Bloodlines, Bludgers and Boys

~Hello to my wonderful and utterly fabulous readers! As you are probably aware this is a continuation of my fic Alexis: From Prince to Princess. You could probably understand this without reading the other one but I think you would understand the characters better if you read it first. Anyhow moving right along I would like to dedicate this fic to the loyal feedbackers who convinced me that continuing this story was a good idea. Please enjoy! As always feel free to give feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) ~

This first post is dedicated to my go to gal Beki14! You’re the best!

Prologue

The rain was coming down around them but no one seemed to notice. They were all to busy looking to their far right. Here it comes, she thought even though she couldn’t quite believe it.

Nonetheless there it was: a small sleek white coffin. She choked up when she saw it. To her left, her father’s arm tightened around her mother. Her mother, Catherine, was trying to keep up a tough front. She hadn’t shed a tear, but Ally knew she would. She was just trying not to make scene. If there was one thing the Dumbledore family knew how to do it was keep up appearances. She straightened up a little as she saw her grandfather walk towards the podium. Grampy, she thought, so full of strength and courage. There he was trying to mask his sorrow and keep up himself together.

“I’d like to thank you all for coming,” he began, “it would’ve warmed my dear Alexandria’s heart to see all of you here. Well, maybe not as it’s her funeral,“ there was a smattering of laughter, “anyhow where was I? Oh yes, my Alexandria, “ he paused and cleared his throat, “my wife was an amazing woman. She was strong, honest and loving. She was the most caring woman I have ever met. I never believed I could be so lucky as to have a woman like that fall for a fool like me. We had a magnificent life together. She made me happier than I ever thought I could be. She gave me the best gift anyone could ask for: a wonderful daughter. And she was taken before her time, “ his tone darkened and Alexis noticed a glint in his eye she had never seen before, “She was, and still is, the love of my life. Her generous and compassionate nature brought you all here today and I hope that you will remember her and what a spectacular woman she was. Thank you.”

He walked towards his daughter and she rose to embrace him. The guests got up one by one and headed towards the manor. The family members followed.

They made their way into the parlor and sat around the table as the guests whispered in hushed voices and picked at the food.

“Henry,” Albus Dumbledore whispered after a minute or two, “I’m so sorry.”

“Sorry for what?” asked his brother-in-law, “this was not your fault.”

Dumbledore shook his head, “You’re wrong. If it wasn’t for me they wouldn’t have come after her. They wouldn’t have hurt her.”

“Albus,” Josephine Potter spoke sharply, “don’t you think that for another minute. What those evil people did to Alexandria was no one’s fault but their own. They’re weak and sick individuals. They think that by killing people they’ll gain power.” She lowered her voice and placed her hand on his, “but we know all they’ll ever have is a damaged soul.”

“Aunt Joey’s right Papa,” Catherine Prince piped up, “they haven’t won anything and they never will.”

Dumbledore’s face twitched a little as if he wanted to smile but couldn’t. Alexis couldn’t handle seeing the grownups this way so she snuck off and hid in her grandmother’s study.

“I thought I’d find you here,” commented a familiar voice not long after she had gotten comfortable.

“What do you want?” she demanded as she eyed her cousin suspiciously.

He pretended she had hurt his feelings, “What? Can’t an older cousin just see how his younger cousin is dealing with a death in the family?”

Alexis rolled her eyes, “James, you’re only a month older than me.”

He smiled, “Exactly.”

“So you have what?” she wondered, “A month’s worth of life experience on me?”

He ran a hand through his constantly messed up hair, “How are you? Really?”

“Really?” she repeated, “really, I’m a complete disaster. Really, I miss my gamma but I can’t show it because that’ll just upset Grampy and my parents. Really, I’m wondering who did this to her. Really, I want to hurt whoever it was. Really, I’m angry that I’ve lost her. Really, I’m angry at all the things she’ll never get to see me do. Graduate from Hogwarts, become a healer, get married, start a family of my own…”

“So then not good,” he interpreted.

She started laughing but it turned to crying and once she started she couldn’t stop. James didn’t know what to do so he just sat down in the chair with her and held her till she had no more tears to cry.

“Thanks James,” she murmured finally, “I actually feel much better.”

“I have a knack for getting people to cry,” he replied sarcastically.

She snorted, “Don’t be ridiculous James. No one cares that much about what you think.”

He smiled, “Thanks.”

“So,” she cleared her throat, “how are you?”

He shrugged, “I’m okay I guess. Aunt Alex and I weren’t that close but when I did see her we got along pretty well. She loved you a lot. The last time I saw her,” he paused, “right before we went to Hogwarts, you know what she told me?”

Alexis shook her head.

He smiled, “She told me to look out for you. Make sure you stayed out of trouble.”

She chortled,” Gamma told you to keep me out of trouble?”

“Like I said,” he smarted, “we weren’t that close.”

“You wanna hear something funny?” she asked.

“Of course,” he agreed eagerly.

“Remember that New Years’ resolution I made?”

He nodded.

“Well,” she said, “Gamma asked me to be nicer to you. To get along with you better. Or at least try…”

He laughed, “Well cuz, I think we owe it to Aunt Alex to at least act like we like each other.”

“You’re right,” she smiled, “we’re family.”

He put his arm around her, “Come on. We better get back before our parents wonder where we are.”

“Yeah, mum might worry that we killed each other,” she admitted.

He smiled and they made their way back to the parlor. The guests had started to leave and they were offering words of comfort to the family.

“Are you ready to head home James?” asked his father after the door closed behind the last guest.

“You don’t have to leave so soon Uncle Henry,” Catherine admonished, “you should at least stay at eat with us.”

“I wish we could dear,” he cooed, “but I have an early appointment with the minister in the morning.”

Catherine nodded but looked downcast. Her aunt noticed, “Why don’t James and I stay and we’ll come home after?”

“Do you think I’m going to let you journey home on your own?” Henry Potter demanded.

“They won’t be on their own,” assured Ethan, “I’ll go with them.”

“If you leave, what’ll happen to Alexis and Catherine?” Henry worried.

“I’ll stay here with my daughter and granddaughter,” promised Dumbledore.

Henry caved because he could find nothing else wrong.

With a kiss for his wife and a clasp on his son’s back, he left.

“So who wants food?” Ethan asked.

Ally and James sprinted into the kitchen.

“Stupid question, I suppose,” Ethan asked his wife and her aunt.

“Just a bit,” Catherine agreed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Chapter 1


“Ally,” called her mother the morning of her trip by to Hogwarts, “I just talked to Aunt Joey and James is ready to go. Are you almost finished?”

Alexis Prince rolled her eyes. Of course her cousin James was packed. He was a boy. He didn’t need all the things she did.

“Yes,mum,” she shouted back. She shoved her owl, Alastor, into his cage and took inventory of everything she needed.

“Looks like it’s all there,” she said to herself, “I just know I’m forgetting something.”

She looked around her room and noticed a leather bound book on her desk.

“Knew it,” she muttered with a smile. She stepped over her trunk and grabbed the book. Alice would kill her if she left it at home. She was trying to make room for it in her trunk when she heard the door open.

“Sorry mum,” she apologized, “I’m trying to make everything fit. I think I need a new trunk.”

“Or less stuff,” observed an easily recognizable voice.

She squealed with delight and embraced her cousin, “What are you doing here?”

He shrugged, “My dad had another meeting and he didn’t want mum to go to Kings Cross alone so he asked your parents if we could tag along. Didn’t they tell you?”

“No,” she replied, “but it’s wonderful to see you again. The more the merrier. Can you give me a hand here?”

He nodded.

“Here you try and hold this together while I sit on it,” she instructed. He grasped both sides of the trunk and signaled her. She sat down with a thud and he clamped the case shut.

“Thanks,” she sighed.

“Ally,” began her father.

“We’re coming,” she shouted back. They scurried down the stairs and Ally almost ran into her aunt.

“Hello Alexis dear,” her aunt said as she kissed her on the cheek, “how are you?”

“I’m good,” she responded as she hugged her tightly.

“Ready to go?” her father asked.

“Yep,” she ejaculated happily, “but you’ll have to get my trunk.”

Ethan Prince shook his head, “Why am I afraid to ask what all you managed to get in there?”

Alexis grinned, “Come on James. Mum has breakfast ready.”

“James had breakfast before we left,” his mother reminded.

He shook his head, “Mum. You can never have enough to eat.”

After James and Ally finished breakfast their parents got their things together and put them into a Ministry car. Neither James nor Ally asked why they had a ministry car all of a sudden. They knew.

“Okay James, Ally and Josephine,” Ethan listed, “you guys get into the back and Catherine and I’ll be up front.”

“Where will the driver sit?” asked James curiously.

Ethan looked affronted, “I am the driver.”

James and Ally exchanged looks. “Trust me,” Ally mumbled out of the corner of her mouth,” he’s an okay driver.”

James nodded and slid into the car between his cousin and his mother.

After about an hour of the most thrilling car ride James had ever had, they had reached Kings Cross. Josephine almost tripped in her eagerness to get out of the car.

“Never again,” she muttered to herself as they made their way to platform 9 and ¾.

“Okay Josephine and James you go first,” Ethan commanded. He was in his element now, thought Alexis. Her father was one of the ministry’s top aurors and now he had become more intense. It was the main reason her Uncle Henry trusted him with the wellbeing of his wife and son. “Then Ally and Catherine. I’ll follow.”

They pushed their carts through the barrier and waited when after they went through. After they all made it together they traveled in a group towards the train. Ethan wouldn’t let Ally and James stop and chat with people, nor would he let them look for their friends.

“Why not?” pouted Ally.

“You can meet up with them on the train,” he told her, “we’re running late. Get on the train and find the compartment I put your things in okay?”

“Alright papa,” she agreed trying to calm him. She and James said their goodbyes and got on the train. When they found their compartment the train was about to leave, Ally looked out the window. She saw her parents and her aunt and waved goodbye. James stuck his head out the window and blew a kiss at his mother.

“It takes a very secure guy to do that,” remarked his cousin.

“Yep,” he granted, “that’s me.”

After a minute or two Alexis was restless. She really wanted to go find her cousin Severus and say hello but she knew she shouldn’t. He was in Slytherin and even though they were very close they never talked to each other in front of the other Slytherins.

“Where are our friends?” she wondered.

“I don’t know but this is kind of creepy,” James began to worry, “do you think Sirius-“

“Is an insufferable prat?” finished a voice, “Yes, she does.”

“Black,” she smiled, “you know me so well.”

He grinned back, “That I do. I brought you a few presents.” He moved out of the way and she saw her best friends.

“AHHH!” they squealed in unison while they huddled together and embraced each other.

“AHH!” James and Sirius imitated as they hugged Remus and Peter.

Alexis shot them a look of disdain and turned her attention back to her friends.

“What have you guys been up to?” asked Ally cheerfully as she made herself comfortable.

Unless her eyes were deceiving her, they looked a bit uncomfortable.

“What is it?” she worried.

Toni cleared her throat while Lily and Alice signaled her to shut up. That was probably the thing she liked most about Antoinette Shacklebolt. She always said what she was thinking.

“It’s about you,” she mumbled, “and this.”

She took a newspaper out of her bag. It looked like it was kind of old.

“What is ‘this’?” she questioned.

No one said anything so she shrugged and opened it.

“Oh my God,” she cried.

*I'll add a feedback link ASAP. I promise!*

Hey people! I'm back. You guys know I normally post often but it's a new semester, new classes. They're a little bit more hardcore. I had two tests this week and I have two next week so I've got to study but I promise I'll post more as soon as I'm done. Enough rambling. Here's the post. Please leave feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697).

~*~*~*~*~*~

“What is it?” worried James, “what did you guys do?” He put his arm around her and sent her friends the kind of look that scorches.

“What is going on with you?” snapped Remus, “all of a sudden you’re Ally’s great defender?”

“Didn’t you see the Daily Prophet this summer?” asked Sirius quietly as all eyes turned to him.

“No,” he answered, clearly confused, “what does that have to do with anything?”

James and Ally were skimming the article while the others looked on silently. When they finished they exchanged swift looks.

“Well this stuff is worthy of The Quibbler,” James snorted, “as if we could possibly be-"

“Forget it James,” she sighed, “they already know. We may as well admit it.”

“So it’s true?” fumbled Alice.

“Yes,” Alexis muttered softly, “James and I are cousins. His aunt was my grandmother. She was murdered this past summer.”

“Oh Ally,” gasped Lily, “I’m so sorry.” She wrapped an arm around her.

“It’s alright,” she assured her best friend. The truth was it really was alright. Ally was so relieved that the fact that her grandmother was married to the Albus Dumbledore hadn’t been leaked that she was willing to overlook everyone finding out she and James were cousins.

“Oh my,” Toni said softly, “is it true what they say?”

“What’s that?” Alexis asked even though she really didn’t feel like answering.

“There saying that wizard,” explained Toni, “the one that was causing all the disappearances last year? They’re saying he’s behind it.”

“Well,” James piped up, “our parents didn’t tell us anything about it but they’ve been really overprotective.”

“More so than usual,” added Ally.

Their friends seemed as though they wanted to continue with the topic but Ally sincerely hoped they wouldn’t.

“So how was everyone else’s summer?” asked Sirius.

Alexis couldn’t help but smile. Always reading my mind, she mused.

The trip to Hogwarts was relatively uneventful under the circumstances. Alexis kept waiting for someone to comment on her and James being related but they never did.

“So I had the best time in Ireland,” Toni began telling her friends. Toni’s parents had decided it would be fun to take their children to get in touch with their Irish heritage. “Look what I bought. Nice huh?” Ever the fashionista, Toni had managed to find a very pretty beaded necklace complete with matching earrings.

“What couldn’t find the matching bracelet?” smarted Alice. She was a simpler girl and didn’t see the point of accessories and the like, much to Toni and Ally’s disappointment.

“Actually,” Toni rummaged through her bag, “I did.”

Lily laughed as Alice shrugged and hid behind a book as usual.

“What did you do Lils?” asked Toni ignoring Alice.

“Nothing much,” her friend sighed, “my sister kept treating me like a freak but other than that it was pretty uneventful. What about you Alice?”

They continued their chat for a while until the boys got restless and begun to play a rather enthusiastic game of wizard’s chess.

“Wow,” Lily breathed, “those pieces are alive.”

Alexis laughed aloud. Sometimes she forgot how much fun it was to have a muggleborn friend.

“Yes, Evans that they are,” Sirius joked wryly, “want to take over for me? I’m kind of tired.”

Nice, thought Ally as she saw a look of hope in James’ eye. She had gotten to know her cousin pretty well over the summer and she knew that he had a huge crush on Lily, not that she didn't before.

Lily shook her head, “I don’t know how to play.”

“It’s just like muggle chess,” shrugged Sirius, “come on you know you wouldn’t mind beating James at something.”

James scowled at his friend but Ally thought he had a point. Apparently so did Lily…

“Alright,” agreed Lils, “I’ll give it a go.”

Sirius bowed out of the way and Lily took over. Peter of course was practically swooning as he sat next to James while Remus and Sirius were a bit more low key.

“Mind if I sit here?” Sirius asked Alexis quietly so as not to draw attention to them. She shrugged and he, knowing that this was the best he was going to get, took the seat next to her. Luckily their friends were too busy watching James and Lily play chess to give them a second thought.

“I’m sorry about your grandmother,” whispered Sirius out of the blue.

Alexis looked away from the window, “Thanks.”

He could sense her uneasiness so he amended the subject. “I see you and James have gotten closer. That’s good. I mean after all you’re…,” he stumbled over his words.

“Family,” she smiled.

“Right,” he nodded.

The train ride went by quickly and before they knew it they were in Hogsmeade. Last year they took the boats across the lake but that was only for first years. They were second years now so they got to take the carriages with the older students, which was proving to be both a blessing and a curse…

“Out of the way,” bellowed a brutish looking fifth year as he and his friends pushed them.

“Well,” huffed Alice indignantly, “I never…”

“No, I’ll bet you never did,” completed Toni who seemed to want to take a different approach to the competition for the carriages.

“Hey ickle ones,” Alexis heard someone shout, “out of the way or I’ll-"

“Or you’ll what?” snapped Toni, “mess with a prefect’s sister? Trust me you don’t want to do that.”

The older student backed out of the way and Toni hopped into the carriage as the others followed in awe.

“Impressive power play Shacklebolt,” praised Sirius, “I’ve got to hand it to you, you did alright back there.”

Toni smirked, “I try.”

A rocky ride later and they were in front of the castle for the first time in months.

“Oh **** it,” swore Toni, “I can’t believe I just stepped in mud!”

“So?” Remus shrugged, “what’s the big deal?”

Toni rolled her eyes, “I’ll tell you what the big deal is Lupin. These shoes cost a fortune!”

“Not anymore,” muttered Peter so that only Alexis and James, who were nearest could hear him.

“It’s not so bad,” Alexis soothed her friend and ignored Peter “here.” She muttered something and the mud was gone.

“I love magic,” Toni sighed with relief.

“Don’t we all?” James chuckled.

“Let’s get inside shall we?” suggested Remus.

“You read my mind Rem, I’m going to freeze to death,” moaned Ally.

They scurried into the castle and took their seats at the Gryffindor table. They knew the first years would be getting there any minute but that wasn’t soon enough for some…

“I’m starving,” complained Sirius, “I feel like a Russian orphan.”

Ally snorted, “Russian?”

“Yes,” he confirmed as he adopted a somewhat Dracula-esque accent, “and if I don’t eat soon I’ll need bloooood.”

Alexis, Alice and Toni shrieked with laughter and even Lily managed a smile.

“Aww. You guys are warming up to me,” he cooed, “I knew it.”

“Don’t get your hopes up,” grumbled Lily.

“Shh,” interrupted Remus.

They saw that the door to the Great Hall had opened and in came the first years. It was something of a tradition to stay really quiet when the first years appeared. Ally didn’t know if it was out of respect for ceremony or to scare the kids out of their wits. Ally liked to think it was the latter. She noticed that every single one of the first years looked like they wished they were invisible. She smiled. She knew the feeling.

“Adams, Bethany.”

Professor McGonagall had called the first name and an adorable blond girl with pig tails stepped forward slowly and put the sorting hat on her head. Alexis remembered what the sorting hat had told her just last year:

I see great things coming from you my dear, especially if you stick close to a certain Black. You’re a passionate and brave young lady; you two have a lot in common...

Come again? she had thought...

Well, she mused, I’m not sure the hat was right about me and Black. Time shall tell. She glanced across the table and saw him winking at an anxious first year girl that kept staring at their table. She had to smile. He really was the sweetest. Snap out of it, she thought angrily, not interested. He’s an arrogant attention seeking jerk!

It had been a while since he had done something really obnoxious though and just when she thought he was going to change…

“Hello darling,” he cooed as he caught a third year Gryffindor girl looking his way. She blushed and smiled back.

Alexis shook her head. Knew it, she thought.

“Ahem,” a hush came over the room as the headmaster stood up, “now that the sorting ceremony is finished I want to be the first to extend a gracious welcome to our newest students. I hope that you will come to see Hogwarts as your home away from home and that you find your peers to be just as welcoming. I would make a speech right now but as I’m getting evil looks from half of the student body, I’ll let you eat first.”

There was a smattering of laughter and Sirius and James whistled their appreciation.

“Apparently being second years has made them a bit bolder,” observed Alice.

“And what’s bolder than bold?” wondered Lily sarcastically.

“I don’t know,” Toni shrugged, “ But I think we’ll find out."

Hey everyone! I am soooo sorry it took so long to post. Of course life tends to get in the way on occasion. I had so much to do. I might be able to post again this weekend but don't put money on it. Tell me how much you love (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) it.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning Alexis woke up half an hour before she had to. As she lay in bed, she smiled to herself. It’s so good to be back at Hogwarts, she thought. She didn’t quite want to get ready just yet but she knew if she didn’t she’d have to fight for the bathroom later. When she got up she tried really hard not to wake anyone else. She had almost made it when…

“Ow,” she gasped as she ran into Lily’s trunk. Stupid hunk of junk, she thought as she glared at it. Luckily, her friends didn’t seem to have heard her.

She was almost finished when she heard a tapping at the door.

“Let me in,” whispered Toni.

Alexis shook her head and opened the door. Her friend slid in and closed the door behind her. She was looking very solemn.

“What is it?” she worried.

“I have a serious problem,” Toni divulged.

“Hey, that’s the name of my problem,” joked Ally.

She could tell by the look on her friend’s face that now wasn’t the time for puns.

“What is it?” she repeated.

Toni opened the door and peaked out to make sure Lily and Alice were still asleep then closed it softly.

“I think…I might…I’m not sure if…I could possibly,” she began.

Alexis was stunned, “Since when are you at a loss for words?”

Toni had a pained expression on her face and muttered, “IinIkeJames.”

“Oh my goodness,” Ally gasped, “you like James?”

“Don’t shout it,” growled Toni.

She clasped a hand over her mouth and lowered it slowly, “This is huge.”

Toni shook her head, “No, no, no. We are not going to make a big deal out of this. I’m not going to do anything about it. I know he likes Lily. I just had to tell someone. Promise not to tell?”

“Of course,” Ally assured her, “we’re going fix this.”

“How?” whined Toni.

“I don’t know,” she admitted.

“Oh good,” muttered her friend, “at least you have a plan.”

“Will you two kindly get out of there!” Lily shouted as she pounded on the door.

“Other people in the world need that bathroom, you know!” Alice added.

Alexis and Toni exchanged grins and left.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“What took you four so bloody long?” demanded James.

“We’re going to be late for our first class,” snapped Remus.

“Alexis and Toni were held up in the lavatory and didn’t get out until late which gave me and Lily all of five minutes to get ready,” explained Alice as they made their way through the portrait hole.

“Well,” Sirius began as they got out, “you look lovely for someone who only had five minutes to get ready.”

Alice blushed and Toni feigned gagging. Fortunately no one noticed.

“Where are we headed by the way?” Lily asked.

“Did you not look at your schedule?” wondered Remus.

“Well, not exactly,” she admitted.

“We were a little busy last night,” Toni replied mysteriously.

“What were you doing?” questioned James.

“Nothing that concerns you cuz,” Alexis assured.

The rest of the group just looked at them in surprise which James and Ally ignored. When they finally had gotten a bit further Lily cleared her throat, “No one ever did tell me where we were going.”

“Defense against the Dark Arts,” Peter mumbled.

“I wonder who our new professor is going to be,” mused Sirius.

“Has anyone heard anything?” piped up James.

“I hope it’s someone cool,” Sirius sighed as he ran a hand through his hair.

“Yeah,” agreed James, “like another auror.”

“Or a vampire,” joked Toni.

Everyone just stared at her.

“What?” she asked.

“Nothing,” Alice sighed as she shook her head.

“Didn’t know you had a thing for the undead Shacklebolt,” James laughed.

If only she did have a thing for the undead, mused Ally, things would be so much easier.

“Here we are,” announced Remus.

“Very good Rem,” cooed Sirius, “you’ve found the classroom. Now if you can make it inside you get a prize.”

Alexis tried very hard not to laugh and couldn’t help but giggle slightly. Sirius arched an eyebrow. Thankfully before anyone else could notice the door opened.

“Come in class,” called the professor.

They all exchanged glances and entered.

“Hello Professor McDreamy,” Lily muttered as she laid eyes on their new teacher.

“Oh yeah,” agreed her friends.

Hey guys! Surprise! I found time to post. Thankfully my homework load seemes to be decreasing *knocks on wood* Anyhow here's the new post. It's not as long as the future ones will be but hey two posts in the same week? Hopefull you appreciate it. If you do let me know (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697).


~*~*~*~*~*~

“Come on in class,” their professor repeated as all the girls seemed to push their way into the room, “sit wherever you want and quiet down.”

The silence was immediate. The professor smiled and pretended as though he didn’t notice. “Hello class,” he called, “my name is Professor Wickham and I’ll be your new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher.”

“How long will you be staying?” demanded Sirius in what could only be considered a rude tone.

“Indefinitely Mr…,” the professor assured.

“Black,” Sirius mumbled.

“Ah yes, Sirius Black. I know your parents,” Professor Wickham informed him.

“Oh you do?” Sirius piped up, “How?”

“I’ve dealt with your father a couple of times when he was at the ministry,” the professor divulged quickly, “but this is a topic for another time. As you know it is my job to prepare you for what lies beyond these walls. My predecessor Professor Longbottom tells me this class is extremely competent so I will be expecting the best from,” he looked down at his notes, “Alexis Prince and,” his face broke into a smile, “ah Sirius Black. Why am I not surprised?”

The class to the question as rhetorical and remained quiet.

“Very well,” the professor sighed, “Ms. Prince, Mr. Black, if you could join me in the front. Don’t be-,” he was about to say shy but Sirius and Ally were already standing next to him. “Alright now I want you to disarm Mr. Black,” he said to Alexis, “do you think you can do that?” Alexis shrugged and she and Sirius stood across from each other.

Let me, she thought.

I’ll try, he responded.

Ally and Sirius bowed to one another and she pointed her wand at him. “Expelliarmus,” she said.

She wasn’t that surprised by what happened next. The charm backfired and her wand flew out of her hand. She moved to the left and caught it.

“How did you keep Ms. Prince from disarming you?” their professor asked.

“Shield charm,” Sirius shrugged.

“And how did you learn that?” he continued.

“Parents,” answered Sirius succinctly.

“I see,” Professor Wickham muttered.

Alexis got a weird vibe from Sirius and kept quiet as she looked from Professor Wickham to Sirius. Something wasn’t right.

“Okay well now that we’ve seen Professor Longbottom’s prized pupils prowess let’s bring up another duo,” he looked down, “Ms. Shacklebolt and Mr. Potter.”

Alexis graced Toni with a subtle look and sat back down. She exhaled deeply and thought about what had just happened. There was something not quite right with Black and Professor Wickham. She had a feeling there was more to the story than the two of them let on. She would just have to do a little investigating…

“I’m really sorry Potter,” Toni was saying as they left the classroom. She had accidentally put a little too much gusto into the shield charm they had been learning and James had been tossed across the room. Alexis wasn’t saying anything but she had a sneaking suspicion she knew how that charm got so powerful but she would talk to Toni about that later.

The day passed rather quickly. Their classes were exactly like they were before only the professors expected them to remember everything that had learned last year. That was proving hard for most except…

“What is with you two?” demanded Remus, “how is it that you remember everything from every lesson we’ve had?”

James and Ally looked up from their lunches long enough to exchange looks.

“Don’t know,” they said in unison.

“Anyhow,” Lily interrupted, “I know one thing about this year that’s better than last.”

“Toni threw James across the room?” suggested Ally.

“Ha-ha,” James managed thickly.

Lily rolled her eyes, “No not that, though it was rather amusing. I was talking about Professor Wickham.”

“He really is completely fantastic,” Alice piped up.

“Not to mention gorgeous,” added Toni.

“Perfection,” put in Lily.

All eyes were on Ally.

“He’s okay,” she shrugged. She noticed that Sirius, Remus and James seemed to be extremely happy to hear her say that.

“At least one of you has taste,” James approved as he patted his cousin on the back.

“Potter!” bellowed a voice.

They turned to see Noah Wood, captain of the Gryffindor quidditch team, coming towards them.

“Wood!” James shouted back.

Noah Wood stopped in front of them, “Is it true what they’re saying?”

“Who’s saying what?” James shot back.

“That the two of you are related?” he continued pointing at Ally.

“What of it?” she interrupted wryly.

“So you’re both Potters?” Wood continued energetically, now directing his running commentary towards Ally.

“My dad would like to think I’m a Prince too but-,” she was rudely interrupted.

“Hold on a second,” Wood paused and stared, “A Prince? What’s your father’s name?”

“Ethan Prince,” Ally stated proudly knowing what was about to happen.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa,” Wood seemed to be on the verge of hyperventilating, “you’re telling me that you’re a Potter and the daughter of the Ethan Prince?”

“That’s what they tell me,” she smiled proudly.

“Do you fly?” he demanded.

“Like you wouldn’t believe,” James interjected, “she’s almost as good as me.”

Noah Wood looked from Alexis to James as though his prayers had been answered, “You two coming to tryouts tomorrow?”

“I was planning on it,” Alexis admitted to the surprise of those around her.

“We’ll be there,” James told Noah.

“Brilliant!” he muttered to himself, “just brilliant.”

He walked away without as much as a goodbye.

“Well he was rather rude,” acknowledged Alice,” no hello, no goodbye.”

“He’s all business,” shrugged Sirius.

“I think we’re all forgetting something here,” Lily snapped, as she turned to Ally, “when were you planning on telling us about quidditch?”

“I was only going to tell you guys if I made it,” she muttered.

“If?” James ejaculated, “If? There is no ‘if’, You heard Wood. You’re a Potter and a Prince. You're golden."

“Don’t say that,” she shushed, “you’re going to jinx me!”

“I think it’s wonderful that you’re trying out Ally,” Remus piped up, “I’m sure you’ll be great.”

“Thanks Rem,” she sighed, “I hope so.”

“Come on,” Alice directed, “let’s get to the library. It’s homework time.”

“And the year has officially begun,” muttered Sirius as everyone broke out into laughter.

That it has, thought Ally.

Hey guys! No time for a long intro. Got class in less than an hour. You guys have been great about feedback. Thanks a mil! Feedback goes here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697).


~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Get a move on it cuz!” shouted a voice.

“I’m coming!” she shouted, don’t get your knickers in a twist, she added inwardly.

She grabbed her broom and sprinted down the staircase.

“Bout time,” James grumbled as she entered the room, “we’re going to be late for tryouts.”

“How many times do I have to remind you Wood said tryouts start at noon?” she repeated for what felt like the millionth time.

“We’re ready,” Sirius bellowed as he put an arm around both James and Ally. Alexis rolled her eyes and couldn’t help but notice that James seemed to be giving his best friend an odd look.

“Where do you think you’re going?” demanded Ally, hoping that he wouldn’t say…

“Tryouts,” he answered, “I’ve got to see my best mate and my best girl hit the field. Of course the way Wood was acting I’m sure you’ll both make it…,” he kept rambling, something he had been doing ever since they got back from summer break, even though no one was listening. Alexis saw that his comment had gotten reactions out of everyone. Toni and Lily just rolled their eyes as usual but Alice looked angry. Remus was scowling and Peter, as usual, was completely in the dark. Alexis looked over at James who was, to her surprise, glaring at Sirius. She didn’t like where this was headed so she decided to remove herself from the scenario.

“Come on James,” she stated, grabbing her cousin by the arm, “tryouts.”

“Right,” he nodded.

“Hey, wait for us,” called Sirius as he and the others rushed behind them.

“What’s all this?” asked James.

“Moral support,” mumbled Remus.

“Aww, that’s so sweet Rem,” she sighed, kissing him on the cheek. She felt a ripple of awkwardness pass between her friends, “What?”

“It’s just..,” smiled Toni as though she found the whole thing extremely amusing, “it wasn’t exactly Rem’s idea.”

“Oh,” she laughed, “sorry guys,” she embraced her friends.

She turned her back and missed the look from Toni to Sirius.

“Hurry James,” she whined.

“I’m coming,” he gasped as they made it to the quidditch pitch.

“Potter, Prince,” roared Wood, “get over here!”

Ally and James ran to the middle of the field where it seemed as though everyone had turned out to either watch or play.

“Alright,” Noah began as everyone gathered around, “we need a chaser, a seeker, and a beater. The beaters are going to try out first to see how they work with Isabel,” he received a look from a pretty blond, “Izzi.”

James and Ally sat back and watched as most of the guys that had shown up attempted to play beater with Isabel. It occurred to Ally that most of the guys seemed to either be too distracted by Izzi’s beauty or ridiculously uncoordinated. It’s probably both, she mused.

“Next,” growled Wood angrily.

There were a few more pathetic attempts. Alexis was still wiping away tears of laughter from the last one when she noticed that there were no more players.

“Wow,” James whispered, “this is pitiful.”

She had to agree. It seemed as though all hope was lost with regard to the position of beater.

“You know if they were more girls trying out this wouldn’t be happening,” commented Ally, “they wouldn’t swoon at the sight of Izzi.”

James would’ve had a witty retort had he not been openly gaping at the pretty girl in front of them.

She was starting to wonder if they were ever going to get to try out when a quiet girl came up beside her and asked, “Are these the quidditch tryouts?”

“Uh-huh,” Ally responded, “what position?”

“Beater,” whispered the girl. She looked as though she sincerely regretted showing up.

“Brilliant,” Ally ejaculated, “trust me you can’t be any worse than the idiots who showed up before you.”

The girl smiled and Ally called, “Wood, we got another beater.”

Noah turned around excitedly, but stopped short when he saw who it was, “I told you Olivia. You’re not trying out.”

Alexis looked over at the girl then back at Wood. Ah, she thought, if you looked hard enough you could see family resemblance. You could also see that Olivia really wanted to play. This was a job for the Potter family charm. Ha, she thought, Potter. She still wasn’t used to admitting it.

“Come on, Wood,” she pleaded as she flashed the most charming smile she could muster, “let her play. Could things get any worse? Besides, she’s a Wood. She’s gotta have talent.”

“But she’s-,” began the captain.

“Noah Wood if the end of that sentence is going to be ‘a girl’ I suggest you don’t finish it,” snapped Isabel, who seemed to be listening. “The little cutie next to you is right. Things can’t get any worse. Give her a chance. She may surprise you.”

“Oh alright,” agreed Wood, “but if she gets hurt it’s on you two.”

He stomped off to give his sister the news. Alexis turned to Isabel, “Thanks. I’m Alexis-,”

“Prince,” Izzi finished, “I know. Wood practically sang when he was telling us about you. I hope you inherited your father’s talent or our Captain will be supremely disappointed.”

“So then, no pressure,” joked Ally.

“I like you kid,” decided Izzi, “I’m Isabel Montgomery, beater, fourth year.” She looked up, “Well looks like I’m needed in the air. See ya in a bit.”

Alexis watched as Izzi flew gracefully into the air and met up with Olivia. She watched in awe as Izzi and Olivia worked together like they had known each other for ages. Ally looked around and saw that she wasn’t the only one that was amazed. The rest of the team was gaping as though they had never seen a pair of beaters work that well together. The girls flew a bit longer and then came back to the ground welcomed by a tirade of applause.

“Okay Ollie,” Wood sighed, “you’re in. Just try not to get hurt. Chasers, up!”

Alexis went over and congratulated Olivia, “Is it Olivia or Ollie?”

“It’s Olivia,” she assured, “and thanks for convincing my brother to let me play, both of you,” she added as Izzi came over.

“Not a problem,” Izzi shrugged, “hey Prince. Your cousin’s a natural.”

Alexis looked up in time to see James score against Wood.

“Just don’t let him hear you say that,” joked Ally, “or he won’t be able to get onto his broom, his head’ll be so big.”

Olivia and Izzi laughed.

“Careful Potter,” Alexis heard Wood shout. She looked up and saw James dodge out of the way of a massive fifth year.

“Watch where you’re flying you big ape!” shouted Ally, “That was my cousin you were trying to crush. Don’t make me come up there!”

The boy looked down and made a rude hand gesture at Ally. Unfortunately, it caused him to drop the quaffle which James intercepted and scored with again.

“That’s how it’s done!” shrieked Ally as she whistled.

The other chasers and Wood made it to the ground.

“Potter,” Wood shook his head, “you’re in. Everyone else thanks for coming.”

“Yes!” squealed Ally as she embraced James. “You were great.”

“Thanks cuz,” he chuckled.

“Now then I assume the rest of you are trying out for seeker?” he ventured as he looked around. Ally and a few others nodded. “Well,” he continued, “I saved the seekers for last to see how they could work with a real game going on. The team is going up and my lovely assistant,” he pointed to a sour looking Izzi, “will release the snitch, and then join us. Your job, of course, is to catch the snitch while the rest of us play. Got it?”

They nodded.

“Then we’re off,” he yelled. The team took off and the prospective seekers followed. Alexis flew above the team and waited for Izzi to release the snitch. She waited patiently and saw a flicker of gold. Unfortunately it was from a hair clip one of the chasers was wearing. She shouldn’t do that during games, Ally thought. She cleared her head and saw Izzi release the snitch. In a flash it was gone. She scanned the sky and saw it pause next to Wood before fluttering off towards James. She inhaled deeply and pursued it. It’s choosing a hard path, she noticed, as it rushed past James and back towards Wood. She spun around nearly knocking Olivia off her broom. “Sorry,” she shouted as she went into a swan dive after it. A bit further, she told herself. She felt one of the other seekers closing in on her. No pain, no gain, she thought as she moved an arm from her broom and grasped the snitch before toppling onto the ground. Lucky this ground was here, she smiled inwardly.

“Ally,” Izzi said as she was the first to reach her, “you okay?”

“Utterly fabulous,” she responded as she opened Izzi’s hand and placed the snitch inside.

“You’re mad you know that?” Izzi asked.

“I’ve been told,” she laughed as she was helped up.

“Brilliant!” praised Wood as he wrapped an arm around her and kissed her on the forehead, “you’re in, Prince!”

James rushed to her and embraced her tightly when he let go she realized he was glowering at her, “Never do that again! You could’ve broken your arm, you dolt!”

She laughed and put an arm around him, “Couldn’t help it, cuz.”

“Alright,” Wood called as the team surrounded him, “we’re going to do quick introductions, and then we’re out. This is the team: You all know I’m Noah Wood, the keeper and captain. Ollie Wood and Izzi Montgomery are our wonderful beaters. Ava Finnigan, Mark Brown, and James Potter are our fabulous chasers and our lovely new seeker Alexis Prince. Practice will be held next Thursday evening. Any questions?” he paused, “alright. See ya then.”

He made his way over to Izzi and put an arm around her. They walked back to the locker room laughing. I should’ve known, mused Ally. She and James shook hands with their new teammates and were suddenly surrounding by their friends.

“Alexis Prince if you ever do that again I will murder you!” Lily scolded, “do you understand me?”

“Don’t worry,” she laughed, “James already warned me. Honestly it must’ve looked worse than it was.”

“Good job Potter,” Toni managed, patting James on the back.

“Thanks Shacklebolt,” James replied, smiling.

“I think this calls for a celebration,” Sirius bellowed as he put an arm around Ally and James.

“I think so,” Ally agreed as she moved away from Sirius and went back to her friends.

“What’s her problem?” muttered Sirius as he turned to James for explanation.

James frowned, “Come on mate, let’s go get the stuff. We need to talk.”

As they walked away, Toni turned to Alice, “What do you think they’re going to talk about?”

“I think we can both guess,” she replied as she glanced over at Ally.

“Oh yeah,” she smiled, “that.”

~Hope you like!~

Hey guys! I'm posting again. Aren't you glad? If you are let me here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)! I'm trying to post more often. Hope you like. I'm not sure how much you'll like this one. It's kinda blah but hey a little character building never hurt anyone, right? Now for the post...

~*~*~*~*~*~

“You really did do a wonderful job with the tryouts,” Toni praised as they made themselves comfortable in the common room.

“Thanks,” Ally laughed, “I’m glad you guys decided to come and watch.”

“Of course,” said Lily as she cleaned off the table.

“What are you doing?” demanded an appalled Toni, “that’s what we have house elves for!”

“You know I still don’t like the idea of house elves,” Lily complained, “It’s slavery in the most horrible way. They don’t even understand how hard they have it. They’ve been brainwashed.”

“Are you taking up the plight of the house elves?” wondered Alice wryly.

“Maybe I will,” Lily snapped.

Alexis could see they were getting into dangerous territory by the look on Lily’s face so she decided to change to subject and not mention the fact that her family had a house elf, “Where are our favorite trouble makers?”

Lily made a face of disgust, “Who cares?”

“I heard them say something about having a little congratulatory party for you and James for making the team,” Toni piped up.

“Really?” Ally asked, “that’s sweet.”

“Yeah,” Alice agreed, “but I’m wondering what’s taking them so long.”

“It has been a while,” Toni conceded, “but I’m sure they’re fine.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*

“What the problem?” Sirius asked hotly.

“I just don’t want you going after my cousin,” James stated, standing his ground.

They were on their way back from the kitchens. James had asked Remus and Peter to go ahead and set things up. His real intention was to talk to Sirius about Ally.

“Why the sudden concern?” muttered Sirius, “you were encouraging me before. What’s changed?”

James let out a groan of frustration. He really didn’t want to be the one to have to tell Sirius this but his best friend wasn’t giving him much choice.

“Ally doesn’t like you that way,” whispered James.

Sirius stopped walking and turned around, stunned, “Really? She said that?”

James frowned and figured it was best to get it all out in one foul swoop, “She did and it's not just that. She actually likes someone else.” He could tell by the look on his friend’s face that this was a huge blow to his ego.

“Who?” he asked.

“You already know, mate,” his friend murmured.

Sirius shook his head, “I know, I know but I want you to say it.”

“Why?”

“Because if I hear it maybe it’ll sink in,” he replied.

“She likes Remus,” James muttured.

“I thought so,” he sighed, “but I wasn’t sure.”

“Well she does,” he repeated, “and if you want her to keep tolerating you than you need to lay off the ‘best girl’ cracks. Just give it up mate. She’s not like all the other girls. She’s not interested. I think you two would get along a lot better if you just act normal. Treat her like one of the guys. Turn off the charm.”

“Easier said than done mate,” joked Sirius.

“Don’t I know it?” he laughed, “want to hear something funny?”

“Always,” his friend answered.

“Ally gave me the same advice I’m giving you only she gave it about Lily,” he corrected.

“Then we should take it seriously huh?” Sirius pointed out, “who knows what girls want better than a girl?”

“Too true,” he agreed, “we’re okay though right?”

“Absolutely,” he said with a clasp on the back.

They gave the password and entered the common room. Remus and Peter had set up with the help of the girls and they were all enjoying themselves. Alexis got up to greet them, “Where did you get all of this stuff?”

“Where do you think?” asked James with a laugh.

“Ah,” she nodded, “of course. Thanks guys. This was a really good idea.” She hugged them both and went back to her conversation with Remus.

“So she really doesn’t like me huh?” Sirius asked no one in particular.

“Nope,” James sighed as he watched Lily and Toni play exploding snap, “she really doesn’t.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Where is my shoe? Which one of you hid my shoe? I swear if we are late to class-,” snapped Alexis.

“Ally, look behind you,” sighed Toni.

Alexis turned around and saw her shoe sitting on her bed, “Oh thanks.”

“Alice! Get out of there!” shrieked Lily.

“I’m coming,” she yelled back.

“Come on,” Toni whispered, “let’s get out of here.”

Alexis looked from Alice to Lily and followed Toni. Anything was better than staying in there with those two especially when they were running so late.

“Where have you been?” James called as they came downstairs, “we were just about to send someone up there.”

“Really?” Toni asked, surprised, “you weren’t going to try and get up there yourself.”

“Very funny Shacklebolt,” James grumbled while Sirius, Ally and Remus howled with laughter.

“Where are Lily and Alice?” questioned Remus, as he looked at his watch, “we’re going to be late.”

“We’re here,” announced Lily, “Alice took forever in the loo.”

“I did not,” Alice contradicted, “we need a time limit in there,” she said staring pointedly at Alexis and Toni.

“What?” Toni said taking notice, “we were ready on time.”

“Only because you were in there before we were even awake,” Lily snapped.

“The early bird gets the worm,” Alexis sang.

“Or in our case the toothpaste,” laughed Toni.

Alice and Lily scowled but luckily they had reached the classroom.

“Ugh transfiguration,” moaned Ally, “I can’t believe we got up early for this.”

They filed into the room quietly and looked around. Professor McGonagall was nowhere to be found.

“Maybe she’s late?” suggested Alice.

“Yeah and maybe I’m the Queen mother,” replied Toni, rolling her eyes.

“You look a lot like her,” commented James.

“Especially around the eyes,” added Sirius.

Toni glared at them and Ally smiled.

“Serious-,” she began.

“Yes?” he offered.

“-ly,” she ended with a smirk, “did we change classrooms or something?”

“I don’t think so,” answered Remus as he looked at his schedule, “maybe we missed a notice?”

“Yeah well if she’s not here in the next five minutes-,” James announced, “I’m going to-“

“What Mr. Potter?” asked Professor McGonagall as she walked into the room.

“Find Professor Dumbledore, ma’am,” he replied smoothly, “we were worried.”

“Of that I’m sure,” she retorted. “Wands out?”

They nodded.

“Good,” she decided.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Stop it,” Toni stated tersely as they sat in the library.

“I’d believe you if you weren’t smiling,” James told her.

“Quit staring at me Potter,” she demanded, “it’s unnerving.”

“Fine,” he shrugged looking away.

Alexis grinned, it could happen. She looked over at Lily. She didn’t seem to be bothered by James talking to Toni. She was too busy with her homework. It’s so good that we’re all together, she thought. She looked back over at Toni and James who were sitting closer than usual. Peter was asking Alice a question and Alice, being Alice, was answering him patiently. Sirius was snoring into a book.

“Hey,” Lily whispered, “you need to be doing work.”

Alexis responded by sticking out her tongue. Lily shook her head and went back to work. Alexis felt someone behind her. She turned and saw her cousin Sev lurking in the corner near the Dark Arts section.

“Excuse me guys,” she said, getting up from her seat between Remus and Lily.

She felt them looking at her as she made her way to Sev. She poked him on the shoulder, “We need to talk, don’t you think?”

He turned to face her and she could tell he was livid, “I don’t see why.”

“Come on Sev,” she whispered, “don’t be like that. At least let me explain.”

He stood there for what felt like forever and finally muttered, “Fine. Same time, same place.” He walked away.

She watched him go and felt immense guilt.

“Don’t worry,” she heard a quiet voice say, “I’m sure he’ll understand.” She smiled and turned around.

“Thanks Rem,” she murmured as she hugged him tightly. It’s going to be okay, she told herself, Sev will understand. I’ll make him.

~Hope you like. It's kind of short but at least I posted!~

Hey guys! Sorry it's been so long. I've had alot to do but next week is spring break so that means lots more free time. I should be able to post more often. This new post isn't great. It's just a bit of filler really. I'm kind of having writer's block.

~*~*~*~*~

“Look I can’t help who I’m related to,” she snapped, “it’s not like I can owl my mum and tell her to change our bloodline!”

“You knew before and you didn’t tell me,” he pointed out.

