kids when they needed it, just like he was there for hers. |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 Adi smiled mysteriously. “For now, I shall neither confirm nor deny, Lux.” But did she really need confirmation that he enjoyed all of their time together? He was certain she didn’t. He was lucky to have so many friends who shared his love for creatures, even if the one beside him was partial to Sphinxes. “Poor Bay. You’ll be stabbing him straight through the heart.” Adi gazed around at the other creatures, that familiar feeling of contentment bubbling up in his chest. It happened whenever he set his gaze on creatures of any form. “Ary is! And I’m not just saying that because he’s my son.” Indeed Adi was proud of all of his children; they were all hardworking in their own way. “You come around to the Reserve often this summer, Lux. You’ll see him out there each day. He’ll send me into early retirement. Not saying that’s a bad thing. It just means that you’ll have more of me to deal with.” Adi wiggled his brows. “We’d definitely be brewing a lot of potions once that happens! “I am too.” It was a joy, a bittersweet joy, to watch so many kiddos grow up, not just his own. Better yet? Those kiddos belonged to some of his closest friends. Then again, that made them just as much as his own. “You mentioned Rory would be transferring to Hogwarts - which Ary will be happy to find out - but you didn’t mention why she wanted to make the switch. Nothing bad has happened at Beauxbatons, has it?” |
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Lux smiled. They both had all the reasons in the world to be proud parents. It wasn't a surprise that he was now asking about why Rory was transferring schools. "I know she wasn't bullied, so I don't think it was anything bad. I think she was just bored of Beauxbatons and wanted to go to Hogwarts instead. She did hear a lot about it." So it did make sense. "She's definitely looking forward to seeing Ary. They're going to get up to as much trouble as we did." She beamed. |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 The joke was on Lux because Adi was absolutely ridiculous. Sometimes, that is. At the moment, he was. “I do pity Bay even more since you have two true loves and neither are him.” Then he burst out laughing because, yes, they were both silly. “They’re champions for putting up with us, honestly!’’ He continued gazing out at the enclosures. “I don’t think they brought in any new creatures. Which is fine, since it also means that none of the current ones were moved to sanctuaries to retire.” He would know since dragons and Griffs often came to his Reserve to live out the rest of their lives once they hit a certain age. The most recent being Hippogriffs from Hogwarts. But back to talks of Ary! “Yes! I do know, and you’re always welcome there.” Now, he grinned broadly. “Ary can be your apprentice,’’ Adi half joked. “Has Rory shown any interest in Potions?” Or didn’t she have her mother’s flair for the subject? “Oh, haha. Aren’t you funny? You’ve already set yourself up to work with ME.” No take backsies, Lux! Adi let out a small sigh of relief that he hadn’t known he was holding back. “I’m happy to know that. I love that girl like she’s my own daughter.” Lux knew this, of course, but he just had to mention it again. “Oh yes, she sure did. I heard Ary telling her all about his adventures at Hogwarts while they were together over the summer. I bet he helped change her mind. And I suspect he’d be a tad smug about it.” |
Lux snorted. "He is in third place, and he just needs to accept it." Her poor husband. But it was too much fun continuing with this joke. It was just too much fun laughing along with her friend. "They really are. I don't know how they put up with us for so long. We are very lucky that they love us as much as they do." She nodded along to what he said next. Adi knew a lot about this stuff and Lux was happy to hear that. "Speaking of that, how are the new hippogriffs settling in?" She knew that they had gotten some in at his reserve recently, and she was hoping that they were adjusting nicely. "Absolutely. And I was thinking I might have another visit there soon. Work can be crazy, but I think I can get away for a time." Adi knew well how hectic it could be with her work depending on how many orders she had to fill out. And she specialized in healing potions, which could be in very high demand. Lux snorted. "Maybe he can help me out instead of you. Would give me way less headaches," she joked back. Really though, she was always happy at the idea of Ary helping. She smiled as he asked about her daughter. "She has, I think it's from helping me so much." Obviously with nothing too difficult since Aurora was only 14, but still. "And she's so curious about potions. You know how curious she is." That girl was curious about EVERYTHING. "It's one of her best classes, and one of her favourites as well. But she does seem to be more into herbology." He knew how much Aurora loved plants and gardens. "Noooooo!" Lux said dramatically. "Anything but that!" Lux knew well how close Adi and Aurora were. It was very touching to see. "I do. And I know that she loves you just as much." She was always excited whenever she was able to come to the reserve and see him, Ary, and the creatures. Aurora spent A LOT of time there over the summer. Yep. Lux also thought that Ary had a part to play in that decision. "There is no doubt in my mind. And we were reluctant at first, obviously." Because of what both she and Bay had gone through at Hogwarts. "But that girl was persistent." Honestly Lux was still unsure about the whole thing. If anything happened to her daughter... Lux didn't even want to think about it. Instead she focused on how smug Ary would have been. "Oh, I'm sure he was very proud of himself for planting that seed in her head." She had already wanted a change, and she could understand why Aurora would have been intrigued after hearing about the school from Ary. |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 Adi snorted. Sure, Bay was in third place and