Andrew Vance
29 Jun 2021, 03:16
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Friday evening: July 2, 2021
Vance house – Romford, London
"All ready!" Stacy descended the stairs, giving a little twirl of her outfit in front of her awaiting family in the living room. "How do I look? Not too much? –What do you not think?" She teased, prodding the males of the household to comment something about her appearance.
Andrew was also dressed up. Jeans and one of his nicer sweaters. Stacy hadn't dolled up any fancier than he, aside from the extra primping with hair and makeup. In the eyes of their parents, it was just an ordinary night out with friends to kickstart summer break, meeting up with Abraham and Kiyana Hill at the Leaky Cauldron. Walk around, dine out, be back before 9. Nothing Stacy ought to fret too self-consciously over for this particular evening, playing it cool in front of her parents, but being her closest confidante, Andrew could read his sister's butterflies between the lines.
Feelings for Abe had been steeping since Andrew's Hogwarts letter brought their worlds closer together, spilled out to her brothers long before Stacy mustered the courage to tell their parents and even moreso, confess them to Abe – in a rather sudden YOLO bombshell fashion on her 17th birthday, little less than a month prior, via owl. What with him being a family friend for so long, Stacy feared to ruin whatever relationship was already built between them, and there was no telling how Abe's family would react to it as well.
Their own parents hadn't put up as much protest as the Vance siblings expected. Not like the movies where the dad starts cleaning the shotgun to intimidate the boyfriend. On the contrary, Mr. and Mrs. Vance seemed to breathe a sigh of relief that Stacy hadn't fallen for anyone far worse than someone they were already familiar with and had known to be a decent kid for years. Someone Andrew went to school with, and could vouch for his character, and if need be, put a stop to any unwanted advances with magic, Trace or not.
It had been a milestone occasion, for Andrew's parents to finally lay down the ground rules that had been more or less unspoken until a month ago. No boy/girlfriends until 18. No frisky business until you afford your own place to do it in. That didn't mean putting a stopper on any innocent puppy love. Friendship with Abe and Kiki seemed to continue on as normal, if not stronger, especially now during summer break with all the time in the world to spend with each other. In Stacy's eyes, it wasn't a full head-over-heels romance, treating the "boy/girlfriend" title as a special token of dibs, for now, until the 1-year trial phase was over, when it finally became "official". Hopefully.
For Andrew, it was an…enlightening experience. Stacy was essentially the guinea pig, making her debut into the grown-up world of relationships, paving the road for her younger brothers to follow. Well, not him, obviously. Andrew reckoned he was immune to that romance stuff, and frankly couldn't imagine his wee angel nerd of a brother falling into that pit as well. Still, Stacy's happiness was his happiness. Kicking into protective brother mode, he'd do anything to keep her relationship with Abe sailing as smooth as possible, not above her own safety of course. Free guidance counselor right here, if ever Abe sought a tip or two. But, you know, what was the fun in giving away all the answers? It was amusing to play the part of the bodyguard and get in a friendly standoff with Abe every now and then.
"Wallet, check. Phone, check. Alright, you all have a good time," Mrs. Vance waved them off to the fireplace. "Be safe. Stay together. Text every hour–or picture– No, half hour."
"Nine o'clock. We'll be waiting." Mr. Vance chimed in.
"Does that mean Abe and Kiki can come over, then? If we're back by nine?" Stacy proposed.
"Hey, if I can't go, they can't come." Kyle pouted lightly, snuggled on the couch in his pajamas. His parents had deemed his 11 years too young to hang out after dark, but with the baited hook of ice cream and popcorn, a movie night at home would be an ample substitute. Not that he in any way disliked Abe or Kiki, but in all fairness, he couldn't let them share his treat if he couldn't share theirs.
"Another time," Mrs. Vance assured. "You'll have all the summer for sleepovers."
After a round of quick hugs, Andrew saw his sister off first, before stepping into the fireplace and disappearing in a whirl of green flames.
The Leaky Cauldron
The Floo saved gas, for a night excursion just across the street from the Leaky Cauldron. This particular outing, Stacy had hyped it up to be more romanticized than it really was. Her and Abe's first "date night" as "boyfriend-girlfriend". Plus two. A "double date" with Andrew and Kiyana, she teased. And although their parents had emphasized for the group to stick together, Stacy was bent on sneaking some private time with Abe. Whatever. Andrew could only shrug and eyeroll to himself at his sister's schemes.
After stepping outside for reception, sending the mandatory text back to base camp that they had made it in one piece to the Leaky Cauldron, as well as to alert the rest of their party (if service was available on their end, wherever Abe and Kiki were), Andrew and Stacy would re-enter the bustling pub, claiming seats closest to the Floo portal so they wouldn't miss Abe and Kiki's arrival.