She let out a groan of frustration. Why was he being such a pain about this? So I knew before so what? She wasn’t allowed to tell anyone. It was for the best.

“I’m sorry Sev,” she sighed, “I really am but mum and dad told me not to tell anyone and I couldn’t very well just go off trumpeting the fact I’m related to James. Be honest, would you?”

He shook his head, “I suppose not. It’s just now…,”

“Don’t even think it,” she warned, “you’re my cousin and I love you. I always have and I always will. You’re still my favorite you know,” she added.

He smiled slightly, “It’s just not fair. You guys are both in Gryffindor so you get to spend a lot of time together. Before long you’re going to forget about me. It’s so much easier to have Potter around then to take the time to meet me.”

“That would never happen,” she assured, “I’ll always have time for you Sev. Honestly I wouldn’t want to be around you as much as I’m around James anyway. Then we’d start to annoy each other. Besides absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

“I suppose,” he granted, “just promise me one thing.”

“Name it,” she said quickly hoping to appease him.

“No matter how close you and Potter become just don’t hook up with Black because that’s something I could never forgive,” he threatened.

Alexis made a face, “Not a problem. I wouldn’t snog Black if it were a choice between him and a flobberworm.”

“Good,” he whispered as a hug, “no worries then.”

“No worries,” she agreed. She looked down at her watch, “Bugger, we missed curfew.”

“Just disillusion me,” he shrugged, “then yourself. No muss, no fuss.”

She laughed and obliged. “Same time next week?” she offered.

“Sure,” he agreed.

They hugged and left.

The only thing that would upset Sev is if Black and I got together, she surmised, then there’s nothing to worry about.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Hey,” Alexis nudged Toni during History of Magic.

Toni opened her eyes, “What?”

“I want to talk to you about something,” she whispered.

“Okay, library this afternoon?” she offered.

“Sure I’ve got time before quidditch,” Alexis figured.

“What’s on the agenda?” questioned Toni now vaguely interested in the conversation.

“A certain boy who’s related to me,” she muttered out of the corner of the mouth, “whose name starts with ‘J’ and ends in ‘ames’.”

Toni narrowed her eyes, “That is not funny.”

“I’m completely serious,” she stated solemnly, “we’re going to fix the problem.”

Toni glanced over at James who was talking animatedly with Sirius, “What about your problem?” she asked with a devious grin.

“What do you mean?” Alexis wondered aloud.

“Your ‘serious’ problem,” she replied complete with air quotes.

Alexis glared at her and hissed, “I don’t have a serious problem. Black and I are just friends. We’re barely even that. I’m not interested in him that way. What do I have to do to make people understand that?”

“So if not Black than who?”

“Why do I have to like someone?” she wondered, eyebrow arched.

“Because I know you,” she smiled, “so it's still Rem then?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she mumbled as they headed towards transfiguration.

“Whatever,” Toni smiled as she took a seat next to James when they entered. Alexis frowned and turned to see Alice sitting with Peter and Lily with Sirius. What is going on? she thought.

“What is going on?” she heard Remus ask from behind her. She shrugged, “I don’t know. I think we need to find seats though.” He nodded and joined her.

“Don’t bother,” Lily leaned over and whispered to Sirius who was watching Remus and Ally, “she’s not interested.”

“So I’ve been told,” he smarted, “but I wasn’t looking at her.”

“Then how did you know who I was talking about?” she laughed.

He rolled his eyes, “There are a million girls who want me. Why would I worry about just one?”

Lily smirked, “Because she doesn’t like you. Boys are so predictable.”

Now no one gets something for nothing! :p Leave feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) please!

Hey everyone! *waves white flag* I'm so sorry. I didn't really have as much time as I thought I would over spring break but I'm back at school now and I swear I will make more time to post. Really. Now as a peace offering here's the new post!

~*~*~*~*~

The next few weeks passed uneventfully. Ally and James had made it through their first few quidditch practices. Alice had helped Peter pass their first piece of herbology homework. Lily and Remus had become Professor Wickham's new favorite duo for examples and Sirius had found a new project with regard to the ladies. There was only one member of their little group who was having a problem and it had not gone unnoticed.

"Hey," Alexis smiled as she took a seat next to Toni, "where is everyone?"

"Alice and Lily are in the library, the weirdos," commented her friend, "Remus and Peter went with them to work on the transfiguration homework."

"And James and Black?" wondered Ally.

Toni shrugged, "Don't know, don't care."

"Don't lie to me Shacklebolt," admonished her friend, "you're not nearly as good as it as you think."

Toni arched an eyebrow, "Then I'll just have to try harder won't I?"

"If you plan to make lying a way of life than yes," she shot back.

"I was kidding Ally," she assured, "I was just trying to get you to drop your favorite subject."

"Shopping?" Ally joked.

Toni's eyes narrowed, "No. The idea that maybe just maybe there could be something between me and your cousin."

"There are worse things than dating my cousin you know," she fired off.

"Yes," sighed Toni, "I'm sure there are."

Alexis cleared her throat, “So anyways do you want to find out if James likes you or not?"

Knowing that her friend wasn't going to drop this any time soon, Toni decided to bear with her, "What did you have in mind?"

"Okay," Alexis started happily now that she had her friend's cooperation, "you may not like the plan but just listen before you write it off okay?"

"Now I can't wait to hear it," Toni mumbled sarcastically.

~*~*~*~*~*~

"Welcome class," bellowed Professor Wickham as they entered the classroom.

"Good morning Professor," sighed Toni, Alice and Lily dreamily and in unison.

"Pathetic," muttered Sirius as he took a seat next to James.

"What do you have against Wickham anyway?" his friend asked finally.

"That's between me and the smarmy git," Sirius responded through clenched teeth.

Hmm, thought James, there is definitely something going on here. He looked over at his best friend and realized that this was just the kind of thing he would bottle up. Who would be willing to help me do a little rummaging around? he wondered as the professor started banging on about curses this and jinxes that. Someone stealth, not afraid of getting into trouble, sneaky, clever, and charming enough so that if we got caught they could talk their way out of it...His first thoughts were of himself and Sirius. Obviously he couldn't ask Sirius....but maybe someone like him....now, who was more like his best mate than anyone else? Then it hit him....

"Ally," he whispered aloud.

"What about her?" Sirius wondered.

James realized he had said that last part out loud and covered it up with, "What?"

"You said 'Ally' and I said what about her," reminded Sirius.

"No I didn't."

"Yes you did."

"Sirius mate you need to get my cousin off your mind," he said shaking his head.

"But you," he began.

"Detention Mr. Black. My office Thursday evening. No excuses," the professor growled.

"But I believe I have detention with Professor McGonagall that evening sir," he piped up.

"I sincerely doubt that Mr. Black but nice try," he stated smoothly.

Thursday, thought James, Ally and I have quidditch then. Oh well. Sirius will get detention from him again. I'm sure of it. Besides it'll give me time to convince Ally to help me. Then another, less pleasant thought occurred to him: He would have to convince his cousin that Sirius needed their help and that they were the only ones who could possibly help.

"That oughta be easy," mused James.

"The assignment?" asked Sirius, "yeah piece of cake."

James just nodded as they headed out. Convincing Ally to help Sirius yet again, mused James, there's a piece of cake.

~*~*~*~*~

Alice shook her head. The others may not have her focus when it came to schoolwork but she was certainly not going to quit just because the work was a little hard. Alice was not a quitter. Soon she was so enveloped in her work she didn’t notice others coming and going until one of them ran into her.

“Oops,” she heard a voice behind a stack of books say, “I’m terribly sorry. I couldn’t see where I was going.”

“I would imagine not with all of those,” she gestured, “need a hand?”

“Alice?” the voice asked.

She took the first few volumes off the top of the stack and came face to face with Frank Longbottom.

“Frank,” she gasped in surprise, “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

“Because I’m… what was it Prince called me?” he thought carefully, “'dumber than a pile of rocks and twice as boring'?”

Alice blushed. When Ally and Toni were angry it was best to stay out of their ways. They had very short tempers and said very hurtful things, “She didn’t mean it.”

“I’m sure she did but that’s not the point,” he shook it off, “what are you doing?”

“Studying,” she said gesturing towards a book.

He nodded, “Well I’ll see you later.”

He walked about two more steps and tripped over a first year. Alice stifled a laugh and went to help him.

“If you give me a minute I’ll help you get these back to Gryffindor tower,” she offered. He looked at the pile and grinned, “Thanks.”

“No problem,” she laughed as she got her things together.

They talked all the way to Gryffindor tower but once they got in they could see that something was going on.

“Hey,” Alice shouted, “what’s going on?”

Lily turned around, “Thank goodness. You’ve been missing the gossip. Guess who’s missing?”

“Missing?” repeated Frank stupidly.

“Not that kind of missing,” snapped Toni, “two of our favorite Gryffindors have yet to return and it’s almost curfew.”

Alice looked down at her watch. Sure enough it was five till curfew. If Frank hadn’t knocked into her she probably would’ve been late too. She looked past Lily and Toni to Peter and Remus.

“Who’s missing?” she wondered as James thundered downstairs.

“I don’t know where they are,” said James, “but they’d better get here soon.”

“Who?” repeated Frank and Alice.

James turned to Toni and smiled, “They don’t know?”

“No,” she laughed, “you tell them.”

“Ally and Sirius,” he said shaking his head as though he couldn’t quite believe it.

“You’ve got to be kidding me,” she gasped with a quick look at Remus.

“They’re not missing,” he assured her, “I know exactly where they are.”

Everyone turned to him, “What?!”

“Why didn’t you say something?” demanded Lily.

“You never asked,” he pointed out as he smiled slightly.

“Well where are they?” James asked curiously.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” he joked.

“Yes?!” they all shouted.


~Well wouldn't you? :lol: I know I'm such a hag. Tell me what you thought (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) and I'll try and post soon.~

Hey everyone! I wanted to post twice this week in honor of my man Gary Oldman's birthday (and of course my homeboy David Thewlis)! (Btw-Gary plays Sirius and David plays Lupin.) Anyhow I'm rambling here's the new post. It's not long but twice in one week? How long has it been since I've done that? I'll see what I can do this weekend. As usual no promises...

~*~*~*~*~*~

“I assure you Alexis I’m fine,” Dumbledore told his granddaughter.

She looked at him carefully. She knew he was worse off than he let on but there was nothing she could do to change it so she may as well forget it.

“So how are you?” he asked, “We haven’t been able to talk since you got back.”

“I’m fine,” she sighed, “classes are pretty much the same as last year.”

“How do you like your new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher?” he wondered eyes twinkling.

“He’s okay,” she shrugged, “good looking and all that but there’s something about him. I can’t quite put my finger on…,”

“You doubt his character?” questioned her grandfather.

She shook her head, “It’s not so much that. I don’t know. I suppose our personalities don’t mesh. He’s very cold.”

He nodded and changed the topic, “So how’s James?”

“He’s good,” she declared, “We’re having a lot of fun with quidditch. Wood really wants to win the cup. I don’t think he thinks about anything but the team.”

“Yes,” Dumbledore agreed, “but I’ve found that the boys that are truly passionate about quidditch grow up to be the best men.”

Alexis frowned, startled, “Come again?”

“If they are capable of being passionate about something as trivial as quidditch they often transfer that same passion to the ones they love later in life,” he elucidated.

Alexis sat there stunned and he continued, “I’ve found that it’s even stronger in the young ladies.”

Alexis laughed, “Grampy, only you could make quidditch into a life lesson.”

He chuckled softly and looked down at his watch, “Oh. It’s almost curfew. You ought to head back. Your friends will wonder where you are.”

“Of course,” she said as she rose from her chair. She walked over and kissed her grandfather on the cheek and embraced him tightly, “Take care Grampy.”

She closed the door gently behind her.

Dumbledore sighed heavily. It was hard enough to pretend as though he were okay around his colleagues but around his granddaughter it took everything he had not to loose it. Fear not for the future, he reminded himself, weep not for the past.

~*~*~*~*~*~

“What are you doing here?” demanded Severus Snape, eyes narrowed in suspicion.

“I was on my way back to Gryffindor tower,” stated Sirius Black through clenched teeth, “not that it’s any of your business.”

“Temper, temper, Black,” warned Sev, “need I remind you that while you are smitten with my cousin insulting me is not a wise move?”

Sirius rolled his eyes, “Why everyone presumes to tell me who I like is beyond me. I’m not interested in your cousin Snape so I’ll treat you as I see fit.” He turned and started to walk away when Sev called him back.

“I see Ally was smart enough to keep her word,” he smirked, “very good. I stand by what I said in our first year: hurt my cousin and I’ll hurt you worse than you could ever imagine.” He turned on heel and strode away quickly.

“Stupid Snape,” muttered Sirius “should’ve cursed him when I had the chance.” Why didn’t you? he asked himself, no one was around. It would’ve put him in his place.

“Black?”

He turned around and saw the reason, “Ally what are you doing out this late?”

“One could ask you the same thing,” she remarked, “are you going to tell me or do I have to guess?”

He smiled and said, “Guess.”

“Detention?” she offered.

“Bingo,” he sighed, “turns out Professor Flitwick was not amused by my little joke the other day.”

Alexis grinned as she remembered Sirius levitating their professor when asked to practice.

“I see it amused you,” he noticed smirking slightly.

“You always amuse me, Black,” she giggled sweetly, “just the sight of you makes me want to laugh out loud.”

Sirius grimaced, “Thanks Princess.”

She stopped laughing, “I forgot you called me that…”

“And?” he sensed something else was coming.

“And I forgot I like it,” she whispered.

“Well, well, well, isn’t this just darling?” called a voice.

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Well spit it out Rem!” demanded Toni, “Where are they?”

“Alexis had to get a book from the library then she had an appointment with the headmaster,” explained Remus from his seat in the corner chair.

“And Sirius?” requested James.

“He had Flitwick’s detention remember?”

“Oh yeah,” remembered Lily who was sitting on the bench next to him, “I heard them scheduling it.”

“Well shouldn’t they be back by now?” wondered Alice as she looked up from her spot on the floor.

Remus looked down at his watch and frowned, “They really should. It’s past curfew now.”

Toni and Lily exchanged looks. Toni turned from her spot on the couch to James, “Do you think they’re in trouble?”

“I don’t know,” he whispered sitting down next to her and putting an arm around her.

“Do you think we should tell Kingsley?” asked Remus quietly.

“Only if they’re not back in the next fifteen minutes,” decided James.

Everyone nodded silently.

“I hope they’re not in too much trouble,” Lily whispered to herself.

Alice got up and put an arm around her, “Don’t worry. I’m sure they’re fine.”

Yeah, thought Peter from his spot near the fire, Sirius and Alexis wandering the halls. Alone. Fine indeed…

~*Sorry if this post isn't up to par but aren't you happy? Twice in one week! Give feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697). Remember it helps me post faster.*~

Hey everyone! I was so going to post Friday but well I think we all know what stopped me. *shakes head* Well here it is...

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Isn’t this just cozy?” repeated Bellatrix Black.

Sirius grasped Ally’s arm and she gave him a look.

“You won’t always be here to protect her you know,” commented Bellatrix wryly.

“Well I’m here now so why don’t you just back off?” replied Sirius smoothly.

“Excuse me but I don’t need protection from some pathetic fourth year,” Ally snapped.

“I’m a fifth year you little brat,” stated Bellatrix through clenched teeth.

“Watch how you talk to her,” growled Sirius.

“Or what?” Bellatrix demanded.

“Hey! Knock it off,” interrupted Ally. She turned to Bellatrix, “we had an agreement Black. Your cousin and I were just heading back to Gryffindor tower so if you’ll excuse us.”

“Not so fast,” she snapped stepping in front of them, “As a Slytherin prefect, I have the authority to take both of you to your head of house and tell her that you are out past curfew.”

“I have the distinct impression you won’t do that,” Sirius stated smoothly.

“And why is that?” Bellatrix countered.

“You wouldn’t dare get me into trouble,” he replied simply.

“I think you’re underestimating just how angry I am with you,” she hissed sparing a glance at Alexis.

“Is that what this is about?” he asked, “because Prince and I just ran into each other. I was coming from detention and she was coming from the library.”

Bellatrix smirked, “You really expect me to believe that?”

“No,” Ally intervened, “but it’s the truth. What we expect you to do is get out of our way. We have an agreement and you had better stick to it.”

Alexis started to walk away but Bellatrix grabbed her arm, “You may think you know what you’re doing but you have no idea. If you even think about spending time with my cousin, I will make you regret it. I’m not scared by your threats but you should heed mine. Stay away from him if you know what’s good for you, do you understand me little girl?”

“I’ll do what I please Black,” she snapped, “You don’t scare me.”

“Consider yourself warned, Prince,” Bellatrix said lightly letting her go, “and Sirius remember: there’s always a chance for you to see the light and become a real Black.”

She walked away and Sirius turned to Ally, “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine Black,” she muttered, “I meant what I said to your cousin. She doesn’t scare me.”

Sirius just shook his head, “Come on. We better get back.”

“You’re right,” she whispered, “and Bellatrix had a point.” She walked over and disillusioned him then herself, “We should’ve been more careful.”

She started to walk away when Sirius grabbed her hand.

“What?” she whispered exasperatedly thinking he was trying once again to flirt with her.

“I don’t want to lose you,” he muttered back, “I mean…we should go back together. Wouldn’t want to get lost would you?”

She smiled, “Alright Black.”

They walked back to Gryffindor tower in silence avoiding Peeves and Mrs. Norris.

“Dragon’s blood,” whispered Ally as they got to the portrait hole.

The portrait swung forward and they stepped in. Ally disillusioned Sirius then herself.

“And just what the bloody hell took you so long?” shouted James as he jumped off the couch.

Alexis looked from him, to Toni and Lily who were giving her curious looks. Alice and Remus were looking mutinous and Peter was fast asleep in his chair.

“We almost told Kingsley about you two,” he hissed.

“There was no need for that James,” called a deep voice from the corner. Kingsley stepped forward, “Would the two of you like to tell me what’s going on?”

Oh and I apologize for this post being so short. I had alot to do this past week. Hope you liked it anyway. If so please leave feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!

Hola! I'm back. I found some time to write, aren't you happy? You should be. :lol: No I'm kidding. I'm actually relieved that I got the chance to post now because I'm not sure how much time I'll have. I'll see what I can do. Without further adieu, here's the next post!

~*~*~*~*~*~

Alexis looked pleadingly at Toni as if to say ‘a little help here’. Toni just shook her head and whispered something to James. He nodded and spoke up, “We’re heading off to bed.” He nudged Peter awake and grabbed Remus by the collar. Toni gestured to Lily to snatch Alice and they too departed. Alexis and Sirius were left alone to defend themselves to Kingsley who was looking anything but pleased.

“Well you see,” began Alexis.

“We were just,” Sirius interrupted.

“Would you let me finish?” she snapped.

“Would you get off my case,” he retaliated.

Kingsley stepped between them, “How about the two of you sit down and explain to me why you’re getting back so late?”

“We weren’t together,” ejaculated Alexis, “we just ran into each other on our way back.”

“I see,” he nodded, “and where were you?”

“I had detention with Professor Flitwick,” Sirius piped up.

“And I had an appointment with the headmaster,” put in Ally.

“And it’s the professors’ fault that you’re late?” questioned Kingsley.

“Well no,” admitted Ally, “we were on our way back when we-,”

“Ran into Peeves,” intercepted Sirius.

“Peeves?” repeated Kingsley disbelievingly.

“Peeves,” continued Sirius nodding, “I was coming from Flitwick’s office when I ran into Ally and we were almost back when Peeves saw us. He chased us in the opposite direction hurling things at us and wouldn’t leave us alone. We ran and lost him when we turned a corner. Unfortunately we got lost too and it took forever to find our way back. We’re sorry Kingsley we really are and we’ll never do it again.”

Kingsley turned to Alexis, “Is this true?”

Ally really wanted to tell the truth because Kingsley was such a nice guy and she really respected him but for some reason she didn’t want to get Black in trouble.

“Yeah Kings,” she agreed, “That’s what happened. We really are sorry and I swear to you it will never happen again.”

Kingsley looked from Ally to Sirius and sighed, “I guess I really can’t fault you for that. I trust the two of you to be honest with me and I know you were. I won’t punish you this time but consider this a warning: if you break another rule I will have to punish you, do you understand?”

“Yes, Kingsley,” they replied in unison.

“Good,” he nodded, “it’s time for the two of you to head up to bed. I’m going on patrol.”

They waited for him to leave then Ally turned on Sirius.

“What the bloody hell was that Black?” she hissed, eyes narrowed, “since when do we lie for you cousin?”

Sirius sighed and sat down, “It was for the best Ally. You heard Trix, she’s a prefect now. If we had told Kingsley about her he wouldn’t have believed us and we would’ve gotten into a ton of trouble.”

“Kingsley’s a good guy,” Alexis snapped, “he would’ve believed us.”

“Maybe, maybe not but he and Trix are on the same side now,” he pointed out, “they’re both in positions of power now.”

“This is ridiculous,” she whispered angrily, “Kingsley would have believed us and I have half a mind to go admit the truth to him.”

He turned to her, brow furrowed, “Why didn’t you? Tell the truth I mean?”

She looked away from his beautiful grey eyes, “I didn’t want to get us into trouble.”

He got up and walked over to her. She turned her back on him.

“You like me don’t you?” he murmured, wrapping his arms around her.

“Don’t be absurd,” she snapped backing away from him, “you’re a pompous git and I never give you a second thought. I just didn’t want to get in trouble.” She shook her head, “Whatever. I’m going to bed.” She stomped away huffily.

She likes me, thought Sirius, she just won’t admit it.

Lousy prat, thought Ally, as she got dressed for bed. As if I could possibly like such a smarmy bloke. She got into bed and pulled the covers over her head. Unfortunately as she drifted off she couldn’t help but think about being in his arms…

~*~*~**~*~**~*~*~

“So you guys didn’t get in trouble at all?” repeated Toni amazed, “I couldn’t even get away with that and I’m his sister!”

Alexis scowled, “There was nothing to get away with. We just got lost on our way back to the common room.”

“But you’re second years,” Peter pointed out.

“Well spotted,” snapped Ally.

“I think what Pete is trying to say,” intervened James, seeing his cousin’s temper was about to flair, “is that you never got lost in our entire first year and now-,”

“And now we have,” interrupted Sirius, “so lay off mate.”

Ally glared at him, “I don’t need your help Black,” and with that she hopped up and exited the Great Hall running into Professor Slughorn along the way.

She was joined a few minutes later by her friends. Toni sat down next to Ally and completely ignored what happened that morning. Alice and Lily sat down in front of them and turned around.

“So I like James,” blurted out Toni, taking the focus from her friend and breaking the silence.

“You what?!?!” shrieked Alice and Lily in unison.

Alexis smiled, “Thanks Toni.”

“You knew?” hissed Lily.

“And you didn’t tell us?” piped up Alice.

“Wasn’t my business to tell,” she laughed, feeling relieved.

“This is unbelievable,” muttered Alice.

“Are we talking about the same James?” interrogated Lily, “dark hair, short, arrogant, plays quidditch, thinks he’s-“

“Yes,” Toni sighed cutting Lily off.

“He’s not all bad, you know,” piped up Ally.

“Neither is Sirius,” whispered Alice.

“Okay,” intervened Toni, “let’s not go there.”

“Go where?” came a voice from behind.

“Paris,” growled Lily.

James laughed, “Why so cranky Evans?”

“Why so annoying Potter?” she retaliated.

“Game point,” muttered Remus.

Alexis laughed and Alice and Toni smiled slightly.

“Class,” Professor McGonagall called, “if you would give me your undivided attention.”

They quieted down and waited for her to start.

“Wands out,” she announced.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Quick,” chuckled James, “what’s the incantation for transfiguring a goblet into a pigeon?”

“Shove off Potter,” growled Lily as she tried to get the feathers out of her hair and return to looking normal. She had made a mistake in transfiguration and wasn’t likely to live it down any time soon.

“Her name was Lola,” began Remus in a sing-song voice.

“She was a showgirl,” sang Alice.

“With yellow feathers in her hair,” Alexis added.

“And a dress cut down to there,” piped up Sirius.

“I didn’t know you knew Barry Manilow, Black,” exclaimed Alexis.

“Well Barry and I are not on a first name basis,” he laughed, “but I do know his music.”

“How?” Toni demanded, “You’re a Black. I don’t even know who that is!”

“My mum’s deep dark secret,” he whispered, “she loves muggle music.”

“Perfection,” giggled Lily, “just hysterical.”

“See?” ejaculated Alexis, “music makes everything better. Grampy always says so.”

There was a pause in which all of her friends exchanged looks and she wanted to kick herself for mentioning him. She didn’t want them asking questions about her grandfather, for obvious reasons.

“Well Ally and I have quidditch practice,” James gasped, “we gotta go.”

“Nice save cuz,” she smiled as they made their way to the locker room.

“No problem,” he assured her.

“Where is everyone?” demanded Alexis, “they can’t all be late.”

“Umm,” James mumbled something indistinct.

“Come again,” she said eyebrow arched.

“There is no quidditch practice,” he told her frowning, “Wood told me to tell you he canceled. Mark still hasn’t healed since our last one.”

Alexis nodded still curious about what her cousin was up to, “So why are we here?”

“I need your help,” he whispered.

She looked at him and saw he was serious (A/N: ha-ha I totally almost typed ‘Sirius’) so she sat down next to him, “Of course James. I hope you know you can count on me.”

He looked up, “Good because I’m worried about Sirius and I need your help.”

“Black?” she spat, “I’m sorry James you know I would help you with just about anything but no. There’s no way I’m going to help you help Black. He doesn’t need it. He’s a big boy. He can take care of it himself.”

She turned to walk away but James called out, “Ally. It’s about Wickham. There’s something not right especially when it comes to Sirius. He’s no good. I need you to help me prove he’s mistreating him. Ally, please.”

Alexis turned and looked at her cousin, “James. You know Grampy wouldn’t have hired a man he didn’t trust. He cares about the safety and well being of his students more than anything. He wouldn’t put any of us especially you and me in such close quarters with a man he didn’t trust.”

“That’s sort of the problem though isn’t it?” he sighed, “Uncle Al trusts everyone.”

Alexis glared at her cousin, “My Grandfather isn’t foolish. He wouldn’t trust someone unless there was a reason. If Grampy trusts Professor Wickham so do I.”

James sat there quietly while Ally regulated her breathing.

“Look there’s more to the story than Sirius lets on,” James stated, “Wickham is up to something, something with Sirius. You guys are friends, come on. Help me, help him.”

Ally sighed. As much as she hated to admit it there was something about Wickham she didn’t trust.

“Alright,” she sighed, “I’m in. We’ll come up with a plan and we’ll see what, if anything, Wickham is up to.”

“Good,” James smiled cheerfully.

“Don’t know why I even care if he’s got a grudge against Black,” she muttered.

“But you do,” countered her cousin, “that’s why you’re helping him.”

“Yeah, yeah,” she grumbled, “let’s head back. We have homework to do. Oh and James?”

He turned around, “Yes?”

“If Wickham is up to something and we do save Black,” she said, “don’t ever tell him I helped you. I wouldn’t want him to get the wrong idea.”

“Right,” agreed James, wondering if his best friend didn’t have the right idea after all.




Like it? Love it? Hate it? Let me know (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!

Hello! I found time to write! It's amazing what procrastinating on my school work accomplishes ;) I hope I can post soon but you know how unpredictable I am. Now here's the new post! :clap:

~*~*~*~*~~*~

“Alice!” shouted Toni, “are you listening to a word I’m saying?”

“Of course I am,” retaliated Alice, “shoes, blah, blah, blah, purses this, clothes that.”
Toni arched an eyebrow, “My, my, someone’s cranky.”

“Someone’s bored out of their mind,” she snapped, “I’m going to the library.”

“Going to meet Frank again?” wondered Toni, smirking slightly.

Alice dropped her bag and blushed furiously, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Toni shook her head, “If I were you Dean I would work on my lying especially if you want to keep your little secret from Ally.”

“Alexis doesn’t tell me what to do,” growled Alice, furious with herself for rising to her friend’s challenge.

“Be that as it may she does have the best intentions for all of us with regard to relationships,” she remarked, “do you really think she’s going to be okay with you starting something up with Frank?”

“I don’t see why not,” smarted Alice, “it’d give her the chance to openly flirt with Sirius and not feel guilty.”

Toni smiled, “Oh Alice. Poor sweet naïve Alice. Ally doesn’t like Black. Trust me on that. She just feels bad for him. I mean you know about his family and the way they must treat him for fraternizing with muggle borns and blood traitors. Besides she’s interested in Remus.”

“Yeah,” shrugged Alice, “maybe she likes him, maybe she doesn’t but he likes her and I have no intention of wasting my time with someone who is so blatantly infatuated with my best friend.”

Toni paled and Alice realized how what she said must’ve sounded, “Oh Toni, I’m sorry. I wasn’t….I didn’t mean…I wasn’t thinking-“

“You never do Alice,” snapped Toni, “go to the library. Meet up with Frank but don’t come crying to me when he breaks your heart which he most certainly will.”

Toni threw her bag over her shoulder and stomped out angrily. Alice watched, waited until she was sure her friend was gone and went to the library. Her friends could think what they wanted. She trusted Frank.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ow! James, just because we’re invisible doesn’t mean you can’t see where you’re going!” hissed Ally from underneath her cousin’s cloak.

It had been a couple of weeks since Alexis had agreed to help James dig up dirt on their Defense Against the Dark Arts professor and her big toe was sorely regretting it. James might’ve been a hot shot on the quidditch field but when it came to walking he was a complete klutz, but then again so was she.

“You’re one to talk Ally,” he snapped back, “you’ve tripped four times since we’ve been under here and by the way that last time Peeves almost saw you.”

“You’re right with the two of us under here there’s no way we’re going to make it out of this mission alive. Come here,” she demanded pushing him into an abandoned corridor. She disillusioned herself and came out from underneath the cloak.

“That’s not fair,” whined James, “I wish my dad was an auror and he could teach me how to do a disillusionment charm.”

“As it is your father’s a politician and all you know how to do is charm the masses,” she reminded.

“I wish I could charm everyone,” he mumbled.

Alexis shook her head, “Give it a rest James. If you keep pining over Lily, you’re going to miss out on a lot of great girls who find your arrogance and charm appealing for reasons unknown even to them.”

“Really? Who?” he requested.

“Now is not the time,” she mumbled, “we’re almost to his office. We need to get quiet now.”

“I’m not going to forget you know,” he shot back.

“No I’m sure you won’t,” she acknowledged, “now shh.”

They walked past an empty frame and a rather decrepit statue. This is it, Ally thought, remembering when she had followed Professor Wickham last week. Black’s in there, she thought, remembering his detention for ‘talking loudly’ during their last class. Even Lily had admitted that wasn’t quite fair.

Alexis leaned up against the door. She heard nothing but saw the light illuminating from under the door. Imperturbable charm, she realized. How are we supposed to get in there? She had a couple of ideas but nothing that she knew would work. What could he possibly doing to Black that would cause him to need a charm like that? She had the distinct impression it was nothing good.

She felt her cousin getting closer, “What do we do?” he whispered to the right of her.

“I don’t know,” she admitted standing next to where his voice came from, “there’s nothing we can do tonight. We’ll just have to…,”

“Shh,” he shushed pushing himself against the wall and taking her with him.
Lucky for her he did because at that precise moment Professor Wickham opened the door and pushed Sirius out.

“Remember the rule Mr. Black,” he stated in a calm deadly tone, “tell anyone and your family will find out.”

Sirius nodded. Alexis frowned. It looked as though he were sick. He was pale and sweaty.

“Very well then,” the professor drawled, “you may go to your common room.” Sirius started to walk away when the professor called him back. “And Mr. Black, do get back before curfew this time.”

Sirius nodded again and walked away. Alexis saw the professor smirk and suddenly felt fury rise inside of her. Calm down, she thought. She heard James stir next to her and they returned to the common room in silence. After they entered the portrait hole Alexis threw herself onto the couch and looked around. No one was there so she lifted the disillusionment charm and James took off his cloak. He sat down next to her.

“I can’t believe we did all that sneaking around and found out nothing,” he pouted.

His cousin shook her head, “Not nothing James, did you hear what Professor Wickham said?”

“Yes,” he sighed, “every word not that it helped.”

“Do you remember what he said at the end?” she asked leading her cousin to what she believed to be the most interesting part of the exchange.

“Don’t tell anyone?” he asked curiously.

“No,” she groaned, “the ‘don’t be late’ thing. How could he know Black had missed curfew unless…,”

“Unless he has someone spying on him,” James gasped. He frowned, “But who? No one knows you guys were late except Kingsley and our friends.”

But Alexis knew that someone else had seen the two of them out after curfew. Bella, she thought.


Like it? Love it? Hate it? Let me know (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!

:whistle: Hey guys! Sorry I haven't posted in like two weeks...school has gotten in the way lately because it's so close to the end of the year. Here's the next post and I'll hopefully have the next one up by next weekend but once again no promises....

~*~*~*~*~*~

Toni was sitting next to the lake looking out across the water. She and Alice had made up but something was bothering her. James had of course liked Lily when they first met but things had changed. Lily could barely tolerate James and he was paying much more attention to her as of late. But how could she be sure he was really over her friend?

“Problem Shacklebolt?” drawled a voice.

She looked up and saw Ally’s cousin Severus Snape.

“I’m good Sev,” she sighed, “should you be talking to a Gryffindor? Won’t the rest of the Slytherins curse you or something?”

He waved a hand, “Look around Shacklebolt. We’re the only people out here.”

“Point taken,” she nodded, “so what are you doing out here?”

“Thinking,” he muttered.

“You can sit down you know,” she said gesturing to the spot next to her. He shrugged and sat down straightening his robes.

“So care to tell me what you were thinking about?” she teased.

“Don’t know what you’re talking about,” he stammered lamely.

“You’re a really bad liar,” she pointed out.

“I disagree,” he smirked, “I talk to Ally every week and the rest of the Slytherins are none the wiser. I just have a problem lying to people I-“

“People you what?” she asked.

“People I don’t despise,” he finished.

“Aww you don’t despise me,” repeated Toni in a dreamy voice, “that’s the sweetest thing anyone’s ever said to me.”

His face twitched as though he was about to smile but he retained his composure.

“I saw that,” she giggled.

He shook his head, “So what brings one of the most popular Gryffindor girls out here alone?”

“I needed some alone time,” she replied evasively.

“To think?” he inquired.

“Yes,” she admitted, “though I’m surprised you know what someone thinking looks like.”

He raised an eyebrow, “What are you thinking about that you need to be alone for?”

“Trust me you don’t want to know,” she assured knowing that he would hate to hear about James.

“Would an impartial ear help?” he wondered.

“I would hardly consider you impartial,” she laughed, “but thanks for the offer. Is there anything bothering you?” she noticed he seemed to be steering the conversation away from himself.

“No, not really,” he said shaking his head, “sometimes you just need some alone time you know?”

She looked surprised, “Actually I do know.”

“I find that hard to believe considering you’re so…,” he trailed off.

“So what?” she asked noticing he seemed to be having trouble talking.

“Popular,” he managed.

“Aww, you’re sweet Sev,” she admitted, “no wonder Lily likes you.”

He stared at her, “What?”

Oops, she thought, quick what’s a good cover?

“I mean Lils thinks you’re a good guy you know, nice and stuff,” she amended.

“Oh,” he muttered looking disheartened. As she looked at him she felt bad but she couldn’t go telling her friends’ secrets even if they’d get her James.

“I should be heading back,” she decided looking up at the night’s sky.

“Okay I think I’ll head back with you,” he sighed offering her his hand.

“Thanks,” she smiled getting up and dusting off her robes. They walked back to the castle in silence and as they were about to depart Severus finally spoke, “He’s an idiot.”

Toni’s head snapped in his direction, “What?”

Severus shrugged, “Whoever it was you were thinking about before. If he can’t see how great you are, he doesn’t deserve you.” She stared at him and he seemed amazed with his own forwardness. There was just something about her that made him less afraid to speak his mind.

“Thanks Sev,” she replied finally. She kissed him on the cheek and walked away.

He rubbed the spot where she had kissed him and frowned. He knew she didn’t think of him that way but it was good to know there was someone besides Ally and Lily he could count as a friend.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Come on Alice you have to tell her,” whispered a voice.

“I can’t,” whined Alice, “you know she’ll flip.”

“I can hear you both you know,” Alexis groaned as she sat up. Lily and Alice had been talking in hushed voices while she was trying to sleep in. She looked over at Toni’s bed and smiled. Nothing short of a natural disaster could wake that one, she thought. “What can’t you tell me?”

“We weren’t talking about you,” Alice lied feebly.

Alexis shook her head, “Why does everyone in this room think they can lie? You guys know we can’t lie to each other. We’re physically incapable of it.”

Lily nodded and Alice let out a huge sigh, “Alright we were talking about you. Lily wants me to tell you something and I don’t want to.”

Alexis arched her eyebrow, “There’s something you don’t want to tell me? What could it be? Alice you know you can tell me anything right?”

“That’s not necessarily true,” corrected Lily quietly.

Ally rounded on her, “What?”

Lily looked a little frightened but held her own, “There are some things we can’t tell you.”

“Like?” she prodded.

“Well,” began Alice.

“Like Alice has been hanging out with Frank,” finished Lily.

Alice scowled and looked mutinous, “Or that Lily likes Sev.”

Alexis’ head looked from one to the other and heard Toni roll over and say, “Or like I kissed Sev on the cheek last night.”

“Whoa, whoa what?” Ally’s head was spinning.

“You did what?” shrieked Lily.

“See these are the things we should keep to ourselves,” piped up Alice.

“This is…I need…,” mumbled Ally, “I have to go.”

Lily was glaring at Toni, “I need to go too.”

“But what about Frank?” asked Alice.

“And I have to explain about Sev,” Toni said shooting up in her bed.

“Later,” snapped Ally, “I can’t handle all this now.”

She ran down the stairs followed closely by Lily but they went in opposite directions, passing a couple of fellow Gryffindors on the way. James and Sirius exchanged looks and went inside.

“What’s going on with the girls?” demanded James as he and Sirius met Remus in the corner.

Rem looked up from his book, “I don’t know. I saw them running downstairs and I heard the girls yelling-“ He stopped midsentence as Toni and Alice fumbled down the stairs. Toni looked a mess which was incredibly out of character. “Did you see where Ally and Lils went?” she wondered as she threw her hair into a ponytail.

“No but wherever they were going they didn’t go together,” James told her.

“Great,” mumbled Alice, “now we have to go explain all this to them separately and then again once we’re all together again. What do you think? Divide and conquer?” she asked turning to her friend.

“It’d be better if you had help,” offered Sirius.

“Yeah,” agreed James, “Toni, Remus and I can go look for Lily and Sirius, you, Alice and Peter can go looking for Ally.”

Alice and Toni exchanged looks. Toni smirked, “That’s very generous James but no. I don’t think you should go looking for Lily and I know for a fact the last thing Ally needs when she’s upset is for Black to be there. Remus you can help Alice look for Ally and I’ll take,” she paused, “I’ll take,” she looked as though it physically pained her to say it, “I’ll take Frank. Longbottom, let’s go!” She started towards the door and Frank gave Alice a curious look and she nodding encouragingly. Frank followed Toni and Alice smiled happily, “Come on Rem. Let’s go find our girl,” She said putting an emphasis on our and looking right at Sirius. They left quickly and Sirius turned to James.

“What is going on?” he asked his best friend.

“I don’t know but it looks as though things are getting complicated,” James sighed, “and speaking of complications we need to get started on our potions homework.”


~*Hope you like and I'm sorry for the rubbish ending. Questions or comments? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)*~

Hey guys! It's been forever and a day. I know I know. I've had alot less time than I thought. I hope all is forgiven and here's the new post. I would guess about when I can post again but let's not kid ourselves. I never know ahead of time.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Alexis stroked Alastor as she sat in the Owlery. How could they keep things from me like that? she thought. It really wasn't fair. Since she was an only child she thought of her friends as her sisters and for them to think they couldn't tell her something really hurt. She heaved a sigh.

"There you are!" shouted Alice as she and Remus entered the room, "We've been looking everywhere for you!"

"Well you found me," she pointed out unneccesarily. They sat down on either side of her. For a while no one spoke until...

"I wanted to tell you about Frank," confessed Alice, "but I knew how you would react."

"Oh you're a seer now are you?" snapped Alexis.

Alice shook her head and turned pleadingly to Remus who cleared his throat.

"Don't you dare take her side," warned Ally.

"I'm on both your sides," he assured, "but I think you need to realize that when it comes to certain people you have a tendency to-"

"What?" she interrupted taking note that he was playing devil's advocate.

He shook his head, "There are some people you've already made up your mind about and it would take nothing short of a miracle to change it. You're a very stubborn girl you know."

"Family trait," she mumbled, "Are you saying that I'm incapable of change?"

"No," he corrected, "I'm saying once you've made up your mind you refuse to change it. Frank's not a bad guy you know."

"Oh here we go St. Remus," she growled rolling her eyes, "Never does anything wrong and always knows what's best."

He frowned and Alice took over, "He was just trying to help! He's only saying what the rest of us are too afraid to."

"Afraid?" she repeated, "you guys are afraid of me?"

They both got quiet.

"Well that's just great two of my best friends think I'm a scary stubborn hag!" she shouted, "well if that's what the two of you came to tell me you can just leave right now."

Alice and Remus exchanged looks and waited for her to cool down. After her breathing was regulated Rem put an arm around her and Alice spoke up, "Will you be quiet now and listen to us?"

She put her head on Rem's shoulder and nodded.

"Alright," she said taking a deep breath, "the reason I didn't tell you that I'm starting to like Frank again and I was afraid you'd overreact. Don't interrupt," she cautioned noticing that Ally was going to say something, "I know you don't like Frank because of him telling his dad that you and Sirius were friends but you've got to know that he's not the only one who thought that way at the time. There are still some who don't believe you guys are just friends but Frank has stayed out of your way. He's tried to be nicer to you and you're still holding a grudge. Did you or did you not talk to your dad after the Frank fiasco?"

She paused and waited for Alexis to answer.

Ally glanced from Alice to Remus, "Oh am I allowed to speak now?"

Alice rolled her eyes and took no note of her friend's sarcasm.

"Yes, I did talk to my dad about the Frank thing and I'll have you know he didn't believe me-" she began.

"Right," Alice pointed out, "I remember you were very upset that your dad didn't trust you. We had to get Sev to comfort you."

Alexis thought she saw where this was headed but remained silent.

"Have you ever thought that maybe you weren't nearly as upset with Frank for telling as you were with your dad for not trusting you?" she asked smugly.

"Thank you Dr. Freud," she snapped.

"Freud?" Alice repeated turning to Remus.

"Famous psychologist," he explained a little surprised with Ally for making the reference.

"Well?" Alice prodded.

Alexis thought about it. She had been really upset that day but it wasn't so much at Frank. Alice is your friend, she reminded herself, and if she likes Frank you should give him a chance. She exhaled.

"Alright," she decided, "you win. I'll give Frank a chance."

She got up and hugged her friend. Alice hugged her back and skipped towards the door, "Come on. We still have to meet up with Lils and Toni."

"Right behind you," Ally assured. Alice got the message and shut the door behind her. Alexis turned to Remus, "I'm sorry for what I said earlier. I was angry."

He shrugged, "It's not a big deal. Believe me I'm no saint."

"I know," she nodded, "but I was just so upset with Alice for keeping something from me. I know you've never had that happen to you but trust me it hurts."

He sighed and put an arm around her, "Sometimes people keep things secret because they want to protect the people around them. Alice was just trying to uphold the group harmony."

Alexis smiled, "I guess you're right. Alice always does try and do what's best for everyone. Kind of like you."

Remus frowned, "Yes, but even the best of intentions can cause chaos."

"So true, Rem," she grinned, "so true. Come on let's go before Alice gets bored of listening at the door and runs off."

"I WASN'T LISTENING AT THE DOOR!" they heard Alice shout.

They smiled at each other and left.

~*~*~*~*~*~

How could she! thought Lily, she's supposed to be one of my best friends How could she kiss someone she knows I like?

Well, said a voice in the back of her head, it's not like he's your boyfriend and how was she supposed to know you liked him liked him. In all fairness you never did tell her that.

Lily sighed deeply. A part of her knew that she hadn't really talked to anyone about her interest in Sev. She wasn't even that sure she liked him that way but he certainly was more interesting, smart and funny than some other guys she knew. That was another thing that bothered her: Toni had confessed she had feelings for James and then kissed Sev! Why would she do that!?!

"I'm a stupid prat," Toni announced as she sat down next to her. Lily looked up and saw Frank Longbottom lurking in the corner. She wasn't really in the mood to chat with him or figure out why he was there so she chose to ignore him.

She looked back over at Toni, "Keep talking."

Toni arched an eyebrow and continued, "Before you say anything else let me just clarify something. When I said I kissed Sev you didn't let me finish. I kissed him on the cheek. As a friend. I was feeling down and he made me feel better so I kissed him on the cheek as a thank you."

"Couldn't you have just sent him a thank you note?" suggested Lily.

Toni snorted, "Good to see you haven't lost your sense of humor. That oughta make this alot easier."

"Make what easier?" her friend questioned.

"My confession," she replied.

"I'm not a priest," Lily mumbled.

"We're going to overlook that," Toni decided, "are you going to let me talk and not interrupt?"

"Sure," she shrugged.

"Good," her friend sighed, "now first things first I do not like Sev that way. We've talked about this before. He's just a friend. Second, I like someone else. Third, I would never ever try and take a guy away from you. Fourth, I never could even if I wanted to."

"What do you mean?" interrupted Lily accidentaly.

"Come on Lils," she groaned, "every guy who meets you falls for you. You're smart, you're beautiful, you're funny, you've got great hair," Lily laughed, "you're an all around great girl. I'm just me. I'm loud, sarcastic and on occasion I border on obnoxious. I'm not bad to look at but I pale in comparison to you. We all do."

"Oh please," ejaculated Lily, "Ally's the one everyone always drools over."

"Actually I always thought it was Alice," Alexis pointed out as she sat down on the other side of Lily, "after all she's the nice one."

Toni nodded, "That's true. She's the only one who's never a complete jerk to everyone."