he just might stay there. Just kidding, Adi knew Bay was Lux’s number one forever and for always. And it was true! He and Lux were definitely well loved. “We surely are,’’ he confirmed out loud. Oh! The hippogriffs from Hogwarts! He was already quite fond of the creatures. “They’re adjusting well, considering they’ve been at Hogwarts for many years. They’re old now so they just mainly want to have a comfortable life. They definitely would not mind you saying hello to them again, Lux.” At that, Adi stuck his nose in the air. “Psssh. The only sort of headaches you miss are the ones I give you. Don’t you know that by now?” He poked Lux in the arm then nodded. “She’s always been curious about everything. Like why Ary didn’t talk much as a child. And why Dy’s hands are usually calloused by her violin-playing.” The man admired that sort of innocent curiosity. “Should we make her a greenhouse? Not a large one since that might overwhelm her.” This uncle was already thinking of potential designs. It warmed him to be reminded that Rory loved him. It was also evident in the letters and sweets she sent him regularly. “We can say she’s stubborn as her mother,’’ he teased. “But I’m glad she was convinced otherwise after three years. Ary gets to see his friend more often.” |
When Adi snorted, Lux winked at him. He knew how much she loved her husband - it was just as much as he loved his. She grinned. They were both very lucky when it came to love; there wasn't a better match for either of them anywhere. And it was wonderful to hear that the hippogriffs were settling in as well as they were! Lux really had missed seeing them when she was at school. And thinking about that time made her feel really OLD. Just like the hippogriffs. "I'll definitely come by to say hi to them. And so would the girls and Bay, I am sure!" It was always great when they all came to the reserve together. And it would be wonderful to see the hippogriffs and give them some love and comfort. Pfft! "Actually, those are the worst headaches i get. They're unbearable." Lux sighed dramatically. "They've been plaguing me for YEARS now and they just won't stop." She poked him back and beamed. She laughed as he talked about Aurora's curiosity. "She needs to know everything and just can't sit still. It's wonderful. And she's clearly going to go far in life." And she knew that Adi could see that as well. "She would absolutely love that! She does enjoy spending time in the greenhouse at home, but that one is just for my work. She'd be thrilled to have one of her own. And maybe one day a garden of her own as well..." But yes, nothing that would overwhelm her. "I don't know what you are talking about," Lux said while looking innocently. There wasn't a stubborn bone in her body. What was he talking about? "I'm just glad that there are people at Hogwarts who can keep her safe. Like Hady." Not that she didn't trust the other staff, but they had known Hady for a long time and she was very much trusted. "It's wonderful. They can bond further now that they will be at the same school. Same with Bry." |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 At those words, Adi grinned again and lifted his head in a seemingly proud manner. “Then I can safely say… “mission accomplished!’ Seems like you're a glutton for punishment though, Lux, since you’ve stuck around with me for all these years.” Ah, teasing this bestie will never get old. About Aurora… oh yes, he had recognised that about the girl a long time ago. In a way, she reminded of younger and current him - energetic and bubbly. “I can always help you set up a greenhouse for her. And a garden. You know that girl deserves both!” Uh huh. Adi believed that. “Sure, sure,’’ he said with a touch of sass. It was the good sort of sass, just to be clear. “Hady,’’ Adi continued with a nod,his voice now filled with fondness for Hadleigh Paton. “And Dhruv too. Rory is certainly in great company.” He didn’t blame Lux for thinking of Rory’s safety, with all she, him and the rest of their schoolmates had been through. The year the acromantulas attacked still rang fresh in his mind. “Those three will certainly be friends for life. Like us. So! Shall we move on to some other creatures or do you want to stare at your boyfriends all day?” |
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The sass got another laugh out of Lux. "There isn't a stubborn bone in my body, Adi." She winked. "Oh, absolutely! Aurora is in the best of hands there." It was very reassuring to Lux that she had two adults who she trusted looking out for her daughter. And Rory was fond of them both the way that Lux was. "Absolutely. As will be the case with all the other generations. Our families are destined to be friends." At his next comment she rolled her eyes in amusement. "Just don't tell my husband about my boyfriends." At that moment Lux's stomach grumbled. "How about we get something to eat then look at some more exhibits?" |
SPOILER!!: Lux & Wifey! <3 “Pretty sure I saw some boogers fly out of your nose, Lux.” He smirked a bit before faking an astounded gasp. “How dare you, Lux! Using me for your personal reasons!” Try as he might to keep a straight face, he just could not. Especially when his friend prodded him. He poked her twice in her arm as payback. “I think that’s a brilliant idea! I’m making a note in my mental planner.” He held the tips of his index fingers to his temples to emphasise his words. “You know what? I’ll get her a few of her favourite plants for that greenhouse, to christen it.” What sort of uncle would Adi be if he didn’t show proper initiative? Uh huh. SURE, Lux. Sure you weren’t stubborn at all. But it was quite true that Ary and Rory were in capable hands. Hady and Dhruv were always quite reliable. “I agree! We have to make sure the tradition is carried on.” That would make him extremely happy. Adi stuck his nose in the air. “I can’t make any promises about that, my friend! But I can promise I’ll treat you to your snack! Come on, let’s go!” He himself would never say ‘no’ to food. |
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