Last edited by Andrew Vance on 13 Jul 2022, 14:46, edited 10 times in total.
30 Jun 2021, 06:38
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
20 Minutes Before Departure
Emma's House - Cambridge, EnglandThere were no more quarrels between her parents, there were no more random crashes, and there was no more lounging on the sofa to catch up on her favorite TV shows... she was a sucker for The Great British Bakeoff. She did whatever she could to evade her father's attitude like avoiding dinners and his room, which used to belong to her mother. Now her only link to the Muggle world was fastened down in Brazil, and Emma wasn't the only one having a difficult time readjusting. The three siblings had lost their mother. They all had distinct ways of coping with the loss. Abraham was rarely in the house anymore, he was of legal age. Kiki sulked around on the couch and blew her spare change on ice cream and confections. As for Emma, she was stuck to her bed, listening to the music that reminded her to remain patient. The house had fallen into absolute silence ever since her return from Brazil nearly a couple of weeks back except for the rare occasion when the three siblings joined forces in the same room. Everything was different, and it wasn't for the better. Change always came unexpectedly for her, and she by no means took it indifferently.
The mahogany door managing Emma's room banged against the wall as it swung open, revealing her older cousin standing in the doorway, the glisten in his eyes exposing his daydreams. He was groomed, wearing mostly black from head to toe. A grey tee and a black denim jacket complimented his fair complexion. He'd even attempted to subdue his mangled hair, but his spellwork didn't get very far and somewhat curled the edges of his mane.
"Get up, we're going out." The flat voice came from the opened door. Violently forcing the sheets off her head, a few strands of hair obscured her vision as she mugged her cousin, who was eagerly watching her every movement. She had consumed most of the day napping off her appetite and emotions. Leaving the house did seem like fun, but she didn't want to go with her cousin or frankly leave her mattress. The girl knew he'd dressed up nicely for a reason, and there was truly only one reason.
Why do I have to go?" She mourned as if the answer weren't already apparent. Emma did want to see Stacy, it had been an entire year since she'd seen any of the Vances. A whole cycle she spent disregarding their messages because she couldn't explain the incidents happening in her own life. She didn't even understand them herself, to go back now without an explanation was mental suicide and she was on edge. She was already coming up with excuses and false evidence to back up her story. Instead of a verbal response from Abe, he chucked her backpack on her bed and beckoned her out of the door.
"You have five minutes!" He ordered as he retreated down the stairs, sending a prompt message back to Stacy as he grinned to himself.
"Shut the door next time!" She shouted even louder, throwing herself out of bed. The melody echoing in her room obviously wasn't fulfilling its responsibility. She fumbled through her wardrobe until she reached her shirts, pulling out the first one that grabbed her eye. It was a grey graphic tee three sizes too large for the girl, but she liked the enormity and texture of the cotton.
Down on the floor below her, she could hear her Kiki bickering about fairness. She had gotten caught last week sneaking a boy into the residence sometime after midnight. It didn't help that the boy went to Hogwarts. Emma and Abe were always on the lookout for the Huffle running around the school's corridors but seemed to get the opportunity to put him back into his place. The bunch didn't exactly abide by the rules, not at school or home. With her dad stationed in Greece, they were available to do whatever they pleased as long as they weren't caught sneaking around late. The three kids substantially ran the house. "Someone needs to stay here and keep watch."
"Why? So she can snuggle up with another guy?" The Ravenclaw interjected as she descended the stairs, all dressed and ready to go, but he only made a note of her outfit and removed a scanty pouch in his back pocket: the only source of the Floo powder. The next several minutes were filled with allegations being tossed back and forth. It was a good thing the house was deserted, even a few curse words were thrown around until the oldest exclaimed, "I don't care who comes over! Knock yourself out."
And with that, Emma was the first to climb into the empty fireplace, the handful of the powder slipping slowly onto the wood floors as she consumed more time. "Leaky Cauldron!" She chanted, dumping the ashes into the cement. A tornado of emerald flames engulfed the girl. With fire, came the heat. It was always unbearable, but harmless. She avoided using the Floo, it always left her feeling nauseous and dizzy, but she couldn't use her broom to travel around and risk being detected by Muggles or worse, the Ministry.Emma stumbled out of the fireplace, the ground still revolving slightly as she recovered her composure. Abraham was obnoxiously close behind her, prodding her on the spine with every sluggish stride she took. He was very excited to finally spend some alone time with Stacy, preferably not in the bustling pub. He could hardly hear himself think. "Stacy!" He called out happily, pretending as if he'd just discovered the Vances. No, he saw them as soon as the flames disappeared from his vision.The Leaky Cauldron
As her perception began to stabilize, her heart began to race. What was she going to say? How was she going to say it? Did she even have the courage to put up a lie? It seemed like their first encounter all over again. Before she could get out a word, however, it was her cousin that seemed to do most of the talking and she wasn't going to stop him. "Hi Andrew, school's still going good, right?"