"Why would I want to do that?" Alice piped up innocently.

Alexis smirked, "It's fun. Trust us on that."

Toni and Lily started laughing.

"Did we come to soon?" Alice asked.

"Well-" began Toni.

"Nope," Lily answered shaking her head, "Toni said everything that she wanted to and I believe her."

"So we're back together?" Alexis wondered.

"Back together," Toni agreed as Alice and Lily nodded.

"Might I make a suggestion?" Alice questioned.

"That we make amends by sneaking into the kitchens and getting hot fudge sundaes?" Toni offered.

"No," she smirked, "though that is a good idea, we'll do that later. I was going to suggest a pact."

"A pact?" repeated Lily.

"A pact," Alice nodded, "that we'll always be honest with each other. No more secrets?"

"Agreed," Lily and Toni stated in unison.

Alexis paused, "We don't have to sign in blood do we?"

Alice smiled, "Of course not."

"Then I agree too," she said finally, "no more secrets."

"Great," Alice ejaculated, "now for the hot fudge sundaes."

Alexis knew that she couldn't enter the pact for real. Not yet. There was still one secret she couldn't share. Not now, someday maybe but not now.

~*Questions or comments? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)*~

Hey guys! I'm trying to post when I can. I know this post is short so I'm sorry in advance.

~*~*~*~

About a week had passed since the girls had made their pact and very little had changed. The Gryffindors were now the favorites for not only the quidditch cup but the house cup as well despite the dream team's constant detentions. Detentions which had infuriated Ally because they got in the way of finding out what it was that Professor Wickham was up to...

"This was your idea you know," she spat, "and if you keep it up with these detentions we're never going to find out what Wickham is up to and he's going to keep torturing Black. Is that what you want?"

"No," assured James in a soothing voice, "I'm sorry about the detentions but-"

"You think they were worth it?" she finished knowingly.

"Yes," he responded defensively.

"Well when you want to take care of this Black thing let me know," she snapped.

She stomped away huffily and James shook his head, "Girls," he muttered.

Mumbling to herself after her dramatic exit caused her to lose focus and she ran right into someone.

"Terribly sorry," she mumbled.

"Not a problem," assured a familiar voice.

She looked up and saw Sirius Black leaning against the doorway.

"Were you eavesdropping?" she demanded.

"Just in time to here Black a couple of times," he shrugged, "I hope I haven't been the cause of any friction between you and your cousin."

"Puh-lease, Black," she snorted, "I don't think about you enough to let you get under my skin."

He shook his head, "Give it time. When you realize how much you really do like me it'll be too late."

She smiled sweetly, "I sincerely doubt that Black because you adore me too much to let anyone get in the way. If I said I liked you you'd dump any girl in a heartbeat. Work on that. If you keep going after someone who doesn't want you, you'll miss out on the girls who do like you."

She walked away and he shook his head. Methinks she doth protest to much, he thought.

Ally threw herself onto the couch and her friends took note. Within seconds they had her surrounded.

"What is it?" Toni asked.

"My money's on Sirius," decided Alice.

"I've got a knut on McGonagall after all that transfiguration homework," Lily piped up.

"Actually it's a combo," she sighed heavily.

"Sirius and...," thought Alice aloud.

"James," finished Toni.

"Nice job guys," she said sarcastically, "I had an arguement with James and then Black finished the job."

"Ooooh," they nodded in unison.

"They double teamed you," Lily frowned.

"That wasn't quite fair," Alice granted.

"That's the problem with the dream team," Toni groaned, "they're always going to outnumber you!"

Why do I get the feeling we're not talking about me anymore, thought Ally.

~*~*~*~*~

The last quidditch match of the season was fast approaching which made Wood a maniac which in turn gave James and Ally less time for their mission.

"We really have to figure this out soon or Grampy will keep him and Black will continue being tortured," she recounted.

"Yes, yes I know," James grunted, "but we haven't gotten very far."

"Well we know his cousin Bellatrix is working for Wickham so obviously he's spying on him when he's not torturing him," listed Ally.

"No rest for the wicked," James nodded.

"So obviously Wickham knows the Blacks," she continued.

"That's not much of a development," he sighed, "he freely admitted that."

"But what if the Blacks had something to do with him acquiring this position," she gasped, "what if this is their way of keeping an eye on Sirius while he's gone!?!?"

"Why would Sirius still be hanging out with us?" demanded James.

"When does he hang out with you guys?" asked Ally.

"All the time," James stated confidentally, "during classes, in the common room..." His voice trailed off.

"All places where only Gryffindors are around!" she ejaculated.

"But classes? Wickham proabably talks to the other teachers about Sirius," James said thoughtfully.

"No," she corrected, "that would make it too obvious. He can't go snooping around like that or it would get back to Grampy."

"That's another thing," James countered, "you don't think Uncle Albus would know if a slimy git like Wickham was working for the Blacks."

She swatted this theory away, "Grampy was desperate. I heard him tell mum. No one wants to teach defense because of the jinx."

"Oh please," he snorted, "I think the wizarding world is a little more sophisticated than you give them credit before. Not everyone is that superstitious."

"Then tell me oh great one," she retorted, "why is it no one has lasted more than a year?"

"Power of suggestion," he attempted.

She smirked, "And I'm the one who doesn't give people enough credit?"

He was about to retaliate when she looked at her watch.

"I've got to go," she told him.

"Where?"

"Meet Sev," she answered succintly.

He rolled his eyes, "What about Sirius?"

"He can last another night," she shrugged, "it's not like Wickham is going to get him in his sleep."

~*Questions or comments? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)*~

Hey guys! So sorry. I know it's been like a month but I couldn't help it. I had to work. Luckily I get a couple weeks of vacation that started today so I'm going to try to post as often as possible before I have to get back to work. Without further adieu, here's the new post....

~*~*~*~*~*~

"Sev," she hissed.

She looked around the Room of Requirement. She didn't see her cousin anywhere. Maybe I got the nights confused, she thought.

"Bah!" shouted a voice.

She shrieked like a banshee and realized her cousin had snuck up on her. She punched him as hard as she could in the arm, nearly knocking him over. "You bloody prat, if you ever scare me like that again I'm going to strangle you!"

Severus rubbed his arm and pouted, "Why would you hit me? You know I bruise like a peach."

She took one look at his face and, all anger forgotten, burst into laughter.

"That is the most hilarious thing I have ever heard in my entire life," she snorted, "as if you're the least be sensitive to anything." She shook her head.

"I'm sensitive to insults," he retorted.

"Really?" she wondered, "even with Black and James ragging on you every chance they get?"

He stared at her, "I didn't know you knew about that."

"Of course I know," she sighed, "I also know you give as good as you get."

He continued to stare, "You're not going to scold me?"

"What would be the point?" she questioned as though expecting an answer from above.

He nodded, "Fair enough."

They sat down and Alexis faced Sev, "I have something important to ask you."

He frowned, "The last time you wanted my help it was for something I didn't approve of. What's it about this time?"

She looked at the floor and mumbled something indistinct. Unfortunately for her, Sev understood immediately.

"You want me to help him again?!?" he practically shouted.

"Calm down," she said soothingly, "it's not what you think."

"Oh I think it's exactly what I think," he spat, "once again you feel compelled to come to the aid of Sirius Black. What I can't understand is why." He glared at her, hoping he had baited her into confessing what he had suspected all along.

She looked up and he noticed she looked tired as though she hadn't been getting much sleep. This made him calm down at least a little. He got up and sat on the arm of her chair. Then putting an arm around her he asked, "Are you okay?"

She glanced up at him, "I'm fine."

"You don't look fine," he observed.

"What a vicious thing to say to a girl," she gasped.

He smirked, "Now is not the time for jokes. I see that you haven't been sleeping lately. Tell me you haven't been up all night thinking about how to help him."

"It wasn't my idea you know," she suddenly felt compelled to defend herself, "James needed my help."

Anger flashed in his eyes as he leapt up, "You want me to help you help Potter and Black?!?! Out of the question."

"We're supposed to do anything to help each other," she pointed out, "we're family."

"You can't keep playing that card so you can get your way every time," he told her.

"Come on," she pleaded, "I'd do it for you."

"You wouldn't have to," he muttered, "because you're the only person in this cesspool I even remotely care about."

She smirked, "What about Lils and Toni?"

"You know if you want my help you shouldn't try and annoy me," he mumbled.

"Well that would be true," she agreed, "if you wanted to help me."

He sighed, "Tell me what's going on and we'll see."

She brightened at the prospect. It was almost too easy.

~*~*~*~*~*~

"Where have you been mate?" asked Sirius as James entered the common room. On either side of Sirius sat Remus and Peter. Something was up.

"Around," answered James with a shrug. He made a motion towards the stairs when Sirius and Remus caught him by the arms.

"Not so fast," Sirius snapped as he and Remus placed James in a chair near the fireplace.

"What's going on?" demanded James, frustrated by his friends treatment.

"We need to talk," Remus began.

"About what you're up to," finished Sirius.

James frowned, "What are you talking about?"

Remus sat down on the couch next to Peter and Sirius sat on the table in front of James.

"We want to know where you keep sneaking off to every night," Sirius told him.

"And don't bother saying detention because not even Sirius gets that much detention," Remus put in.

Sirius turned and smirked at Rem, "He's right. Have you been alone on all these little late night escapades?"

"Late night escapades?" chuckled James. "What are the two of you banging on about?"

"You sneak off when you think no one will notice and don't come back to after curfew," Sirius explained.

Remus cleared his throat, "which is rather stupid considering that even with your invisiblity cloak, you could still get caught."

Sirius shook his head, "This isn't about the possiblity of getting caught. This is about the fact that you're doing whatever it is you're doing behind our backs. James, mate, you should know that if something's wrong you're supposed to come to us."

"Yes," agreed Remus," it's in the best friend handbook."

James grinned, "Trust me guys if it was that important I would ask for your help. It's nothing. I just have a little trouble getting to sleep so I go for late night walks."

He saw Sirius and Remus exchange looks of disbelief and he continued, "Honestly guys that's all it is. Why would I lie to you?"

Why indeed, thought Remus.

James, thinking he had convinced his friends, feigned a yawn, "I'm really tired guys. Why don't we call it a night?"

He headed towards the stairs and Peter followed like a lap dog. James turned and saw Sirius and Remus weren't. "You guys coming?"

"You guys go ahead," Remus sighed, "I need to help Sirius with his History of Magic essay."

James arched an eyebrow, "I thought you finished that a while back mate." He gave Sirius a look.

Sirius gave James his trademark grin, "Sorry mate. I didn't want to disappoint. Rem offered to give me a hand."

"Oi," James smirked, "you lazy bum. Were you planning on trying to charm Professor Binns?"

"This charm knows no bounds," Sirius joked.

"The essay, Sirius," groaned Remus.

"Oh right," blushed Sirius. "Night James, Pete."

They nodded and went off to bed.

After being certain that James and Peter had went to bed, Sirius turned to Remus and grinned, "Remus Lupin, you rogue. Who knew you were such a good actor?"

Remus flushed, "What are we going to do?"

Sirius didn't have to ask what he meant. He knew and as much as it pained him to say it, there was only one thing to do about James.

"Follow him," he muttered not liking the idea of spying on his best mate at all.

Remus exhaled and shook his head, "I think so too. I just didn't want to be the one to say it."

"I know but if James is in trouble and he needs our help, we've got to do it," Sirius decided.

"He'd do it for us," Remus pointed out.

"Yes, he would," acknowledged Sirius.

"So what do you think it is?" wondered Remus.

Just then the portrait hole opened and in walked a slightly breathless Ally.

"I think we know who to ask," whispered Sirius.

Alexis was walking past quickly as though she didn't see them.

"Alexis Eileen Prince," barked Sirius.

Ally turned on heel and glared at Remus. She knew he must've told Sirius her middle name.

"What can I do for my favorite guys?" she smiled, laying it on thickly.

Remus grinned and Sirius smirked, "I invented that. I don't fall for it."

"Whatever do you mean Black?" she asked innocently batting her eyelashes.

Remus sat back and watched the master at work. He knew Ally could charm just about anyone she knew but he wasn't sure it was going to work on Sirius. After all, if anyone could give Ally a run for her money, it would be him.

Sirius stared at her as though incapable of speech and she flashed him a grin. She started towards the girls' dormitory before he regained the power of speech.

"Princess," Sirius called in his most charming voice, the one even McGonagall smiled when he used.

Remus smiled. Nicely played, he thought.

She turned and abandoned pretense, "Even if I wanted to tell you Black, I couldn't. A promise is a promise. Night Rem, Black."

She flashed a grin and went up the stairs.

Sirius turned to Remus and frowned, "Why did you let her get away? She might've told me."

Remus shook his head, "Are you kidding me? Ally wasn't going to cave. You have no idea how stubborn she can be."

Sirius scowled and Remus laughed, "How much does it bother you that she didn't fall for your charm?"

More than you know, thought Sirius.

"What we need now is a plan mate," Remus decided.

Sirius yawned, "Can we do it tomorrow? I'm exhausted."

Remus shook his head, "Alright tomorrow then."

They got their things together and went upstairs.

What was that about, thought Ally as she listened from the stairs. She shrugged and made her way to bed. She had almost drifted off when it occured to her what Remus and Black must've been talking about. Bloody hell, she muttered aloud, what's next? She decided to worry about it tomorrow. Tonight she needed sleep.

~*That's all for today. Hope you like. As always feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) is a beautiful thing.*~

Hey guys! Sorry I didn't post much. Everyone prefers my other fic so I figured I should post more on that one. Anyhow, here's the next post. Hope you like! If you do let me know (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!

~*~*~*~

"You clumsy git," hissed Remus, "if only the ladies could see the great Sirius Black now."

Sirius glared at him, "Tell anyone and I'll hex you."

Remus frowned, "Why do I believe you?"

"Because you know reputation is everything," Sirius replied, dusting himself off.

They had decided to see if the two of them could fit underneath James' invisibility cloak. It had merited hilarious results according to Peter who was currently trying to stop laughing.

"Quiet down Pete or someone will hear you," snapped Sirius.

"Shh," hushed Remus, "did you guys hear that?"

Footsteps were approaching and Sirius shoved the cloak back into James' trunk as Peter stopped laughing and pretended to do homework. Remus had hopped onto his bed and opened a book. James entered and took in his friends' peculiar behavior: Sirius was stretched out on the floor as though taking a nap (something he usually reserved for classes), Peter was feigning concentration and pretending to do homework (something he usually left to the morning of), and Remus was lying on his bed reading (which would have been completely believable if the book hadn't been upside down). James cracked a grin, "Rem you can keep pretending all you want but it must be incredibly hard to read that book upside down. Sirius, I know you're not sleeping because you snore like no other and Pete please, if you were doing homework it would be the first sign of the apocolypse. What were the three of you up to?"

"We could ask you the same thing," pointed out Sirius.

"Fine," sighed James, "I won't ask what you were up to." He went to his trunk and saw his cloak poking out from under the lid. He frowned, "Next time you guys want to sneak the cloak I suggest you have Rem put it back. He folds things."

Sirius opened his eyes and looked over at Rem, "You hear that?"

Remus scratched his chin, "Yes. Next time I'll put away the cloak. It's not my fault you're a slob."

"Need I ask what you were doing with the cloak?" James wondered.

"We'll tell you," Sirius said, "as soon as you tell us what you and Ally are up to."

"Who said anything about Ally?" James asked.

"She knows what you're doing," Remus decided to test the waters, "she told us she couldn't tell us. You made her promise."

"Well at least she kept that part of the promise," smarted James, "though next time I'll have to warn her not to tell even that much."

Peter finally decided to speak up, "I think we'd be more helpful than she would. After all there's three of us and only one of her."

"Nice job Pettigrew," spoke Alexis as she entered the room, "you should sign up for arithmancy. Wouldn't want to let that mathematical prowess go to waste."

"Ally," warned James and Remus in unison.

"What are you doing here?" demanded Sirius not even bothering to admonish her.

She looked around and smirked, "I'm not intruding am I? I don't see any personal belongings strewn about so I would assume you were prepared for company."

"Remus makes us clean," Peter offered quietly, still worried about Ally attacking him again.

She turned and smiled at Rem, "You'd make a good roommate Rem. I wish I could get the girls to clean. Lily and Toni are right old slobs."

"Did you just ask Remus to move in with you?" joked James.

Alexis sat down on Rem's bed next to him and smiled, "I think that would be rather nice. I could give you guys," she paused and thought, "Toni in exchange for Rem. I think it's a fair trade."

James and Peter laughed and Remus blushed a spectacular shade of scarlet. Alexis looked over at Sirius who was frowning, "Don't pout Black. I'd invite you too but every Gryffindor girl lives in that dormitory and I just wouldn't be able to handle all the company we would no doubt receive."

James, Peter, and Remus all laughed and Sirius grinned at Ally. She was glad she had made them comfortable maybe it wouldn't be so suspicious when she pulled James aside. "James, cuz, I need to talk to you, alone," she added in what she hoped was a subtle tone. Unfortunately for her, it wasn't.

"Well don't be shy," bellowed Sirius, "say what's on your mind. James will tell us anyways won't you James?"

James looked from Sirius to Ally and back again.

"It's about whatever it is you're up to isn't it?" asked Remus.

"Don't be paranoid Rem," Ally said getting off his bed and not quite looking him in the eye, "it's just family stuff."

Remus noticed Ally wasn't looking at him but decided to let it go. Maybe I can convince her to talk to me later, he thought. Sirius noticed this too and decided not to be so understanding, "Family stuff my foot. What is it that's so important the two of you can't tell us? I bet you've told the girls."

James looked as though he were about to come to his cousin's defense but Alexis didn't need him to, "I, unlike you Black, keep my word. I promised my cousin that I would keep my mouth shut and I did. Alice, Toni and Lils have no idea what James and I are 'up to' as you so kindly put it. So why don't you do us all a favor and mind your own bloody business!" Her voice had risen with every word and by the end she was shouting. She seemed to realize it and tried to take deep breaths. Why she let Black bother her like this she couldn't for the life of her figure out. She exhaled deeply and opened her eyes. She looked directly at James and said, "I guess we can talk later." She started to walk off and he followed, "Whatever you wanted to talk about must've been important. I'll come with you and we'll talk downstairs. Alone," he added with a look towards his friends. They left.

"What did she mean unlike me she keeps her word?" demanded Sirius as soon as they left, "I've never lied to her."

Remus shook his head, "It's complicated mate. But if we want to find out what they're up to we have to be quick about it." He ran over to James' trunk and grabbed the cloak, "I'll put it back this time," he said with a wink and left before Sirius or Peter could protest.

"I think I've become a good influence on him," Sirius stated proudly.

~*~*~*~*~*~

"Are you sure we can trust him?" James was saying when Remus reached them. Ally looked around as though triple checking they were alone.

"Yes," she whispered finally, "he doesn't want to help but he's doing it for me. After the last quidditch game we can devote all of our time to cracking this."

"You know Sirius gave me an idea earlier," he muttered.

"Black gives me a ton of ideas, the most tempting of which is murder," she spat angrily.

James smiled, "You have to calm down. I don't know why you let him get under your skin."

"Neither do I," she admitted, "anyway what idea did you get?"

"Well if we're going to have help from him," James looked as though he had ate something sour, "then maybe we should talk to the girls and Remus and Pete."

"Sure and then we'll call in the aurors and the unspeakables," she snapped.

James frowned, as did Remus from under the cloak, "What's the big deal?"

"The more people we have the easier it'll be for someone to let something slip," she recited as though she thought about dozens of times.

"So you don't trust our friends?" questioned James.

"Of course I trust our friends and I have every intention of getting their help," she sighed, "later. The investigation part is just going to be the three of us. When we have to prove it, then we bring in back up."

James shook his head, "You should be an auror with that mind."

"And risk getting killed every day?" she shot, "no thank you. I wouldn't even marry an auror."

Remus made a mental note not to be an auror then admonished himself for doing so.

"Your dad is an auror," James pointed out.

"And I see what it does to my mum," she finished.

"Well what do you want to be?" he asked.

"A healer," she answered without a second thought.

"Like your mum," he added.

She nodded, "What do you wanna be?"

He smiled, "An auror."

"Typical," she said shaking her head, "I swear sometimes I wonder if you go looking for danger or if it just comes to you naturally."

"You're one to talk," he countered.

She smirked, "Touche. Now if you'll excuse me I need to get some work done before I turn in."

"No rest for the weary, eh?" he sighed getting up.

"Nope," she agreed, "Later James. Oh and Remus when you figure out what we're up to. Do keep it to yourself."

Remus removed the cloak and frowned, "How did you know?"

"I saw your right foot," she smiled and went upstairs.

"She's brilliant you know," James sighed, "it's scary sometimes."

Remus nodded, "Yep, she's unbelievable."

James smiled but said nothing. He knew they weren't talking about her intelligence anymore.

Hey guys! I'm apologizing in advance for this post. It's quidditch and I'm not good at writing it but the teaser at the end should make up for it. I hope :D

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

"Welcome ladies and gentlemen to the final quidditch match of the year!" roared announcer Max Jordan, "Gryffindor versus Ravenclaw!!! After a tremendous defeat of Slytherin by Ravenclaw and an equally impressive display by Gryffindor in their game against Hufflepuff here we are." The crowd showed their enthusiasm by yelling so loud that what they were saying was indistiguishable. Ally turned to James and they exchanged nervous smiles. This was their first time in a game this big. Ally looked up in the stands and saw their friends and housemates cheering them on and perked up a bit. She turned to James.

"I think I'm going to throw up," he whispered looking green.

"Just ignore the people," Izzi told them, "act like it's just another practice."

"Yeah a practice that if I do poorly in Wood'll kill me for," muttered James.

"Relax," the rest of the team told him in unison.

"If only people could see you now all nervous and uncertain," Alexis joked.

"I give you Gryffindor!" shouted Max and they were off, "Captained by the brilliant Noah Wood this team is the heavy favorite." Boos from Slyterin and Ravenclaw for the blatant favortism ensued. "With chasers like Ava Finnigan, Mark Brown, and James Potter, it's not hard to see why. Wood seems to have picked better looking team members this time around, with the addition of Olivia Wood and Alexis Prince to accompany the sensational Izzi Montgomery."

"Careful Max," warned Izzi as she flew by, "Ollie's his sister remember?"

"Right," agreed Max with a wink.

"Mr. Jordan if you can't commentate in an unbiased way-" warned Professor McGonagall.

"Alright Professor," Max cooed, "and now here's the other team. Ravenclaw, isn't it Professor?"

"Jordan!" she barked.

"I'm kidding Professor," Max snorted, "I know it's Ravenclaw and what a fine team Captain Black has put together. All that and brains too, who knew?"

"MR. JORDAN!!!" McGonagall gasped.

"Captain Black?" repeated Ally to James, "No way."

"Yes," nodded James, "she's Sirius' other cousin, Andi."

The crowd was thoroughly enjoying Max's one man show. Even though he behaved this way every year, he was somehow always named quidditch commentator. Some theorized Professor McGonagall secretly enjoyed his bits.

"What are we going to do when he's gone?" Izzi asked Wood.

"Maybe a game will start on time?" offered Wood.

"You know you're going to miss him," Izzi teased, "he's your best mate."

Noah grinned, "Yeah I will."

Madam Hooch had taken the field during this conversation and Professor McGonagall and Max had calmed down.

"Captains, shake hands," Madam Hooch told them and Noah and Andi exchanged smiles and handshakes.

"Three, two, one," the whistle blew and the game began.

Alexis had thought for a minute that this might've been an easy game but it appeared Andromeda Black had trained her team just as hard as Wood had trained them. This girl wants to win, Ally thought.

"Goal for Gryffindor," Max had bellowed. Ally turned around and saw James score. She smiled slightly and went back to looking for the snitch.

She spotted it on the other side of the pitch but she wasn't allowed to go for it yet. Wood had pounded into her head that she wasn't to catch the snitch or let the other team's seeker get near it unless Gryffindor was up by fifty. She had to wait for four more...

"Ally watch out," shouted James. She turned just in time to see Andromeda Black coming at her. She swerved to the left just in time to be out of the way.

Wow, she thought, I guess no one in the Black family likes me. How sad, she smirked.

She looked at Izzi who had just hit a bludger at Andi then turned to James. He nodded and she went shooting towards the other side of the pitch. The Ravenclaw seeker followed her and she dove down. With the rest of both teams watching her James was able to signal Ollie to hit a bludger at the chaser who was in possesion, Chang or something. James caught the quaffle right as it was dropped then passed it to Ava who scored.

Two down, three to go, thought Ally as she pretended to lose sight of the snitch.

Before she was able to find the snitch again Andi scored. It continued this way with each team scoring one after another. Finally it was

"A hundred fifty to a hundred for Gryffindor," Jordan was saying, "if there was ever a time for a seeker to catch the snitch now is it. If Alexis Prince doesn't get the snitch now it'll all be over."

"Shut up Jordan," she heard someone yell, "as if she wasn't nervous enough already."

Alexis spared a glance in Toni's direction and flashed her a smile. Just as she did that she noticed a glint of something gold above the stands.

"That is definitely not a hair clip," she said to herself.

She shot into the air with the Ravenclaw seeker on tailing her. She followed the snitch clear across the pitch. She was closing in on it...

POW!

A bludger had just hit the back of her broom and she started to fall. After a few seconds of terror she managed to steady her broom and land on the ground gracefully.

"A close call for Alexis Prince," Jordan said, "Sadly she lost sight of the snitch."

"That's what you think," Alexis yelled. She got back on her broom and flew up next to the announcer's stand.

"Gryffindor wins it," she smirked as she showed him the snitch struggling in her fist.

"GRYFFINDOR WINS IT," Jordan repeated as Professor McGonagall shrieked with happiness, "AFTER AN AMAZING CATCH BY THEIR NEW SEEKER, GRYFFINDOR WINS IT!"

Alexis smiled as Wood and James crashed into her on either side and embraced her tightly.

"We won!" shrieked Izzi as she and Olivia joined the fray.

"Brilliant!" shouted Mark and Ava in unison.

As Professor Dumbledore handed an overly emotional Wood the cup, Alexis could've sworn she saw her grandfather wink at her.

And she wasn't the only one.


Questions or Comments? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Hey guys! I'm back! I assure you I'm still fabulous and still love writing this! My only problem is I'm severely lacking time. I'll try to work on post weekly but you know the rules no promises. On the brightside though the second year is coming to a close. I'm thinking maybe a few more chapters then we'll be on to the third year which I know you guys are looking forward to because the shipping shall begin! Now on to the post....

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Good game Wood,” Andromeda Black said as she hugged him and kissed him on the cheek.

“I’m glad it was against you Andi,” Wood replied with a smile, “it wouldn’t have meant as much if it wasn’t.”

Andromeda blushed, “Are you gonna miss it?”

“You?” he asked in disbelief, “Absolutely. Life won’t be the same.”

Andromeda had met Wood and the rest of the team outside of their changing room. Alexis stared in disbelief. She was one of the prettiest and nicest people Alexis had ever been around. She had no idea how this girl could be related to the Blacks she knew.

“Andi, are you hitting on my boyfriend?” demanded Izzi playfully.

Andromeda laughed, “Of course! You know I love a younger man.”

Izzi laughed and hugged her best friend, “We really are going to miss you, you know.”

“How could you not?” joked Andi, “I’m going to miss you guys too.”

The rest of the team exchanged looks and was about to head off to the celebration in the common room when…

“Oh I meant to talk to you guys too,” Andi piped up, “Congratulations! You were brilliant. You play like you’ve played together for years.”

The boys blushed and the girls thanked her.

“Andi!” called a tall guy in the distance who was coming towards them. She looked up and smiled, “Over here Ted.”

James turned to Alexis and whispered, “Let’s get out of here.”

She nodded and signaled to the rest of the team. They all started off again when Andromeda noticed, “James, Alexis can I talk to you guys?”

Alexis was completely dumbfounded as it seemed was James. They sent the others off and told them to tell their friends that they would be back soon.

“Ted, can you keep Izzi and Noah company?” Andromeda asked, “I need to have a word with James and Alexis.”

“Sure darling,” he answered, kissing her on the cheek. Izzi and Noah walked off chatting with Ted about the highlights of the game and Andi turned back to James and Ally.

“Okay I don’t have a lot of time so let me just cut to the chase,” she began, “Professor Wickham is-“

“Up to no good,” finished Ally.

Andromeda gaped at her in surprise then smiled, “No wonder my cousin is so fond of you.”

Alexis stared at her and Andi continued, “Well since you know that part let me tell you why and what you may be able to do about it.”

“We know why,” James interrupted, “your family.”

She smiled, “Of course. Sirius’ parents were not happy at the end of last year. Not only had he been sorted into Gryffindor but he was making friends with blood traitors. This past summer made it worse. They found out that he really cared for both of you when your grandmother was murdered. I’m sorry for you loss by the way. Anyhow, they caught him trying to use his owl to send letters to both of you. He was severely punished. They knew they couldn’t use Bella or Cissy because they couldn’t keep an eye on him all the time. They also knew they couldn’t use me because I’m on my way to banishment. The only thing they could think of was getting someone on the inside who could watch Sirius and turn him into a proper Black. They got a friend to apply for the Defense Against the Dark Arts professor and because Professor Dumbledore was desperate he hired him. Professor Wickham does horrible things to Sirius-“

“We know,” Alexis muttered, “we’ve followed Sirius to their little sessions. Wickham’s been worse to him than Bellatrix. We’re trying to help him but we don’t know what to do.”

As Ally spoke her voice changed from anger to desperation and neither Andi nor James commented on it.

“Well that’s where I come in,” Andromeda stated, “I know how you can stop him.”

“If it’s get him caught by Dumbledore, we’ve already thought of that,” James pointed out, “the trouble is we can’t seem to make it happen. We need proof to accuse him-“

“Not if you get him caught in the act,” Andi interrupted.

“In order to do that we would have to know,” Alexis paused, “we would have to know when it’s going to happen. You know don’t you?”

Andromeda smirked and James shook his head, “How do you know-“

“Don’t ask,” Andi and Ally replied in unison.

They exchanged looks and smiles.

“So what’s the plan?” James asked resigning himself to the fact that he would probably never understand girls.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Thirty minutes later, Alexis and James walked into the Gryffindor common room.

The room exploded and everyone enveloped them, shouting things like ‘great game’, ‘brilliant’, and taking turns hugging Ally and patting James on the back. Then they finally got away and to their friends.

“That last bloke hugged me too long,” Alexis complained, “and I didn’t even know his name!”

“My back hurts,” whined James.

“Will you listen to the two of you complaining about the little things!?!” bellowed Sirius, “you’re quidditch champs!”

“Hear, hear,” added Remus.

Toni rose her glass, “To James and Ally!”

“To James and Ally,” their friends cheered in unison.

Izzi and Noah walked over to them and hugged them.

“How was your talk with Andi?” Noah asked.

“Good,” James responded quickly.

“We just wanted to come over and say hi,” Izzi explained, “I think Noah might need to turn in.”

“I’m not tired!” he shot back.

“You didn’t sleep a wink last night and you were panicking all day,” she reminded him, “you need sleep.”

He was about to argue but couldn’t stifle a yawn.

“Told ya,” gloated Izzi.

“I hate you,” Noah glared.

“You love me,” teased Izzi.

He smiled, “Yeah, I do.”

They said goodbye and walked off.

“They are so cute,” gushed Alice.

“Actually I was thinking they remind me of other people we know,” commented Toni.

“I think you’ve had enough butterbeer,” Lily piped up.

“Relax,” Toni smirked, “I wasn’t going to say you and James. I was actually thinking-“

Sirius turned to Alexis, frowning, “Why were you talking to my cousin Andi?”

“Andromeda cornered us after the match,” intervened James, “she just wanted to congratulate us.”

“That true Prince?” Sirius asked her.

“Why would James lie?” she responded. “I think I’m gonna head off to bed. I’m exhausted. Night, all.”

She walked toward the staircase when Sirius accosted her, “That wasn’t an answer.”

“Good night Black,” repeated Alexis not wanting to argue.

“Why do you meddle in my life?” he asked.

“Why do you care?” she retaliated.

Knowing the conversation was over, both went their separate ways.


Hope you guys liked it! I know this fic has it's problems (timeline wise and sometimes the kids are a bit more mature than they should be) but I appreciate all those who read and especially those who leave feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!

Hey guys! Five more chapters til the third year. I must admit I'm looking forward to it. It's going to be a blast. Alright before I keep going and give things away I'm going to give you your post....

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The afterglow of winning the quidditch cup didn’t stay long for Ally and James. As soon as they got a chance they began finalizing a plan to deal with Wickham once and for all.

“I’m so glad Andromeda knew what was going on,” exhaled Ally, “it makes it easier to have outside help.”

James smirked, “Andromeda?”

“That’s her name, isn’t it,” retorted his cousin.

“It is,” he agreed, “but uh…”

“Uh what?” she snapped, “use complete sentences James.”

“You’ve never called a member of the Black family by their first name,” he pointed out.

“Well I’ve never liked a member of the Black family before,” she countered with a yawn.

James took notice, “So we’ve basically got it all planned out then?”

“Yeah,” she sighed, “let’s just hope everything goes according to plan. I would hate it if Wickham suddenly changed his mind.”

“Don’t worry Ally,” her cousin assured her, “everything’s going to be fine.”

“I hope so,” she repeated. “We should meet up with the girls and the rest of the dream team.”

“They will have missed us,” he agreed.

“Some of them will have missed us,” she contradicted.

He frowned, “Thank you for reminding me that your friends hate me, while mine can’t seem to get enough of you.”

“Well I’m prettier than you,” she joked, “besides not all of my friends hate you.”

“Alice likes everyone,” he reminded her.

“I wasn’t talking about Alice,” she whispered. He gave her a bewildered look. “Think about it cuz,” she finished as they entered Gryffindor tower.

“Where have you been?” demanded Lily.

Alexis contorted her face and stared at her best friend.

“What?” she asked clearly worried for her friend’s sanity.

Alexis shook her head, “Just making sure you weren’t my mother.”

Toni and James howled with laughter and Remus and Alice shushed them.

“What?” wondered Ally, “why do we have to be quiet?”

“Because,” Sirius answered looking up from his copy of the Daily Prophet, “Alice and Remus are studying and should anyone interrupt their sacred concentration, they shall be punished.”

“Severely?” Ally joked.

“Is there any other way?” countered Sirius.

Toni shook her head, “James, I need a little help with this transfiguration essay.”

“Sure,” he agreed, “it’s good to see someone appreciates my brilliance.”

Toni snorted, “Right, brilliance.”

Alexis smiled as they walked over to the table, bickering. Peter was missing, which she found odd, but she felt it best not to question.

“So Black,” she said, plopping down next to him, “what are you doing?”

He looked over and studied her face, “I think the better question is: what are you doing?”

“What are you babbling about?” she sighed.

“Why are you talking to me?” he questioned, “you never talk to me.”

“Just curious as to why you were reading quietly instead of causing chaos,” she shrugged.

“Out of respect for Alice and Remus,” he responded, focusing his attention back on the paper.

She was slightly taken aback by his lack of interest in her but as she was exhausted it gave her a good excuse to turn in. Though she was curious about what could keep his attention for so long.

“Alright Black,” she yawned, “out of respect for you. I’m going to leave you to your reading. Night.”

“Night,” he repeated, not bothering to look up.

Must be one hell of an article, she thought.

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Now then I realize the year is coming to a close,” began Professor Flitwick, “but it’s not over yet. On the blackboard there is a list of topics I suggest you study because you might see them on exam someday…in the not too distant future. Remember, it’s good to know the wand motions and be able to perform the charm but it is equally important if not more so to keep the theory at the forefront of your mind because I assure you that will be important…and no, not just for the exam.”

They spent the rest of the period reviewing all they had learned over the past year.

“I cannot believe the year is almost over,” Alice was saying as they made their way to lunch.

“And I cannot believe you have a boyfriend,” Toni pouted in mock outrage.

“Frank is NOT my boyfriend,” she repeated for the millionth time that month.

“If you say so,” smirked her friend knowingly.

“I’ll tell you what I say-“ she began somewhat hostility.

“Now ladies, play nice,” Alexis intervened.

Alice stomped ahead and Lily frowned, “Give her a break Toni.”

Before she could respond, Lily had caught up with Alice and they had taken seats at the table.

“Wow,” ejaculated Toni, “you would think having a boyfriend would make her mellow.”

Alexis laughed, “Seriously Toni. Be nice.”

“I am nice,” she fired back as James and Sirius chuckled.

She spun around, “What?”

“We thought you were making a joke,” Sirius replied simply.

Toni mumbled something indistinguishable and stormed off.

“Good going Sirius,” James snapped.

Sirius looked shocked, “You were laughing too!”

James shook his head and sat down next to Toni.

“What is everyone’s problem?!?” demanded Sirius of no one in particular.

“It’s the end of term,” Remus pointed out, “everyone’s on edge.”

Alexis nodded, “He’s got a point.”

“Of course he does,” muttered Sirius as he and Peter took seats away from everyone else.

Alexis just stared at Remus, “I guess you were right.”

“It doesn’t mean as much when no one’s around to hear it,” he joked.

Alexis smiled, “Thank Merlin someone’s still making jokes.”

~*~*~*~*~

The hostilities between the friends lasted for the rest of the week. They had divided into little groups that first day and it had stayed that way…until of course they all wound up in the same place.

“Excuse me but I needed that book,” Lily told James.

James didn’t bother looking up from the book as he responded, “Too bad.”

“Come on Potter, you don’t even know how to study,” she groaned.

He looked up, “Then I guess it’s a very good thing I’m naturally intelligent.”

“Potter,” she began.

“Look Evans you’re not the only one who has exams coming up,” he snapped, “after my study group gets here and we’re finished then you can take the book and do whatever you like with it.”

“Study group?” she repeated, eyebrow arched, “this I’ve got to see.”

“Hey James,” Ally said as she reached the table with Remus and Toni in tow, “Sorry we’re late.”

“No problem,” he shrugged. Toni took the seat next to him and Ally and Remus say across from them.

“Shouldn’t you be studying Evans?” James wondered aloud as Lily gaped at them.

“Yes,” she snapped, “I’m just waiting for the rest of my study group to get here.”

“Your study group?” repeated Toni.

“Yes,” Lily repeated defiantly. Luckily for her at that precise moment Alice and Frank entered the library followed by Sirius and Peter. She walked over to them, “I’m glad you guys made it.”

“Made what?” asked Alice.

Lily feigned laughter and whispered something to Alice who looked over at the others.

“Sorry,” she apologized, “Frank and I lost track of time. Oh there you are Sirius, Peter.”

Peter didn’t bother masking his confusion but Sirius knew exactly what was going on as he spoke rather loudly, “Sorry we were late.”

Lily spared a glance in the direction of James and Ally, “Oh you’re right on time.”

The five of them sat down together and Ally turned to James, “That was obvious.”

“Who cares?” wondered Toni, “we’ve got the better team anyways.”

Ally smirked, “That’s true. They’ve got Frank and Pettigrew. Hopeless, the both of them.”

Remus shook his head, “Can we focus please?”

“Sure Rem,” she nodded. “The first exam then?”

Everyone nodded.

They continued to work on studying for their transfiguration exam for the rest of the day. Luckily they had James who had managed to teach Toni and Ally a great deal over the year.

“I’m so ready for the practical,” Toni told Ally as they put away the books they used. “I can’t wait to see McGonagall’s face when we pass with flying colors.”

Ally smiled, “I know. We kind of owe James.”

“Not really,” Toni shrugged, “you managed to keep him from melting his cauldron in potions again this year.”

“Ha-ha,” James mocked as he and Remus turned the corner, “did you guys put back that practical use book yet?”

“No,” Toni replied, tossing it to him, “you can.”

“No,” he countered, “Evans can. I promised to let her have it when we were done.”

They made their way back to the table and gathered their things.

“Be right back,” James whispered.

He walked over to the other table and place the book next to Lily and returned.

“Ready to go then?” he asked. The rest nodded so they left the library.

Lily watched then turned back to the rest of her group, “What was that?”

“What?” asked Sirius as he was the only one paying attention. Peter had fallen asleep and Alice and Frank were focused on each other.

She turned to him, “The way Potter was treating me?”

“And how was that?” he responded humoring her.

“Like-“ she began.

“Like he treats everyone else?” Sirius offered.

Lily frowned, “Yes.”

He ran a hand through his hair, “Don’t worry about it. He’s just doing what you asked.”

“Oh is that what you’re doing with Ally?” she countered.

“I don’t believe this discussion is relevant to transfiguration,” he pointed out.

Lily smiled knowingly, “So what was that incantation again?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Well I am thoroughly impressed,” Professor McGonagall praised at the end of class, “I see you have all been taking your exams very seriously. The improvement is remarkable.” She graced them with a thin smile, “I appreciate all of your hard work. Good luck on your exam next week.” She waved them goodbye and the class quietly got their possessions together.

“Luck is for those without skill,” bragged James as they walked to lunch.

Toni smirked, “Arrogance is unbecoming James.”

Alexis and Remus laughed at the look on James’ face.

“Well you seem to be becoming more attached to me so maybe you’re wrong,” he retorted.

“I’ve become accustomed to your arrogance,” she replied as they sat down.

“As have we all,” added Sirius as he sat on the other side of James and Peter next to him.

“I’ll second that,” agreed Lily as she and Alice sat down next to Alexis.

“One big happy family?” Alexis cracked as everyone began eating.

“Yep,” nodded Alice as Frank joined them.

“Good because Alexis and Toni have been driving me mad,” Remus admitted, “joke, joke, joke. It’s like talking to Abbot and Costello.”

“Who’s on first?” Ally and Toni said in unison causing laughter to ensue.

“Well now that Alice is back you can study to your heart’s content,” Alexis pointed out.

“But please don’t!” begged Sirius, “or else we’ll never have any fun!”

Everyone laughed and Alexis looked up at the head table. Wickham didn’t see that, she thought relieved. After which another horrible thought occurred to her, she turned to see Bellatrix Black looking in their direction. Bugger, she thought.

She wanted to signal James and realized she couldn’t. Not without everyone else noticing…

“We should head back to the common room,” she suggested.

“Alright,” agreed Alice, “I’m done.”

Everyone seemed to agree so they made their way to Gryffindor tower. She pulled James aside once they were in, “She saw him.”

“What?” he asked clearly confused.

“Bellatrix,” she whispered, “she saw Black making jokes and sitting with us. Wickham will find out. He’s going to be in for it.”

“Don’t worry,” James soothed, “we won’t see Wickham until Friday. If he gives Sirius detention then, like Andi said, then we’ll be able to stop him. I can’t wait.”

“I hate to do this before exams,” Alexis mentioned.

“What?” repeated James.

“Exams,” she reminded, “who’s going to give the exam if we get Wickham fired?”

“I don’t know,” he admitted, “another professor?”

“I hope so,” she sighed.

“You want to take the exam?” he mocked.

“Shove off James,” she muttered.

“Oi!” called Sirius, “what are you two on about over there?”

“We’re gossiping about you,” shot Ally, “James was just telling me about your Hufflepuff admirer.”

“That’s not funny!” he shuddered, “she looks like she might kill me if I reject her.”

“She’s only a first year,” James reminded him, “and she seems nice.”

“It’s always the quiet ones,” contradicted Sirius, “underneath the surface she’s a raving lunatic. I can tell.”

“Aw,” Ally ejaculated, “who doesn’t love a crazy?”

Laughter erupted. Once we take care of Wickham, she thought, it’ll always be like this.

~Oh right give feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!~

Hey guys! It's been like a month but you know how it is. Life and stuff...School in my case...Anyhow I really appreciate your patience. Now on to the post...

~*~*~*~*~*~

As expected the following day while in Defense against the Dark Arts, Professor Wickham felt compelled to distribute yet another detention to Sirius. The unfair nature of this aggravated not only Sirius but a few others as well.

“It really wasn’t fair that time,” huffed Peter. “You didn’t even do anything mate.”

“I know Peter,” mumbled Sirius, “I was there too.”

“Honestly though Black,” commented Toni, “why didn’t you protest?”

“And get another round of detention from our head of house?” he retorted. “I think not.”

Alexis and James exchanged covert looks and Remus took note.

“Ally, can I have a word?” he piped up.

Alexis arched an eyebrow, “Sure, Rem.”

They split of from the rest of the group and headed towards the library while the others headed towards the common room.

“So…,” she began awkwardly, “what did you want to talk about?”

He frowned, “I think I’ve figured out what you and James are up to.”

“Oh,” she sighed, “and what is that?”

“Wickham,” he stated succinctly, “you two weren’t the only ones who noticed how Sirius behaved after he got back from those detentions.”

“Alright Remus,” she said as she sat down in the corner, making sure no one was paying attention to them, “what do you know? Exactly?”

“Well whatever it is that Wickham does to him must be physically painful as he tends to wince when he returns,” he pointed out, “I would venture to guess he performs black magic on him.”

“And you would be right,” Alexis admitted, still making sure no one could hear them.

“But,” Remus’ brow furrowed, “How? Why?”

“That’s not important,” she told him, “all you need to know is this: James and I have a plan. However in order to put that plan into action we need your help.”

“My help?” he repeated, clearly confused.

Alexis grinned, “A marauder’s help.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Everything was falling into place. She just had to do one more thing…and she was dreading it…

“Hey ladies,” Alexis called cheerfully as she entered their dormitory room.

Toni looked up from her potions essay to Lily who was reading a book she borrowed from Alexis. Alice was bundled up in her bed.

“What’s up with Alice?” Ally asked.

“Doesn’t feel well,” Toni shrugged, “probably just a cold.”

“She’s been going spare,” Lily piped up, “trying to keep up with her work and help Frank with his.”

Alexis arched an eyebrow, “Frank can’t do his own work?”

“She’s not doing it for him,” Toni amended, “she’s just trying to help him get his herbology up to scratch.”

“Yeah,” agreed Lily, “and in return he’s helping her with transfiguration.”

“Oh,” Alexis whispered.

“You would know if you hadn’t been spending all your time with James,” snapped Toni.

Alexis groaned. If James’ friends had been giving him a hard time, it was nothing compared to how dramatic her friends were being about the situation.

“Would you like to know what’s going on or would you prefer to keep being a drama queen?” she retaliated.

Lily and Toni got quiet and Alice rolled over, “You’re going to tell us?”

“Absolutely,” she said, “I was always planning to tell you guys.”

Her friends got off their beds and sat down next to her on the floor.

Alexis told her friends everything with minimal interruption: how she had never trusted Wickham, how he had been treating Black in their detentions, how he had been recruited by the Black family to keep an eye on him, how she and James had been there at the end of every detention to see Sirius when he left.

“What makes you so sure the Black family had something to do with this?” Lily wondered wide-eyed. “I know they’re not very nice but he’s still their son!”

Alexis stared at Lily, realizing for the first time just how naïve her friend was, “Lily, when Black was sorted into Gryffindor his family was furious. You heard that howler. I told you about what Bellatrix did to him. Then of course there’s the icing on the cake: Andromeda, his cousin, told me that over the summer when Gamma died, Black tried to contact James and I and when his parents found out they decided to get someone more powerful to control him at Hogwarts.”

“Andromeda told you that,” repeated Alice.

“According to Andi she’s as good as banished for being a Ravenclaw anyway so she’s trying to help her cousin,” Alexis divulged.

The four of them sat there in silence until finally Toni spoke up, “So what are you and James going to do?”

“And what do you need from us?” added Lily unexpectedly.

Alexis gaped at her, “From you?”

“Of course,” Lily stated firmly, “Black may be an insufferable prat but he’s our prat. Our fellow Gryffindor and I’m told we’re a loyal bunch.”

“All the galleons in the world don’t give the Blacks the right to treat him that way,” concurred Toni.

“Absolutely not,” Alice affirmed, “you guys may not like Sirius but he’s one of the good ones. He’d help us.”

“Well, James and I have been talking and we decided that we definitely have to have a distraction,” began Alexis.

“A distraction?” reiterated Toni, “like last year when the boys pulled off that big prank so you and Black could chat with his cousin?”

“Probably not exactly like that,” shrugged Ally, “but something similar.”

“But if you and James are going to,” Lily paused, “what exactly are you and James going to do?”

“James and I are going to go to the Headmaster’s and tell him our suspicions,” explained Alexis, “considering it’s a student I’m sure he’ll take us very seriously but he’ll want proof. That’s when we take him to Wickham’s office and show him our proof.”

“Meanwhile we help Remus and Peter carry out the ‘disturbance’,” Alice managed stumbling a bit over the last word.

Alexis took notice, “Look girls I know you’re not fond of rule breaking so if you don’t want to help-“

Toni smirked, “Sometimes rules were made to be broken.”

Alexis smiled back. She knew Toni wouldn’t mind but Alice and Lily were different. They thrived within rules and boundaries.

“Hear, hear,” agreed Lily unexpectedly as Alice nodded vehemently.

“Really?” Alexis couldn’t help but smile. Her friends really were something else.

“Really,” Alice agreed, “after all, how could we not help your future husband?”

Alexis glared and threw a shoe at her dear friend while Lily and Toni howled with laughter. “Not funny!” she snapped as Alice used her wand to slow the shoe down and land gracefully on her bed.

“Anyhow,” intervened Lily as she knew her friend’s temper had flared, “when should we get together with Remus and Peter.”

“Soon,” answered Alexis, “very soon…like five minutes ago soon.”

“Alright then,” Toni sighed getting up from her place on the floor, “let’s get a move on then.”

Her friends headed downstairs when something suddenly occurred to Alexis. She ran to catch up with them as they met up with Remus and Peter.

“Go to the Room of Requirement,” she whispered to Remus.

“How do you know about the room of requirement?” he muttered out of the corner of his mouth.

“I have my ways,” she winked.

He shook his head and started to lead the others out.

“Remus,” Ally called.

He turned around and signaled for the others to go through the portrait hole.

“Good luck,” she said kissing him on the cheek.

“Thanks Ally,” he sputtered, blushing profusely. He turned back towards the portrait hole and hurried off to meet the others.

Alexis smiled to herself then had her thoughts interrupted.

“Alexis!” James ejaculated, “I’m glad I found you. How did it go with the girls?”

“They just headed off with Remus and Peter,” she reported proudly.

“Really?” he wondered.

“Really,” she repeated, “between Toni’s guts and Rem’s wit they’ll have a plan by dinner.”

“I hope so,” he frowned, “we only have till tomorrow.”

“No worried cuz,” she said lying back and closing her eyes, “by this time tomorrow the plan will be put into action.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“You’re sure this is going to work?” asked James skeptically.

Toni looked highly affronted as she retaliated, “If it doesn’t, I’ll snog Black.”

Alice and Lily shrieked with laughter while James smirked and said, “I hope that’s not incentive for you to fail.”

Toni arched an eyebrow but said nothing. Surely he wasn’t that dense.

“Ladies, gentlemen can we please focus on the task at hand?” Remus demanded sounding very much like Professor McGonagall. Smiling at the response he received he continued, “Alice and I have studied every possible angle and we’re certain it’ll be fine. Besides you’re forgetting something very important. With you and Sirius absent, no one’s going to look twice at me, Peter and the girls. Everyone knows you two are the trouble makers.”

James nodded and Remus continued, “The plan is foolproof.”

“I believe you Rem,” James stated, raising his hands in defeat.

“It’s a very good plan,” Alexis agreed.

“Good?” huffed Lily.

“It was great, fantastic, brilliant,” listed Ally.

“Alright,” nodded Remus cutting her off, “we get it. So how are you guys feeling? Today’s the big day.”

“We’re fine,” James assured him, “all we have to do is lead Dumbledore to Wickham. How hard could that be?”

“What if he doesn’t believe you?” worried Alice.

“Trust me,” Alexis muttered without making eye contact, “the Headmaster will believe us. It’d cost him too much not too.”

“Do you guys think Sirius has a clue?” piped up Peter.

“I don’t think so,” admitted James, “we’ve been pretty stealth.”

Alexis snorted but couldn’t retaliate as Sirius had just strolled over.

“Who forgot to invite me to the meeting?” he joked.

“We didn’t want to interrupt your reading time,” shot Alexis.

“Aw,” cooed Sirius, “jealous I picked the Daily Prophet over you?”

She rolled her eyes, “You wish.”

“Alright kiddies,” Remus intervened, “play nice.”

Alexis gave him a look and everyone else burst into laughter.

A small boy came up to them and eyed Sirius.

“He’s pretty, isn’t he?” joked Ally, noticing the boy’s lurking.

Sirius grinned at Alexis then turned to the boy and asked, “May I help you?”

“I…I have…uh…a…message from Pro…Professor Wick…Wickham,” the boy sputtered handing Sirius a bit of parchment before scurrying off.

Sirius’ face paled as he read it.

“What does it say?” demanded James.

“Wickham rescheduled my detention,” he replied, “looks like I’m going to miss dinner.”

Sirius stood, “I’m going to head to the library so I can work on my homework now. Want to come with me?” He asked the boys.

James nodded and Peter practically jumped at the chance.

“Rem?” Sirius offered.

“I’ll catch up,” he assured him. Sirius gave him a look but shrugged and grabbed his bag. Peter and James followed suit.

“Do you guys have any other options?” Alexis whispered the minute the portrait hole closed.

To her surprise, Remus was smiling.

“Have you gone mad?” she demanded.

“No,” he countered with a chuckle, “this is perfect. We just move the location…and we may have to miss dinner.”

Alexis smirked, “No problem. I know how to get to the kitchens. We can celebrate after.”

Lily shook her head, “Sometimes things just fall into place, don’t they?”

“Too perfect,” agreed Toni.

“Well I’ve got to catch up with the guys,” Remus shrugged, “see you guys in a bit.”

Toni, Lily and Alice went to ‘go get things ready’ while Alexis shook her head and thought: Let the games begin.

~*So it's not the best but I don't have alot of time...The next one will be better. You have my word. Oh and don't forget: Feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) makes the world go 'round!*~

Hello readers! Not sure how many people are reading but for those of you who are, I really appreciate your patience. I haven't had a lot of time but I hope to finish this year by December at the latest. Then we can get to the years I'm sure you'll all enjoy. Enough rambling on to the post...

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Are you sure you have everything ready?” repeated James for the millionth time.

Toni’s eyes widened as she turned to James, “Oh no. I think I’ve forgotten the plan.” James look shocked and she continued, “In fact, I may have forgotten everything I’ve ever known…Child what be thy name?”

Everyone burst into laughter except James who scowled, “Not funny, Shacklebolt.”

“Oh,” managed Ally through laughter, “I’m going to have to disagree. It was hysterical.”

“What’s so funny?” asked Frank as he joined them.

“Nothing,” snorted Alice, “Toni was just giving James a hard time.”

“Again,” added James.

“You guys want to head up to dinner?” Frank offered.

“Um,” began Alice.

“We have an assignment to do,” lied Ally, “it’s for McGonagall but we’ve been putting it off and we really have to at least start it tonight.”

“But you have all weekend,” he pointed out.

“My sentiments exactly,” nodded Toni, “but Remus, Lily, and dear Alice here have berated us nonstop and we finally caved. We’ll be up a little later though.”

Frank nodded and left the library, passing Madam Pince who was still giving their table a look of disdain.

“I hate lying to Frank,” mumbled Alice.

“Technically you didn’t lie to Frank,” contradicted Ally.

“We did,” finished Toni.

Alice smiled slightly, “Thanks guys.”

“Not a problem,” assured Toni.

“To answer your question James,” Remus interrupted, “we know what we’re doing and everything is set. We’ve got everything under control. Just worry about your part of the plan.”

Lily made a face, “Is there ever going to be a time when we don’t have a plan?”

“I sincerely hope not,” joked Ally, but when she saw her friend’s face she continued, “Honestly Lils once this is over we’ll try normal.”

“I hear it’s terribly overrated,” commented Toni wryly.

“Okay,” James started looking down at his watch, “We’ve got an hour to set up and get ready before the detention. Do you need our help?”

“What we’re doing isn’t that complicated,” Remus told him, “we’ll head out to set up when Sirius does.”

“Alright,” James agreed.

“What’s going on with you guys?” demanded an angry voice as he threw his bag on the table and threw himself into the chair next to Peter.

They looked up and saw a very angry Sirius Black. No one said anything for a second until…

“What are you on about Black?” sighed Ally, resigning herself to the fact that no one else would talk to him when he was like this.

“Why am I always being avoided? Why are you guys always hanging out together and leaving me out in the cold?” he huffed, now directing his tirade towards her.

“First of all,” she began defensively, “keep your voice down. Madam Pince is giving us her death glare again and is probably ten seconds away from throwing us out of the library. Second, we are not avoiding you. You’ve been busy with your detentions and your newspaper articles,” she hissed, “it’s not our fault if you’re always somewhere else.”

“Oh please like you aren’t all avoiding me,” he shot back angrily, “if you wanted to you could invite me along on your little gatherings but you purposely leave me out-“

“Sirius, mate,” began James.

“Don’t bother, mate,” he snapped, emphasizing the last word, “I know when I’m not wanted.” He stood up, threw his bag over his shoulder and started to walk away then turned back around, grabbed an old copy of the Daily Prophet from his bag and slammed it down in front of Alexis, “Guess what was more interesting than you, Prince.”

He walked off angrily, confusing those in his wake who were used to seeing happy, charismatic Sirius and were not impressed by the new hostile version.

Alexis looked down at the paper Sirius thrust in front of her and read:

More disappearances baffle Ministry…muggle family disappeared from campsite…suspicious circumstances...ownership of the property linked to prominent family….

“Oh my,” breathed Ally.

“What is it?” James wondered, a horrible sense of foreboding creeping into his voice.

“A muggle family was abducted from a campground,” she whispered.

Lily frowned, confused, “Why would that upset Black so much?”

“It happened right on the outskirts of his family’s country estate,” she informed them, hesitantly.

There was a solemn silence during which the group exchanged glances.

Finally Alice spoke in a falsely cheerful voice, “That doesn’t mean anything.”

“It doesn’t mean anything good,” corrected Toni, “my mum works at the Daily Prophet and let’s just say the Blacks offered the editor a lot of money to keep that story out of the paper. Mr. Woodward wouldn’t budge.”

“Why didn’t you say anything before?” asked James.

“Because it’s not the kind of thing you go blabbing,” she hissed, “especially when you’re not supposed to know.”

“Why would your mum tell you if you’re not supposed to know?” asked Peter.

Toni rolled her eyes, “My mum didn’t tell me. She told my dad who told Kingsley who told me even though he wasn’t supposed to.”

“Why did Kingsley tell you?” asked Alexis, certain she wouldn’t like the answer.

Sure enough Toni shifted uncomfortably, “Well…”

“He wanted you to be careful around Sirius, didn’t he?” James whispered, eyeing Toni suspiciously.

“No, no,” Toni responded, eyes widening “you don’t get it. He wanted me to keep an eye on Sirius. Our parents don’t know Black but Kingsley does. He likes him.”

Alexis nodded, “That’s true. Kingsley did let Black and I get away with coming back after curfew.”

“Guys,” Remus piped up, “I hate to interrupt because this is definitely something big but-“

Alice looked down at her watch, “It’s time.”

Remus and Peter got up and the girls followed suit. Alexis felt her stomach twist into a knot as she waved bye to her friends. Please let this work, she thought.

“We’d better take our stuff back the dormitory,” James commented. Ally nodded and followed him out.

They shuffled to Gryffindor tower without saying a word to each other or anyone they passed along the way. They reached the fat lady and gave her the new password then went their separate ways. When Alexis reached her room she tossed her bag on her bed and let out a huge sigh. It’s now or never, she thought, please let this plan work. After regaining her composure, she hurried downstairs to meet James. She noticed her cousin seemed to be as nervous as she was if not more so. Suddenly, she realized she had forgotten how this must’ve affected him. After all, Black was his best friend. She shuddered to think how she would feel if someone was torturing her best friend and she was powerless to stop it. She put her arm around him and gave him a quick hug.

“It’s going to be alright James,” she whispered, “let’s go visit Grampy.”

He looked around to make sure they were alone and they were. Everyone had gone off the dinner so they knew it was time.

“Let’s go,” he agreed.

Alexis and James reached Dumbledore’s office before the most obvious thing in the world occurred to them: By Wickham moving the detention to dinner time it pretty much insured that all of the other professors, including the headmaster were…

“In the Great Hall,” hissed Alexis shaking her head.

“How could we have been so stupid?” demanded James, “there’s no way we can get Dumbledore without drawing attention to ourselves. Bloody hell!”

Alexis racked her brain: how could she get her grandfather’s attention before it was too late? Then it hit her…She took her mirror out and whispered, “Albus Dumbledore.”

James stared at her bewildered but before Alexis could explain she felt her mirror vibrate, “What is it?” she heard her grandfather ask, his tone a mix of confusion and apprehension.

“I need you to come to your office,” she responded quickly, “now.”

“Why?” came his reply.

“It’s important Grampy,” she pleaded.

“I’ll be right there,” his voice assured her.

After what felt like the longest five minutes of her life her grandfather appeared in the distance. Instead of waiting for him to reach them, Ally and James ran towards him.

“You have to come with us,” James said without preamble.

Albus Dumbledore looked at the two of them, “Explain.”

“Professor Wickham isn’t who he says he is,” Alexis spoke rapidly, “and if you come with James and I to his office right now, we can prove it.”

“Lead the way,” he commanded not hesitating for a moment.

They strode as quickly as they could to the professor’s office. The Headmaster seemed to immediately sense something was amiss and pointed his wand at the door. Whatever charm he used must’ve worked because the door flew open and he entered. Alexis and James followed and were in no way prepared for what they saw.

Sirius was lying on the floor, barely breathing and sweating heavily. Alexis had never seen anyone look as helpless as Sirius Black looked at that very moment. She rushed to his side, James following behind her. After making sure he was conscious, she then turned to look at her grandfather and was amazed at what she saw. He had disarmed Professor Wickham and was looking at him in a way that made Alexis understand why people found him intimidating.

“I trusted you William,” Dumbledore stated, his voice strong and severe.

“We knew you would,” Wickham smirked, “your greatest weakness Dumbledore, having faith in those who don’t deserve it.”

“Well I’m sure I’ve learned from my mistake,” he stated firmly, “now I’d like to offer you a little sage advice: No man for any considerable period can wear one face to himself and another to the multitude, without finally getting bewildered as to which may be the true. You can have time to think that over in Azkaban.” Dumbledore conjured an invisible link between himself and Professor Wickham and headed towards the door. He turned, “Ms. Prince I think you and Mr. Potter should take Mr. Black to the hospital wing. Then I would like for the two of you to come to my office.” Alexis nodded and her grandfather left. She and James helped Sirius, who was still a little out of it, up.

“Where are we going James?” he asked groggily, “and why is Alexis here?”

Alexis whispered, “It’s alright. We’re taking you to the hospital wing.”

“Okay,” he yawned.

They reached the hospital wing not knowing what to tell Madam Nightingale but she was expecting them.

“The Headmaster informed me that you would be coming here,” she told them as they entered, “just take Mr. Black over there.” She walked away, presumably to gather antidotes for Sirius.

“Here we go,” grunted James as he and Ally set Sirius down on the nearest bed.

He immediately reclined and closed his eyes.

“We should go,” Alexis reminded James.

“Princess,” Sirius whispered.

Alexis leaned over him, “Yes?”

“I’m sorry,” he muttered, trying to keep his eyes open.

She shushed him, “Don’t. Just rest okay? We’ll come visit you tomorrow.”

He nodded and drifted off. Madam Nightingale hurried over and shooed them away.

James shook his head as they walked towards Dumbledore’s office. They entered (the password hadn’t changed since James’ last visit) and Alexis saw someone who she knew would make everything better…

“Papa,” she sighed, relief coursing through her. She ran to hug him tightly. He patted her on the back.

“We’re here to talk to you about your professor,” he explained as they let go.

“We?” she repeated. She took note of the only person in the room she didn’t know.

“My name is Amelia Bones,” the woman began introducing herself, “I’m from the Department of Magical Law Enforcement. I have to talk to the two of you.”

“Alexis Prince,” came Ally’s response.

“James Potter,” added James.

“It’s nice to meet you,” she smiled, “please sit down.”

Alexis glanced over at Professor Wickham who was being kept under the watchful eye of her father and grandfather and knew there was nothing he could do to hurt her.

“Can I ask how you came to find out about Professor Wickham’s treatment of,” she consulted her notes, “Sirius Black?”

“Well,” began Ally.

“It was my idea to follow Sirius to his detentions with Professor Wickham,” James interrupted, “when Sirius came back from them he was always a little off.”

“Off?” repeated Ms. Bones.

“He was always moody,” elaborated James, “and physically ill.”

“Always?” wondered Ms. Bones

“Always,” continued James, “That was another thing that caught my interest. Wickham would give him more detentions that anyone else. They were always for really little things.”

“So you convinced your cousin to follow him instead of reporting this to you Head of House or the Headmaster?” she asked, somewhat confused.

Ally shifted guiltily in her seat and Dumbledore cleared his throat, “Apparently the two of them wanted to gather proof to ensure that I believed them.”

Ms. Bones made a note of this and motioned for James to continue, “We couldn’t get into any of their sessions because Wickham did something to the door. We were out of luck until-“ he paused, not sure if he should continue.

“Until?” prodded Ms. Bones.

“Until Black’s cousin Andromeda came to us,” Ally piped up.

“Andromeda?” Wickham repeated, his stupor broken.

Alexis smirked at him and continued, “Andromeda Black came to us and confirmed what we already knew. That the Blacks-“

“Hold on a second,” Ms. Bones interrupted, “are you trying to tell me that the Black family was in on this? That they somehow hired Mr. Wickham to come here and torture their son?”

“If you don’t believe us ask Andi,” rebuffed James, “she told us that the Blacks wanted to keep an eye on Sirius when he was at school.”

“Why would they want to do that?” questioned Bones.

“Because they disapprove of Mr. Black’s choice of friends,” Dumbledore informed her, “after he was placed in Gryffindor they demanded via owl that I place him in Slytherin so he did not have to associate with muggle born students.”

“Wow,” ejaculated Bones, “taking their pureblood elitism to new heights. So the Blacks, I’ll need to interview Andromeda later, convinced Wickham to take the Defense against the Dark Arts post to look after their son. Is there any proof that they were involved in the torture?”

All eyes were on Wickham who had remained silent since his outburst about Andromeda. He ignored them.

“Without Wickham’s testimony I’m afraid there’s no way to place the blame on the Blacks,” admitted Ms. Bones. “We’ll take him into custody.”

“The Blacks cannot get away with this,” shouted James.

“I’m sorry,” shrugged Ms. Bones, “but unless there is some evidence connecting the Blacks to Mr. Wickham, we’ll have to charge him, and only him.”

James went to say something else but Alexis placed a hand on his shoulder and shook her head.

“Well,” Ms. Bones stated, standing up, “that’s all for now. I’ll probably need to talk to the two of you and Andromeda Black later though.” They nodded and she turned to Ethan Prince, “Come on then Prince. Help me get the suspect to headquarters.”

Ethan Prince nodded and after hurried goodbyes between the Headmaster and his former pupils, Amelia Bones flooed off, followed by Ethan and Wickham.

“We’ll wait until your father returns before we talk about this,” the Headmaster said softly.

Alexis glanced at James and the two shifted guiltily. We’re in for it now, she thought.

They waited for what felt like hours and her father finally returned. He entered from the fireplace and stood next to her grandfather. They simply stared at Alexis and James as though waiting for them to speak.

“Papa,” Alexis began.

“No,” intervened James, “what we said before was true it was my idea to keep this a secret until we could get proof. It was a bad idea I know and I’m sorry.”

“I am too,” piped up Ally.

Albus Dumbledore rose a hand to silence them, “I am not angry with either of you. I am however very upset that neither of you came to me. You put yourselves in a very dangerous position. If William was capable of harming your friend, what was to stop him from hurting you?”

Alexis stared at her shoes and James remained quiet.

“The two of you have got to stop this,” Ethan stated firmly. “You have to learn to recognize the danger you continuously put yourselves in. There are people who are here to protect you. You don’t have to help your friend all on your own. We want you to promise us here and now that you will come to us when you need help instead of being completely reckless.”

“We promise,” they agreed in unison.

“I also ask that you also do not include your friends in your mischief in the future,” added Dumbledore, alluding to the fact that he knew about their friends’ prank.

“We promise,” they repeated.

“Alright then,” the Headmaster waved them off, “to bed both of you.”

They nodded and stood. Alexis went to hug her father and James to shake his hand then left.

“Why didn’t they come to us Albus?” wondered Ethan aloud.

“The word of two twelve year old wizards was bound to be questioned,” explained his father in law, “my word on the other hand-“

“Is never questioned,” nodded Ethan.

“Though after tonight,” he sighed, “maybe it should be.”

Ethan said nothing because he was still a little angry that his father in law had employed William Wickham. He and Ethan had gone to school together and he had always seemed a little off.

“I’d better be head home then,” he finally managed.

“Yes,” Dumbledore agreed, “send my love to Catherine.”

“Of course,” he nodded.

They shook hands and Ethan flooed back home. Albus Dumbledore sat in his office severely unnerved, pondering what William Wickham had told him, “your greatest weakness Dumbledore, having faith in those who don’t deserve it.”


*Please give me feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!! !*

Okay this is the first half of the last post for their second year!!! I'm sure you guys are excited for the drama of upcoming years. I know I am. I'm posting this half because it's done and the second half should be finished later tonight. Hope you enjoy!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning Alexis was awakened by a shriek and a pillow to the head.

“Why didn’t you wake us up when you got back?” demanded Toni loudly.

Alexis grimaced, “You guys were asleep and I didn’t want to bother you.”

“Bollocks,” commented Lily.

“Why don’t you guys tell me about the prank first?” she requested, “give me time to wake up properly.”

Alice grinned, “It went off way better than we thought.”

“Really?” Alexis ejaculated, somewhat surprised, “I’m all ears.”

“Well,” began Lily, “I’m a little worried we may have upset the house elves.”

Alexis shot up in her bed, “What???”

Toni cleared her throat, “Well we may or may not have snuck into the kitchens under James’ invisibility cloak.”

“James let you use the cloak?” Ally repeated.

“He didn’t tell you?” Lily wondered.

“It must’ve slipped his mind,” she muttered.

“Why is it so surprising?” inquired Alice.

“James loves that cloak,” she told them, “he rarely lets anyone use it. It took him forever to lend it to me and I’m family.”

“He lets the guys use it whenever,” commented Toni wryly.

Alexis arched an eyebrow, “I will be talking to my dear sweet cousin about that. Continue.”

“Anyhow we um,” Alice paused, “how shall I put this?”

“We accidentally dropped a bit of potion in the drinks of…,” elucidated Toni.

“Let me guess,” Alexis sighed, rolling her eyes, “the Slytherins?”

The girls exchanged mischievous grins and Alexis was starting to worry.

“Not the Slytherins?” she asked.

“Nope,” stated Lily proudly, “the teachers.”

“The teachers?!?!?!” Alexis shrieked, “THE TEACHERS?!?!!”

“Well it wasn’t the original plan,” admitted Alice.

“Remus was furious,” chuckled Toni.

“So it was whose idea?” she began, “wait what sort of potion was it?”

Alice smirked, “Nothing big.”

“Just a little babbling beverage,” answered Toni with a smile.

“What?” Alexis frowned shaking her head, “but that’s impossible. That potion is extremely complicated and none of you are-“ She turned and stared at Lily.

Lily blushed and Alexis was dumbfounded, “You, Lily Evans, slipped the Hogwarts staff a very advanced potion of your own illegal making?”

She nodded and Ally stared, “But why?”

“To help a friend,” she replied simply, “just don’t get too used to it. It’s very unlikely it’ll happen again.”

“So let me get this straight your big plan was to drug the teachers?” she deduced, “but how did that distract the students?”

The girls exchanged glances and Toni spoke, “Let’s just say the professors didn’t take too kindly to being slipped a potion and once the students figured out what was going on.”

“Bedlam broke out,” Ally finished.

“Right in one,” agreed Alice with a wink.

Alexis choked up. She couldn’t believe her friends did so much for someone they could barely stand. They were the best. There was no getting around it.

“Group hug!” she shouted as her friends attacked her in response.

After they broke apart they sat silently on Ally’s bed.

“Who’s going to give our exam?” asked Alice.

Lily and Toni simply stared at her but Alexis giggled, “That what I said!”

Once they heard this Lily and Toni decided to attack their friends with pillows.

“Exams!!” bellowed Lily, “Honestly I’m hoping we don’t get expelled.”

Before Alexis got the chance to respond there was a shot from below.

“Alexis Prince!”

“Honestly,” she sighed as she put her robe on over her pajamas and went downstairs.

“You rang?” she hissed, glaring at her cousin.

“We were going to go visit Sirius,” he told her, “you and the girls want to tag along?”

“There’s a limit for the hospital wing,” she reminded him, “we’ll come with and go in after. Just give us a few minutes.” She scurried up the stairs and started to clean up. Her friends gaped and she turned to them…

“Anyone want to visit Black?” she inquired.

The girls nodded and hurried to get ready. Fifteen minutes later the girls headed downstairs.

“Ready then?” James asked as soon as they reach the bottom of the staircase.

“Ready,” nodded Alexis.

The seven of them headed to the hospital wing. Alexis couldn’t help but notice that they passed a few groups of people huddled together. She heard their former professor’s name more than once. They ignored these people and almost made it to the hospital wing before…

“Prince,” shouted a voice. Alexis groaned inwardly as she recognized this particular voice and didn’t want to deal with her today.

“Go on ahead you guys,” she told her friends, “I’ll catch up.”

Toni rolled her eyes and James snorted, “Yeah right. We’re really going to leave you alone with her.”

Bellatrix Black caught up with them and she was livid.

“What do you want?” demanded Alexis.

Bellatrix glared at her, “Where do you think you’re going?”

“Where do you think I’m going?” she snapped.

Black’s eyes narrowed, “I told you to stay away from my cousin. If it weren’t for you-“

“If it weren’t for her?” interrupted James, stepping in front of his cousin, “this is your fault. Your family’s fault. My best friend is lying there in that bed because of you! If it weren’t for us he’d still be being tortured by that monster.”

“James,” Ally hissed, grabbing her cousin’s arm, “don’t.”

Bellatrix smirked, “Your cousin knows her place Potter. You should too.”

Alexis spun around, “The only reason I’m stopping him is because I don’t want him to get in trouble. Believe me; if we weren’t in school I would’ve let him hex you so badly when you came to you would’ve needed a new haircut. Get lost Black. You have no right to be here. James was right about one thing: this is your fault. If you had just left him alone instead of having his parents set that ******* on him he would be up making jokes right now instead of laying in this hospital wing.” She moved closer to Bellatrix and stood her ground. “You don’t care about him.”

“On the contrary little girl,” Bellatrix growled, “if I didn’t care, Sirius wouldn’t have been punished.”

“So you’re saying you make all of these horrible things happen to him because you care,” Alexis repeated incredulously.

“Bollocks,” interjected James.

Bellatrix smirked at him, “Sirius is young and naïve. You can pretend that everything will be sunshine and rainbows now that Wickham is gone but you’re forgetting one crucial factor. Sirius is a Black. He will always be a Black and there is nothing you can do to change that.”

She spared one last glance in their direction and stormed off.

“She’s pure evil,” breathed Lily.

Toni shook her head, “You have no idea. The things I’ve heard…” She shivered and the rest of the groups stood in silence.

“Forget her,” Alexis said finally as she put on a cheerful face, “we can’t upset Black.”

“Right,” everyone agreed.

Alexis nodded to the boys and they went in first.

“What do we do now?” Toni demanded, “I’m going to get bored.”

“Let’s just hope Sirius’ cousin doesn’t come back,” Alice commented, “she’s kind of…”

“Crazy?” offered Alexis.

“Psychotic?” piped up Lily.

“Certifiable?” was Toni’s word of choice.

They erupted into laughter and Madam Nightingale came out and shushed them.

“So you never did tell us what happened with you and James,” Toni mentioned casually.

Alexis looked up and realized her friends were obviously dying to know what had happened.

“It was pretty intense,” she told them, “the Headmaster came with us. We caught Wickham. Professor Dumbledore took Wickham to his office and sent James and I to the hospital wing. We brought Black here. Then we went back to the office. My dad was there as was someone from the Magical Law Enforcement department. James and I told her our story. Dumbledore confirmed it. Madam Bones took him into custody and told us that we were going to have to go and give our statement later. Then my dad and Professor Dumbledore reprimanded James and I for putting ourselves in danger and encouraging our friends to cause mischief.”

Toni gave a low whistle and Alice stood there in shock. Finally Lily spoke…

“So Professor Dumbledore knows it was us?”

Alexis shrugged, “I think he suspects it and if he can prove it then…”

“We’ll be in big trouble,” finished Toni.

Alexis shifted guiltily, “I’m really sorry guys. Maybe there isn’t any proof…”

Toni shook her head, “Don’t feel bad. We knew what we were getting ourselves in to.”

“Yes but,” she began.

“We knew what we were doing Ally,” Alice agreed, “no worries.”

Alexis nodded but inwardly hoped that her friends would get away with their prank.

“Okay ladies,” James called as he entered the hallway with Remus and Peter, “your turn.”

Alexis nodded and led the way.

“We’ll wait for you out here,” James added.

Lily rolled her eyes, “We know the way back Potter.

“Safety in number Evans,” responded James.

“Safety in numbers,” Lily repeated as they entered the hospital wing, “as if we’re going to get lost and wander into the Forbidden Forrest.”

“After what just happened with Black cousin, I’m all for safety,” confided Alice.

“She’s off her rocker alright,” agreed Toni.

“Guys,” Alexis warned. They nodded and walked towards Sirius. He was sitting up and looked at them curiously.

“How are you?” asked Alexis as she sat down next to him.

“Confused,” he replied simply, “to what do I owe the pleasure?”

“Of?” wondered Alice.

“Of the company of all of you,” he explained, “even Evans and Shacklebolt.”

“You’ve always said I was secretly in love with you Black,” reminded Toni, “I’m here to profess my undying affection for you.”

Sirius started to laugh and grabbed his side. Alexis made a motion toward him, “Do you need Madam Nightingale?”

“I’m fine Princess,” he assured her, “just a little sore. According to Madam Nightingale, I’ll be back and better than ever just in time for exams.”

“My, my, aren’t you lucky?” smirked Lily.

Sirius looked over at her and grinned, “That I am, Evans. That I am.”

“Anyhow,” interrupted Alice before Lily and Sirius started bickering, “do you need anything?”

“What’s to need?” he asked, “My boys came for a visit and apparently I have finally won all of you over.”

Alexis shook her head then looked over at her friends. Alice was grinning at him while Toni and Lily scowled.

“What are you talking about?” demanded Toni suspiciously.

“Apparently you three lovely ladies helped Remus and Peter distract everyone while James and Ally came to my rescue,” he responded lightly.

“Remus told you, didn’t he?” frowned Lily.

“I wish you hadn’t suppressed your feelings for me Evans,” Sirius whispered, sitting up, “apparently you care about me more than the others. After all you made the potion.”

Lily paled and Toni started to laugh. Everyone turned to her.

“You should see your face Lils,” she managed.

“Credit where credit is due dear Antoinette,” he continued, “I hear putting it in the Professors’ drinks was your idea.”

Toni stopped laughing and scowled. It was Alice and Lily’s turn to smirk.

“I thought it was an accident,” huffed Alexis.

“Nothing Shacklebolt does is an accident, Princess,” he pointed out, “you should know that.”

“Well,” Ally frowned, “looks like the boys told you everything. I wish I could say the same for my dear girls.” She cast them a look and they all looked away.

“Don’t be too hard on them,” he reprimanded, “In all honesty I’m amazed and humbled that they would help me out like that. You didn’t have to.” He stared at the girls, “I really appreciate it. You have no idea how much it means that the three of you would help me like that.”

The three of them exchanged looks and eventually Toni spoke, “We know you’d do the same for us.”

He smiled, “That I would.”

“Out,” Madam Nightingale ordered as she made her way over to Sirius’ bed, “this young man needs his rest. You can come back tomorrow.”

The girls nodded. Alice bent over and gave Sirius a hug while Lily and Toni simply came over and shook his hand. All eyes were on Alexis who wasn’t sure what to do exactly…

Sirius looked at her and seemed to take pity. He offered her hand which she took. He pulled her closer and embraced her tightly. She smiled slightly and hugged him back. He let her go and she stepped back.

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” she told him with a smile. He nodded and laid his head on his pillow.

The girls left the hospital wing in silence and joined the boys in the hallway. The seven of them walked back to Gryffindor tower, ignoring the looks from other students who must’ve heard the truth by now. Eventually they made it back to the safety of their common room.

“I’m kind of glad we came back in a group,” muttered Toni as she threw herself onto the couch. “All those people gaping at us-“

“We should get used to it,” Alexis sighed, “it’s always going to be like that. James is funny, Black is an outcast, Lily’s pretty, Alice is smart, Toni is loud, Remus is sweet, Peter is bumbling…we’re always going to be the center of attention.”

“What are you?” wondered Remus aloud.

Alexis turned to him, “What?”

“You listed what we all are,” he commented, waving to the entire group, “what are you?”

“I’m…,” she paused, “I’m me.”

“That you are,” laughed James, “that you are”.

“What do you mean bumbling?” asked Peter.

Everyone just looked at him then started laughing.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Come on Ally,” pleaded James, “I know he’d love it if you came with us.”

Alexis rolled her eyes, “I’ve visited him every day he’s been in there. He’s getting out today. I think it should just be you three.”

“Ally you know-“ began Alice.

“Not going,” she repeated, not looking up from her book.

Alice and James looked over at Remus, knowing that if anyone could convince her it would be him. He sighed heavily and sat down next to her, “Alexis-“

She looked up and smiled, “Still not going Rem. You lot better leave now or he’ll head over here on his own.”

Remus shrugged and he, James and Peter left.

“Ally,” Lily whispered nudging her, “the girls and I want to talk to you.”

She put her book down, “About?”

“You know,” Toni stated rolling her eyes.

“Upstairs,” suggested Alice.

Lily and Toni nodded and grabbed Alexis on either side.

“I remember where the dormitory is,” she huffed, removing herself from their grasp. She knew this was coming so she followed them upstairs.

“What is your problem?” demanded Alice, without preamble.

Alexis threw herself onto her bed, “What are you talking about?”

Lily and Toni sat down on either side of her and Alice sat at the foot of her bed.

“We’re talking about Black,” Toni hissed, “but you already know that.”

“What’s going on with you two?” Lily asked.

The other girls stared at her and she shrugged, “If I hadn’t said it someone else would’ve. Just trying to move things along.”

Alexis closed her eyes. It was difficult to put into words how she felt about Sirius. She had of course had this conversation with herself repeatedly and each time she came to the same conclusion…

“He’s my friend,” she said aloud.

“Your friend?” repeated Alice incredulously.

“My friend,” she confirmed, “I’ll be the first to admit that at first he got on my nerves-“

“Understatement of the century,” whispered Toni, out of the corner of her mouth.

“However,” continued Alexis, as though she hadn’t heard her, “I’ve come to the realization that however annoying and conceited he may seem, underneath it all he’s a nice guy and a good friend.”

“Friend?” Alice echoed.

“Is there a parrot in this room?” demanded Toni, “Honestly Alice. She says friend, she means friend.”

“I’ve just never seen two friends,” she paused as though considering her wording.

“Two friends what?” Alexis prodded.

Alice closed her eyes and took a deep breath, “Two friends who act the way you guys do.”

Alexis frowned “What way is that?”

“You have rows like no other,” she reminded, “but when it comes down to it you’re there for him and he’s there for you.”

“Alice, dear,” Lily cooed, “what you described it exactly what a friend is supposed to be.”

Toni snorted, “So you and James are friends?”

“What does Potter have to do with anything?” huffed Lily.

“One at a time,” Alexis whispered, “one at a time.” Toni nodded, “Never mind.”

“Anyways,” Ally continued, “I’ve decided Black is my friend. It’s a simple as that.”

“So why didn’t you want to go with the guys to get him out of the hospital wing?” demanded Alice.

Alexis sighed, “Because I’ve decided that Black is just a friend but…”

“After all that’s happened, you’re not sure how he feels about you. You don’t want him to get the wrong idea,” deduced Toni.

Ally smiled. She knew Toni would understand as she was having the same problem with James.

“Well then there’s only one thing for you to do,” concluded Lily.

“Talk to him,” Ally groaned.

“Talk to him,” her friends repeated.

She sat up, “Anyone want to talk to him for me?”

Her friends gave her looks of the utmost pity and she grimaced, “Guess not.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After a few encouraging words from her friends, Alexis headed downstairs, hoping Sirius was back by now. Once she entered the common room she saw he was, as usual, surrounded by his legions of fans. Normally she would go over there and shout, the girls would scatter and she would give him a good talking to. Today however was different. This was one conversation that could definitely wait. Maybe if she just turned around…

“Prince!” she heard a voice shout. Great, she thought, just great. He had spotted her.

She turned to see Sirius waving her over. She walked over slowly, wishing she had been quicker with the running off.

“Ladies,” she heard him coo, “could you excuse us?”

The girls looked downtrodden and cast evil glares at Alexis. What else is new? she thought.

“Where have you been?” he asked casually.

“We need to talk,” she said without preface. Wow, she thought, I really need to stop hanging out with Toni.

James stared at her, trying to figure out what she was thinking. Peter looked curious, which was something new to her. She had never seen him look anything more than confused. She spared a glance at Remus, who looked completely stoic.

Sirius seemed intrigued, “Would you guys mind?”

“Not at all,” assured Remus, nonchalantly. He headed up to the dormitory and James and Peter followed.

She sat down in the chair across from him and cleared her throat, “Black, I-“

“It’s still ‘Black’ then?” he interrupted, jokingly.

“Can you be…,” she paused and looked for a word other than ‘serious’, “real for a bit?”

He frowned and nodded.

“Good,” she nodded, “good.”

“What’s this?” he smirked, “I’ve made you speechless.”

“Black,” she groaned.

“Sorry,” he managed.

“I just wanted to tell you,” she paused, trying to think of the best way to say this, “I’m glad you’re okay.”

“I’m glad I’m okay too,” he grinned.

She continued, “and I hope that we can finally stop being so childish towards one another and be friends.”

“Friends,” he repeated as though he didn’t quite believe her.

“What is it with that word?” she smarted, “every time I say it whoever I’m talking to feels compelled to repeat it. Yes, Black, friends. I know that we didn’t always get along; neither did our friends but I think what happened with Wickham made us all realize that we’re here for each other.”

“Absolutely,” he nodded, “I couldn’t agree more. Friends?” He offered her his hand. She remembered what happened in the hospital wing and arched an eyebrow. He laughed, as though he knew what she was thinking, “I promise to behave.”

She smiled and shook his hand, “Friends.”

“Alright,” he laughed, “now, friend, why don’t you go off and snog Remus so those girls you ran off can come comfort me?”

Alexis stared at him and erupted into laughter, “No wonder your other friends can hardly stand you!” She punched him on the arm and got up to leave. She walked towards the girls’ dormitory then turned around. Every single girl in the common room had rushed to Sirius’ side. She shook her head but couldn’t help smiling. Sirius Black would not be spending his night worrying about her.


Like it? Love it? Loathe it? Is anyone even reading it? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Now, as promised, the last half of the final chapter of the second year *drumroll* I hope you guys enjoy it.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Stupid exams,” muttered Toni, “how am I supposed to remember everything I’ve learned this year?

“Especially since we just spent the last month focusing on saving Blacks’ behind,” added Alice.

“Alice, dear,” Sirius interrupted, “less talk of my behind, more studying.”

Alexis and Lily erupted into giggles while Alice glared at Sirius.

“Black,” Toni muttered, “as much as we adore having you around, we are attempting to study.”

“Antoinette, my dear, we know,” James cooed, as he took a seat between her and Ally, “that is why we’re here.”

“We know that you girls are complete rubbish at transfiguration,” Sirius joked, “so we came to help you study.”

Lily looked up from her book, irritated, “How are we supposed to study with you here annoying us?”

Sirius took the seat between her and Alice and continued, “The four of us, as you well know, are brilliant at transfiguration, particularly James.”

“Oh stop you’re making me blush,” James said, waving the compliment away.

“Anyhow we figured as we’re all friends now,” he reminded them, sparing a glance in Ally’s direction, “we’d help you just like you helped us.”

The girls exchanged looks.

“What?” demanded James.

“Nothing,” Toni assured him, “I’m in. It’s not like I could get any worse at this subject.”

James smiled and placed an arm around Toni, “I knew you could resist having me around.”

Toni grabbed James’ arm and tightened it around herself, smiling.

Sirius stared, dumbfounded as Peter and Remus joined the group. Remus took one look at Toni and James, then sat down next to Sirius, “Looks like you owe me a galleon mate.”

Alexis and Alice looked at Lily, who looked slightly surprised. This is going to get awkward, thought Ally.

“I’m going to go find Frank,” Alice mumbled, “I think I’ve studied all I can for today.” She hurriedly put all her books in her bag and practically sprinted out of the library.

“I need to go to the loo,” Peter announced unnecessarily and scurried off.

“Wow,” Alexis piped up, “maybe Alice and Peter are having a secret affair.”

Everyone’s focus turned to Ally and they all laughed.

“Nice try Prince,” Sirius commended, “but what is all this? Shacklebolt, I thought you loved me? What about the hospital wing?”

Alexis and Lily started laughing again and Madam Pince swooped down upon them, “If you children can’t behave,”

“We’re sorry, Madam Pince,” Remus assured her, “It won’t happen again.”

She graced him with a rare smile and walked off to torture other students.

“Well Remus it looks like Madam Pince is sweet on you,” Toni commented.

Remus rolled his eyes and said nothing. Alexis hadn’t been able to get him alone since her “talk” with Sirius. She was sure Black had told them boys what they had said. Hadn’t he? she thought. If he had though why was Remus acting this way toward her? There was one thing for her to do…

“Rem, can you help me find that practical use book? I wanted to review,” she lied.

Remus shrugged and got up. They walked over to the bookshelves and he began looking for the book. He really couldn’t be that oblivious could he?

“Rem, can I ask you something?” she whispered, trying not to draw attention to them.

“Sure,” he responded, as he kept looking for the book in question.

“Are you angry with me?” she asked.

He finally glanced in her direction, “No, of course not.”

“Are you sure?” she prodded, “because if I’ve done something to upset you-”

He turned his attention to her, “You didn’t.”

“Good,” she exhaled, “I was starting to think-“

He smiled, “Don’t worry about it, Ally. We’re all friends now. This is good.”

She felt her stomach drop, but she kept herself composed, “Right. Friends. Well, I should head back to the common room. You know, quiet place to study…,” she trailed off. She flashed a smile and went to gather her things.

“Leaving so soon?” Sirius asked, “we didn’t even get the chance to help you with your transfiguration-“

“It’s alright Black,” she assured him, “I’ll live.”

“I think I’ll come with you,” Lily decided, “what about you Toni?”

Toni looked up from her seat next to James. Alexis saw that James had finally gotten a clue and didn’t want to be the reason they were interrupted. Alexis moved her head ever so slightly and Toni grinned, “Nah, I think I’ll stay here and try to learn something.”

The girls nodded and left. They walked back silently. When they got to the common room, Alexis grabbed Alice and they went up to the dormitory.

“What is it?” she wondered.

“We’re friends,” she whispered on the brink of tears.

They sat down on the bed next to her and placed their arms around her.

“I thought this is what you wanted,” Alice cooed, looking perturbed, “this was your idea.”

Alexis looked up at her through tear stained eyes, “What are you talking about?”

Lily looked between the two of them, “What are you talking about?” she asked Ally.

“Remus,” she muttered as though it were obvious, “I asked what was wrong and he said ‘nothing’. Then he said ‘we’re all friends, this is good’ or something like that.”

Lily frowned, “I think you’re overreacting. He’s Remus, he’s not Toni. He’s not the type of guy who just goes for it.”

Alexis looked up, “No, it’s not that. It was the way he said ‘friends’ and kind of lumps us all together. Like the way he feels about all of you guys is the way he feels about me.”

“Don’t do this,” Alice intervened, “Remus likes you, he cares about you. He certainly doesn’t have the same feelings for you he has for Sirius or James.”