Whenever she wasn't glancing at the drunken wixes at the bar, her eyes seemed to meet Andrew, who'd undergone some change as well. When Abe finally took the moment to catch a breath, Emma perked up, looking back and forth between the siblings. "Shut up," Her fist landed with a thud on her shoulder. Anyways, hey you guys! It's been a while... hasn't it? Oh my goodness, how've you been?" She internally winced, but her words came out calm, hiding the wave of excitement. There was an unusual twang in her voice. Her absence was uncalled for, her communication was essentially nonexistent for the past year. There wasn't any way to make that up.
~ Emmaline Louise Milanes ~
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Andrew Vance
19 Aug 2021, 09:35
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Minutes ticked by, what felt like hours on an empty stomach, tapping his fingers on the table to distract his wandering nose from the meals of nearby patrons. Don't give into ordering something. He couldn't spoil his appetite. In a dysfunctional household like the Hills' (of which the Vances had some glimpse into or speculation of, being family friends for a while), hiccups in punctuality were to be expected. Another green flash from the fireplace would alert Andrew's gaze to the latest arrivals – Abe and…wait – He scrutinized the other girl's face, a second delay behind that of his sister, who hopped to her feet instantly.
"Ahh! Emma!" Nearly knocking her chair over, with an ecstatic screech that turned a few patrons' heads in their direction, Stacy raced over and threw her arms around the other girl, bypassing Abe entirely.
Emma? Andrew followed more calmly behind at his sister's heels, no less of an uncontrollable grin on his face as a wave of old-time resemblance hit him, and the two boys briefly caught up.
Which one? Andrew nearly scoffed aloud, but forced a smile at Abe anyway, as if he wasn't experiencing war flashbacks of Hogwarts at the moment. Muggle school was coming along quite smoothly, thank you very much. "Yeah. Great." His enthusiasm fell short at a loss for words, though one might interpret it as stunned silence, still reeling from surprise at Emma's sudden appearance. "You? ...Where's Kiki?" He'd remember, followed by a solemn nod in dismay as Abe would fill him in. "Well, Kyle's watching movies at our house, if Kiki wants to," he offered. "Our parents can keep an eye on her, if you'd like." Didn't seem to be a very effective discipline, expecting a 14-year old (in less than a week – so much for an early birthday month celebratory outing) to keep out of trouble at home by herself. But whatever. He wouldn't question the older sibling's judgement.
"Oh my word!" Stacy gasped, releasing Emma from her boa constrictor hug. "You're so tall! So big and grown up now! I- I've always been a shorty, so no change here." She chuckled. A few inches past her mother and maternal grandmother was an accomplishment in gene progress. "You and Andy are…Is Andy taller? Andy c'mere!" Snatching her brother by the arm (right one, thankfully), Andrew nearly stumbled as Stacy yanked him over, squishing him back-to-back with Emma for comparison. Lordy, not the butts touching. "Hmm. Not sure if it's just the hair," Stacy smirked, pointing to the volume of Andrew's spiked-up Ivy League, "But I think Andy's a smidgen taller."
Abe would have to agree, prompting Emma's interjection.
"Oh, the usual." Andrew shrugged. With the growth spurt came the deepening voice as he rambled on about the latest happenings at home, Stacy butting in to rescue her brother from talking about Hogwarts about her own school drama and equestrian activities and college preparations and future career plans, the usual worries and starry-eyed hopes of a teen about to fledge the nest and embark on her own path in life. Andrew hadn't yet decided on which wizarding career was best for him, but he still had a few more years to figure that out. Ha. Yeah right.
"How was Brazil?" Andrew could sense the slight waver of hesitation in Stacy's cheery tone, treading the subject carefully as they awaited Emma's response. Any mention of the mother might agitate sore feelings, something the Vance siblings did not want to ruin what was supposed to be a pleasant evening. "Abe and Kiki said you went to Castle Bruno or something?" Inquiries would bubble effortlessly out of Stacy's lips, Andrew content with letting his more talkative elder steer the wheel of conversation while he listened attentively, though as soreness crept into his soles from standing too long, shifting from one foot to the other, his gaze would break concentration, scanning around the room. Averting to the doorway of the pub, as another female entered, accompanied by her male entourage.
"Well, speak of the devil," he crooned, quite consciously, barely audible to Emma standing beside him. A slight curl of a smirk, betraying some hint of familiarity with the other brunette who encroached upon their vicinity.