Alexis laughed, “Well I would hope not.”

Lily snorted, “You know what she means. Remus likes you. You just have to give him time.”

“You’re right,” she sighed, “both of you. Now let’s get to work on that transfiguration studying.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“That wasn’t nearly as bad as I thought it would be,” Alice exclaimed as they left their last exam, transfiguration.

“Oh don’t say that,” panicked Alexis, “when you’re too confident, it means you messed up. I know for a fact I missed at least three questions.”

“Not discussing the exams I hope,” James stated as he threw an arm around Toni and joined them.

“They’re always like this,” confided Toni.

“Traitor,” shrieked Lily playfully as they sat down under the beech tree.

“Anyhow,” interrupted Alexis, “I’m glad we got to take the Defense exam after all.”

“Wow, Prince,” ejaculated a voice, “the nerd-o-meter is off the charts.”

“Thanks Black,” she smirked, punching him in the arm as he sat down.

“If you’re going to keep getting violent with me Prince,” he told her, “maybe we should go back to being enemies.”

Alexis stuck her tongue out at him.

“Real mature,” he reprimanded.

“Hark, who’s talking!” she retaliated.

“Sirius!!” called a pretty Hufflepuff from beside the lake, “Come over here!”

“Alas,” he heaved dramatically, “the downside of being me.”

Lily rolled her eyes, “Right.”

With a wink and grin, Sirius hurried over to the Hufflepuff, lifted her up and pretended to drop her into the water.

“Sirius!” they heard her shriek.

James shook his head, “Typical.”

“Hear, hear,” agreed Alexis.

“Where are Remus and Peter?” asked Alice.

“Remus should be here,” answered James, moving closer to Toni, “but Peter has detention.”

“What for?” asked Lily.

“Being late to McGonagall’s last class,” responded Remus as he sat down between Alice and Lily.

Alexis frowned slightly but hid it well, “Where’s Frank?”

“He’s supposed to meet me here after his exam,” answered Alice suspiciously, “why do you ask?”

“I’ve been talking to him lately,” she shrugged, “he’s a nice guy.”

Alice arched an eyebrow, “Really?”

“Really,” she smiled.

Alice squealed and grabbed her, “I’m so glad!”

“Hey send some of that my way,” Toni pouted, “I gave him my seal of approval too!”

Alice stared, “Honestly?”

“Honestly,” Toni agreed, “he gave me candy so we’re good.”

Alice laughed and Alexis frowned, “Why didn’t I get candy? Looks like I need to have a word with Frank.” She turned to Toni, “What kind of candy?”

“Chocolate,” she answered.

“Ugh,” she groaned, “I hate Frank now. Hate him!”

Frank joined them and smirked when he saw Ally’s face, “What did I do now?”

“Where’s my candy?” she demanded.

He wrapped his arms around Alice and shrugged, “I didn’t have to bribe you. Toni was a different story.”

Everyone laughed and Ally mumbled, “I still want candy.”

“I promise on the train ride home I’ll buy you candy,” Frank assured her.

“Good,” she smiled, “I like you again.”

Once again everyone laughed but Ally noticed they were one person short.

“Where’s Lily?” she asked.

“Over there,” pointed Remus, from behind his book.

They all looked over and saw Lily talking to…

“What’s his name again?” asked Toni.

“Jack O’Malley,” answered Alexis, a smile playing at her mouth, “third year Ravenclaw. He plays chaser for their Quidditch team, their undefeated quidditch team.”

“Plus he’s gorgeous,” added Alice.

“I’ll second that,” Toni agreed.

Frank and James exchanged looks then glared at Jack. He seemed to notice this as he waved to them. They waved back and mumbled…

“Pretty boy,” huffed Frank.

“Show off,” added James.

Alexis smirked, “Isn’t that the pot calling the kettle black?”

“What about me Prince?” Sirius asked as sat down next to her and rejoined their group.

“The girls and I were just commenting on how good looking and talented Jack O’Malley is and the boys got a little jealous,” she explained.

Sirius frowned, “Why would you girls be staring at him when you have some of the most good looking boys at Hogwarts sitting around you?”

“Hear, hear,” cheered James.

“I’ll second that,” agreed Frank.

“Nothing to say on the matter Remus?” prodded Sirius.

Remus shook his head.

“Well I know someone here who would disagree,” he sang, as Alexis glared at him.

“On that note,” huffed Ally, “I’m out.”

Toni and Alice glared at Sirius who shook his head, “Hey Prince! Wait up!”

Alexis continued her dramatic exit and ran smack into someone.

“Sorry,” she apologized.

“It’s alright,” a familiar voice sighed, helping her up, “you always did have trouble walking.”

“Sev,” she smiled, “how did your exams go?”

“Fine,” he replied, brushing off the topic, “who upset you?”

“Ally,” called Sirius.

She rolled her eyes and Sev grimaced, “I should’ve known.”

Sirius walked over to them and stopped at the sight of Severus.

“Snape,” he sighed.

“Black,” Sev responded.

“It’s not what it looks like,” Sirius continued before he could stop himself.

Severus’ eyes flashed dangerously, “It looks like once again my cousin is upset and it’s your fault.”

Alexis sensed they were moving into risky territory so she interrupted, “It’s not like that. He just said something that I let get to me. He was only joking.”

“You defend him now?” Severus asked, wide-eyed.

She shook her head, “It’s not like that. We’re-“ she broke off.

“What?” he prodded.

“Nothing,” Sirius interrupted, “I’m sorry I upset you Alexis.” He walked off and Severus shook his head.

“He’s not all bad you know,” she reproved.

Severus arched an eyebrow, “You underestimate him. I’m warning you Ally one of these days he’s going to let you down in the worst possible way and you’ll wish you had listened to me.”

Alexis smirked, “For now let’s just agree to disagree about Black.”

“Fair enough,” he agreed. They began to walk towards the Great Hall. “You never did tell me what he said to upset you.”

Alexis blushed. This wasn’t exactly a subject she could discuss with her cousin. He seemed to notice, “It’s about Lupin then. What did he do?”

“Nothing,” she shrugged, “we’re just friends.”

“Ah,” he smirked, “don’t worry. He’s not that dense. Any boy at this school would be lucky to have your interest.”

She smiled, “You’re my cousin. You have to say things like that.”

“Doesn’t make it any less true,” he told her. He looked around then hugged her quickly, “He’ll come to his senses.”

“Since when are you such a fan of Remus?” she smirked.

“He’s not that bad,” Severus admitted.

“In comparison to other candidates?” she suggested.

His brow furrowed, “What other candidates?”

“There are no other candidates,” she sighed, “I wish there were. After all apparently I’m just a friend to him.”

They had made it to the entry way of the Great Hall where lunch was about to start.

He looked both ways and muttered, “This too shall pass.” With a wink, he made his way to the Slytherin table.

Alexis walked towards the Gryffindor table and took a seat between Lily and Alice.

No one said anything for a while. Alexis continued to look down at her plate and hoped that as long as she was eating no one would bother her.

“So Evans I hear you’re interested in O’Malley,” Sirius finally piped up.

Alexis dropped her silverware with a clatter, “Honestly Black don’t you know when to shut it? Seriously.” She felt her face go read with the heat of the argument and stormed off.

The girls exchanged looks and followed suit.

“It wasn’t your fault mate,” James offered.

“I know that,” snapped Sirius, “it’s his!”

Remus looked up to see his friend pointing at him, “What did I do?”

Peter rolled his eyes, “Even I’m not that clueless.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Later that night the girls had managed to accumulate vast amounts of chocolate, cookies and ice cream.

“You have to,” demanded Toni, “it’s the rule. I dared you and you have to do it!”

“Fine,” hissed Lily, “but I’m never picking dare again!” She started off downstairs and the girls followed.

“Why are you following me?” she demanded.

“Oh please,” huffed Alice, rolling her eyes, “like we’re really going to miss this!”

“Fine but I hope you know everyone’s going to see you with rollers in your hair,” she shot back, “and Toni with her headscarf and Ally in those braids that make her look like Pippi Longstocking.”

“Unlikely darling,” retaliated Ally, “no one will be looking at us when you complete your dare.”

Lily stuck out her tongue and continued downstairs.

“There he is,” pointed out Alice, “go for it!”

Toni and Alexis pushed Lily into the common room. Everyone stared as she walked purposely over to the dream team and kissed Peter Pettigrew on the cheek. Without so much as a word, she ran back to the dormitory. Her friends followed and when they got to their room Lily was in the bathroom brushing her teeth and her friends were howling with laughter.

“Did you see his face???” wailed Toni, crying with laughter.

“His face?” managed Alice through bouts of hysterics, “try everyone’s faces.”

Alexis was still on the floor shaking with laughter. When she finally finished she smiled at her friend, “That is why you always pick truth. Thanks for cheering me up Lils.”

“Anytime,” Lily replied through a mouthful of toothpaste.

~*~*~*~*~*~

As usual the end of term feast was loud and festive. Alexis had been cheered up by her friends and copious amounts of sweets. When they entered the Great Hall everyone stared at Lily and started clapping.

“Good job Evans,” someone shouted.

Then came the catcalls and wolf whistles.

“Shut it!” shouted James and Sirius as the girls sat down.

The noise just got louder until the Headmaster entered.

“Quiet, if you please,” he called. Silence enveloped the room. “Thank you. As always at the end of term, I shall miss you all greatly. However I feel compelled to warn you of things to come. As many of you know there have been many strange events over this past year, and I fear that they shall only continue. I encourage you all to be careful over the holidays.” Silence remained and he continued, “Now then on to the more exciting part of the evening, the awarding of the house cup. In fourth place we have Hufflepuff with 245 points.” A smattering of applause. “In third place we have Ravenclaw with 325 points.” More applause. “Second place goes to Gryffindor with 375 points and in first place with 450 points is Slytherin.” On outbreak of cheering came from the Slytherin table and the Gryffindors exchanged glances.

“Did we really only have 375 points?” Frank asked Kingsley.

Kingsley frowned, “Unfortunately yes. There were a lot more detentions this year and then of course Slughorn always gives Slytherin a ridiculous amount of points.”

James looked over at the Slytherin table then looked up and down a disheartened Gryffindor table, “Next year,” he shouted, making his voice heard and raising his glass, “that cup is ours!!!!’

There was uproar from the rest of the Gryffindors and everyone toasted.

Ally looked over at James, “Good job cuz.”

He smiled, “Thanks.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Do you have any gum?”

“Where is my purse?”

“Hurry up or we’ll miss the train.”

The girls rushed through the rain and boarded the train just before it took off. They had overslept then had to double check that they had packed everything as they had only remembered to pack the night before.

“We look a fright,” complained Alice.

“Oh I know,” agreed Toni, “I feel like a drowned rat.”

“But you look good,” complimented a voice from behind them. Toni turned and smirked, “Thanks.”

James smiled back and put his hand on her back, “Care to join us? Plenty of room.”

“It’s not like we have much of a choice,” Alice shrugged, “lead the way.”

The girls followed James to his compartment. Alexis was surprised to see they had invited Frank to join them.

“Got that candy Longbottom?” Ally wondered as entered.

Frank smirked, “Of course.” He took a bag of sweets out of his pocket and handed them to her.

“Cheers,” she said as she took a piece then offered some to the rest of the compartment. James took her up on a chocolate frog. Lily got that piece of gum she was asking for. Toni took a pumpkin pasty. Sirius caught a fizzing whizbee she tossed him. Alice took a licorice wand, Peter a cauldron cake. She offered Frank something but he refused. She turned to Remus who took the sugar quill she offered him. They all thanked her then sat quietly for a while. Peter was sitting on the floor, looking at an issue of the Daily Prophet. Next to him was James who was trying to read a quidditch book while Toni snored away on his shoulder. Frank was looking out the window while Alice lay across him and Lily, who was sleeping soundly her head on Frank’s shoulder. Sirius was working on a crossword puzzle from his own Daily Prophet while Ally looked on, Remus on her other side.

“Five down is Morgana,” she told him.

He looked up, “Thanks Prince.”

She shrugged and started to get drowsy. Once again she didn’t know what to do. She was sitting between Black and Remus. She knew Black wouldn’t care if she fell asleep on him as she had done it before but she really didn’t want Remus to see it as her picking one of her “friends” over the other. Stop over thinking you idiot, she told herself, just go to sleep. She leaned her head back against the wall. This was of course extremely uncomfortable but at least she could get some sleep.

Sirius looked over at her after she had drifted off then over at Remus.

“Seriously mate,” he whispered, “what’s wrong with you?”

Remus looked up. He knew they were the only ones who were still awake and if there was ever a time Sirius was going to be honest, it would be when no one else was listening.

“What are you on about?” he muttered back.

“You can’t be that clueless,” Sirius shot, rolling his eyes and looking over at Ally.

Now it was Remus’ turn to roll his eyes, “She’s my friend. Just like she’s your friend now, and Frank’s friend.”

“Oh please,” huffed Sirius, “you really are that stupid. I don’t know what she sees in you.”

Remus’ eyes narrowed in suspicion, “What are you talking about Sirius?”

“It’s you, you dolt,” he replied with a smirk, “She likes you. Who else could’ve got her so upset that day at the library? Or that time at dinner? What did you do?” Something clicked. “Tell me you didn’t call her a “friend”.”

“What’s wrong with that?” he asked indignantly.

Sirius shook his head, “I’m buying you a clue next Christmas. Once you tell a girl that they’re a good “friend” you’ve hit the point of no return, after that you can’t ever be anything more. I know you. I know how you feel about her. I also know how she feels about you. Are you trying to mess this up or does it just come naturally?”

Remus stared at him. After everything Sirius had done to get Ally’s attention here he was practically telling Remus to ask her out. What on earth was going through his mind?

Sirius smiled, “I want you to be happy. I want her to be happy. You’re both my friends now. I’m trying to do what’s best for you.” He nudged Alexis so her head fell onto Remus’ shoulder. She stirred a bit but then scooted closer to him. He looked down at her, then over at Sirius. He wrapped his arm around her then put his head on top of hers.

“About time,” Sirius muttered with a smirk before he went back to his crossword.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Rise and shine people,” Sirius called, clapping and whistling to wake everyone up.

One by one the occupants of the compartment woke up. Some gave Sirius death glares; others simply got up and started trying to get their stuff together.

Of course some, being girls, felt compelled to do something else. Lily nudged Toni who nudged Alice and the three of them openly gaped at the two people who had just woken up from what appeared to be a very comfortable slumber.

“I believe James,” Sirius called to his best friend over the commotion, “you owe me a galleon. Just give it to Remus though. I owe him from before.”

James chuckled and tossed Remus a galleon. Alexis looked at her cousin and Sirius and rolled her eyes. They were making something out of nothing. She had just moved in her sleep. That’s why she had woken up with her head on Remus…but then why had his arm been around her? Smiling slightly at the possibilities, Alexis got her things together and followed her friends out of the compartment.

They left the train in a rather orderly fashion and gathered together in a huddle. The girls began to exchange hugs and the boys started making plans for the summer.

“Sirius Black!” shrieked a voice. The group turned and saw Sirius’ mother and father standing in the distance along with his cousins Narcissa and Bellatrix, their parents and the Malfoy family.

“Bye Sirius,” everyone chorused.

“I’ll write you,” James muttered.

“Me too,” added Peter.

“Every day,” piped up Remus.

“We’ll write too Black,” promised Toni.

“Just not everyday,” Alice amended.

“Because we have lives,” Alexis smirked.

Sirius smiled slightly and waved goodbye to his friends. He joined his family who seemed to take no notice of his presence once he got there and continued to talk amongst themselves.

“I worry about him,” James admitted.

“Me too,” confided Ally with hug, “but maybe one day we won’t have to.”

“Toni,” Kingsley called as he approached their group, “time to go.”

The girls exchanged one big hug then individual ones. After which she turned to James who embraced her tightly. She smiled then said goodbye to Remus and Peter and walked towards Kingsley who was now eyeing James with suspicion.

“Nice,” complimented Peter, “way to get a prefect on your case.”

Alexis smirked and added, “I hear he’s up for head boy.”

James gulped and whispered, “Tell me you’re kidding.”

Alice and Lily dissolved into a fit of giggles and couldn’t stop until they heard someone call, “Frank!”

They all looked up and saw a rather severe and somewhat frightening old witch looking in their direction.

“Well, I’ve got to go,” Frank told them.

“That’s your mum?” asked Alice.

“Yep,” Frank nodded, though when he saw Alice’s face he added, “she’s nicer than she looks.”

Alice nodded and cleared her throat, “Well, take care. I’ll write you.”

“Same here,” he assured her with a quick hug.

“Thanks for the candy Frank,” Alexis put in with a smile.

“No problem,” he replied, “I’ll see you guys next term.” With that he hurried off to his mother who appeared to be bombarding him with questions.

“Wow,” Lily said finally, “imagine having her for a mother in law.”

Alice glared and Alexis erupted into laughter.

“Peter!” called a little old man in the distance.

“Bye,” the girls chorused as the boys did individual goodbyes.

“Well it looks like it’s just the five of us,” James sighed.

“Alice,” called her parents as they spotted her through the crowd.

“Make that four,” Alice joked, “bye everyone.”

The girls hugged again and promised to write while Remus and James waved goodbye. As Alice disappeared into the distance another name was called, “Lily!”

Mr. and Mrs. Evans appeared followed closely by Mr. and Mrs. Prince just as before.

“Mum, Dad,” Lily squealed as they embraced her tightly. They let go and Lily seemed embarrassed, as though she had forgotten her matters. “Mum, Dad, you remember Alexis Prince.”

“Of course we do,” said Mrs. Evans as Ally’s parents let go of her, “it’s nice to see you again Alexis.”

“You too, Mrs. Evans, Mr. Evans,” Alexis nodded to each of them.

Lily continued with the introductions, “These two boys here are friends of mine,” James looked amazed at this, “this is Remus Lupin and-“

“James Potter!” a voice in the distance shouted.

“James Potter,” Lily finished somewhat lamely.

Henry and Josephine Potter joined what was fast becoming one of the largest groups at the station.

“Ethan, old boy,” cried Henry.

“Henry,” Ethan bellowed with a hug.

Everyone appeared to be getting extremely confused so Alexis took over…

“Mr. and Mrs. Evans these are James’ parents, Henry and Josephine Potter,” pleasantries were exchanged and once again they were interrupted by new additions.

“Mr. and Mrs. Lupin,” Alexis smiled, “Welcome to the party.” The Lupins hugged their son and exchanged how do you dos with the rest of the group.

“Well looks like this is it,” James pointed out.

“Looks like,” agreed Lily.

“Well I’ll see you next term then Evans,” James sighed as he extended his hand.

“Next term,” nodded Lily as she let go of his hand.

“I’m going to miss you like crazy you know,” Alexis told her.

“Same here,” Lily assured her while hugging her tightly, “maybe this summer we can get together? Toni and Alice too.”

“Absolutely,” nodded Ally.

They let go and Lily turned to Remus, “I’ll miss you too Rem.”

“Me too,” he added as they exchanged a quick hug.

James and Alexis exchanged looks at this.

“Come on mum, dad,” prodded Lily, “if we leave Petunia in the car too long she might try to drive off without us.” Everyone laughed and said goodbye to the Evans’.

“We should be going too,” piped up Mrs. Lupin.

James and Remus shook hands then exchanged a quick hug and promised to write. Then he turned to Ally.

“I hope you’ll write me too,” she muttered hoping James would distract the parents. He seemed to take this cue and got his father started on questions about the lives of muggles.

“Of course I will,” he whispered back. They stood there uneasily and finally just as Alexis was about to walk away, Remus grabbed her and pulled her into a tight embrace.

“I’m going to miss you something terrible,” he told her. Alexis smiled, “Me too.”

They broke apart.

“I’ll see you next term,” she mumbled, still a little red-faced.

“Next term,” he agreed.

He went off to join his parents and they too left. As Ally watched them leave, James appeared at her side.

“Next term should be interesting then,” he predicted.

With thought to all that had happened over the past term, Alexis smiled, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Her cousin shook his head, “Me either.”

The End!!!! Of year two anyway....:evil:

Like it? Love it? Loathe it? Is anyone even reading it? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Hey guys!! Now before I say anything else I'm just going to tell you that I'm sick so this post is soo not up to my usual standards. It's really short and it's basically just the boring stuff that I had to get out of the way...except for the prologue. I liked that cuz I wrote it before I was sick...Anyhow, enough rambling here's the post!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Prologue

“Alexis Lupin,” Toni stated, rather loudly.

“Shh!” hushed Alexis, “my parents will hear you and then they’ll give Remus a terrible time when they see him next.”

“Not even bothering to deny it,” Alice surmised with a smirk.

“Of course not,” piped up Lily, “meant to be.”

Alexis shook her head, “You are all ridiculous. Remus and I-“

“are just friends,” they finished in unison.

“It’s what he wants,” she shrugged.

“Oh please,” Toni smarted, “he likes you too and you know it. He’s just…shy.”

“Something you would know nothing about,” huffed Alexis. An evil thought occurred to her and she cracked a grin, “Shall we change the subject, Antoinette Potter?”

Toni started laughing, “We could be cousins-in-law!!”

“That’s not a real relation,” corrected Lily.

“Don’t be jealous, Lily,” Alice chuckled, “you’ll be her cousin-in-law too when you become Lily Snape.”

Alexis and Toni shrieked and Lily gave Alice a look that could’ve killed.

“What’s all this?” demanded Ally, “Are you and Sev…?”

“No!!!” yelped Lily.

“Then why would…,” Toni paused, “what does Alice know that we don’t?”

Alice and Lily exchanged quick looks and Ally called them on it, “Oh-ho. What was that? What’s going on?”

“Well,” Lily began blushing, “Sev and I have been…talking.”

“When?” demanded Ally, wide-eyed, “I don’t even have time to see him! How did you manage it?”

“Well, we send notes and arrange meetings,” she elaborated pathetically.

“Interesting,” commented Alexis.

Toni arched an eyebrow, “The things you learn.”

“Indeed,” Alexis agreed, “So anything you want to add Mrs. Longbottom?”

“Oh don’t mention her,” shuddered Alice, “I can’t imagine having to deal with that woman. She’s terrifying.”

Before anyone had the chance to respond Catherine Prince opened the door, “It’s time for bed ladies.”

“Of course,” nodded Alexis, who got up and kissed her mother on the cheek and gave her a quick hug, “Night mum.”

“Good night my dear,” cooed Catherine, “good night girls.”

“Good night Mrs. Prince,” the girls chorused. With a smile, she closed the door softly. Ah, she thought, to be young again.

~Chapter 1~

“We’re going to be late,” Ethan Prince called up the stairs.

“I’m coming!” his daughter shouted back. He inwardly counted to five saw her appear at the top of the stairs.

“Where’s your trunk?” he asked.

She arched an eyebrow, “Upstairs. I certainly wasn’t going to try and drag it behind me. I would’ve taken an incredible tumble.”

Her father smirked, “Right you are.”

He charmed her trunk and it floated downstairs. Alexis frowned, “Couldn’t even walk upstairs and get it?”

“Not if you want to be on time,” her mother chimed in as she entered the room.

“Are we ready?” Ethan inquired.

“Ready,” his wife and daughter agreed.

They made it to platform 9 ¾ just in time. After a hurried goodbye to her parents, Alexis hopped on the train and began looking for a compartment.

“I believe the compartment you’re looking for is at the back of the train,” a deep voice advised.

With a grin and a squeal, she spun around to find Kingsley Shacklebolt, smiling at her.

“Kingsley,” she shrieked, “how have you been?”

“Great,” he replied.

“I’ll bet,” she agreed, acknowledging the Head Boy badge on his chest, “the Headmaster made the right choice.”

“Need help getting your trunk settled?” he offered.

She nodded and after they had taken care of her trunk, they parted ways. She walked to the back of the train and slid open the compartment door to reveal her best friends.

“How does it feel to be the Head Boy’s sister?” she asked Antoinette Shacklebolt.

“Just like being a prefect’s sister,” Toni replied, “only more powerful,” she added with a wink.

Alexis laughed then took inventory of the compartment. Toni was sitting on the floor with James, her cousin, whose arm seemed to be permanently attached to her friend’s waist. Her best friend Lily Evans was playing wizard’s chess with Peter Pettigrew. Frank and Alice must’ve got there the earliest as they had the actual seats, at least on one side of the compartment. On the other side sat Remus Lupin, Sirius Black and…

“Who’s the little bloke?” asked Ally as she sat down next to Alice.

Sirius looked up, “This is my brother Regulus. Regulus, this is Alexis Prince.”

The little boy looked extremely frightened but when Ally smiled at him, he smiled back slightly. He really does look like Black, thought Alexis.

“So,” Alexis spoke lightly turning to Regulus, “what was it like to grow up with Black?”

“Who?” he asked, confused.

Sirius laughed, “Me. Prince has this thing where she won’t use my first name.”

“Why?” he asked again.

“Because she’s weird,” answered Sirius.

Alexis stuck her tongue out at him and Regulus laughed.

“Are you looking forward to Hogwarts?” Alexis continued.

Regulus nodded and Remus took pity on him, “Ally give the kid a break.”

Alexis looked over at Rem, eyebrow arched, “I’m just trying to be nice.”

Sirius rolled his eyes, “Why don’t you go over and be nice to Remus?”

“This is why no one can stand you,” hissed Alexis, taking her issue of the Daily Prophet out.

“They’re always like this,” Remus whispered to Regulus.

Alexis’ eyes narrowed, “Traitor.”

“You’ve upset her again,” complained Toni, “we’ll never hear the end of it.”

Remus shook his head then got up and sat down next to Ally. She arched an eyebrow and he smiled at her.

“You’re still a traitor,” she told him, even though she was smiling.

The beginning of the train ride was fairly uneventful but an unwelcome visitor appeared late in the afternoon.

The door slid open and they all looked up. Bellatrix Black was standing in the doorway with her sister Narcissa.

“Regulus,” she said silkily, “why don’t you come join us in our compartment.” It was a command, not a question.

Regulus seemed to cower but managed to whisper, “I want to stay with Sirius.”

“Sirius is welcome to join us too,” she assured, “but he won’t.”

Regulus looked from Sirius, whose face had hardened, to Bellatrix, who looked as though she was daring him to say something. Bellatrix smirked, “Do you really want your mother to hear that you were spending time with mudbloods and blood traitors?”

James had finally had enough, “Keep talking Black and I’ll-“

“James, don’t,” warned Ally as she got up to stop him.

“Prince,” Bellatrix sneered, “lovely to see you again. You really should get your cousin under control.”

“You really should get that hair under control,” Toni piped up standing next to James, “you look like a squirrel just attacked you from behind.”

Alice, Lily, and Peter started laughing but the rest knew better. Insulting Bellatrix Black was never a good idea.

“Enough,” Sirius demanded, “It’s alright you guys. Trix, why don’t you leave?”

“I would,” she granted, “but I’m trying to protect Reggie from making the same mistakes you did. Picking the wrong company for one.”

Sirius glared at her but seemed conflicted. Alexis knew if Sirius told his cousin to bugger off, she would tell his parents and he would get not only himself but his younger brother in trouble. It didn’t seem as though he had much of a choice…

“Come on Reg,” Sirius sighed finally.

“What?” demanded James.

“Seriously?” shrieked Toni.

Sirius simply frowned, grabbed his little brother’s hand and followed Narcissa out. Bellatrix turned to Alexis, James and Toni, “Like I said before, Sirius will always be a Black. Good day.”

She closed the door and James let out a roar of frustration.

“Why?” James demanded “Why does he listen to her?”

“He has no choice,” shrugged Remus, “if he didn’t go with her he would’ve gotten Regulus in trouble.”

“No,” refuted James, “he could’ve told her where to go and he and Reg could’ve stayed here with us.”

“And they both would’ve gotten into trouble,” Alexis surmised, “Remus was right. Black did what he did to keep Reg out of trouble.”

“It’s still not fair,” fumed James.

“No it’s not,” cooed Toni, grabbing his hand and pulling him into the seat next to her, “but he had to do what he had to do.”

“Yeah,” he nodded, “you’re right.”

They sat quietly for the rest of the trip, including the carriage ride to the castle. So much for a less dramatic school year, thought Alexis as they sat down at the Gryffindor table. A few minutes later they were joined by Sirius, who looked completely miserable as he so often did after an encounter with his cousin. All animosity seemed to be removed when everyone saw how upset he was. Alexis couldn’t help but feel really bad for him. Granted, Bellatrix Black infuriated her to no end but she wasn’t related to her. She also wasn’t related to the kind of people who would send someone to torture their son because he was dishonoring the family name. She looked over and saw little Regulus about to be sorted. He looked so terrified. Of course he had every right to be. She knew that in order to survive in their family you had to fall in line or risk being disowned. She wondered what road Regulus would take: the Bellatrix/Narcissa one or the Sirius/Andi one. Well, they were all about to find out as his name was called for the sorting…

“Black, Regulus.”

Regulus looked from Sirius to Bellatrix then sat on the stool, the sorting hat placed on his head. They waited for a few minutes before….

“Slytherin!” the hat shouted.

It seemed as though Regulus Black had made his decision…

:tu: or :td:?

Like it? Love it? Loathe it? Is anyone even reading it? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Hello everyone!!! I'm so proud of myself. :clap: I cranked this out pretty quickly. I'm thinking I might get another post out this weekend. Key word: might! Okay so that was a lot of talk I just did. Here's the post!!!!


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning the third year Gryffindors sat down for breakfast. The boys hadn’t been able to break Sirius out of his disappointment in spite of help from the girls…

“I should’ve seen it coming,” he moaned as he looked over at the Slytherin table where Regulus sat between Bellatrix and Narcissa. “He didn’t want to disappoint our parents.”

Everyone exchanged uneasy glances. The Blacks had made no secret of their feelings about the disgrace they believed Sirius had brought to their family. Someone needed to change the subject…fast…

Luckily a distraction arrived in the form of their Head of House, Professor McGonagall.

“If it’s not too much of an inconvenience for you third years, I’d like to meet with each of you now to go over your schedules,” she announced.

“Alright Professor,” James nodded, “do you mind if I go first?”

Professor McGonagall shook her head, “Of course not, Mr. Potter.”

James got up and followed the transfiguration professor. The rest of the table had left and the third years were sitting patiently waiting to be called so their schedules could be cleared.

“Mr. Black,” McGonagall called as James rejoined them.

“What are you taking?” Alexis asked, peering over his shoulder.

“The usual,” he shrugged, “I only added Care of the Magical Creatures and Muggle Studies.”

“Why muggle studies?” wondered Toni.

James smiled, “My dad suggested it.”

This continued until they had all confirmed their schedules. Sirius, like James, added two classes, Care of the Magical Creatures and to everyone’s amazement, Ancient Runes. Peter also added Care of the Magical Creatures and Divination. Remus chose Care of the Magical Creatures and Arithmancy.

“Interesting how the four of you can’t leave one another’s sides,” commented Lily sarcastically.

“Don’t mock Evans,” James scolded, “we have attachment issues.”

“Yes,” agreed Sirius, “it’s very unhealthy.”

“We’re thinking of going to a therapist,” joked Remus.

The girls giggled a little and Peter asked, “What are you lot taking?”

“I’m taking Care of the Magical Creatures with you guys,” Toni piped up, “and Divination.”

“Same as me,” commented Peter.

“Yep,” she agreed, “I like an easy course load.”

“Are any of you other ladies taking Care of the Magical Creatures with us?” inquired James.

Alexis rolled her eyes, “Yeah, right. You know I don’t like nature. I’m taking Ancient Runes and Muggle Studies.”

“Why those?” asked Sirius.

“Because I’m horrendous with anything related to numbers so Arithmancy was out of the question and Divination is a waste of time,” she answered, honestly.

Alice look slightly put out as she said, “Well, I’m taking Divination, along with Arithmancy.”

“That’s great,” piped up Lily, “I’m taking Arithmancy too and Ancient Runes.”

“Well right now, we should all be on our way to Transfiguration,” pointed out Remus. They all nodded and followed his lead. They exited the Great Hall and were almost to the Transfiguration classroom when they heard a commotion…

“Avoid it,” Lily, Alice and Remus snapped in unison.

Of course Toni and James were ridiculously meddlesome so they went towards the noise.

“I refuse to be late to McGonagall’s class,” Alice hissed as she continued towards the classroom.

James and Toni continued to ignore her and walked over toward what was quickly becoming a massive group of students. Peter, of course, scampered after James. Sirius shrugged and followed, as he was never one to miss a confrontation. Alexis, always curious, glanced at Lily and Remus who, like Alice, wanted to head straight to class.

“I’m not sure it’s a good idea,” Lily warned.

Before Alexis could respond they heard Sirius yell, “Back off!”

“Fantastic,” muttered Ally as she headed in the direction of the mayhem.

“Looks like we’re going to be late to class after all,” sighed Lily.

Remus frowned, “We should have just followed Alice.”

Alexis pushed her way through the crowd and saw Sirius standing between a cowering Regulus and a vaguely familiar sneering Slytherin.

“I was teaching your brother a lesson Black,” the blonde sniffed, “pureblood though he may be he has no right to-“

“No right to what?” interrupted Sirius, “no, never mind I don’t even want to know what you think he did. The fact of the matter is this: if you mess with my little brother again so help me Malfoy I’ll-“

“You’ll what?” provoked the Slytherin, “prove to everyone that you are exactly what they say you are?”

Alexis saw the look on Sirius’ face. The way people perceived him was, for some reason, very important to him. Enough is enough, she thought.

“He won’t have to do anything Lucius,” intervened Ally, “if you mess with Reg again, we’ll report you to the Head Boy, your Head of House, the Headmaster and anyone else with the word ‘head’ in their title. You’d be wise to remember just how much power other people hold when we’re inside the walls of Hogwarts. Your name and blood status mean nothing here. It’s a level playing field and I have to say that torturing first years will do nothing for your reputation.”

“Well, Black, looks like once again your little girlfriend is forgetting her place,” commented Lucius, “I guess she didn’t learn her lesson before.” Alexis narrowed her eyes. She knew what he was hinting at; she also knew how Bellatrix Black would feel knowing that the young Malfoy had practically confessed what they had done to her in front of a hoard of people.

She smirked, “Best watch what you say Lucy. We wouldn’t want you to get into trouble, would we?”

“I haven’t the slightest idea what you’re talking about Prince,” he scoffed, though Alexis could tell so she called his bluff…

“I think you know exactly what I’m talking about Malfoy,” she challenged, “mess with Reg again and we’ll find out for sure.”

“Is that a threat?” he sneered, stepping toward her. He might have been trying to intimidate her, as he towered over her but Alexis didn’t back down, “Consider it a friendly piece of advice.”

Before either of them could say another word…

“I suggest you all find your classrooms and begin learning,” Professor Dumbledore recommended. The students who hadn’t noticed his presence yet all scattered. Lucius cast one last look of loathing in Ally’s direction and headed towards the dungeons. Alexis glanced over at her grandfather who looked as though he was waiting for the rest of the students to follow suit and get to class. Sirius finished up his talk with Regulus and they all headed to Transfiguration.

“Where are Remus and Lily?” asked Alexis as they turned the corner.

Toni shook her head, “They sprinted to class right after you opened your mouth.”

“Apparently they can sense when something bad is about to happen,” James snorted.

“So can I,” huffed Toni, “any time Ally gets involved in a row, things are bound to get worse.”

“Thanks,” Alexis muttered, rolling her eyes.

They opened the door to the classroom and before they entered they heard Professor McGonagall say, “Detention.”

“Fantastic,” mumbled James as he and Toni sat down in the back. Sirius and Ally took the table in front of them. They opened their books and listened to the Professor give her lecture. Sirius surreptitiously slid Ally a note…

You didn’t have to do that.

Do what?

Get involved with the whole bit with Malfoy. I can handle him.

I’m sure. If I had let you handle him, you would probably have more than just one detention. Don’t mention it.

You really shouldn’t have gotten involved Ally. Malfoy could make life very difficult for you.

So could a million other people. Don’t worry about it Black.

What about Rem?

What about him?

You know what they’re all going to be saying now…

So what? Let them say what they want. We’re friends. People are just going to have to get used to it.

Well then as a friend I’m going to ask you not to fight my battles for me. It’s for the best.

Fine, if you’re ever getting drowned by the giant squid I’ll just walk by completely oblivious.

Good.

I suppose this goes both ways then.

No, if you’re being drowned by the giant squid I’ll save you…or at least send someone else to save you.

Thanks Black.

Anytime.

Alexis shook her head. He is so ridiculous. Maybe he's right though. I really shouldn’t feel the need to jump in and defend him all the time. After all he is a boy and they have very fragile egos.

“Ms. Prince?”

Ally’s head shot up, “Yes, Professor?”

“Would you like to answer my question?” she asked, suspiciously.

Alexis’ heart was pounding. She hadn’t been listening and she knew Professor McGonagall knew it. She was going to get detention for sure. Again. She looked down at her book as though hoping the answer would jump out at her. She glanced over at Sirius’ notes and in the middle of his paper he had written and underlined…

Switching spells.

“Switching spells,” Alexis guessed wildly. I really hope he meant for me to read that.

Professor McGonagall arched an eyebrow, “Very good Ms. Prince. Five points to Gryffindor.”

Alexis smiled and started taking notes of her own but not before scribbling…

Thanks Black.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Once the kids got used to their new schedules, they had more time than ever before. In theory it was supposed to be for studying, but that's the thing about theory…Everything works…in theory…

“Have I mentioned I hate my cousin?” Sirius groaned as he lay on his bed in the boys dormitory.

“Which one?” asked Remus nonchalantly.

Sirius grunted, “Trix, Cissy's just her bobbit. Did I tell you that she’s trying to keep Regulus from seeing me?”

“What??” James snapped, “she can’t do that. Reg is your brother!”

“Yes,” he sighed, “but that also makes him Trix’s cousin and my parents’ son. They can’t have yet another disappointment in the family.”

Peter frowned, “So they’re keeping Regulus away from you because…disappointment is contagious? If it is you should all steer clear of me.”

“One problem at a time,” Remus interrupted, “Sirius you know who you should talk to about this whole situation, don’t you?”

“If you’re going to suggest that I try and reason with Trix, you must be twelve different kinds of-“ fumed Sirius.

“No,” Remus stopped him, “Reason isn’t exactly a Black family trait. I was going to suggest you talk to Ally.”

His friends stared at him as though they had been confunded. He knew he would have to explain.

“Alexis has been able to meet with her cousin Severus for three years and the rest of the Slytherins are none the wiser,” reminded Remus in his overly-patronizing manner, “if she and Sev can avoid all the Slytherins, you and Reg can definitely dodge your cousins.”

“And you wouldn’t mind?” wondered Sirius.

Rem arched an eyebrow, “If you saw your brother?”

James and Peter chuckled. Sirius smirked, “I meant about me talking to Ally.”

Remus paused, then put on a smile, “Why would I mind?”

“Well,” began Sirius, “because you like her.”

“Who wouldn’t?” countered Remus quietly.

“Oh-ho!” James practically shouted, “I wouldn’t.”

“Well I should hope not,” Sirius countered, “because your family tree…”

“Hark!” snorted Peter, “who’s talking? Your family tree has practically three branches. It’s a wonder you lot aren’t freakishly deformed, arms coming out of your heads and what not.”

James and Remus broke into a bout of hysterics while Sirius threw a book at Peter, “We’re not like the Egyptians!! We don’t marry our brothers and sisters!!! The idiots just can’t accept the fact that pureblood marriages make it to where you have four, five if you're lucky, choices on who marries whom! It’s so disturbing.”

“So have they picked someone for you to marry?” asked James mockingly through tears of mirth.

Sirius smirked, “Probably. I don’t know who the lucky girl is yet.”

“She’ll probably be someone horribly rich with the personality of a dung beetle,” Remus added helpfully.

“Thanks guys,” sniped Sirius, “as lovely as this conversation is can we please change the subject?”

“Oh right,” James agreed clearing his throat, “Pete what’s all that you were saying about being a disappointment?”

“Just that I can relate to Sirius,” he shrugged, “my parents were upset with my grades so they told me to pick the easiest electives so I could get the grades for my important classes up.”

Sirius and James exchanged looks of uneasiness. They had both passed their exams with flying colors so they had no words of support that wouldn’t sound superficial. Luckily Remus was there.

“Don’t worry about it mate,” he comforted, “I’m going to have to study harder from now on too. I’ll help you. We’ll all help each other. James and Sirius might actually have to study too.”

At this thought Peter seemed to perk up but Sirius and James looked appalled.

“I think I’m going to talk to Ally,” Sirius decided, scrambling away from anything related to academia.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“This year should be pretty mellow then,” commented Lily from behind her Arithmancy book, “less drama, more studying, more free periods. We might even have some fun.”

“If we find time for fun,” Alice amended, “so many classes. Those free periods will probably be used for studying.”

“Maybe yours will,” corrected Toni, “but I’m planning on having a lot of fun this year.”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Alexis piped up, looking up from her Ancient Runes book, “I don’t want to know what all you have planned for James.”

“Dirty,” joked Toni with a wink.

“Bah!!” shrieked Ally, “that’s my cousin!”

“Anyhow,” Lily began, moving the subject, sort of, “I’m looking forward to the Hogsmeade trips.”

“Oh yeah,” agreed Alice, “those are going to be nice breaks.”

“Breaks with Frank?” hinted Toni heavily.

“Mind out of the gutter,” warned Lily.

“What?” Toni demanded, “I’m predicting…I learned in divination I have the aura for the subject you know-“

“We know,” her friends chorused.

“I’m predicting,” she attempted a little louder, “that by the end of this year. Ally and Remus will have finally gotten together. Lily and Sev will have decided whether or not they want to risk being boyfriend and girlfriend or just stay friends. Oh and Frank and Alice will definitely be together.”

“What about Sirius and Peter?” Alice indulged her, “what are your predictions for them?”

“Peter will fail miserably at life,” prophesized Toni, “and Sirius will date every female with a pulse.”

“Lovely predictions,” complimented Ally, “but I think you couldn’t be more wrong.”

“Don’t mock the noble art of divination!” scolded Toni as though she were scandalized.

Before anyone had the chance to do anything but there was a knock at the door. Alexis arched an eyebrow, and went to answer it. On the other side of the door was a small first year girl…

“Alexis Prince,” she whispered.

Ally smiled, “Yes?”

“Um,” she paused, “Sirius Black sent me up here. He wants to talk to you.”

“Alright,” agreed Ally, “tell him I’ll be right down.” The girl nodded and left.

“Who was it?” asked Alice.

“Some first year,” shrugged Ally, “Black sent her.”

They all stared at her. She looked back, “What?”

“Nothing,” they chorused.

She shook her head and went downstairs.

“I’m getting a vision,” Toni feigned.

“What is it?” wondered Lily with a roll of her eyes.

“Alexis…Black….Alexis Black,” she came out of her “trance” looked directly at her friends and said, “it’s got a nice ring to it, doesn’t it?”


:tu: or :td:? Like it? Love it? Loathe it? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Alright guys let me start out by apologizing profusely for my lack of posting. Life had been really crummy so I had to deal but I'm back! I hope you guys like the new post. I'm rather fond of it...but that's just me :p

~*~*~*~*~*

Alexis made her way down the stairs, tripping only once, on the last step. She fell but was caught before she hit the ground.

"Thanks," she breathed.

Looking up into a familiar face, she cracked a grin, "You should start charging me for this."

"I would but I don't think you have that kind of money," he countered.

"Hilarious," she scoffed, "you can let me go now. I'm good."

Sirius released her and the two of them walked towards the fireplace.

"Not that I don't love the opportunity to be alone with you Black," she began as they sat down, "but why don't we save some time and you just tell me what you want?"

"Well, I want a lot of things," he replied as though thinking, "I'd like a new family, or at least a chance to get away from the one I have now, a new broom, my old one is pretty shaky, oh and-"

She placed a hand over his mouth and smirked, "Forget I asked. Really though what is it this time? I knew you couldn't live without my presence but I have no idea what's going on. You can't be failing Ancient Runes yet."

He removed her hand to reveal a smirk, "I'm actually quite brilliant at Ancient Runes for your information. It won't be long before you're asking for my help. No, this is different. More important than class."

"Well considering this is you we're talking about," she sighed, "the list of things more important than class is fairly extensive. Care to be a little more specific?"

He laughed, "It's about my brother Reg."

"Ah, I see," she nodded, "what's wrong with the little cutie?"

"You think he's cute?" Sirius questioned, "Funny, I always thought he bore a striking resemblance to me."

She smiled, "He does."

A little taken aback at the way the conversation was going, Sirius decided to focus on the problem at hand, "The thing is Trix and Cissy have been keeping us apart. The other day I asked Trix what was going on and she said that until I saw reason she was going to keep Reggie as far away as humanly possible."

"That cow!" ejaculated Ally, "I cannot believe she would do that! Well, actually I can but...she won't get away with it that's for sure."

Sirius interrupted her rant, "Calm down there. I didn't tell you that to get you all riled up. Remus actually suggested that I come to you for advice. You see-"

"Severus and I meet all the time without any of the Slytherins knowing," she intervened, "and Rem figured I could tell you how you and Reggie could do it. Am I warm?"

"Scorching," he chuckled.

Alexis frowned, "Well, I can see how that would make sense but here's the rub. Sev doesn't have anyone keeping an eye on him. He can schedule time when no one is around. Reg on the other hand has Bellatrix and Narcissa on his case. That's bound to complicate things."

"So you don't think it's possible?" he stated somewhat downheartedly.

She saw how disappointed he was and decided to make him feel better, "I think with you involved the possibilities are endless."

"I feel the same way when you're around," he admitted.

"Let's see," she thought aloud, "what can we do? Bellatrix and Narcissa will definitely be making sure that Reg doesn't see you," a wicked thought occurred to her, "but what if they don't see you?"

"You mean like the invisibility cloak?" Sirius began, "because I thought of that and I'm not sure it would work, I mean, first I would have to find Reg then throw the cloak over him. It would feel like kidnapping."

Alexis laughed, "That thought actually never occurred to me. Let's call that plan B. What I meant to say was what if they see Reg talking to someone who's...well…more appropriate."

"I don't get it," he stated bluntly.

"I think I just thought of a way to help you and me at the same time," she said as though to herself. Then she erupted into laughter.

"What?" he wondered, "What’s so funny?"

She managed to catch her breath, "It's just I'm not sure it's going to work. There's something I have to do first."

She got up and he grabbed her wrist, "What's going on in that pretty little head of yours?"

She sat back down, "I have an idea."

"Scarier words were never spoken," he muttered.

"The thing is it's complicated," she continued, "and I'm going to need a little help."

"From?" he asked, curiously.

"Someone I'm not sure will be up for it," she sighed.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning Sirius awoke feeling a little better. Maybe Remus was right and Alexis will be able to help me after all, he thought. He had to admit the idea of going to Alexis for help kind of put him off. After all, Remus liked her and if she kept helping him, Remus might get the wrong idea. Again.

He got up and started to get ready. Remus was in the bathroom. He always woke up first, then Sirius, then James and finally the three of them would drag Peter out of bed and down the stairs.

"I'm done," Remus announced as he entered the room, "it's all yours."

Sirius nodded and went to brush his teeth. After about half an hour all four of the boys were downstairs waiting for the girls.

"They always take so long," whined Remus, "we should leave without them."

"Can't," James told him, "Toni has Care of the Magical Creatures with us. She told me that if I left her behind-"

"Okay we get it," Sirius groaned cutting him off, "whoopah!"

"Whoopah?" repeated Remus with an arched eyebrow, "what is that?"

Sirius smiled, "The cracking of a whip."

Peter and Remus burst into laughter and James piped up, "Doesn't sound like a whip to me."

"What doesn't?" asked a voice.

They turned around and the girls were standing there looking confused.

"Never mind," Sirius said quickly, "let's go."

"What's the hurry?" Ally paused, "what is it that you do in Care of the Magical Creatures?"

"Um, learn to take care of animals?" offered James.

Lily laughed, "You guys don't even know what the class is about? Why would you choose it?"

"Because it's easy," chorused the boys and Toni.

Alice shook her head, "Of course."

"Why are you girls up and at it so bright and early?" wondered James, "it's not like you have class."

"We have class," retorted Lily, "just a different kind."

"Buh, dun, dun," ended Toni, imitating drums, "she'll be here all week."

Remus, Lily, Alice and Ally laughed while the boys stared dumbfounded.

Remus decided to explain, "It's a muggle joke thing. Though, how Toni knew it I'll never know."

"Lily taught it to her," elucidated Alice.

Sirius nodded, "Fascinating. Why don't we get to class?"

"Yes, go on you lazy bums," waved Alexis, "we're just heading off to the library. We've got to get some work done."

The two groups separated with the boys and Toni heading off to Care of the Magical Creatures and Lily, Ally and Alice heading off in the direction of the library.

"This is boring," moaned Alexis after five minutes. She began looking around and spotted someone more interesting. "I'll be right back." She walked quickly over to the section where her cousin was and pretended to look for a book, "Hey Sev."

"Morning," he whispered back out of the corner of his mouth.

"I need you to meet me tonight," she hissed, "can you?"

"Sure," he nodded, "I just hope it isn't about-"

They were interrupted by the loud thud of someone dropping a book. Alexis turned around and saw Regulus Black, blushing furiously and trying his hardest to be invisible. She smiled and bent down to help him.

"Thanks," he muttered, "can you give this to Sirius for me?" She smiled slightly, realizing that he had gotten her attention on purpose. More like Black than I thought, she mused. She slid the paper Reg had given her into her pocket and stood up. Before they could say anything else, they were joined.

"Prince," smirked Lucius Malfoy.

Alexis turned, "Malfoy."

"Not trying to get ickle Reggie to go over to your side, are you?" he asked mockingly.

She rolled her eyes, "Oh yes, I was just offering him cookies."

"Lucius, I was hoping to run into you," piped up Severus as though he had just seen him, "I had a question about something and you're the best person to ask."

Obviously flattered, Malfoy nodded, "Come along Regulus." The three of them walked past her and left the library.

Well at least coming here wasn't a complete waste, she thought.

"What was all that about?" Lily hissed as Ally returned to their table. Alexis shook her head, "Nothing. Let's get back to work shall we?"

It wasn't until lunch that Ally remembered the note Regulus gave her. She sat down between Sirius and James and slid it to him.

"What's that?" asked James rather nosily.

Alexis turned and stuck out her tongue, "None of your business."

"Writing Sirius love notes again?" he teased.

She rolled her eyes, "Oh yes, I couldn't get my undying affection into speech so I wrote it down. Honestly, James."

Shrugging, he changed the topic of the conversation, “So what do you lovely ladies think our new Defense teacher will be like?”

Ally shrugged, “No one can be worse than the last one.” She immediately regretted saying it and looked across the table at Sirius. He shook his head while reading his letter and muttered, “My parents had nothing to do with this one.” She couldn’t help but smile a little. He was so good at covering up his feelings. She knew he was only going to get better at it with time. Knowing how his parents treated him, she was sure it was a pretty good defense mechanism in their house.

“Well, we won’t find out until tomorrow. Anyhow, I’m sure the new defense teacher won’t compare to our new subjects,” Remus piped up, “divination and ancient runes are the subjects du jour right?”

James groaned, “Yep, right after history of magic.”

“Who’s up for skiving off?” suggested Toni. Remus, Lily and Alice looked scandalized while James, Peter and Ally seemed to be considering it.

“What’s your take on it Black?” continued Toni, hoping for another ally.

Sirius placed the note in his pocket and sighed, “The sooner we get there the sooner it’ll be over.” Everyone gaped as he sipped the last bit of his pumpkin juice, “Are we ready then?”

Alexis knew that whatever Regulus had written was bothering him but didn’t get the chance to bring it up until they were in Ancient Runes.

What’s wrong she wrote and slid the note over to him.

Nothing was his reply.

She frowned and would’ve kept writing if Lily hadn’t hissed, “You better pay attention to the translations.”

Alexis nodded and returned to her work.

Later that night…

“So,” began Remus as he sat down next to Alexis, “how’s it going?”

She looked up from her Ancient Runes worked and grinned, “Slowly. Come to distract me?”

Remus laughed, “Actually yes. I wanted to talk about Sirius.”

“Seriously?” she groaned, instantly regretting it, “I mean why?”

Ignoring the chance to make a pun, he continued, “Well that note Regulus sent him seems to be bothering him. Are you guys making any progress on the plan to help the two of them meet? I know he would feel a lot better if he could talk to him face to face.”

She couldn’t help but smile. Remus was such a sweetheart, always putting everyone else before himself. She looked down at her watch, “Oh, no. I’m going to be late.” She threw her things into her bag and began to rush off. “I’ll be back soon.” She flashed him a grin and left.

“You know, you two need to have a real conversation one of these days,” said a voice as someone sat down next to Remus.

“About what Sirius?” he asked instantly recognizing the voice of his good friend.

“About how stupid you are and how much you’d like to give her a good snogging,” he replied with a wink.

Remus blushed slightly but didn’t look up from his work. Sirius managed to catch something that sounded like, “Don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I thought we were past this mate,” he groaned, “you know if you don’t do something soon you’re really going to be just friends and then you’re going to have to watch her go out with a ton of really undeserving blokes.”

They say there quietly until Remus whispered, “Do you really think it’d be a ‘ton’?”

Sirius laughed, “Alright, in a couple of weeks we have our first trip to Hogsmeade. Now the plan is for the eight of us to spend the entire day getting acquainted with the village, but what if you and Ally somehow find yourselves alone? Do you think that maybe just maybe you would be able to ask her out?”

Remus seemed to be deliberating the situation rather seriously and finally managed to say, “I think so.”

“Great,” his friend nodded, “now then, where did the girl in question run off to?”

“She said she had to meet someone,” shrugged Rem, “that’s all I know.”

“Oh,” he frowned, “I was kind of hoping I could have a word with her.”

Remus turned to friend and placed his books aside, “What is it?”

“Just about Reg,” he mumbled, “I was hoping she had managed to figure out her plan.”

“Her plan?” repeated Remus, eye brow arched.

“For me and Reg meeting,” explained Sirius, “she had an idea but had to check it out. I was wondering if she had made any progress. You’re okay with this, aren’t you?”

“It was my idea,” he reminded his friend.

“I know but if you want to change your mind,” he began, “I’m sure I could come up with something on my own.”

“If that were the case you would’ve already done it,” pointed out Remus, “don’t worry about it. You and Ally are friends. It’s good. It means I don’t have to play mediator when the two of you have one of your little spats.”

“Touché,” he laughed, “well I’ll let you get back to your books. Don’t stay up to late. You’ll age prematurely you know.”

“Right,” retorted his friend.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Thanks for what you did in the library,” Alexis told her cousin.

“Not a problem,” he shrugged, “regardless of his relation to Black, Regulus seems like a scared little kid…reminds me a bit of myself when I was first sorted into Slytherin.”

“Taken him under your wing, have you?” she countered, jokingly.

Severus shrugged, “Occasionally I chat with him. He’s a smart kid but rather nervous. Then again, he does have both his cousins stalking his every move. I actually kind of feel bad for him. I wouldn’t want to be stalked by Bellatrix. Narcissa, maybe.”

“Sev,” ejaculated Ally, surprised with her cousin’s assessment of Narcissa Black, “you know she’s practically engaged to Lucius Malfoy, don’t you?”

“Relax Alexis,” he smirked, “I was kidding. Attractive though Narcissa may be, I want to survive in Slytherin and going after Bellatrix Black’s sister and Lucius Malfoy’s betrothed is not the way to go about that.”

“Good,” she sighed, “now then back to the topic of Regulus. You seem to like him so if the opportunity to help him came along, you wouldn’t be totally disinclined to agree would you?”

His good mood seemed to damper as if he knew where this was headed, “Depends.”

“On?” she responded.

“Whether or not I would also be helping his brother,” he replied, “you’re becoming rather predictable Alexis.”

“Think of it as helping Regulus,” she said, “and us of course.”

He sighed, “Alright, consider me intrigued. Let’s have it.”

She smiled, amazed at how easy he was making it.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Wake up Black!” a voice demanded.

Sirius rolled over and smiled inwardly at the fact that even in his dreams the owner of the voice wouldn’t call him by his given name. He suddenly remembered the last time he thought he heard her voice and awoke with a start.

“Prince!” he practically shouted.

“Shut it,” she hissed, “do you want to wake everyone and their dog? Honestly, Black.”

“Too late,” groaned a voice from the opposite side of the room. Alexis looked over as she saw a tousled Remus stretch and get out of bed.

“Sorry Rem,” she apologized, blushing slightly.

“Not a problem,” he yawned, “you’re a right sight better to look at first thing in the morning than Sirius.” With that, he made his way to the boys’ bathroom.

Even in the morning, she thought, “So cute.”

“What?” Sirius asked, sure he had misheard.

“Who?” she countered.

“Did you just utter the words ‘so cute’,” he continued, smirking slightly.

She flushed but stood her ground, “What are you talking about?”

He shook his head and sat up a little straighter then made room for her to take a seat on his bed, “Nothing. What’s with the wake up call?”

“Guess what?” she asked a huge grin on her face.

He knew that look, “You’ve got a plan, don’t you?”

“You know me so well,” she joked, “I’ve got a plan.”

“This ought to be good,” he sighed, lying back down.

“Isn’t it always?” she huffed.

“Always,” he agreed.


~I really am sorry that it's taken so long. :tu: or :td:? Rant or Rave here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)~

Hey everyone! The posting for this year is going to be a bit fast paced. I'm thinking it's only going to last about 15 chapters. Hope no one's upset by that. I'd just rather get to the later years. They're gonna be fun ;) Alright now :relax: and enjoy the post!

~*~*~*~*~*~~*

“You cannot be serious,” he hissed, suddenly wide awake.

She was expecting this reaction and felt it best to preemptively strike, “No, but you are.”

He glared at her for a moment then cracked a smile, “You win. I’m calm.”

“Good,” she countered, “because this is perhaps my most brilliant idea ever and I’ll not have you ruin it by being a downer.”

He shook his head and sat in silence for her to explain herself.

“Alright,” she began calmly, “here’s the deal.”

“You’re making a deal with the devil?” Remus joked as he joined them fully clothed and ready for the day.

“It’s way too early for you to be out of bed,” Sirius pointed out, “it’s the weekend.”

Remus begin putting his books into his bags, “I have a lot of studying to get done. I’ve got it scheduled to where if I start now, I’ll be free by Saturday night.”

“Hot date?” joked Sirius, instantly regretting it.

“I wouldn’t consider you, Peter and James ‘hot dates’,” he countered, “which reminds me. Pete, wake up.” He went over and shook Peter awake, “we’ve got studying to do.”

Peter rolled over, fell out of bed and crawled to the bathroom.

“He’s not what you call a morning person,” Remus stated lightly, while packing Peter’s bag.

Alexis smiled, uneasily. Sirius noticed and muttered out of the corner of his mouth, “What is wrong with you?” She shook her head.

“So what are the two of you up so early chatting about,” Remus asked casually, “in your pajamas?”

Alexis suddenly remembered that she had been so excited about the plan, she forgot to change. Knowing what this must’ve looked like, she started to say something when-

“Okay Remus,” yawned Peter, “let’s go.”

Peter walked toward the door and Remus turned to Sirius and Ally, “Don’t have too much fun. James is still in here.”

Before either of them could say anything, he was gone.

Alexis groaned in frustration, “This is not happening.”

“Relax. He was joking,” assured Sirius.

She rolled her eyes, “I hope so,” she paused and had a pained expression on her face.

“What?” he asked.

“I just realized. I came here, in my pajamas, no make up. I washed my face, brushed my teeth and came over.” Another horrible thought occurred to her. “I didn’t even brush my hair!”

Sirius snorted and Ally turned on him, “What may I ask is so funny?”

“You,” he sighed, “ Princess, you could’ve come in a burlap sack and you’d still be one of the prettiest girls.”

Alexis sighed to herself, “That’s sweet Black but I wish Remus agreed.”

Knowing it would be impossible to convince her otherwise, he changed the subject, “So the plan…?”

“What do you know about Polyjuice potion?” she questioned nonchalantly.

He stared at her for a moment, “Amazing.”

“Thank you,” she replied with a bow.

“Now the real problem,” he sighed lying back down, “is convincing my brother that looking like Snape is a good idea.”

She rolled her eyes and punched him on the shoulder, “You better watch what you say or Sev might change his mind.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

A couple of weeks later, they were getting ready for their first trip to Hogsmeade.

“No class,” Toni commented happily, “great weather, great company, what could be better?”

Lily rolled her eyes, “It will be nice to get away for a bit.”

“Right,” agreed Alice absentmindedly.

Alexis took notice and continued, “Kick back, relax, move in to the Shrieking Shack.”

“Right,” Alice repeated.

Her friends burst into laughter and Alice looked up, “Wait, what?”

“Come on,” Toni prodded, “we’ll drop you off with Frank. You’re no good to us in this state.”

“Very funny,” scoffed Alice as they walked down to the common room.

“Morning boys,” Toni called cheerfully, walking over and sitting boldly on James’ lap.

“I wish I got a reception like that,” commented Sirius wryly.

Alexis rolled her eyes, “Go sit on that couch over there and I’ll announce your request. Five galleons says you’ll be swarmed by the entire female population of Gryffindor in less than five seconds.”

“You flatter me,” he cooed.

“No,” she corrected, “I’m honest with you.”

“We should head down,” observed Lily, “we don’t want to be left behind.”

“Right,” agreed Toni, “see you later Alice!”

Alice looked over and waved good-bye to her friends.

“Well, looks like we’re one shy,” pointed out Alexis.

“Oh well,” shrugged James, “no offense to Alice but she’s kind of a bore.”

Lily snapped, “Just because she’s not an attention seeking-“

“Lils,” Alexis began, taking her friend’s hand.

“Back off Lily,” hissed Toni, “you need to loosen up.”

Alexis glared at Toni knowing she had only made the situation worse.

“Forget it,” shrugged Lily, voice full of condescension, “I’m over this.”

“Lils,” Alexis attempted again.

“Come on Evans,” Sirius piped up, putting an arm around her, “walk with me.”

Lily arched an eyebrow, “What do you want Black?”

“Just come on,” he prodded, “let’s walk ahead a bit. Get away from James. Give you time to relax.”

She smiled, “Alright.”

Before Alexis could add anything, the two of them walked a bit faster and Sirius removed his arm.

Alexis spun around and snapped at Toni, “I can’t believe you just did that! You’ve got some nerve.” She stomped off and Remus, shaking his head followed.

“What’s the big deal?” asked Peter, completely oblivious, “Alice is a bore.”

“That’s enough of that,” decided Toni, “let’s head over to Zonko’s.”

James shrugged, and wrapping an arm around her led her towards the shop. Peter rolled his eyes and followed suit.

Meanwhile...

“I cannot believe Toni would say that to Lils. I never thought she’d be that girl,” huffed Alexis as she and Remus stood in front of the Shrieking Shack.

“What girl?” Remus wondered clearly confused.

“The girl who gets a boyfriend and treats her friends like rubbish,” she explained, “maybe Lily didn’t have to overreact the way she did but James didn’t have to say what he said about Alice and Toni certainly should’ve defended her friend.”

“I’m sure it’s all going to blow over,” he said smoothly, “Sirius is talking to Lily right now.”

She laughed and looked over at him, “And that’s supposed to be comforting?”

He smirked a little, “Right. We should make sure they haven’t killed each other yet.”

“Don’t like being alone with me?” she joked.

He blushed a little and she felt a twinge of guilt, “Sorry, Rem, I didn’t-“

“Ally,” he began, “I…,”

He paused and looked down at her feet. She walked over to him, “What is it Rem? You know you can tell me anything right?”

“I…I like you,” he stammered.

She smiled slightly, “I like you too Rem.”

“No,” he sighed with the air of a man trying to get things over with quickly, “I really like you.”

“As more than a friend?” she whispered hopefully.

“Yes,” he muttered, “I know you probably don’t feel the same way but I figured I should probably tell you anyways. Just because…well,”

She couldn’t believe what she was hearing, “Really? You really like me?”

He looked even more uncertain, “Things are going to be awkward now. I never should’ve listened to Sirius.”

She shook her head and wrapped her hand in his, “I like you too Remus.”

“Really?” he managed in an awed voice, finally looking her in the eye.

“Absolutely,” she said with a smile.

“So what does this mean?” he asked after a moment of silence.

She shrugged, “Whatever we want it to I guess.”

“Well,” he grinned, “we could always go to the Three Broomsticks and get something to drink.”

“Sounds great,” she agreed.

“Four sickles,” suggested James.

“This is worth much more,” countered Sirius, “three galleons.”

“Why three?” asked James.

“Because that’s all I have with me and I know I’m right,” his friend replied smugly.

“There’s no way,” contradicted James, “you know Rem’s my friend but he doesn’t have nearly as much nerve as we do.”

“I’m with Sirius on this,” piped up Lily.

Toni arched an eyebrow, “What exactly did the two of you do when you were alone?”

Lily rolled her eyes, “Nothing remotely similar to what the two of you did. Sirius and I just had a chat.”

“Lily,” Peter began, “I think you may be the only girl to say that and be telling the truth.”

“Hear, hear,” toasted James with a chuckle.

Sirius laughed, “Nicely played Pete.”

Alexis and Remus entered the Three Broomsticks and saw their friends sitting in at a corner table.

“I guess Lily and Toni made amends,” Remus pointed out.

Alexis looked suspiciously at her friends, “Maybe.”

She sat down at the table while Remus went to get their drinks.

“So?” prodded Sirius.

“So what Black?” she asked arching an eyebrow.

“Sew buttons,” interrupted James, “are you and Remus together or aren’t you?”

Her gaze took note of everyone at the table but landed on Sirius and Lily. They shifted uncomfortably and she turned to Remus. He was frowning.

“That depends,” he muttered.

“On what?” asked Toni.

“On whether or not Sirius and Lily have something to say,” Alexis added.

Sirius and Lily exchanged glances before Sirius finally caved, “Fine. We may or may not have staged the whole Lily/Toni fight so that you and Remus would find yourselves alone.”

“Way to keep a secret Black,” hissed Lily with a nudge.

“Do you want to know what’s going on or not?” he shot back.

“Point taken,” she nodded, “so?”

Alexis and Remus exchanged glances. They hadn’t exactly talked about it but as far as Ally was concerned the ball was in Rem’s court. He seemed to sense this.

“We’re together,” he answered, glancing at Ally who smiled happily.

“Good,” nodded James, “it’s about time.”

Sirius smirked knowingly, “Well, well, well,” he turned to James, “looks like you owe me three galleons.”

James shook his head and took the money out of his pocket. He pushed them towards Sirius who said, “This round’s on me.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

After a couple weeks of being a “couple”, the attention the two of them had been receiving died down.

“Who knew we were so popular?” she asked as the two of them cuddled together on the couch.

He chuckled, “Not ‘we’, you. Did I tell you your cousin accosted me in the bathroom and threatened me within an inch of my life if I hurt you?”

She laughed a little, “You know he’s kidding right?”

“I’m not worried,” he sighed, “I have no intention of hurting you.”

“Good to know,” she commented, closing her eyes.

“Ahem,” came a soft cough from behind them, “sorry to interrupt but Ally, it’s time.”

Eyes still closed she groaned, “What time is it Black?”

“Five til 3,” he replied, “my brother and your cousin should be there by now.”

“Right,” she agreed, kissing Remus on the cheek, “be back in a bit.”

“Be careful,” he warned, “both of you.”

“Always,” they chorused, exchanging a look.

“It’s about time,” Severus snapped as the two of them entered the girls room that had been christened ‘Moaning Myrtle’s loo’.

“Keep your knickers on Snape,” Sirius joked as he sat down next to his brother.

“Knock it off, Sirius,” Regulus warned, “he has a reason to be miffed. We’ve been sitting here for ages.”

“And by ages,” Ally interrupted, giving Sev a hug, “you mean five minutes.”

“It felt longer,” Regulus countered completely unabashed.

“With the company you have,” Sirius commented, “I can see why.”

“Black, if you don’t knock it off,” Ally hissed, “I’ll let Sev hex you.”

Sirius rolled his eyes and sat quietly next to his brother who looked up, amazed, “Not even our mother can get him to shut it.”

“I’m venturing your mother isn’t nearly as scary as my cousin when she gets that look,” Severus mentioned.

“What look?” asked Regulus curiously, “Can I see it?”

Alexis laughed, “It’s not something I do on purpose.” Regulus nodded and he and Sirius began talking. Alexis walked over to observe her cousin at work. “I hear you gave Remus a good talking to,” she said conversationally.

“Just did my cousinly duties,” he shrugged, concentrating on the potion.

She frowned, “Remus would never hurt me.”

“Never say never,” he whispered.

She shook her head, knowing that she would never be able to convince her cousin otherwise, “So how’s the potion coming?”

“In a couple of days, it’ll be ready,” he replied.

“How much have you made?” she asked, “how long will it keep?”

“Enough for the year,” he answered, “it’ll keep as long as it’s stored correctly.”

“Really?” she questioned in awed voice, “and you know how to store it properly?”

“Of course,” he huffed.

“I have a question,” Sirius piped up.

“Why doesn’t that surprise me?” Sev muttered rolling his eyes, “it’s probably something incredibly stupid like ‘which side of a quill does one write with’?”

“Now Sev,” she admonished through laughter, “play nice. What was your question Black?”

“How did you get the ingredients?” he asked as though he hadn’t heard their conversation.

“Slughorn’s stores,” he shrugged.

“You stole them?” demanded Sirius.

“No,” interrupted Regulus, “I did.”

Sirius spun around and looked from Severus to his little brother. His gaze rested on Severus and Alexis could sense what was about to happen. She stepped in between them just in time.

“Prince, get out of the way,” growled Sirius. She grabbed his arm and pulled him back while Regulus grabbed the other.

“Sirius,” his brother pleaded, “listen, I offered to do it. Sev has-“

“Sev?” repeated Sirius unbelievingly relaxing a little under their grip.

“He’s my friend,” Regulus told him firmly, “he’s been nice to me since I got here. He stopped the other kids from picking on me. I was helping. He’s brewing the illegal potion for us. The least I could do was offer to get the ingredients.”

Sirius stared at his brother disbelievingly, “Your friend?”

“My friend,” Regulus repeated, “he’s helping us. You should be grateful-“

“Grateful?” Sirius huffed.

“Or at the very least,” continued Reg, “you should relax and treat him like a person.”

Sirius stared at his brother for a moment and finally muttered, “Fine.”

Alexis looked from Sirius to Regulus, “I’ll teach you the look if you teach me that.”

Regulus grinned and Sirius rolled his eyes.



:tu: or :td:? Rant or Rave here (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Hey guys! I've got down time this weekend so I may be able to post more than once this weekend. Depends on how long it takes me to write a post for my other fic too. Then of course there's the work I have to get done. Well that's enough rambling. Sit back :relax: and enjoy the post!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Hate potions,” muttered Antoinette Shacklebolt as she sat down to begin work in the library. She was alone but she didn’t really mind. If she had been accompanied by her friends, she probably wouldn’t get anything done. Besides they were all preoccupied with their own problems. Alice was “studying” with Frank. James was helping Peter with his transfiguration work. When she left, Lily had been chatting with a couple of older boys who were obviously enamored with her. She thought of asking Remus to join her, as Ally and Sirius were off on their “mission”, but reconsidered. Knowing Remus, he would probably scold her if she didn’t get any work done. Sighing heavily, she turned the page and began to read.

“You know, this book’s much better,” drawled a voice as he placed a book next to her and sat down.

Smiling, she turned around, “Hey Sev.”

“Having trouble with potions?” he continued, “maybe you should ask your boyfriend for help. Oh wait, he’s completely incompetent.”

Her smile faded as she arched an eyebrow, “Problem?”

“No,” he countered, shaking his head, “just thought you had higher standards is all.”

“Well,” she sighed, “to be fair you’re not exactly impartial when it comes to James, so you’ll forgive me if I don’t take your opinions into consideration.”

He sat quietly and wrote his notes. There was something about his silence that really bothered Toni. She knew she wouldn’t be able to focus until they talked so she made the first move, “Sev, can you explain this concept to me?”

He started to answer her before he was rudely interrupted, “Well, well, what do we have here?”

They looked up and saw Lucius Malfoy eyeing them suspiciously.

“Hello Lucius,” Severus said smoothly.

“Severus,” Malfoy sneered, “surely you aren’t trying to woo darling Antoinette. Rumor has it she’s smitten with Potter. A great loss, both she and Alexis are wasting their time with silly little Gryffindors.”

Sev seemed unsure of what to say so Toni picked up the slack, “First of all, I think I can safely say on behalf of both Ally and myself that neither of us would give you the time of day Lucy. Second, it’s none of your business if Sev and I are talking and it’s certainly none of your concern if James and I are together.”

Lucius stepped toward her threateningly, “You should be careful with the tone you use Antoinette. You never know when someone might be offended.”

Severus stood up, “Be careful who you threaten Lucius. After all, she is the Head Boy’s sister. You wouldn’t want to make an enemy of him would you? Do you really need him sniffing around?”

Lucius seemed to contemplate this, “Spoken like a true Slytherin, Severus. Point taken. Good day you two.”

He turned and walked to the exit.

Toni turned to Sev who had sat back down, “You didn’t have to do that.”

“We’re still friends, are we not?” he shrugged.

She smiled, “We are. I’m glad. I thought you might…well, that you might not talk to me now that I’m with-“

“Please,” he interrupted, “don’t say it. I just ate.”

“You’re horrible,” she laughed as she shoved him a little.

“You shouldn’t insult people who are offering to help you,” he pointed out.

She shook her head, “I suppose you’re right. Now before we were so rudely interrupted, you were saying…?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Kingsley Shacklebolt was making his nightly rounds when he heard what sounded like an argument.

“He doesn’t even fancy me,” a soft voice was saying, “why would our parents think we’d make a good match?”

He turned the corner and saw Narcissa Black sitting alone on a staircase.

“Is everything alright?” he asked cautiously. He knew better than to frighten a nutter. Growing up with Toni had taught him that.
Narcissa seemed surprised to see him there but she quickly hid it, “Everything’s fine, Shacklebolt.”

“Doesn’t seem fine,” he commented.

“Well, it is,” she shot back.

“Fine,” he shrugged, “just trying to help.”

He had turned to walk away but she stopped him with, “Do you think an arranged marriage can work?”

He turned back around and eyed her curiously, “Aren’t you a little young to be thinking about that?”

She smiled slightly, “My parents don’t seem to share your opinion.”

“And your sister?” he questioned.

“Bella doesn’t care,” she told him, “she says people don’t marry because they love each other. They marry to ensure their status.”

Kingsley frowned. He knew some families were odd but the Blacks were something else.

“Your other sister?” he attempted.

She looked down sadly, “I don’t have another sister. Andi was banished.”

He was genuinely shocked. He had known Andromeda Black and she was a great girl. She had graduated last year, “Why?”

“Because she didn’t agree with our parents,” replied Narcissa, “she didn’t want to marry the person they chose for her. She’s living with her boyfriend Ted. He’s a muggleborn.”

That last sentence explained everything. Everyone knew how the Blacks felt about blood status. He sat down next to Narcissa who looked over at him, “I don’t know why I’m telling you all of this.”

“Neither do I,” he chuckled, “but you can continue if you want.”

She seemed to be considering this, “That’s alright. Raincheck?”

“Sure,” he agreed, offering a hand to help her up, “would you like me to walk you back to the dungeon?”

“That’s alright,” she said quickly. She started to walk off but turned, “Shacklebolt?”

“Yes,” he answered.

“Thanks,” she managed, rather graciously.

“Anytime,” he reminded her.

Narcissa walked off passing Toni who looked at her rather curiously. When she spotted her brother, she caught up with him.

“That blond Black is a bit odd,” she commented, “she didn’t even insult me.”

He gave her his patented disappointed look, “I thought you knew better. It’s wrong to generalize like that. After all, you like Sirius don’t you?”

“He’s cool,” she granted, then after a pause continued, “so why the sudden defensiveness. I know you don’t like Bellatrix. Why the niceties with her sister?”

“Because,” he said, “I don’t think she’s anything like her sister.”

“Ah,” Toni nodded, “isn’t she a little young for you?”

He put his arm around his sister, “Is that all you think about? Speaking of which, how’s James?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I wonder what it’s like to be all powerful?” Alexis joked as she and Sirius walked back towards the Gryffindor common room.

“What are you talking about?” he asked.

“Your little brother,” she explained, “between the two of us we might get you and Sev to get along. What do you think?”

Sirius snorted, “Unlikely.”

“I know,” she pouted, “but let a girl dream.”

He smiled, “Alright.”

They walked in silence for a few steps before Alexis spoke again, “Black?”

He looked over at her, “Yes?”

“Thanks,” she whispered.

“For what?” he wondered.

She glanced at him, “Do you really have to ask? For whatever you said to Remus.”

“Who says I said anything?” he demanded suspiciously.

She snorted, “Please, give a girl a little credit. Who else could convince sweet, shy Remus to put himself out there like that risking rejection?”

“Would he really have been risking rejection?” he countered, “I knew the two of you fancied each other. I just needed to convince him of that.”

She smiled slightly, “Well, thanks.”

“You’re welcome,” he shrugged.

She was about to continue when the two of them passed Narcissa Black. She looked around and smiled, “It’s good to see you Sirius.”

“You too Cissa,” he replied, “how are you?”

“Fine,” she sighed, “I’d better get a move on. Stay out of trouble.”

“You too,” he said shaking his head. They looked around and exchanged a quick hug. “Prince,” she nodded before walking away.

The two of them watched her walk away before Alexis shook her head, “Your family is so weird.”

He rolled his eyes, “You’re telling me.”

“What are the two of you up to?” called a curious voice.

“It never ends,” groaned Alexis.

“Oi! Shacklebolts!” Sirius called back, waving them towards them.

Once the four of them met up, Kingsley eyed them suspiciously, “Should I even bother asking what the two of you were up to?”

“Do you really want to know?” countered Sirius.

Kingsley chuckled slightly, “Point taken.”

The four of them walked in silence for a while then Kingsley spoke again, “So Sirius, what do you think of me having a little chat with James?”

Sirius exchanged looks with Ally then glanced at a gaping Toni, “I think it’s a brilliant idea. In fact, James has a free period tomorrow after History of Magic.”

“How convenient,” Kingsley continued, “so do I.”

Kingsley began walking ahead of them and Toni followed sputtering words like ‘humiliation’ and ‘why’. Alexis turned to Sirius, “You know you’re horrible right?”

He smirked, “I know.”

Make me feel loved... (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Hello my darlings! I'm a little disappointed about the lack of feedback but I don't mind. This fic will be completed. No matter what. That being said :relax: and enjoy the post!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Hurry up!” called James from the bottom of the staircase.

“Keep your knickers on!” came Toni’s reply.

He rolled his eyes and turned to his friends, “What do you say we leave without them?”

Sirius chuckled, “Well, Pete and I could leave them but if the two of you did…let’s just say you wouldn’t like the repercussions.”

Remus nodded, “You’re probably right.”

Peter rolled his eyes, “No wonder you avoid getting attached to girls, Sirius. They take too much effort.”

“That’s what I always say,” he agreed, “in fact I’ve realized something. Two weeks.”

His friends exchanged looks and he continued, “It’s the perfect amount of time. After two weeks, girls start to get serious, no pun intended. The first two weeks are like the honey moon phase. If you stay any longer the girl starts to get expectations.”

“That is the most ridiculous chauvinistic thing I have ever heard in my entire life!” shrieked Alexis as she stared incredulously at Sirius.

“Ladies,” cooed James, “we didn’t hear you come down.”

“Obviously not,” commented Lily wryly as she sat down.

Peter glanced at her, “Why are you sitting?”

“Watch,” she replied pointing to Sirius and Alexis as Alice sat down next to Lily shaking her head.

“Alexis,” Remus interrupted lightly, “we don’t really have time for this.”

“Don’t worry,” she said with a smile, “Black and I can walk and argue at the same time, isn’t that right?”

Sirius stood his ground, “Of course. I dare you to prove me wrong.”

“Oh I will,” she countered as the two of them lead the way bickering.

“The more things change,” sighed Remus.

“The more they stay the same,” finished Lily, shaking her head.

“Why won’t you listen to reason,” Alexis shrieked as they reached the classroom, “you’ve got to know that giving a relationship an expiration date is a horrible idea. I mean honestly, what happens when you meet the right girl? Your looks won’t last forever you know. Keep this up and you’ll wind up alone and pathetic.”

Sirius shook his head, “That my friend is where you’re wrong. It’s not pathetic when men are old and alone. It’s only pathetic when women are. Besides, I won’t be alone. I’ll have a new girl every two weeks. Oh and these looks aren’t going anywhere.”

“That’s what you think,” she muttered as they entered the room.

Their Defense against the Dark Arts professor entered the room not long after. A dull and mournful-faced man Professor Aburrido kept his lessons short and pointless. They hadn’t learned anything. In fact, Ally was convinced the stuff she did know was starting to fade. Her thoughts were interrupted by a nudge from Alice. Alexis was surprised to see that Alice had slid her a note. Must be important, she thought.

Remus.

This was too easy, she thought. No. Ally.

She looked at her friend who rolled her eyes and scribbled: Look at him.

Alexis glanced over and saw Remus and Sirius passing notes. Rem’s brow was furrowed which was never a good sign.

I’ll handle it, she wrote back.

I always do, she thought with a sigh.

That afternoon, James was ready to head off to the library during his free period when he was quickly accosted.

“James,” Toni gasped as she managed to corner him after class, “has Kingsley found you yet?”

James frowned, “Is he looking for me?”

She was about to answer when a deep voice from behind them interrupted, “James. I hear you have a break now. How about we take a stroll?”

“A stroll?” repeated James.

Kingsley nodded, “Just across the grounds. No worries, I won’t make you late for your next class.” He looked at his watch, “Antoinette, you should be off. You have class soon.” He patted James on the back and whispered to his sister, “Don’t worry. I’ll take it easy on him.”

The two of them walked off, James casting a look back at Toni. Ally put an arm around her friend, “It could be worse.”

“How?” she groaned.

Ally paused, “Well, you could be dating someone Kingsley didn’t like?”

“Nice,” Toni snorted, “I didn’t think you’d be able to come up with anything.”

Ally rolled her eyes, “Whatever. I’ve got to get to class.”

After dinner, Ally finally got the chance to sit down and talk to Remus. He was sitting on the windowsill reading.

“Hey,” she said, leaning against the wall.

“Hello,” he replied, not looking up from his book.

“Are you mad at me?” she asked curiously.

He looked up with his patented look of confusion, “Why would I be mad at you Alexis?”

“Well, Alice thought that because of what happened earlier with Black,” she muttered as she looked at the floor.

“Ally, I’m on your side. For the record,” he sighed, putting down his book, “I don’t think he really believes what he says. He’s just trying to keep up his guard. If I were a member of his family, I’d do the same.”

“I suppose that makes sense,” she admitted, feeling better now that she knew he wasn't angry, “I just…Oh, I don’t even know what I was thinking.”

“Oi! You two,” shouted James before Remus could respond, “get over here!”

Alexis rolled her eyes as Remus hopped down off the window sill. The two of them walked over and sat down on the couch.

“You bellowed?” Remus acknowledged as he put an arm around Alexis and she moved closer to him.

“The two of you are sickeningly cute together,” Lily piped up, looking away from her book, “you know that right?”

“Yes,” replied Ally, “but it never gets old hearing that people think that.”

“Anyhow,” interrupted Sirius from the chair he was currently lounging across, “care to tell us why you called this little pow wow? Not that I don’t love it when we all get together like this but Greta is waiting-“

“and considering the two of you only have a few days left,” spoke up Ally, “you must want to get in as much snogging time as possible.”

Sirius looked over at her and winked, “Exactly.”

“Ugh!” huffed Alice, rolling her eyes, “thank heavens I never let myself get involved with you.”

“Aw,” he cooed, “you wound me. After all there’s still time.”

“I’m sorry,” she said, making a face of sheer disgust, “just hearing that makes me vomit in my mouth a little.”

Toni snorted and James spoke up, “Now then, I needed to talk to you all.”

“You’re not going to whine about your talk with Kingsley, are you?” groaned Peter.

“No,” James hissed, “and I don’t whine.”

“Right,” Rem and Sirius chorused.

“I just thought we should chat,” he shrugged.

“About?” prodded Lily.

“My mum wanted me to invite all of you to our family’s annual New Years’ Eve party,” he shrugged. “She wanted me to do it early so she could get a headcount.”

“Wow,” Toni gasped, “The Potter Family New Years’ Eve?”

“You’ve heard of it?” asked Lily, clearly confused, “so it’s a big deal?”

“The biggest,” she concurred, “every year the Daily Prophet sends someone to cover it for the society section. It’s a veritable who’s who of the wizarding world.”

“She’s inviting all of us?” repeated Alice, “but why?”

“Well, over the summer Peter and Remus came for a visit and Mum starting interrogating us about our friends,” he explained, “and this gives her a chance to meet you all.”

“All of us?” repeated Sirius.

“If you can manage to sneak over, mate,” James added hopefully.

“I’ll try,” he agreed.

“Well,” Ally smirked, “I go every year so tell Aunt Joey to expect me.”

“Like you could get out of it,” he laughed.

“Point taken,” she smiled.

“I’m sure it’d be fine with my parents,” Remus assured him.

“Great!” James said with a pat on his friend’s back, “it’ll be wonderful to have someone fun there.”

“Rude!” shrieked Ally.

“Someone fun who doesn’t wear a dress,” he corrected.

Remus looked downtrodden, “Well, you’ve certainly narrowed my wardrobe choices.”

Alexis laughed lightly and kissed him on the cheek, “Brilliant.”

“Thank you,” he said with a slight blush.

“Well,” sighed Alice, “thanks for the invite but I’m spending New Years with Frank.”

“I’m in,” agreed Lily unexpectedly.

Alexis arched an eyebrow but said nothing. She knew why Lily was agreeing. She and her sister Petunia didn’t get along.

“Really?” James asked, slightly surprised.

“Sure why not?” she countered, “it’ll be fun to spend New Years’ with Ally and Toni.”

“Toni hasn’t said whether or not she’s going,” piped up Peter.

“Of course she’s going,” Alice said, “James is her boyfriend she has to go.”

James looked at Toni who hadn’t said anything since she mentioned knowing about the party. She seemed to be having an internal argument.

“Toni?” Lily cooed, “are you alright?”

“Of course,” she managed, feigning a smile, “of course I’ll go.”

James kissed her on the forehead, “Great. My parents are going to love you.”

She kept smiling and Sirius burst into laughter, “Shacklebolt, you should see your face.”

James frowned, “Are you okay babe?”

“Absolutely,” she smiled.

“I’ll come too,” Peter added, seemingly to take the focus off of Toni.

“Cool,” James nodded, “all my boys, three of my favorite ladies. I have a feeling this New Years’ is going to be a blast.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“You’ve got to admit,” Toni was saying the next morning, “it’s a bit stressful. I’ve got to meet my boyfriend’s parents. What if they hate me?”

“Oh please,” Lily snorted, “everyone loves you.”

“No,” she countered, “they don’t. They really don’t. I’m loud. I border on obnoxious. What if they think I’m annoying? What if they think James could do better?”

Alexis grabbed her friend’s arm to stop her pacing back and forth, “Toni, listen. This will work. You’ll have back up. Lils and I will be there. You are spectacular. You already have a connection. Aunt Joey and Uncle Henry could not hope for anyone better than you for James. Seriously, relax. Everything will be fine.”

“Right, fine,” she managed, finally exhaling.

“Let’s go to breakfast,” Lily cooed, holding her friend’s hand. Alice and Ally followed.

They sat down with their friends. Remus leaned over, “What’s wrong with Toni?”

“She was practically paper bagging it this morning,” she explained, “worried about meeting James’ parents. We calmed her down, for now.”

“James thinks his parents will like her,” he confided.

“As do I,” she concurred, “the problem is for all of Toni’s talk she’s really insecure.”

“Perish the thought,” he muttered.

Something's better than nothing...right? (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Okay so it's been almost a year. I could sit here and give you the list of 50 billion reasons of why or I can get on with it. I just want to repeat myself and say this fic will be completed. Hopefully by the end of the year. New goal! Alright, enjoy everyone and don't forget to let me know you're still reading (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)!


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“Seriously?” Alexis scoffed.

“Seriously,” confirmed Sirius with a slight smirk.

Alexis acknowledged his ability to resist making a pun and smiled a little. They were on their way to their final meeting with Sev and Reg before Christmas break. With a little encouragement from Lucius Malfoy and her sister, Bellatrix miraculously decided to let Severus keep an eye on Regulus for her. It gave her the opportunity to spend her time in more…recreational ways.

“Do you really think it’s the best idea?” Alexis asked, trying not to sound too motherly.

Sirius laughed a little, “Worried about my safety Prince?”

“Not in the slightest,” she assured him with a grin.

There was another pause and she continued, “It’s not that I’m worried about you. I just know your family and I don’t think-“

“Princess,” he interrupted, “you worry too much. You’ll get wrinkles.”

As they opened the door to Moaning Myrtles’ loo, Alexis punched Sirius’ shoulder, stuck out her tongue and hissed, “Fine! I won’t worry ever again.”

“About time!” interrupted Regulus before his brother could retort, “what took you so long?”

“Probably primping,” Severus suggested quietly as he divvied up the potion.

“I heard that,” Alexis whispered as she snuck up behind him.

He turned and arched an eyebrow, “I wasn’t talking about you.”

“I know,” she smirked with a wink.

“Snape,” Sirius called, “next time you’re me, try and be a little nicer. Bianca Adams told me she thought I was rather rude last time we spoke.”

“That’s because Adams is a brainless twit,” countered Sev, “and unlike you I cannot sit and listen to mindless babble.”

Alexis tried to suppress a laugh and failed miserably. All three boys looked at her with a mixture of concern and confusion.

“I’m fine,” she assured them, “let’s get this over with shall we?”

While Sev and Sirius each went into stalls to take their potion, Ally leaned over and whispered, “Try and convince your brother not to sneak off to the Potter’s New Years’ Eve party, will ya?”

Regulus frowned, “Do you not want him there?”

“No,” she assured the younger boy with a smile, “I just don’t want him to get in trouble.”

Regulus looked at her and muttered, “I will never understand girls.”

“You’re already ahead of the curve,” she laughed.

~*~*~*~*~*~

The winter break came way too soon for everyone.

Alexis was enjoying the silence of the library as she worked on her potions assignment. She had successfully avoided Professor Slughorn’s attempts to woo her back to his Slug Club gatherings. There was something extremely annoying and obnoxious about that man and she was not tempted in the slightest to sit around and watch everyone listen to his pompous stories.

“One of these days he’s going to sucker you back in to coming to these ridiculous parties,” said a familiar voice as he sat down next to her.

She didn’t look up from her book but simply muttered, “Evening Black. Have a good time?”

“Not even a little bit,” he replied. She looked up, slightly surprised, “Why not?”

He loosened his tie, “Never tell your cousin this but he was right about Bianca.”

Alexis smirked a little but said nothing. Something clicked in Sirius’ mind, “You knew. Didn’t you? You knew she was slow and dull and you didn’t warn me!”

“Would you have believed me if I had?” she asked; “besides you should’ve known before you asked her to go with you.”

“I’ve learned a valuable lesson,” he assured her, “I don’t think I can handle someone who’s so severely lacking in personality.”

She laughed a little, “I’m happy for you Black. Honestly though I have to study.”

“Fair enough,” he assured her, “have fun.”

The next day...

“I can’t wait to get back home,” Alexis sighed happily as they packed for winter break. The train left tomorrow and the girls had once again waited until the last minute to pack.

“Me either,” Alice confessed, “I always miss my parents something awful. Of course…”

“This Christmas is different,” Lily finished, “they’re meeting Frank, right?”

Alice nodded, biting her bottom lip. Toni took notice and decided to cheer her up, “Don’t worry about it Alice. Your parents will love Frank. He’s a sweetheart.”

“Is he still bribing you with candy?” Alice questioned suspiciously.

Alexis laughed and Toni answered, “No. We’ve just been talking about how incredibly lucky he is to have you in his life and how he would never consider being as foolish as to let you get away.”

“Really?” Alice countered sarcastically.

“Actually no,” confessed her friend, “our conversations actually fall more along the lines of classes and quidditch.”

Alice smiled as she shoved the last of her books into her suitcase, “Well, you’re trying. That’s what counts.”

“Hear, hear,” agreed Ally as she wandered around the room searching for a shoe. She found it under Lily’s bed and noticed her friend wasn’t being her usual chatty self. “What’s wrong Lil?” she asked, sitting down next to her.

Lily sighed, “Well, about 1/5 of me is excited about going home because I want to see my parents. Unfortunately the rest of me knows that I’m going to be completely miserable because Petunia will see to it my life becomes a nightmare. How pathetic is it that the best thing that’s going to happen this holiday is going to James Potter’s house?”

Being an only child made it tough for Ally to empathize but she tried, “Well, I’m sure my mum would let you visit and then maybe I could come over to your house and we could hang out…torture your sister a little, perhaps?”

“That sounds like fun,” agreed Lily, “except for the torture part. How about we just avoid Petunia?”

Alexis smiled, “Sounds like a good idea to me.”

On the train...

“It’s a miracle we got here on time,” James sighed as he got comfortable in his seat.

Remus nodded, “We should get an award.”

“We’re always on time. I think you mean it’s a miracle the girls got here on time,” Sirius corrected, shaking the hair out of his face.

The girls glared and Peter muttered, “Man, overboard.”

Alexis heard this and cracked a smile, “Nice one, Peter.”

“Oh-ho!” Sirius ejected, “so now it’s Peter, James, Remus…and Black? How nice.”

“Don’t pout Black,” she replied, laying her head on Remus’ shoulder, “just means you’re special.”

Sirius rolled his eyes as everyone laughed and muttered, “Never felt more special in my life.”

As the train pulled into King’s Cross, they began to make their way into the corridor. Sirius spotted Regulus a few feet ahead, “I’m going to go on ahead. I promised Reggie I’d meet him at the end of the ride.” Alexis noticed her cousin Severus was with Reg, “I’ll go with you.” Everyone stared and she continued, “I wanted to wish Sev a Happy Christmas.” The rest of the group wished Sirius a Happy Christmas and told Ally they’d wait for her.

Sirius made his way down the corridor with Alexis following closely.
“There you are!” Reg practically shouted when he saw his brother, “I thought you’d forgotten.”

“Unlikely,” countered Sirius embracing his brother. There were very few people in the corridor at this point so it took Severus all of two seconds to embrace his cousin.

“I’m going to miss you,” he muttered as he let her go. They continued down the corridor and Ally started talking, “I think I found a way to remedy that. Lily’s asked me to come visit her during the break and I’m fairly certain her parents and mine will okay it. Maybe we can meet up?”

“That would be wonderful,” he said perking up considerably, “it’ll be great to talk to you without looking like,” he paused and looked around, “Black.”

“Right Snape,” scoffed Sirius, “like you don’t enjoy every minute of being me.”

“If I ever experienced a sudden desire to be you,” retaliated Severus, “I’d have myself committed.”

“Guys,” interrupted Reg, “it’s Christmas. At least pretend to be nice.”

“It’s not Christmas yet,” Sirius muttered as they started exiting the train.

Reg and Sirius hopped down. “You could try with him you know,” admonished Ally.

“You must be mad,” countered Sev. Alexis ignored this remark and hopped down with Severus behind her.

“Well, until next year,” Regulus said offering Severus his hand.

“Until then,” agreed Sev, “Happy Christmas Reg.”

“Happy Christmas Sev,” repeated Regulus as he tightened his silver and green scarf.

Sirius looked around, “Happy Christmas Ally,” he lowered his voice, “see you for New Years.”

Alexis’ eyes narrowed, “You had better be kidding. You know what your parents would do if they found out you were thinking of-“

“Sirius!” shouted Mrs. Black, “Reggie! Come here.”

“Happy Christmas,” Regulus told Ally as he grabbed his brother’s hand.

“Happy Christmas boys,” she said, shaking her head.

Before Alexis knew it the Christmas holiday was over and it was time for New Years. Lily had come over early and was going to spend a couple of days with Alexis and her family.

“You look absolutely stunning,” Alexis complimented her friend as she helped Lily put the finishing touches on her hair. Lily had decided on a beautiful set of emerald green dress robes and Alexis had let her borrow a set of emerald encrusted hair combs.

"You look good too," her friend assured her as she looked at her friend in her dark violet robes and long black hair that she had curled. Alexis had decided not to wear hair combs but lent some to Lily. She touched the combs she was wearing, “I promise not to lose these.”

Alexis smirked, “I believe you. I can’t imagine you’d be doing anything that required taking your hair down.”

“Nice,” smarted Lily, “I thought cracks like that were why we kept Toni around.”

“You talk about me when I’m not here,” Toni commented as she barged in.

“What are you doing here?” shrieked Ally.

“Not happy to see me then?” her friend countered.

Alexis took note of her friend’s appearance and figured she ought to be kind, “We’re always happy to see you Toni. We just weren’t expecting you.”

“I need your help,” her friend stated, sighing heavily. She set a bag containing what Ally sincerely hoped were her dress robes on the bed then sat down in the seat that Lily had recently vacated in front of the mirror. “I’m too nervous to get ready on my own.”

Luckily both Alexis and Lily were ready so they could focus their complete attention on Toni.

“I’ll do the hair,” Alexis decided, “you do the make up Lils.”

“I’m on it,” she replied as she grabbed Toni’s purse.

In twenty minutes Lily and Alexis had both finished their jobs and Toni was getting dressed.

“Are you girls ready?” Ethan Prince called up the stairs.

Alexis opened the door, “In a second Papa!”

As she turned around, Toni emerged in pale blue dress robes and a nervous grin, “How do I look?”

“Marvelous, darling,” Alexis proclaimed.

“Amazing,” agreed Lily, “Nice job Ally.”

“You too Lils,” she replied.

“Ready?” Lily asked.

Toni grimaced, “As I’ll ever be…”

~*~*~*~*~*~

“Ethan,” Henry Potter’s voice rang throughout the atrium, “Catherine!”

The Prince family along with Lily and Toni met the Potters in the doorway to the salon, “It’s lovely to see you,” Henry continued as both families exchanged pleasantries.

“Mum, Dad,” began James, as he made a motion to the girls on either side of Alexis, “these are my friends Lily Evans and Antoinette Shacklebolt.”

Alexis arched an eyebrow at her cousin’s introductions but said nothing.

“It’s lovely to meet you both,” Josephine Potter said offering a hand to both girls, “there are refreshments in the lounge should you girls like some.”

Sensing that it would be good to get away from James and his parents, Ally spoke up, “Thanks Aunt Joey.”

“You’re welcome my dear,” her aunt said with a hug.

Alexis grabbed Toni’s hand a led her to the lounge with Lily following suit.

“I can’t believe him,” Toni finally managed as Alexis handed her a glass of punch, “not only did he not introduce me as his girlfriend, he introduced Lily before me!”

Lily shifted in her seat but before anyone could say anything else they were joined by Jack O’Malley.

“Hi Lily,” he began with a smile, “ladies,” he added with a nod to Toni and Ally, “do you mind if I borrow your friend for a dance?”

Alexis smirked, “Absolutely not. Just have her back to me by the end of the night in one piece.” Jack grinned, “You have my word.”

Lily spared a glance at Toni before smiling at Ally and following Jack out of the room.

Toni sighed, “I didn’t mean to upset Lily. It’s definitely not her fault. I knew what I was getting myself into.”

“Now don’t start jumping to conclusions,” Ally interrupted, trying to calm her friend down, “why don’t we go find Rem and Peter? Maybe they’ll be able to shed some light on this.”

Alexis figured Peter and Remus were probably in James’ room, so she took Toni upstairs. Sure enough, there they were and they were keeping some rather unexpected company.

“I should’ve known you wouldn’t miss out on a chance to do something completely reckless, Black,” Ally scolded as she embraced him.

“You know what they say,” Sirius replied, “You can’t keep a good man down.”

“Or trapped in his room,” added Toni, “it’s good to see you, Sirius.”

“It’s Sirius now,” he repeated, sounding a little surprised, “do I feel special or what?” he added with a glance at Ally.

“Undoubtedly,” came Ally’s response as she cast Toni a look. You better not do what I think you’re going to do, she thought, observing the way her friend was looking at Black.

“Hi, Ally,” managed Peter, as though reminding her that there were other people in the room.

“Hey Peter,” she acknowledged. She walked over to Remus and gave him a quick kiss, “How long have you guys been here?”

“Almost all day,” he answered, putting an arm around her, “we’ve been keeping James company while his parents got ready for the party.”

“All of you?” asked Alexis with a glance at Sirius.

Looking up from his conversation with Toni, he responded, “I just got here about 10 minutes ago. I flooed here once my parents started their party. They won’t notice I’m gone until they go to check my room after the party.”

“Won’t it look weird?” wondered Ally, “you not being out and about keeping up appearances?”

“They’ve been looking for an excuse to keep me out of sight and mind for awhile,” he corrected, “so Reg and I staged a fight and the story is I’m being punished for that. Everyone’s a winner. By the way Princess, Reg says ‘hi’.”

Alexis smiled, “It was nice of him to cover for you.”

“He’s good that way,” he shrugged, returning to his conversation.

Rem looked around and frowned slightly, “Where’s Lils?”

“She was taken from us practically upon entry,” she answered, “Jack O’Malley and his family are here.”

“Ah,” he nodded knowingly.

“Is anybody hungry?” wondered Alexis aloud, “Rem and I can go grab some food.”

Sirius smiled, “I could use a snack.” Toni and Peter agreed so Alexis and Remus headed downstairs.

“It was nice of you to think of Sirius that way,” complimented Remus.

Alexis shrugged, “Occasionally I worry about him. I doubt very much his parents have his best interests in mind. He looks a bit peaky.”

He kissed her on the forehead, “You are very complicated. I hope you know that.” Before she could reply, Alexis realized her parents had witnessed the split second public display of affection. Remus looked at her slightly confused and turned to see her parents as well. He turned bright red and the two of them walked up to her parents. As they got closer, Alexis realized her aunt and uncle had also seen what had happened.

“Hi, Papa,” she began starting with the person who looked the most upset, “Remus and I were just getting food for Toni and Peter. They’re upstairs. Peter’s really shy and doesn’t like crowds. Excuse us.” She said this all very quickly and had almost managed to get away when her father found his voice, “Alexis, could you come here for a moment?”

“Quick,” she muttered out of the corner of her mouth, “grab the food and run upstairs. I’ll be up in a second.”

Remus hurried away and Alexis returned to her family, “Yes, Papa?”

Her father seemed speechless so her mother picked up the slack, “Anything you’d like to tell us about you and Remus?”

“He’s my boyfriend,” she blurted, feeling it was best to get this over with quickly. Her father looked stoic still but her aunt had no qualms about speaking her mind, “Don’t you think you’re a little young for a boyfriend?”

“Not really,” she answered truthfully.

Her father regained his composure, “Well, we do. We’ll talk about this at home.”

“Of course Papa,” she agreed. She started to walk away when James came up behind her. “Wow, that ought to be fun.” She smirked, “As much fun as you explaining to Toni why you didn’t properly introduce her.”

“She’s mad?” he asked stupidly as they walked upstairs.

“Of course she is,” she snapped, “you failed to introduce her and you said Lily’s name first.” James seemed to consider this as they walked down the hallway. Alexis opened the door once they got to his room. Remus had managed to carry quite a bit of food by himself for which Toni, Sirius and Peter seemed to be grateful.

“Look who I found,” Ally announced upon entering the room. Everyone looked up. “James,” Sirius managed through a mouthful of food, “where have you been?”

“Performing my family duties,” he replied as he sat down next to Toni who in turn got up and sat between Sirius and Peter, “Toni can I talk to you?”

She arched an eyebrow, “You want to talk now do you? Alright then, what would you like to talk about: quidditch, the weather…?”

“Toni,” he hissed, “I’d like to talk to you alone.”

“Fine,” she snapped, “let’s go.”

The two of them got up and left. “What was that about?” demanded Sirius, looking from Ally to Remus.

“James didn’t introduce Toni as his girlfriend,” Alexis stated simply.

“I wonder why,” he said aloud.

Alexis smirked, “So does Toni. I on the other hand have a theory.”

“Really?” smarted Remus, “and what pray tell is that? That James unlike you is nervous about telling his parents he’s in a relationship?”

“Wait a minute,” interrupted Sirius, “your parents know about Remus?”

“They found out tonight,” shrugged Alexis.

Sirius snorted, “How? Remus kissed you in front of them?”

“Accidentally,” admitted Remus.

“You didn’t,” Sirius practically shouted, “what did they say?”

“Not much,” she admitted, “my aunt however felt compelled to make it known that she thinks I’m too young for a boyfriend, so my parents and I are going to have a chat when we get home.”

“You’re not in trouble, are you?” worried Remus.

“No,” Ally assured him, “I’ll remind my parents that I’m responsible not stupid and hopefully they’ll see reason.”

“And if they don’t?” asked Remus.

“They will,” she shrugged.

Sirius cleared his throat, “What do you think is going on with James and Toni?”

“Honestly,” shrugged Ally, “I don’t know. Anything’s possible.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*

“James, it’s very simple,” Toni said for the hundredth time, “you didn’t introduce me as your girlfriend because you don’t want me to be your girlfriend. It’s fine. I’m a big girl. I’ll get over it.”

She got up to go towards the door and almost had it open when James regained the power of speech, “It’s not that I don’t like you. You’re smart and funny and pretty…”

“But you’re not ready,” she finished.

“I don’t think I’m old enough for a girlfriend,” he said, “my parents are right. I’m sorry Toni.”

“It’s fine James,” she shrugged.

“Can we still be friends?” he asked. “Sure,” she agreed.

The two of them got up to join their friends in the other room. When they entered everyone got quiet and Alexis got up and walked towards Toni. She whispered something and Toni nodded.

“We’re going to go chat,” she announced, “I’ll be back.” The girls walked out and the boys turned their attention to James. “What happened mate?” Sirius asked quietly.

“I told her I wasn’t ready for a girlfriend,” he admitted, “it’s the truth. I talked it over with my parents and realized I wasn’t old enough for all of the responsibility.”

“Really?” asked Remus.

Peter spoke up, “Don’t do it Remus.”

Sirius and James exchanged looks. “What’s going on?” Sirius asked looking between his friends.

“He still likes Lily,” Remus whispered.

Sirius shook his head, “James wouldn’t do that. He wouldn’t use Shacklebolt to get over Evans. It’s not him.”

“I think he would,” countered Remus, “he thought if he dated a girl who liked him, he would get over Lily or maybe he thought she would realize she liked him. Whatever the plan was it failed and when he came home he realized he’d have to admit to his parents that he was dating someone and then they would ask questions. Questions he wouldn’t be able to answer without lying.”

James glared at Remus, “Do you have any idea how annoying it is to be friends with someone who’s never wrong?”

“Never say never,” Remus countered with a frown.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I’m sorry, Toni. I really thought I was doing the right thing telling James that you liked him,” Alexis confessed, “I’m so sorry. I thought he was over Lily.”

“So did I,” shrugged Toni, “but I was just a replacement. I don’t think James did it maliciously. He didn’t realize he was doing it. I’ll get over it.”

“That’s horrible,” her friend murmured, “it’s not fair to use someone to get over someone else or to make them jealous. You shouldn’t let him get away with this.”

“He didn’t know what he was doing,” repeated Toni, “sometimes you don’t know how much you’re hurting someone until you stop and look back.”

Alexis sighed, “Do you want to go home with Lils and me?”

“No,” said Toni, “that’s okay. I’m going to tell my dad I’m sick and have him take me home.”

“Alright,” conceded Ally, “but I’m still worried-“

Toni smiled, “Don’t be. Someday I’ll find someone who wants me, the girl that I am not the one that they want me to be.”

“That’s very wise Antoinette,” her friend admitted.

“I know,” she replied with a wink. The friends hugged and Toni wandered off to find her parents. Alexis was on her way back to the room when she saw Lily and Jack sitting together talking happily. She was glad things were working out for someone. She went back upstairs to her cousin’s room.

“Where’s Toni?” asked Peter.

Alexis shrugged, “Going home.”

Sirius looked as his watch, “It’s about time for you guys to head downstairs for the countdown.” Alexis and Remus exchanged looks. “James is the only one who really has to go downstairs,” Ally reminded, “the rest of us can stay up here with you.” James, Remus and Peter nodded their agreement. Sirius smiled, “Thanks guys.”

“I’ll be right back,” James assured them as he closed the door behind them.

Five…four…three…two…one…Happy New Year!

“Happy New Year!” they chorused.

Happy Belated New Year to you guys too! Please feedback!

Alright, next post. I'm going to try REALLY hard to finish this year this weekend! I'm also going to try to get back to posting fairly regularly...definitely more regularly than it has been. In case anyone wants to give feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697) <- There's the thread...Without further adieu, the post....


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“You’re only thirteen!” her father practically shouted.

Alexis sighed, “I know how old I am Papa. It doesn’t stop me from liking Remus.”

“Alexis,” her mother interrupted, “why don’t you go upstairs while your father and I talk about this?”

“Fine,” she agreed, hoping her mother would be able to make him see reason.

After spending about half an hour upstairs, she was joined by her parents.

“We’ve come to a decision,” her father began, “we will allow you to date Remus, but there are something we’re going to ask of you.”

“Alright,” she said, sitting up and paying attention, “what is it?”

“All we ask,” her mother said, “is that you be honest with us when it comes to Remus. As you get older, your feelings will probably get stronger. We just want you to talk to us when that happens. Be careful with your heart my dear. Should it be broken, it’s extremely hard to repair.”

Alexis looked at her parents and knowing they had every right to ask this of her, agreed, “Alright. You have my word.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

When Alexis and her parents arrived at the station, they were as usual very late. She kissed her mother goodbye as her father got her trunk on board. With a hug to him, she hopped on the train and went to find her friends. She found a compartment in the middle of the train that was very different from the one she left at the beginning of break.

“Hello, one and all,” she said upon entering the compartment. She sat down next to Remus and kissed him on the cheek before taking inventory of the compartment. Peter and James were on the floor playing wizard’s chess while Lily and Alice read.

“Where is everyone?” she wondered aloud, directing the question to Remus.

“Sirius is in a compartment with his brother and your cousin, Frank is with his friends and Toni…,” he trailed off.

“Toni what?” she demanded.

“No one’s seen Toni since we got back,” Lily finished as she put her book down.

Alexis looked around the compartment, “And no one’s bothered to look for her?”

“Now that you’re here,” Alice spoke up, “we can.” Lily nodded as she added, “You get away with more than we can.”

“Very funny girls,” she smirked, “let’s go. We’ll be back in a bit guys.”

“Want me to come with?” Remus asked.

She shook her head, “We can handle it.”

The girls started by going towards the head of the train. They passed a great many compartments to no avail before…

“Lily?” a voice called from the nearest compartment. Jack O’Malley was standing in the doorway staring at the girls. “Hello, Alexis, Alice.”

“Hi Jack,” the girls replied. “Care to join us in our compartment?” he offered, looking hopefully at Lily.

“I would love to but-,” Lily began. “Go on then,” Alice interrupted, “Alexis and I will do fine.”

“Are you sure?” asked Lily uneasily. “Of course,” agreed Alexis, “Go. Have fun. We’ll see you when we get to Hogwarts.” “Alright then,” Lily nodded, joining Jack and his friends.

“Okay,” Alexis muttered, “first part of the train down. Let’s head to the back.” As the girls went towards the back they passed their own compartment. “Hey,” Remus spoke as the girls passed the compartment. They stopped and he continued, “Looks like you’re down one.”

“We ran into Jack at the front of the train and he invited Lil to stay in his compartment,” she recounted, “so she did. It’s cool. Alice and I shouldn’t have a problem finding Toni. It’s probably better this way. I’m afraid Lily might be a sore spot with her.” He nodded, “Well, why don’t I come with you?” Alexis shrugged and the three of them continued on.

“Maybe she’s with Kingsley,” Alice suggested. “Oh, that’s a good one,” Ally agreed as Remus shook his head, “Kingsley’s head boy. He’s up front with the prefects and Head Girl.”

“Oh,” blushed Alice, “right. I knew that.”

“No worries,” Alexis assured her, “this is why we keep Rem around, to point out the obvious.” “Thanks,” he smiled, “I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that.” Ally smirked, “Only joking. You know I adore you.” She kissed him on the cheek just as Alice said “Toni?” as though it were a question.

Alexis turned and looked somewhat curiously at the compartment Alice had just entered. Toni was there alright accompanied by Sirius, Regulus and Severus.

“This is odd,” she observed aloud.

“Congrats Prince,” Sirius replied as he looked up from his Daily Prophet, “you’ve managed to insult an entire room full of people in one go.”

“Morning Black,” she responded, ignoring the joke, “Sev, Reg. Toni what are you doing here?”

Her friend raised an eyebrow, “I’m sitting?”

“Not what are you doing,” amended Alice, “what are you doing here? In this particular compartment?”

“Well,” she began, “when there’s an option of sitting in a compartment where I’m going to feel awkward for a bit versus one where I’m going to be uncomfortable the entire time, I go with the lesser of two evils.”

“If this is about-,” started Ally who paused once she remembered who was in the compartment.

“Potter,” finished Sev, “we know.”

“What do you know?” Alexis demanded, eyebrow arched.

“A myriad of things really,” her cousin smarted, “you’ll have to be more specific.”

She laughed, “Fair enough. Toni, its fine with us that you’re in here we were just curious. We don’t want you to feel like an outsider with us.”

“Definitely not,” added Remus, “and I don’t think-“

Sirius interrupted before he could finish, “Sore spot mate. Don’t go there.” Remus stared at him for a second then nodded and fell silent.

“Does Black’s cousin know you’re in here?” asked Alexis, “because I think she might take offense to seeing you in here with her cousins and Sev.”

“Quite the contrary Prince,” spoke a voice from behind her, “I’m pleased that my cousins and my fellow Slytherin are forming ties with the Head Boy’s little sister. Of course I’d be even more pleased if you and the riff raff you brought with you would leave the compartment.”

Alexis rolled her eyes, quite accustomed to the way Bellatrix Black treated her, “Alright Toni, I’ll see you when we get to Hogwarts.” She turned on heel and was about to follow Remus and Alice out when Bellatrix Black caught her by the arm, “Good girl.”

“I wouldn’t provoke this ‘good girl’ if I were you,” muttered Ally out of the corner of her mouth, “or we may just have to relive our Kodak moment.” Bellatrix glared at her and let go. Alexis smiled at the others in the compartment and left.

Once Alexis was gone, Bellatrix turned to Severus and muttered, “Your cousin knows how to play.” With that, she left.

“What did Trixie mean by that?” Reg asked, noticing everyone in the compartment seemed to be in on the joke.

Sirius smirked, “I’ll tell you sometime. It’s a good story that deserves to be done justice.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I still can’t believe Toni spent the entire train ride with Sirius, his brother and Sev,” Lily repeated as they sat down in the Great Hall.

“What’s truly remarkable is that they all got out of it alive,” Remus commented wryly.

Alexis smiled, “Well, they did and here she comes so stop talking about her.”

Toni sat down as far away from James as she could and Sirius followed shortly after taking his seat between James and Remus. Before any of them could say anything, the food appeared and eating commenced.

“This is awkward,” whispered Ally to Remus from behind her goblet of pumpkin juice.

Toni put her food down and looked at her friends. They stared back somewhat uneasily.

“Alright let’s throw it out there,” she sighed, “James and I are no longer a couple. Let’s not make a thing of it, okay?”

They all exchanged glances while James pretended to be invisible.

“Alright,” acquiesced Ally, “whatever you want Toni.” The others nodded their agreement.

“Good,” she exhaled, “good.”

Another uneasy pause settled over them before Alice spoke up, “We should be heading to class.”

“Right you are Alice,” Sirius agreed as he finished the last of his pumpkin juice.

The day went by fairly quickly which for the girls was a good thing. They wouldn’t be able to talk to Toni until after class...which was precisely why Professor Slughorn’s potions seemed eternal.

“James,” snapped Ally, “put down the lacewing flies!” He looked shocked at being addressed this way and dropped the bottle. “Nice going,” she added as she pointed her wand and stopped it before it hit the floor.

“Fine,” he hissed back, “suppose I don’t touch anything for the rest of class and let you do all the work. What would you say to that?”

“I’d say it’s the best idea you’ve had in a long time,” she muttered back as she continued working on the potion.

Professor Slughorn passed and noticed James had taken out his quill, “What’s going on here?”

“James is starting on the homework,” Alexis assured him, “while I put the finishing touches on the potion.”

The professor nodded and continued on. “Once again, Severus” complimented Professor Slughorn loudly, “well done. It’s good to see that even with a less than talented partner, you are still capable of such fine potion making.”

Toni glared as Sev came to her defense, “On the contrary Professor,” he countered, “Antoinette is becoming quite impressive.”

“A noble effort, Severus,” responded the Professor as he walked off. He continued through the room stopping only to compliment Lily and Sirius then walked to the front. “Alright class. Nice work today. For next time, I would like two rolls of parchment on the importance of the order of ingredients with examples of what can happen when mistakes are made.”

“Lousy git,” muttered James as they left the room, “he may as well have said ‘James Potter, you are a complete moron’.”

Alexis laughed loudly, “Oh, I would have paid money to see that.” As he glared at her, Remus changed the subject slightly, “Well, he was rather hard on Toni too.”

“Yeah,” agreed James, “and what was with Snape coming to her defense?”

Alexis looked back and noticed that Toni seemed to be finishing up a conversation with her cousin. Weird, she thought. Her friend noticed she was watching and quickly joined their group.

“Let’s head back to the dormitory, shall we?” Alexis offered, hinting heavily in Toni’s direction.

“Sure,” she agreed and they scurried to the Gryffindor dormitory leaving the boys in their wake.

“What was that all about?” wondered James aloud.

“Can’t you guess?” Sirius and Remus responded in unison.

After a rather rapid journey to their dormitory, the girls were beginning an awkward conversation with one another.

“Honestly,” Toni assured them, “I meant what I said before. This whole James mess is not that big of a deal to me. Sometimes relationships don’t work out.”

Alice stared at her disbelievingly, “Did he at least give you a reason for this rather sudden change in attitude?”

“He told me after talking with his parents,” she recounted, “he realized he wasn’t ready for a girlfriend.”

“And you believed him?” continued Alice.

Toni shrugged, “Different people take different approaches to relationships. You jump in, Lily takes her time and Alexis is somewhere in the middle. Besides, I’d rather be with someone who really likes me.”

Alexis felt it was her turn to pick up the slack, “And would this person who likes you happen to be anyone we know?”

“I didn’t mean right now,” amended her friend, “I meant at some point. I talked it over with Kingsley and realized I should be more careful. If I had really liked James, I mean really liked him, I would’ve been crushed. I think I can wait until I’m older for that kind of heartache.” At this, Alice and Ally exchanged glances but said nothing. “I think that’s very smart of you Toni,” Lily praised, “relationships are complicated. Who really needs another thing to worry about at our age?” She turned to Alice and Ally and added, “No offense.” The girls exchanged glances and Ally smirked, “None taken,” knowing all too well that in spite of what Lily had said she was on the road to a relationship with Jack O’Malley.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Are you ready to stop being a jerk to me?” James demanded of his cousin on their way to their quidditch match against Slytherin the next day.

Alexis rolled her eyes, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” The two of them managed to get a couple of steps further when Alexis snapped, “I’m ready to stop being a jerk if you’re ready to stop being a liar.”

Her cousin arched an eyebrow, “I beg your pardon?”

“It’s not my pardon you should be begging,” she countered, “it’s Toni’s. For lying to her about why you broke up with her.”

“I didn’t lie!” he growled, “Honestly, Toni’s gotten over this, why can’t you?”

“Because I feel responsible,” she admitted, “I can’t help but feel that this is my fault. I let Toni think she had a chance with you when she didn’t. There’s no worse feeling in the world than believing you have a chance when you really don’t.”

Because her cousin could find no response, Ally just shook her head and kept walking. James started after her but before he could get very far he passed Lily Evans and Jack O’Malley. He felt a pang of guilt as he admitted to himself that he had lied to Toni and his cousin. He did have feelings for Lily and he was too big of a coward to tell Toni the truth. Right then and there, he resolved to tell her the truth after the match. To James, the only thing worse than being a coward was being a liar and at this moment, he was both.

Once James met the team in the locker room, he didn’t get much of a chance to say anything. Noah Wood and Izzi Montgomery were huddled over Wood’s playbook discussing the strengths and weaknesses of their opponents. Once they saw that James had entered, they stood up. He barely had time to put on his robes before Noah and the rest of the team were getting ready to go. He knew this wasn’t personal and that they were just excited about the match but he couldn’t help but feel even more uneasy.

James’ feelings did nothing for his performance on the quidditch pitch.

“Get it together Potter!” shouted Wood as James lost the quaffle once again.

Below in the stands people were also taking note of his unusually poor performance.

“Looks like his break up with Shacklebolt hit him harder than I thought,” Lucius Malfoy commented to Severus and Regulus, “I wish I had put more money down on the outcome,” he added smugly. Instead of saying anything Sev and Reg just exchanged glances.

“Come on!” groaned Sirius loudly, “Focus James! Focus!” He turned to his friends and added, “If Gryffindor loses this match, Reggie will never let me hear the end of it.”

“If he loses this match, no one will let him hear the end of it,” corrected Remus. As the Slytherin keeper stopped another of James’ shots, Peter remarked, “This isn’t going to be pretty.”

Toni snapped, “What in Merlin’s name is wrong with James? I’m not losing my bet with Sev.” She turned her back on her friends’ confused faces and bellowed, “Come on James! You can do it!”

“I still don’t understand what the big deal is about quidditch,” observed Lily as usual, “just a bunch of people flying on brooms chasing after one another. Where’s the fun in that?” The boys looked scandalized while Alice put it in perspective, “Then don’t think about it that way. Think about it as a way to add points to the house cup. Don’t you want to beat Ravenclaw?” she added knowing that Lily and Jack had a bet. This seemed to get through to Lily as she stood up and shouted, much to the surprise of those around her, “Get your head in the game Potter!”

At this both James and Ally turned to face Lily. In doing so James dropped the quaffle and Ally noticed the snitch. Accelerating her broom, she followed the path of the snitch past Izzi and over Wood’s head. As she felt the Slytherin chaser close in on her she leaned forward to go faster. The snitch was now above the Slytherin sections of the stands. Knowing her penchant for klutziness, everyone who knew her could sense how this was going to end.

“Ally!” her friends shouted as she let go of her broom and seemingly fell into the Slytherin stands. Luckily, Madam Hooch got there before the Slytherins could do any real damage to her. She stood up with the help of her cousin and Regulus Black and revealed the snitch fighting to get out of her hand.

“You’ve got to be kidding me!” shouted the new, less charismatic announcer who had replaced Max Jordan, “After falling into enemy territory, Alexis Prince managed to salvage a win for Gryffindor! No doubt in order to make up for her cousin James Potter’s lackluster performance-“

“Ms. Vane,” Professor McGonagall snapped as she took away the magic megaphone, “that was incredibly inappropriate.”

“But not untrue,” added Lucius Malfoy as he dusted himself off, “I believe Severus, that you and Regulus can let her go. She can walk on her own.”

With surreptitious apologetic looks at Ally, both boys let her go and followed Malfoy. Ally felt a pain in her ankle and sat down.

“Alright Ally?” Wood asked nervously as he and the rest of the team joined her in the almost empty stands. She nodded and attempted to stand but sat back down as the pain seemed too much.

“Noah,” Izzi realized as she sat down next to their seeker, “She’s sprained her ankle. We need to get her to Madam Pomfrey. She’ll be able to fix it in an instant.” Noah got off his broom and picked Ally up, “Don’t worry guys,” he added to the team, “we’ll be fine. Go down to the locker rooms I’ve got her.”

“Are you alright Ally?” James added as he got off his broom and started walking with his cousin and his Captain.

“I will be,” she shrugged, “Wood, you can put me down. I can try to walk.”

“If it’s all the same to you Prince,” he replied, “I’d rather not risk my seeker’s health.” She rolled her eyes and said nothing as her friends ran up to meet them.

“Have you lost your mind?” hissed Remus in a deathly calm voice.

“Did you ever even have one?” demanded Sirius loudly, “or were you born crazy?”

She shook her head, “Will you to relax? I’m-“

At this point Alice cut in, “Don’t even think of saying fine!”

“Because people who are fine-“ interrupted Lily.

“Don’t need their quidditch captains to carry them to the hospital wing!” finished Toni.

Alexis shook her head and resigned herself to being carried by Wood while her friends all got on her case. Once they entered the hospital wing, they seemed to have tired of talking.

“You can put me down now Wood,” she reminded. He nodded and sat her on the nearest bed. “You should be fine,” he assured her, “Come see me when you get back to the common room.” He paused, “And Ally? Nice job out there!”

Sirius had to grab Remus to keep him from going after Wood and Alice had to stop Toni from saying something stupid.

Madam Pomfrey walked over, “What seems to be the trouble Ms. Prince?”

“I think I sprained my ankle during quidditch,” Alexis replied, “Can you give it a once over?”

“Of course,” the healer nodded. She started examining the girl and finally came to a conclusion. “It’s not a sprain. It’s a break.”

“A break?” they all repeated. Madam Pomfrey nodded, “No worries though. I can put it right as rain. I’ll need you to stay here for a week to ensure you get rest and heal properly, Ms. Prince.”

“Madam Pomfrey,” she moaned, “Can’t I just go back to the dormitory and promise to go to bed early?”

The healer glared at her, “Positively not. The rest of you young ones should leave. We don’t want you missing curfew. I’ll take good care of your friend.”

The girls and Remus hugged her goodbye while the boys waved to her on their way out.

“I cannot believe her,” hissed Toni after they closed the door, “she’s mental. I know everyone always says it’s me but it’s her.” Alice shook her head and Lily was about to say something when a group of Slytherins including Severus and Regulus passed. Severus bumped into Remus, slid something into his hand and walked off.

After the Slytherins turned the corner, Remus opened it and his friends leaned over and read with him:

How’s Ally? Send me a response via one of the owls in the owlery. They’re practically untraceable.

Severus

A distinctly different handwriting had scrawled on the bottom…

Double or nothing on the match for the cup?

Sirius smiled, “You’re on baby brother.” Remus and Sirius wandered off in the direction of the Owlery while the rest went back to the dormitory.

Next post...Like I said, I really want to finish this year soon! Time is elapsing very quickly, I know, but that's part of the whole wanting to finish thing...


~*~~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next week, the girls met Alexis in the hall outside of the hospital wing with her book bag so they could walk her to class.

“So on a scale of one to ten, how much am I being made of fun of?” she asked finally.

Toni scrunched her face, “A lot less than James? And he’s a nine right about now.”

“Everyone’s really giving him a rough time of it,” conceded Lily, “even I feel a little bad for him.”

“We won the match,” reminded Ally, “what are they picking on him for?”

Alice shook her head, “Correction: you won it. James almost lost it.”

Before she got the chance to say anything else, they had made it to Charms. As they entered the room, Professor Flitwick called out, “Alright Ms. Prince?”

“Yes, sir,” came her response. The professor nodded, “Good. In the future, perhaps you ought not to risk your life for a game?” he suggested.

“He’s got a point,” Remus acknowledged as Alexis sat down next to him.

James turned around, “Though our Captain would probably disagree.”

“Hear, hear,” agreed Ally with a smile, “how are you doing cuz?”

He frowned, “Not as good as I could be, but don’t worry about it.”

“Now then class,” called the Professor, “if you would all be so kind as to get your wands out while at the same time keeping your mouths shut, we will begin.” At this the class laughed and got ready for their lesson.

Later that day, Alexis decided to head to the library by herself to catch up on her work. She had spent so much time in the hospital wing and practicing for the match against Slytherin before that, she had completely neglected her schoolwork.

“Don’t tell any of the other Slytherins I said this,” her cousin whispered as he sat down, “but good job with the quidditch match. I would have visited you in the hospital wing but you know how it is.”

She smiled, “I understand. However, I would think a fair number of Slytherins would’ve enjoyed the match what with my breaking my ankle and all.”

“Oh your fall from grace was nothing compared to Potter’s,” he assured her, “that was something everyone could enjoy.”

“He didn’t play that poorly,” she responded with a frown, “besides we won. That’s all that really matters in the grand scheme of things.”

“Is it?” her cousin countered silkily, “I think the fact that one of your team’s better players seems to be performing pathetically is something of interest, particularly to Hufflepuff. They’re the favorites for the Quidditch Cup now.”

“Oh they are, are they?” she smirked, “If I were you, I’d warn your Slytherin chums not to put too much money on Hufflepuff, James is still James and I have the feeling he’ll be back to normal by the next game.”

Severus frowned, “Well, that ruins my fun.”

“You’re horrible,” she smarted, “I hope you know that.”

He nodded, “Yes, but if I were truly horrible I wouldn’t tell you that it’s almost curfew.” She looked down at her watch and sure enough, he was right. “Thanks,” she said with a swift hug she departed. Her cousin gathered his supplies and headed back to his dormitory as well.

Alexis was minutes away from her dormitory when someone stepped out of the shadows and announced, “You’re late Princess.”

Confused, she turned around and faced Bellatrix Black, sure she had heard her wrong, “I’m sorry. What?”

“You’re late,” the Slytherin prefect repeated, “you’re out past curfew which means I have the right to give you a detention.” Alexis looked down at her watch. There were at least five minutes until curfew was actually over but she knew there was no arguing with a Black. She resigned herself to the inevitable, “When and where?”

“Seven o’clock next Thursday with Mr. Filch,” she responded as though she had been rehearsing it for years, “I’m sure he’ll find some use for you.” Alexis nodded and walked off. “Pleasure seeing you Princess,” Bellatrix called, “we should do it again sometime.”

Alexis kept her cool until she entered the Gryffindor common room. It was there that she realized that Bellatrix had given her detention for the very same night she was supposed to practice with the team. Thinking it was no accident, she stomped upstairs and threw herself on her bed, hoping against hope her friends would get the clue and not join her. Stupid Bellatrix, she thought, giving me detention when she knows I have to practice. She probably hopes Gryffindor will lose. I’ll show her. After a few minutes of fuming about how much Bellatrix Black enjoyed torturing her, another thought occurred: James. In order for them to win, James had to get back to normal and fast. She turned around and hurried downstairs. She saw Alice and Lily sitting in the corner but didn’t see James or any of their other friends.

“Where is James?” she demanded without preamble.

Her friends all looked up from their respective endeavors and shrugged.

“Is he with the guys?” she questioned again. Alice and Lily shrugged. Alexis continued, “Where’s Toni?” Once again the girls shrugged and Alice offered a half-hearted, “Bed?” Annoyed by her friends’ reactions, she turned to go up to the boys’ dormitory as she reached the room she was looking for she barged in without knocking. Upon entering she realized that probably wasn’t wise. Luckily everyone was decent.

“Where’s James?” she asked. Remus and Peter stared apparently unable to register that she had just entered without permission. Sirius, on the other hand, was used to her antics and looking up from his Daily Prophet replied, “With Toni.” She stood there staring while he looked at his watch and frowned, “They should be back by now. It’s past curfew.”

After regaining the power of speech, she responded, “Don’t I know it? Your stupid cousin gave me detention!”

He put his paper down, “Well, what Trix wants, Trix gets. It was only a matter of time before she got you for something. Sorry.”

“It's not your fault,” she shrugged, “what is James doing out and about with Toni anyway?” she asked getting back on topic.

“Apologizing,” he answered as though it were obvious. Her expression showed slight confusion so he continued, “For the way he treated her?” She nodded, “Right, right. Well, I figured that was what was bothering him before the match so I came over here to-“

“To tell me to stop being such an arrogant berk and get over myself?” her cousin supplied as he entered the room. She smiled and hugged him, “I’m proud of you James. You did right by Toni. I appreciate it and I’m sure she does too.”

“She handled it pretty well considering,” he admitted, heading over to his bed.

“Considering what?” his cousin interrogated. He frowned, “Considering what I told her.”

She started to feel a little uneasy, “Just how honest were you with her James?”

“Completely,” he told her, “and it was a good thing too. I feel loads better. I should be able to redeem myself at the next-“ Before he could finish his sentence, his cousin threw the nearest book at him and shrieked, “Idiot!” as she slammed the door.

“What did I do now?” he demanded as he rubbed the spot where Hogwarts, A History had struck him.

“You told Toni everything?” Remus repeated as though he didn’t quite believe his friend.

“Of course,” he retorted. Peter and Remus just stared at him while Sirius reiterated, “You really are an idiot.”

Meanwhile, in the girls’ dormitory Alexis was asking for the twentieth time since she entered the room, “Toni, are you sure you’re okay?”

“Yes,” her friend repeated, “it’s not like James told me anything I didn’t already know. I’m glad he was honest. Now I can put that whole mess behind me, lesson learned.”

Alexis stared at her, doubtfully, “So you’re not hurt?”

A humorless laugh came from her friend in response, “Of course I’m hurt,” she muttered, “that doesn’t mean I still shouldn’t get over it. I’ve cried my river and right now I’m working on building my bridge so I can get over it.” Alexis laughed, “Well it’s good to see you’ve got a sense of humor about this whole thing.”

“Of course I do,” her friend countered, “after all ‘humor is just another defense against the universe’.”

“Mel Brooks,” responded Alexis impulsively. She arched an eyebrow, “Where did you hear that quote?”

“A friend,” she answered somewhat evasively. Severus, thought Alexis, things certainly have taken an interesting turn.

Toni yawned, “I’m going to get ready for bed. I’m rather tired.” Alexis nodded and started to get ready for bed as well.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

On the day of her detention, Ally woke up later than usual. Toni was already finished getting ready and Lily was out of the bathroom. “Why didn’t anyone wake me?” she demanded as she hopped out of bed and grabbed her things. Alice walked out of the bathroom just as Ally got to the door. In about ten minutes, she was ready to go.

“I still can’t believe none of you were going to wake me up,” she hissed as she tried to pull her hair into a pony tail and walk at the same time. She tripped over the last step and fell on her face. This is not my morning, she thought as someone helped her up. “Thanks Black,” she muttered without looking to see who it was. He smiled, “No problem Prince. Not having a good morning I see.”

“Not in the slightest,” she mumbled. After she got herself together, she followed the others outside. With the morning she was having, she couldn’t imagine things getting worse.

She was wrong.

In transfiguration, she struggled with transforming the porcupine into a pincushion and was assigned extra homework. She hoped her break before lunch would let her regroup and center. She was sitting on the windowsill in the library meditating when he heard a thud. She opened her eyes ready to snap at whoever it was and saw Regulus Black standing in front of her. He motioned his head towards the section about the Dark Arts and started to walk over there. Ignoring the part of her that said she would regret this later, she followed suit.

“Sorry,” he whispered as he pretended to look for a book, “but I needed to talk to you. Luckily, everyone’s in class so I’m not being followed but we still need to be careful.”

“We’re going to see each other this weekend,” she reminded him, “what’s so important?”

“I know Bella gave you a detention,” he told her, still ‘searching for the book’, “but that was just the beginning. Malfoy told her about Severus and me helping you up after your fall so she intends to keep a closer eye on the two of us. I don’t think we’ll be able to make it this weekend. We need to give her enough time to think it was a fluke.”

“But that means Black and I won’t be able to you and Severus for ages!” she pouted.

“Not necessarily,” he corrected, “Sev and I have a plan.” He slid a paper to her and muttered, “Tell Sirius.” Before she could say anything else, he grabbed the nearest book and was gone.

Thinking that she wouldn’t get to see her cousin until the train ride back to Kings’ Cross did nothing to improve her mood. Hoping that her cousin and Regulus were able to come up with something, she put all of her things away and headed to lunch. Under normal circumstances, food could only help her cope with this dismal day. Unfortunately, today was turning out to be one of those days that are as far away from normal as humanly possible.

“Prince!” shouted Noah Wood as she entered the Great Hall. Knowing that her captain always yelled, she hoped against hope that he was bearing good news.

“What’s this about you having detention?” he growled as she sat down at the table. Wrong again, she thought.

“Black was just looking for a reason to give me detention,” she snapped, “The evil harlot is hoping we lose the next match-“

“And with you missing practice and your cousin playing like a first year whose never been on a broom, she might be right,” he retorted loudly.

Ignoring his outburst, she turned to Izzi, “Come and get this idiot under control before I curse him into oblivion!”

Wood stared at her disbelievingly while Izzi, knowing that her friend had a terrible temper, led him away. “She threatened me!” he shrieked. “I know, I know,” Izzi assured him consolingly.

Alexis looked up at the ceiling, “What did I do to deserve this cosmic joke of a day?”

Her friends just looked at her sympathetically and Remus put his arm around her.

James whispered, “I’m not going to let us lose the next match. I promise.”

“Thanks James,” she sighed, knowing that he was trying to make her feel better.

The rest of the day didn’t really go any better as she had to suffer through History of Magic, a subject that in the hands of any other professor she probably would’ve loved but instead loathed. As she walked to Ancient Runes with Lily and Black, she remembered her run in with Regulus. Knowing that she couldn’t sit with Black without arousing suspicion, she resigned herself to the knowledge that in spite of her detention and all the other things she had to do, she was going to have to find some way to be alone with him. Great, she thought, fan-freakin-tastic.

At dinner she could think about nothing else other than after it she would have to serve her very first detention with Mr. Filch. Having had spent many an evening with him, Sirius and James tried to convince her that it wouldn’t be so bad. She’d probably just have to clean and listen to Filch ramble.

“Just don’t mention you know us,” Sirius told her as she got up, “he’d probably work you even harder then.”

“Thanks Black,” she sighed as she headed off towards her fate.

For the next three hours, she learned the ins and outs of muggle cleaning. Armed with all kinds of supplies (with the exception of her wand which Filch had been prudent enough to take), she spent the evening getting to know the hospital wing better than she had during her frequent visits. At ten o’clock, with much hesitance from Filch she was relieved from her duty. It felt like it took ages to make it back to the dormitory and when she finally arrived she saw that the only people who were still awake were waiting for her.

“How was it?” Lily asked hesitantly.

“Long,” she replied with a yawn, “it was sweet of you guys to wait but I just want to get to bed and put an end to this miserable day. Night boys,” she added after she kissed Remus good night. The girls followed suit.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Alexis woke up on time the next morning. Resolving to make this day better than the previous one, she had everything planned. This morning she was going to get homework done, this afternoon she was going to practice quidditch and that evening she and Black were going to figure out what they were going to do about seeing her cousin and his brother. This weekend was a Hogsmeade weekend and she was excited about spending Saturday with her friends. Sunday was of course reserved for quidditch and by that point she and James would be back up to par. Then Wood would eat his words. Okay, so she wasn’t completely over everything that had happened yesterday.

After spending the morning in solitude first doing homework then practicing quidditch, Alexis was ready to spend time with her friends. The problem was she was having trouble locating them.

“Where is everyone?” she demanded as she threw herself on her cousin’s bed.

“Well, Remus and Peter are at the library,” he recounted, “they got a later start than usual. Sirius is out trolling for a date for this weekend’s Hogsmeade trip,” at this Alexis laughed a little, “and as far as the girls go I have no idea.”

“It’s so nice you keep such a close eye on your friends,” she commented, “I wish I could say the same.”

“You have no idea where any of them are?” he stated disbelievingly.

“Well Alice is with Frank as per usual,” she admitted, “but Toni and Lily are in the wind.”

“Right,” he nodded, “well I guess you can spend time with me,” he offered somewhat hesitantly.

“Look James,” she started, “I wanted to apologize for the way I’ve been treating you since this whole Toni debacle. I consider her, Alice and Lils my sisters and when someone hurts them it’s like they hurt me. You know me I don’t take hurt or disappointment well. Now I know you didn’t hurt Toni intentionally and I know she’s handling it fairly well I just…Well I snapped. I know I shouldn’t have but I did and I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright,” he assured her, “I understand how you feel about your friends. It’s the same way I feel about the guys. You have my word I will try my hardest not to hurt another girl especially not one of your friends.”

“So it’s still Lily then?” she wondered aloud. He frowned, “Yep and I can’t tell you how much I wish it wasn’t.”

Before either of them could say another word, Remus, Sirius and Peter burst in talking animatedly. They stopped short at the site of Ally.

“Why don't we just get an extra bed put in here?” cracked Sirius.

“Good mood?” observed Alexis “must’ve found someone willing to wander around Hogsmeade with you.”

He smirked, “Was there ever any doubt?” She grinned back, “Never.”

Looking at Sirius reminded her about the meeting with Sev and Reg and how it was on hold. “Oh, Black,” she exclaimed, “we need to talk.” He looked at her, slightly concerned and the others started towards the door. Remus doubled back and kissed her on the cheek, “Do me a favor. Try not to get in too much trouble?” She grabbed him and kissed him back, “I’ll try. Thanks for understanding.”

The boys left and she turned to Sirius, “Okay Reggie-“

“We’ve been over this,” he interrupted, “I’m Sirius.”

“Don’t be an idiot,” she smarted, “Your brother found me in the library and told me that because he and Sev helped me up after my fall at the match against Slytherin that your cousin is keeping a closer eye on them. She’s getting suspicious.”

“Not as dumb as she looks then is she?” he commented.

“Will you focus?” she snapped, “we’re not going to be able to see Sev or Reg for a while. Now Reg told me they had a plan,” she slipped the note out of her pocket and gave it to him, “here it is.”

“They want to use the potion for the Hogsmeade trip?” he gasped, “no way. It’s easy enough when we stay confined in the castle and away from our friends. This is insane. We can’t…I have a date!”

“What’s more important your date or seeing your brother?” she asked, he seemed to pause at this. She smacked him over the head with a pillow, “You must be joking.” He grabbed the pillow out of her hand, “Okay let’s say we use the polyjuice potion then go to Hogsmeade. We’d have to fool our friends and my cousin. Think about it. It’s easier said than done.”

“Are you really worried about this,” she asked, “or are you just afraid that Severus is going to ruin your date?”

“Both,” he replied, “do you really think our friends wouldn’t notice me behaving oddly-“

“More oddly than usual you mean,” she countered. He rolled his eyes, “What do you say to just not meeting up with them this month? Lull Trix into a false sense of security then meet up with them next month? Can you go a month without talking to your cousin?”

“I suppose so,” she admitted, “but don’t you want to see Reggie?”

He shook his head, “Of course I do but I also want to keep him out of trouble.”

“Fine,” she shrugged, “but you’re going to be the one to tell him and hurt your little brother’s feelings.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The trip to Hogsmeade was just what everyone needed to relax. Alice spent most of her time with Frank but did manage to meet her friends for lunch. Ally and Remus had visited the Shrieking Shack much to Remus’ annoyance. Alexis decided that he was too cynical to believe in haunted houses and vowed never to take him there again. James and Peter spent their time going from shop to shop while Lily and Sirius spent the time with their dates. Upon their return, everyone caught up.

“Peter and I just tried to avoid everyone who was still mocking me after the match,” James told everyone.

“People are still giving you a hard time about that?” asked Toni as she joined them.

“Yep,” he admitted, “where were you?”

“Spent the time with a couple of friends,” she replied nonchalantly, “how were your dates?” she asked turning to Sirius and Lily.

“It was just a date,” shrugged Lily, “Jack was a perfect gentleman and we had a good time.”

Toni nodded, “What about you Black? Were you a perfect gentleman?” Alexis and Alice erupted in a fit of giggles and he glared at them, “For your information, yes. Jane was the best date I’ve had in a long time. We’re going to the quidditch match together.”

Silence enveloped the group and Ally stared at him, “Does this mean you’ll abolish your ridiculous two week rule?” He shrugged, “It’s a possibility.”

“So what about you two?” Sirius asked shifting focus to Ally and Remus, “what did you do?”

Ally shrugged, “Nothing really. We went by the Shrieking Shack and I found out Rem isn’t a fan of haunted places. Too cynical.”

The boys shrugged and Lily commented, “Good for you Rem. Too many people are willing to believe in silly rumors.”

“I’ve actually got some work to do,” he interrupted and after kissing Ally on the forehead, he went upstairs.

“We should go to sleep to Ally,” piped up James, “we’ve got to kick some Hufflepuff-“

Alexis cut in, “You’re right. We’ve got some stuff to make up for.”

The next morning, Alexis got up fairly early and went down for breakfast. Soon she was joined by her cousin, then their friends.

“Are you two ready?” Sirius asked, “Because Reg and I have double or nothing on this match and I cannot lose to my little brother!”

Toni nudged him, “They’ve got enough to deal with without you adding to it! You two will do brilliantly. I know it.”

“Thanks Toni,” Ally said, hugging her friend.

Noah Wood and Izzi Montgomery came up behind Ally and James. Wood cleared his throat. He hadn’t spoken to Ally since she threatened to curse him. “Ready?” he managed finally.

“Never been more ready in our lives,” James assured him, “We’re going to put Hufflepuff to shame and beat Ravenclaw for the House Cup.”

Izzi turned to Ally, “You ready too?”

“Yep,” Alexis replied. Wood chose this time to jump in, “Look Prince I-“

“Forget it Wood,” she interrupted, “I was having a bad day. You were frustrated about the team. It was no one’s fault.”

Wood smiled, all animosity forgotten, “You wouldn’t have really cursed me, would you?”

“If Izzi hadn’t taken you away,” she thought aloud, “probably.”

He laughed, “Honesty. I like that.”

“No worries,” assured Ally, “we’re gonna win you and Izzi the cup. You two will leave Hogwarts with your Quidditch Cup streak intact.”

Noah and Izzi smiled in gratitude and the four of them headed out to the pitch.

“Well ladies and gentlemen, here we are,” Lucinda Vane called through the magical microphone, “after an impressive play against Ravenclaw and a narrow defeat of Slytherin in the finals, it’s Hufflepuff versus Gryffindor. One can only hope that the Gryffindor team has improved since their last match particularly James-“

“Ms. Vane,” Professor McGonagall snapped, “don’t make me warn you again.”

Alexis turned to James as they were about to mount their brooms, “What’s Lucinda Vane got against you anyway?”

“When we got back from break and word got out about me and Toni,” he recounted, “she cornered me and asked me out. I turned her down.”

“Hell hath no fury,” muttered Alexis, “I can crash into the announcer’s stand this time if you want.”

Her cousin glared at her, “Don’t even joke. Try not to kill yourself.”

“Keep your eye on the quaffle,” she countered. With a whistle from Madam Hooch they were up in the air and the game had begun. The Hufflepuff team put most of their attention on Ava and Mark while ignoring James. Their seeker simply shadowed Ally while their beaters took turns volleying the bludgers back and forth. The game was relatively civil until the point margin got to where they needed it. Then it got ugly.

“Liv, to the right!” shouted Noah as his sister nearly missed a bludger. “James behind you!” shrieked Ally as her cousin did the same with the other. Ally felt something coming at her so she swerved to the right just in time to have the bludger miss her. Izzi was on her side and shot it in the direction of the chaser who was following James. Contact was made and the chaser lost his balance.

“ALLY!” bellowed Wood, “find the snitch!”

Alexis tried to keep an eye on the scoreboard and the snitch at the same time. Of course this meant there was no eye to keep on the bludgers. Ava came up beside her, “Mark and James are going to defend and score. I’m gonna be your shadow. Wood’s idea.”

Alexis shot a look at the keeper and decided it was okay. There it was, she thought, right behind Wood. “Follow me!” she muttered to Ava. Ava signaled Izzi who swapped places with her while simultaneously hitting a bludger at the Hufflepuff chaser. Alexis didn’t see any of this as she was flying over Wood and trying not to knock him off his broom. She darted to the left and grasped the keeper’s hoop while also grabbing the snitch. She had stayed on her broom and caught the snitch! Madam Hooch blew the whistle signaling the end of the game. Wood embraced her and the rest of the team followed suit.

“Well,” Vane was saying, “looks like Gryffindor managed to win it after all! Of course the real story is that Alexis Prince managed to stay on her broom. Shocking really-“

“Ms. Vane,” warned Professor McGonagall yet again.

“Party in the Gryffindor common room!” Ally heard someone shout.


Feedback (http://www.cosforums.com/showthread.php?p=3530697#post3530697post3530697)

Alright, last chapter of the third year. I hope to get the first chapter of the fourth year up by the end of the weekend. Enjoy!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Well, I can leave Hogwarts a happy man now,” Noah Wood told the crowd as he gave his speech, “it’s been great to be Captain of the Gryffindor team,” the crowd agreed with whistles and cheering, “and I’m glad I could uphold the winning tradition for this team.” He rose he glass as did everyone else in the room and toasted their win.

“I’m actually going to miss Wood,” James admitted, “he may have been tough but he’s a good Captain.”

“I know,” Ally agreed, “what are we going to do without him?” The rest of the team nodded their assent as Wood and Izzi joined them.

“What were you guys talking about?” Noah asked.

“Just talking about how much we’re going to miss you,” Ally told him. Noah blushed and Izzi laughed, “He has been a really good captain, hasn’t he?”

“The best,” Mark nodded, patting his friend on the back. Before any of them could say anything else, Wood got up, waved and headed upstairs to his dormitory.

Izzi sighed, “He’s really going to miss you guys too,” as she got up to follow Ally and Olivia stood up and hugged her, “We’ll miss you too!” Izzi smiled as she hugged them back, “Thanks girls.”

“Well, that was sufficiently depressing,” Ava commented, “I’m going to find something that’ll cheer me up.” She cast a glance in Sirius’ direction and raised an eyebrow, “What do you think Al?” she asked her friend. Ally shrugged, “Go for it.”

Ava walked purposefully over to Sirius and sat down on his lap. “Bold as I don’t know what,” commented Ally as their teammates left and their other friends joined them.

“Wow,” Toni gasped as she pointed as Sirius and Ava. The rest of the group looked over and saw Sirius shake his head as he spoke with the beautiful blonde chaser. She seemed insulted for a second but then walked away. Sirius walked over to his friends who tried, and failed, to pretend they weren’t watching.

“What was all that about?” demanded Peter as Sirius sit down, “You’ve never said no to a pretty girl. Ever.”

Sirius was about to respond when Jane Thompson appeared at his side. Sensing impending awkwardness, Ally picked up the slack, “So who do you think the Quidditch captain will be next year?”

James leapt at the topic, “Well with Wood and Izzi out, that doesn’t leave very many choices. It’ll probably be Ava or Mark as they’re the oldest and have been with the team the longest.”

“And of course you’ll have to replace Izzi and Noah,” Toni pointed out.

“That’s right,” Alice agreed, “do you think it’ll be hard?”

At this point Frank offered his opinion, “I don’t know. Do you remember when Ally and James tried out? It took forever to find a beater as awesome as Izzi.”

“Thank Merlin for Liv,” Ally agreed, “it’s been awhile since the team has needed players, hasn’t it? Might be nice to have some new people.”

Remus nodded, “I feel a little bad for the people trying out though. They’ll have to fit in with a team that for the most part has been together for ages.”

“That’s true,” piped up Jane, “but new players can be a good thing. They’ll bring new ideas and perspectives.” It had been the first time anyone besides Sirius had heard Jane speak and they were pleasantly surprised that she wasn’t a moron as most of the others had been.

“Absolutely,” Ally nodded with a smile, “it’ll be fun to have tryouts and find talented people who have come to school since the last time the team was formed.”

“To new beginnings,” offered Sirius, glass raised.

“New beginnings,” they all cheered.

For the next month, Sirius and Jane were inseparable. Jane was a year older than them but she wasn’t arrogant about it. For the most part, she seemed to be a clever, funny, beautiful girl who was a good match for Sirius. Of course, everyone had a different opinion.

“Jane is fierce,” Toni decided, “she knows so much about everything. She’s so much fun to talk to.”

Alice arched an eyebrow, “How much time have you been spending with her?”

“Not much,” her friend admitted, “but the times I have talked to her she’s been really great.”

Alice nodded, “I agree. It’s so good to see Sirius with someone who likes him but doesn’t fall over herself about him. He needs that.”

“Jack’s mentioned her a couple of times,” Lily piped up, “they have class together, care of the magical creatures I think. He says she’s a really great girl. Really bold and fearless, a good match for Black.” They turned to Ally who had been reading while listening to the discussion.

“Well,” prodded Toni, “what do you think?” Alexis put down her book, “I say anyone who can keep Black in line and make him abolish his ridiculous two week rule is a miracle worker in my book.”

As fierce as Jane was however, she was starting to create tension for some.

“It’s all well and good that you’ve got a girl mate,” James granted, “but do you have to spend every waking moment with her?”

Sirius arched an eyebrow, “Why are you complaining about this? Did I bother you about spending time with Shacklebolt? Do Peter and I nag Remus about spending so much time with Ally?”

Remus looked up, “Let’s leave Alexis and me out of this shall we? We adore Jane. We’ve got no complaints.”

“I don’t believe this,” hissed James, “you two are going to leave me here to be the bad guy on my own. What about you Pete? Don’t you think he’s spending too much time with Thompson?”

Peter shook his head, “I’m staying out of this too. I don’t mind Sirius having a girlfriend.”

“What happened to the Sirius Black we knew before?” James asked, disregarding the fact that he was standing alone on this one, “the one with the two week rule who knew better than to tie himself down to one girl?”

“You mean the one who had a crush on Ally?” countered Sirius, “the one who only made that stupid rule because he didn’t want to get to close to anyone else while he was so infatuated with her? He finally grew up and moved on. It took me forever to get over Ally but I finally did it. I thought you’d be happy for me mate. You know how hard it is to like someone who can barely stand to be in the same room as you!”

At this point, everyone knew Sirius had gone too far. James stormed out with Sirius following seconds later. When they entered the empty common room, Sirius shouted, “Come on mate. What’s wrong with you?”

“You understood,” James sighed as he threw himself on the couch, “it was like you said. You understood the way I felt about Lily because you felt that way about Ally. Now it’s like you’re leaving me behind. We have one less thing in common.”

Sirius sat down on the table, “We don’t have to be exactly alike James. You’ll always be my best mate whether we’re both pining over girls who can’t stand us or whether we’re both in normal relationships.”

“Or whether one of is doing the first and the other one’s doing the latter,” he finished. Sirius laughed, “Exactly.” The two boys embraced quickly and went upstairs.

When they were sure they were alone, Ally lifted the disillusionment charm off both herself and Lily. For a moment, neither of them said anything.

“I suppose it’s a really good thing your dad’s an auror,” Lily commented, “that disillusionment thing is wonderfully for staving off awkward situations.”

Ally looked at her friend, “Let’s not mention this again. Ever.”

“Agreed,” replied Lily.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“It’s been forever,” Regulus whined when Sirius and Ally entered Moaning Myrtle’s loo a week later. He rushed to his brother and gave him a hug. Alexis walked over to her cousin and smiled knowingly, “How’s life?”

Severus’ eyes narrowed, “What are you so happy about?”

“Can’t a girl simply be happy to see her cousin?” she replied in her most charming voice. “A girl can, you can’t,” he countered, “what’s going on?”

“Mel Brooks,” she responded cryptically. He couldn’t mask his confusion, “That’s not how we play the game. It’s quote first then you answer with the name.”

“To be honest, as this world goes, is to be one man picked out of a thousand,” she recited in a sing song voice.

“William Shakespeare, All’s Well that Ends well,” he answered, still confused.

“Are the two of you speaking in some sort of code?” asked Regulus.

Severus shook his head, “No. Alexis never makes any sense.”

“Did you need something Reg?” Ally asked, hoping to get back to her conversation with her cousin.

“No,” he shrugged, “just curious.” He returned to his brother and Alexis decided being cryptic was getting her nowhere.

“Alright,” she sighed, “if you really want to take the fun out of it, I’ll just get right down to it. Are you seeing Toni?”

Sev looked uneasy for a split second then recovered, “I see Antoinette on occasion. We’re partners in Potions so I try to help her-“

“I don’t believe that for a second,” his cousin hissed, “you like her…or she likes you. Either way it’s not a good idea. Not with your crush on Lily and her just getting dumped by James. It’s not fair to Toni to let her think that you’re interested when you’re not.”

“What is it about girls that make them always jump to conclusions?” he snapped back, “Has it ever occurred to you that maybe just maybe Antoinette and I are just friends?”

Alexis glared at him, “Of course it occurred to me for about five seconds until I realized that you and Toni both needed to get over Lily and James respectively and that you might accidentally use each other to do it. Toni’s already been used by one of my cousins, I’ll not allow her to be used by the other. Honestly, why can’t she just pick guys who aren’t hopelessly in love with Lily?”

Severus looked as though he had been slapped, “Don’t ever compare me to Potter! If I did like Antoinette, it would be for no other reason than because of who she is. Do you hear yourself? I hope you don’t talk this way in front of her.” Alexis stared at him but said nothing. He paused for a moment then added, “By the way, this whole ‘you need to get over Lily’ crusade is unnecessary. I’m not blind. I’ve seen her with O’Malley. If that’s what she wants, that’s fine.”

“Que sera,” she began. “Sera,” he finished.

Ally let out a sigh, “If there’s one thing you and Toni do have in common, it’s that you’re both really noble when it comes to relationships.

“What can I say?” he shrugged, “we’re realists.” She nodded, “Just don’t become cynics.”

“Ready to go?” asked Sirius, as he and Regulus stood up. Alexis looked at her watch, “Sure. Let’s go.” After saying goodbye to Sev and Reg, Ally and Sirius left. They were walking along in silence both thinking about completely different things when someone stepped in front of them.

“I’ve been looking for you,” Jane admonished Sirius, “Your friends were all so secretive no one would tell me where you were.”

“We were at the…um…library,” he stammered. Jane arched an eyebrow and glanced at Ally, “Without books?” Alexis knew her presence there was making things worse so she left. Unfortunately for Ally being unaccompanied made her, as was so often the case, more likely to be shanghaied.

“Ms. Prince!” called a deep familiar voice. Alexis silently swore and turned around, “Professor Slughorn, so nice to see you.”

“My dear girl,” he bellowed, “I rarely see you outside of class. I was beginning to think you held up in Gryffindor tower when you weren’t in class, studying and the like.”

She smiled slightly, “I manage to get out once in awhile.”

“Well, then,” he ejaculated, “perhaps you can make it to my end of the year soiree. After all, all work and no play make for a very dull existence.” Having been backed into a corner, Ally felt she had no choice, “Of course Professor. I’ll be there.”

“Splendid, simply splendid,” he smiled, “see you then.” He walked away and Alexis frowned. She couldn’t help but think if Jane hadn’t come looking for she and Black, she would’ve had a buffer and might’ve been able to get out of this. Oh well, she thought, I haven’t been to one since first year, maybe there not as dull as I remember.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

As Ally and Remus stood next to the punch bowl, he whispered, “As dull as you remember?”

“More,” she replied with a sigh, “do you think it would be obvious if one of us feigns sick?”

“Only to those who know you Princess,” Sirius commented as he got punch.

“Hello Black,” she sighed, “having fun?” He shrugged, “I’ve been to so many of these I’ve become immune to Slughorn, so I’m fine. Jane on the other hand, is having a problem similar to the one Remus is having.”

“Being brought here against our will?” retorted Remus as Jane joined them.

Jane laughed humorlessly, “No. Being treated as though I don’t exist,” she countered, rolling her eyes. “Slughorn can’t stand it when members of his little club bring other people. Bloody elitist,” she added as she took the punch Sirius handed her.

“I like you better this way, Thompson,” drawled a familiar voice, “you’re so cynical, almost like a normal person.” Severus smirked slightly as he too got some punch. Feeling as though his date’s honor had been insulted, Sirius smarted, “What would you know about it Snape?”

“Nothing,” piped up another familiar voice, as Toni joined them, “Me on the other hand,” she glanced at the punch bowl then asked the group, “Think there’s enough for me to drown myself in?”

The tension melted and everyone laughed. Just as it looked as though things were improving, Professor Slughorn joined them, “Having a good time, I see. That’s wonderful. Have any of you seen Lily Evans?” Alexis glanced around, “She’s over there dancing with Jack O’Malley sir.” At this Slughorn sighed heavily and turned to Sev, “I’m sorry Severus. I too had high hopes for the two of you.” With that, he walked away presumably to torture others. Alexis glared at him and muttered something at precisely the same time as their professor tripped and knocked over a table and became covered with the food that had been on it. As a few students rushed to help him up, Lily and Jack joined the group that had begun trying to restrain their laughter.

“Poor Professor Slughorn,” Lily cried, “how embarrassing.”

“You wouldn’t being saying that if you had heard what he said a couple seconds ago,” quipped Toni, “by the way, nice one Ally.”
Lily, Jack and Jane looked confused while Severus muttered, “You didn’t have to.”

Alexis arched an eyebrow, “Who says I did?” Sirius snorted, “Please Prince. Who else could’ve done it?”

Lily frowned, “What are you talking about?”

No one said anything and Jane piped up, “You cursed him?”

“Jinxed, actually,” Ally admitted, “he deserved it.”

Considering no one could argue, they all stood their uncomfortably. Finally Remus spoke, “Anyone else ready to get out of here?”

“You read my mind,” Ally said, exhaling deeply. Ally spared Remus by going over to bid him farewell alone and it was good she did.

“Whatever happened between you and Sirius Black, Alexis?” Slughorn asked, “you were both so obviously enamored with each other. You’d make a very good couple.”

She stared at him, trying to mask her disdain, “He and I are friends,” and walked off. Alexis walked over to Remus and the two of them left, followed shortly by Lily, Jack, Jane, and Sirius. Toni and Severus too left the party but paused before they separated.

“I’m sorry about Slughorn embarrassing you like that,” Toni stated finally. He frowned, “It’s not a big deal. Most everyone already knew how I felt about Lily anyway. Besides, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It was just a little crush.”

Toni nodded, “I know what you mean.” They paused for a moment before Severus spoke again, “Thanks for coming with me. I really appreciate it.” She smiled, “Any time, Sev, any time.” With that, they left each other and headed towards their respective dormitories. When Toni got there, James was laughing hysterically while everyone else looked as though they were worried about his sanity.

“Told him about Slughorn, did you?” she asked the group. “Thought he’d get a kick out of it,” shrugged Ally as she took down her hair, “He did,” she added needlessly.

“Where were you coming from all dressed up?” asked Peter, taking note of Toni’s appearance.

“I was there too,” she answered. At this James stopped laughing, “But Slughorn can’t stand you.”

She arched an eyebrow, “Nor I, him but that’s what you do for friends.”

James look confused, “What friend? Everyone there that we know had dates.”

She frowned, “What’s with the questioning?”

“Nothing,” he said quickly, “just curious.”

She started to walk off but turned around, “I went with Sev,” and with that she went upstairs.

“Snape?” spat James, “she went with Snape?”

Everyone stared at him until Lily piped up, “What did you expect her to do? Sit here pining away for you? You’re not as wonderful as you think especially considering how you treated her. I, for one, am glad she is moving on.” While everyone stood awkwardly, Lily went upstairs while James stomped up to his dormitory.

“That went well,” observed Remus wryly. Alexis laughed and kissed him goodnight, “Thanks for coming with me tonight.”

He smiled, “No thanks necessary.” She hugged him, bade goodnight to Jane and Sirius and went upstairs with Remus doing the same.

Sirius sighed, “So have fun?”

Jane smirked, “I’m only going to ask you this once and whatever you say I’ll believe you. There’s nothing going on with you and Prince right?”

“Other than friendship,” he replied, “nothing.”

She smiled, “Good because I think I really like you. I don’t expect you to-“ He stopped her with a kiss then said, “I think I really like you too.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“So much studying,” moaned Toni, “ever think of just not studying and seeing how much you really know?”

“Never,” answered Sev. She smiled, “You don’t know what you’re missing.” He shook his head, “If you can go into exams without studying and manage to do well, then you’re even more brilliant than you pretend to be.”

“There’s no way she could be more brilliant than she thinks she is,” Ally put in as she sat down, “Sorry Sev but you’d better be heading out before Black comes in and starts banging about ‘proper Slytherin pride’ and all that jazz.” He nodded and left. Toni and Ally sat quietly for a moment then Ally asked the question that had been bothering her for some time now, “Toni are you interested in Sev?”

Her friend looked at her for a second then answered, “It’s too soon to tell. I enjoy his company, he makes me laugh and I feel like I can be myself around him…but I want to wait before I dive headfirst into another situation like with James.”

“So you think Sev is still interested in Lily?” she asked, “even though she’s obviously starting something with Jack?”

Toni shrugged, “I think it’s easy to overlook the obvious when you’re really infatuated with someone.”

Without knowing it, Toni had made an observation that Ally would soon come to on her own.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Their exams came and went a lot quicker than they had in previous years. Before they knew it, it was time for their last feast before the trip home. Due to their triumph over Hufflepuff for the Cup, Gryffindor finished in first place. This of course made their table the loudest and happiest in the Hall. The Quidditch players were getting a lot of the credit for their win and people were even beginning to forget James’ poor performance against Slytherin. A lot had changed in their third year. Relationships, friendships and romantic, had evolved as had those in them. Toni and James had gotten valuable, if tough, lessons in dating as had Sirius while Ally, Remus, Frank and Alice had experienced blissful, unproblematic first ‘loves’. All in all, the year had been much better than their previous ones and things were looking much brighter for the future. As the tight knit group of friends enjoyed the feast and their defeat of Slytherin, they had no idea of the dark and hard times that lie before them.




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Yeah about that whole 'getting this post up by that weekend'...didn't quite work out. I have decided not to make plans about future posts. All I can say is that from here on out things are going to be very interesting so I'll try to post semi-regularly. Now then, on to the actual post...

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“What are you talking about Reggie?” Sirius asked a couple of days before he and his brother were set to return to Hogwarts. Regulus hushed his brother and opened the door a crack. Waving Sirius over, he pointed to a man in a traveling cloak who was talking to their father. He didn’t look familiar to either brother but something about him sent chills down Sirius’ spine. He reached over his little brother and closed the door.

“Who is he?” asked Sirius curiously.

“Some man named Riddle,” Regulus recounted, “According to Mum and Dad, he’s trying to ‘uphold proper wizarding pride’ and ‘keep Muggles in their proper place’.” Sirius shuddered knowing how his parents felt about these things, “How’s he going to do that?”

Regulus shrugged, “Don’t know yet. He’s holding a meeting though to recruit people and Mum and Dad are going to go.” Sirius frowned, “How did they find out about this character?”

“Uncle Cygnus and Aunt Druella,” answered Regulus. Sirius paused, “How do you know all this?” He shrugged, “People talk around me.” Disturbed once again by his family Sirius could think of nothing to say except, “Keep me posted Reggie.”

“Of course,” his little brother agreed.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The train ride to Hogwarts became more solemn than ever before. Over the summer, there had been several disappearances: some high profile, some not so much, some were even muggles. This of course created worry within the wizarding community and paranoia in parents, as anyone could be next.

“My dad practically carried me onto the train,” Alexis complained as she sat down next to James who was the only other person in the compartment. James had grown a couple of inches over the summer but was still short. His hair had grown out almost covering his hazel eyes. He and Ally hadn’t seen each other for awhile because their parents had been keeping them locked in their houses.

“You’re telling me,” he groaned, “Dad brought me here early, charmed the cabin to ward off anyone with ‘questionable intentions’, and then bribed one of the prefects to keep an eye on me!”

His cousin’s jaw dropped, “Uncle Henry takes the cake. Where is everyone else, do you think?”

As if in response to her question, Lily and Sirius filed in as though being pushed. The four of them sat in the compartment taking in one another’s recent change in appearance. Alexis noticed Sirius had grown practically half a foot over the summer. He too had grown his hair out and he was pushing out of his face as he spoke. Hasn’t either of them heard of a barber, she thought. After a moment, she realized Sirius was staring at her too. She turned to look out the window while he took in her appearance. She was still as short as she ever was but in a cute way. Her long black hair had been cut to her shoulders which gave her the air of looking a little older. Of course, the fact that her body had matured as well helped her look older too. Lily, unlike Ally, had grown a couple inches making her and James the same height and like Alexis she too had cut her hair and gained a more womanly figure. James was taking notice of this rather awkwardly when Sirius decided to break the silence, “Who charmed the compartment?” Sirius asked as he made himself comfortable next to Alexis.

James stared at him, “How did you know that?” He rolled his eyes, “You live with my parents long enough you get a sense for these things.”

“My dad did it,” confessed James, “he’s a little paranoid.”

“Huh,” Sirius grunted, “I would’ve thought Prince’s dad was more the kind to do something like that.” Alexis smirked, “Are your parents acting more bizarre than usual as well?”

“Well,” shrugged Lily, “my parents don’t know because I’m not fool enough to tell them. I’ve been keeping up on things via the Daily Prophet though.”

“Speaking of the Daily Prophet,” Remus piped up as he entered with Toni, chatting along the way, “How are your parents handling things?”

She grimaced, “Not well. With all that’s going on, there’s a need for more aurors. Guess who started his training earlier this week?”

“No way!” shrieked Alice who came in seconds before Peter, “Kingsley’s an auror!?!?!”

“Yep,” nodded Toni, “so as you can imagine my parents are taking it very well. My mum is a nervous wreck and my dad spends most of his time trying to convince her that Kingsley won’t die in training.”

“What do you think about it?” Peter questioned as he and Alice finally entered.

Toni shrugged, “I think that if anyone can handle the madness that’s out there at this very moment, it’s my brother.”

“Hear, hear,” Ally agreed aloud.

Remus’ brow furrowed, “Kingsley’s gone. I wonder who the new Head Boy and Girl are.”

“Wonder no more,” Mark Brown said as he entered their compartment.

“No way!” Ally practically shouted, “you’re Head Boy?! Congratulations!” She got up and hugged him tightly, “Of course, if you’re Head Boy, you’re probably not Quidditch Captain.”

Mark smirked, “Nope. Ava is. I actually came by to let you know that I won’t be on the team anymore what with my Head Boy responsibilities and all.” At this Alexis frowned, “Just great, someone else to replace.”

“What she means,” interrupted Sirius, “is that it’s great that you’re Head Boy and she understands why you have to give up Quidditch.”

“Nice save,” Mark quipped with a grin, “well, I’ve got to go make my rounds. I’ll see you guys around.”

“Well, at least we know Ava’s captain,” James spoke, “that’s a good thing. Hey, where are Jane and Frank?”

“Jane’s a prefect,” Sirius announced proudly.

“So is Frank,” Alice added.

“That’s good,” Alexis surmised, “we know the Head boy and our prefects. Nice.” James smirked, “You’re starting to sound a lot like me cuz.” She stuck her tongue out in response.

“Alright then,” interrupted Alice, “what should we talk about next?”

“Well,” piped up Toni, “as most of us have spent the entire summer listening to paranoid parents ramble about safety and what not; I’d say anything that doesn’t involve dark wizards.”

“Agreed,” Peter piped up.

“What are we thinking about quidditch prospects for Gryffindor?” Sirius asked the group.

The topic of Quidditch kept their interest for the rest of the train ride. Once they got off the station in Hogsmeade, Ally noticed the town felt different than it had before. The others seemed to agree as they huddled closer together than usual. Alexis spotted her cousin Severus and Sirius’ brother Regulus and waved. The boys looked over and waved back.

When they finally reached, Hogwarts Alexis felt she could breathe easier. There was something about being inside the castle that made her feel safe and secure. As they walked into the Great Hall, Alexis looked up and saw her grandfather and all of the other teachers. Everyone knew Hogwarts was a safe place especially with all of the qualified well trained wizards that were teachers there. As she sat down she did a double take. The chair next to Professor McGonagall was occupied by a familiar face. What was his name, she thought, he was an auror...he had been for a couple of years…Something that ended in ‘ish’…

“Professor Dawlish will be your new Defense against the Dark Arts Professor,” her grandfather was telling the group. Apparently he had started his speech while Ally wasn’t paying attention.

“Now then, tuck in,” he concluded as he sat down.

“Anyone know anything about the new Dark Arts Professor?” asked James, placing a mound of food on his plate.

Alexis put her goblet down, “His name’s Dawlish-“

“Really Prince?” cracked Sirius.

“He’s works in the Auror office with Dad. He’s been there for a couple of years,” she continued, ignoring him as was tradition with her.

“Dad says he’s going to be the best auror once he and Mr. Prince retire,” piped up Frank.

Toni looked up at the Professor appraisingly, “Not bad looking.”

Alice, Alexis and Lily started laughing loudly and the boys just shook their heads.

As the feast came to a close, Frank and Jane said their goodbyes to the group and went to guide the first years.

“Who would’ve thought the great troublemaker Sirius Black would fall for someone involved with rules?” smarted James.

Remus nodded, stoically, “I suppose this is the end of our shenanigans.”

“One can only hope,” came Lily’s sarcastic reply as she waved to Jack who was guiding the first year Ravenclaws out of the hall.

“O’Malley’s a prefect too?” Peter asked. Lily answered with a nod and Alexis and Toni exchanged a glance.

“Looks like you guys will have to keep yourselves in line,” Alice sang, “finally.”

The boys shrugged noncomittently and Alexis stared at the four of them for a moment. Unlikely, she decided in the end but what she said was, “How about we head up to our dormitories?”

Sirius yawned, “Good idea, Prince.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The next morning they met downstairs as per usual before breakfast. With the new additions of Frank and Jane, the group started towards the cafeteria. As they walked they couldn’t help but notice that several students from each house, boys and girls alike seemed to be whispering about them. By the time they reached the Great Hall, there was no denying it.

“What is it now?” demanded Alice, “normally it’s Black.” She turned to Sirius, “Have you done anything lately?”

Sirius put on his best insulted face, “Who? Me? Never.” The group eyed him for a minute and he dropped the joking façade, “No. I haven’t done anything nor do I think any of my family members have either.”

“Maybe it’s not Black after all,” Alexis decided as she saw a sixth year boy openly staring at Toni. Alexis spotted Ava Finnigan and stopped her, “Ava, darling!” Ava smirked and walked over, “What is it Al, dearest?”

“Do you have any idea why everyone seems to be talking about and staring at us?” she asked. Ava looked around, tossed her hair and arched an eyebrow, “Hormones.”

“Come again?” Lily piped up. Ava smiled, “You’re fourth years now. Most of you look it too. It’s not just you. Watch the other fourth years. They’re going through the same thing. One by one, you’ll all start paring off.” She glanced down at the rest of the group, “If you haven’t already.” With a final swing of her blonde hair she got up and headed towards the door. Spinning around she shouted, “Oh, Potter, Al, don’t forget tryouts. We’ve got practically a whole team to replace!”

“When?” Alexis shouted back. “Next week,” came her reply, “details to come.”

The group sat silently for a moment before James piped up, “Do you think she was right?” They all instinctively looked around and it seemed as though Ava had been right. Everyone fourth year and older seemed to be sizing up those around them.

“Well,” Toni surmised finishing off the last of her pumpkin juice, and winking at the boy who was staring at her, “this ought to be interesting.” James and Peter laughed while the rest seemed to inch uncomfortably towards their respective “boyfriend” or “girlfriend”.

“Defense against the Dark Arts!” Professor Dawlish stated rather loudly once class had begun, “is a vital tool for each of you. Hopefully by the end of the term you will all feel sufficiently prepared for life outside these walls. Now then, let’s begin.” Professor Dawlish had decided to teach them shield charms in the case of an emergency. The lesson was very informative and helpful for most of the fourth years.

“Bored Prince?” Sirius asked as once again he attempted to disarm her so she could “practice” the charm.

“Like you wouldn’t believe,” she answered, blocking his spell once again.

“All right,” Dawlish interrupted towards the end of class, “Nice work everyone. You all seem to be very quick learners. Now then, I want you all to write an essay on when the shield charm is and is not effective to be turned in next time. Great work! Ms. Prince, if you don’t mind could I have a word with you?” Alexis told her friends to go on ahead and stayed behind, “That was a great lesson Professor.”

“Just not at all interesting for you or your partner,” he countered with a smile, “it’s all right. Your dad and Mr. Longbottom warned me that you and Mr. Black are ahead of the game. Now then, I don’t want to scare you but a couple of the younger aurors and I think that we should let some of you students in on a little bit of information.”

Alexis couldn’t believe her ears. All these years of being kept in the dark and now someone was finally going to tell her something! It was too good to be true.

“Be careful here. Keep your mouth closed and your eyes open,” he told her, “we have reason to believe that the one in charge of all of the stuff that happened over the summer might be trying to recruit at Hogwarts.”

“How?” she wondered, “it’s not like he can get into the castle.”

“No but his followers' children can,” he corrected, “now don’t tell your father I told you this and don’t repeat this to anyone you have reason not to trust. If you hear anything suspicious, let me know. Rumor has it you and your friends have an aptitude for getting in over your heads.”

She smirked and nodded, “Tell Kingsley thanks and that we miss him.”

Her professor looked shocked for a minute, “Who said anything about Shacklebolt?”

“He looks out for us,” she shrugged, “he’s a good guy like that.” With a wave to her professor, she left.

Trying to recruit people at Hogwarts, she thought on her way to Ancient Runes, who would do that? Who would want to continue what had happened over the summer?

“Hello Prince,” drawled a familiar but nonetheless unwelcome voice.

“Malfoy,” she acknowledged, “what have I done to be graced with your presence?”

He smirked, “You’re looking well. Very well actually,” he stepped towards her and she took a step back and snapped, “What is wrong with you?”

He frowned, “More to the point what is wrong with you? Why are you being so stubborn and hard headed?”

“About what?” she demanded. He continued, “About what side you should be on? Being in Gryffindor can’t protect you from what’s coming. However, if you switch teams now you’ll be taken care of in the future.”

“From what?” she repeated angrily. He was really starting to try her patience and apparently he felt the same way, “There aren’t unlimited chances to join the right side,” he warned her, “if you don’t come to your senses soon, I’m afraid it’ll be too late. What a waste it would be,” he finished stepping towards her again. Her hand tightened around her wand at precisely the same time a hand appeared on Lucius’ shoulder.

“If you know what’s best,” warned a familiar voice, “you’ll leave her alone.” Lucius turned to face him, “If you knew what was best, you wouldn’t threaten me. We all know how much you care what others think.”

“Not anymore Malfoy,” he growled, “keep your hands to yourself or I’ll make everyone realize that I am a Black after all.”

“I’m not afraid of you,” Malfoy hissed, eyes narrowed. Sirius smiled, “You should be.” With no more to say, Sirius stepped past Lucius, put an arm around Alexis and muttered, “Are you alright?”

She stared at him, “Normally, I’d snap at you for coming to my rescue but in this case I’ll make an exception. Thanks Black.” He smiled, “You’re welcome.” They walked a couple of steps before he asked, “So what did the Professor talk to you about?”

“Actually, he told me some rather interesting information,” she whispered, “but I’ll tell you later. I want to talk to the rest of the group too.”

He smiled, “Must be good information.” She nodded, “It is.” Before either of them could say a thing, someone shouted, “There you are!” The two of them spun around to see Jane and Remus walking toward them. Sirius’ arm disappeared from Ally’s shoulder as they walked quickly to meet them.

“You were looking for us?” Sirius asked as he greeted Jane with a hug, “is it important?”

Alexis kissed Remus on the cheek and noticed that his brow was furrowed. That was never a good sign, “What is it?”

“We have to go to the hospital wing,” he answered quickly, “all of us.” Ally and Sirius exchanged looks and started running off in the direction of the hospital wing before either Remus or Jane could explain. As they entered, they noticed two beds in the back of the wing were occupied. Upon closer inspection, they realized they knew the occupants.

“Sev!” Alexis gasped just as Sirius whispered, "Reggie," and ran to his brother’s bedside.

“What happened?” demanded Alexis as she sat down next to her cousin. He looked around to make sure no one was whispering before he managed, “Say nothing.”

“Now, now you two,” Madam Nightingale interrupted, “the two of them have been through quite a lot. I’m going to give them a potion for a dreamless sleep and you can visit tomorrow.” In spite of protests from Ally and Sirius, Madam Nightingale gave the potion to both Severus and Regulus and ushered them out just as Jane, Remus and the rest of their friends joined them.

“What happened?” James asked Sirius while Toni and Lily accosted Ally.

“Remus said something about Sev,” Lily told her, “what’s wrong?”

Toni interrupted, “Is he okay?”

Before Alexis and Sirius could answer any questions, Professor McGonagall appeared, “Will the two of you come with me please?” she asked in her most delicate voice. They nodded and followed her. It took a moment before Alexis realized they were headed to the Headmaster’s office. She had never been there with anyone other than James. She wondered how her Grandfather would expect her to act. Would he say anything in front of Sirius? Not even the girls knew about her relationship with the Headmaster.

“Candy cane,” McGonagall told the statue at the bottom of the stairs. She nodded for the two of them to go ahead. Neither had said anything since they left the hospital wing. Alexis finally looked at Sirius who seemed to be holding in all of his emotion. She instinctively grabbed his hand to comfort him. He looked at her and squeezed her hand. He knocked on the door and she heard her grandfather say, “Come in.”

Alexis followed Sirius in and they both sat down.

“Now then,” he began, “as you know you both have family members in the hospital wing. Any ideas why?”

Alexis knew Black was thinking the same thing she was but neither of them would say it out loud. They wanted to take care of it themselves.

“Knowing both of you as I do,” he continued, “I must insist that neither of you take matters into your own hands. The world has become a much more dangerous place since the last time you did that and I’ll not have you endanger yourselves again. So tell me: who do you think it was?”

Sirius finally spoke, “Why not ask Reggie and Snape?”

“Because as Slytherins, they will not squeal on their housemates,” he countered.

“What makes you so sure it was a Slytherin?” Alexis was curious to know.

Albus Dumbledore stared at his granddaughter and her friend measuring how much of the information he had should be shared with them.

“Undoubtedly the two of you are familiar with the events that have happened over the summer,” he began, “now these events appear to be the work of a group of people who work under the instruction of one man. This man and his group have ideas that are very similar to those of Salazar Slytherin and by extension some of the students that are in his house.”

“This guy’s trying to recruit people,” surmised Alexis, based on what Professor Dawlish had told her, “and you think some of his followers may have convinced their children to do the same here at Hogwarts.”

Sirius looked at her from a moment then turned back to face Dumbledore.

“I think it’s a possibility,” he granted.

Sirius didn’t seem to agree, “What has that got to do with Reggie?”

“If confronted with the opportunity to join this group Mr. Black,” prodded the Headmaster, “do you think he would?”

“Absolutely not,” growled Sirius. Then it hit him. “That’s what you think. You think that they tried to recruit Reggie and Snape and when they said ‘no’, they attacked them.”

“That is my suspicion, yes,” he agreed.

Alexis figured out something else while the two of them were talking, “You want to know who we think would join, don’t you Grampy?” Both Sirius and Dumbledore looked taken aback at her addressing him this way but neither said anything about it.

“Yes, my dear I do,” he admitted.

Alexis knew who the most obvious person was but giving her Grandfather that person’s name wasn’t her decision to make so she did the next best thing, “Lucius Malfoy. He accosted me earlier and told me that I was on the wrong side and that if I knew what was good for me I’d change my mind.”

“What else did he say?” her grandfather urged. She shrugged, “Only that I’d find out soon enough what a mistake I’d made.”

“I see,” he nodded, “can you think of anyone Mr. Black?” Sirius seemed to be having an internal struggle and finally settled on, “No, sir.”

The Headmaster seemed to sense he would not be able to change Sirius’ mind so he nodded, “If either of you think of anyone else, do tell me. It’s what I’m here for.” Alexis nodded, got up and hugged him, “Night Grampy.”

“Goodnight my dear,” he replied, “you’re both free to go.”

Sirius nodded, shook hands with Dumbledore and left. As Alexis shut the door behind herself she spoke to Sirius, “Listen Black no one here but James and now you know about me and Grampy.”

Sirius raised a hand, “Say no more Princess. I understand completely. You have my word; I won’t tell a soul.”

“Thanks Black,” she sighed, “I knew I could count on you.” They left the Headmaster’s office before Alexis got up the nerve to ask, “Why didn’t you mention Bellatrix?”

“Why didn’t you?” he countered. She stumbled with her words a little but finally managed, “It’s not my place. She’s your cousin and when the time comes for you to pick sides…,” she paused, seemingly at a loss for words but finally managed, “I know where your heart is.” He nodded and looked at her, “So do I.”



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