Three years ago, the morning after he had received his Letter from her, the day he had exhumed the Remembrall of Aurelia B., showing it to her… Emma's words had warned him, echoing in his head:
He never got around to prying Emma further about it, before she disappeared to Brazil. Now Andrew would have the satisfaction tormenting his old friend about how much he knew of her old archnemesis, since she had been away. Like many in the pub, though unabashed by it, Andrew wouldn't resist the urge to flick a stare at the Lovely Creature. Confident he had nothing to fear, if she met his. It would be impossible to ignore her presence, much less one who had made an direct impression on him, for better or for worse. And if the claims were true, neither would Emma, whom Andrew cast a corner glance at, analyzing her reaction.
"Ahh! Emma!" Nearly knocking her chair over, with an ecstatic screech that turned a few patrons' heads in their direction, Stacy raced over and threw her arms around the other girl, bypassing Abe entirely.
Emma? Andrew followed more calmly behind at his sister's heels, no less of an uncontrollable grin on his face as a wave of old-time resemblance hit him, and the two boys briefly caught up.
"Hi Andrew, school's still going good, right?"
Which one? Andrew nearly scoffed aloud, but forced a smile at Abe anyway, as if he wasn't experiencing war flashbacks of Hogwarts at the moment. Muggle school was coming along quite smoothly, thank you very much. "Yeah. Great." His enthusiasm fell short at a loss for words, though one might interpret it as stunned silence, still reeling from surprise at Emma's sudden appearance. "You? ...Where's Kiki?" He'd remember, followed by a solemn nod in dismay as Abe would fill him in. "Well, Kyle's watching movies at our house, if Kiki wants to," he offered. "Our parents can keep an eye on her, if you'd like." Didn't seem to be a very effective discipline, expecting a 14-year old (in less than a week – so much for an early birthday month celebratory outing) to keep out of trouble at home by herself. But whatever. He wouldn't question the older sibling's judgement.
"Oh my word!" Stacy gasped, releasing Emma from her boa constrictor hug. "You're so tall! So big and grown up now! I- I've always been a shorty, so no change here." She chuckled. A few inches past her mother and maternal grandmother was an accomplishment in gene progress. "You and Andy are…Is Andy taller? Andy c'mere!" Snatching her brother by the arm (right one, thankfully), Andrew nearly stumbled as Stacy yanked him over, squishing him back-to-back with Emma for comparison. Lordy, not the butts touching. "Hmm. Not sure if it's just the hair," Stacy smirked, pointing to the volume of Andrew's spiked-up Ivy League, "But I think Andy's a smidgen taller."
Abe would have to agree, prompting Emma's interjection.
"Shut up. Anyways, hey you guys! It's been a while... hasn't it? Oh my goodness, how've you been?"
"Oh, the usual." Andrew shrugged. With the growth spurt came the deepening voice as he rambled on about the latest happenings at home, Stacy butting in to rescue her brother from talking about Hogwarts about her own school drama and equestrian activities and college preparations and future career plans, the usual worries and starry-eyed hopes of a teen about to fledge the nest and embark on her own path in life. Andrew hadn't yet decided on which wizarding career was best for him, but he still had a few more years to figure that out. Ha. Yeah right.
"How was Brazil?" Andrew could sense the slight waver of hesitation in Stacy's cheery tone, treading the subject carefully as they awaited Emma's response. Any mention of the mother might agitate sore feelings, something the Vance siblings did not want to ruin what was supposed to be a pleasant evening. "Abe and Kiki said you went to Castle Bruno or something?" Inquiries would bubble effortlessly out of Stacy's lips, Andrew content with letting his more talkative elder steer the wheel of conversation while he listened attentively, though as soreness crept into his soles from standing too long, shifting from one foot to the other, his gaze would break concentration, scanning around the room. Averting to the doorway of the pub, as another female entered, accompanied by her male entourage.
"Well, speak of the devil," he crooned, quite consciously, barely audible to Emma standing beside him. A slight curl of a smirk, betraying some hint of familiarity with the other brunette who encroached upon their vicinity.
Three years ago, the morning after he had received his Letter from her, the day he had exhumed the Remembrall of Aurelia B., showing it to her… Emma's words had warned him, echoing in his head:
"I'd stay away from her if I were you."
"Why? Do you know her?"
"No." ... "Maybe."
He never got around to prying Emma further about it, before she disappeared to Brazil. Now Andrew would have the satisfaction tormenting his old friend about how much he knew of her old archnemesis, since she had been away. Like many in the pub, though unabashed by it, Andrew wouldn't resist the urge to flick a stare at the Lovely Creature. Confident he had nothing to fear, if she met his. It would be impossible to ignore her presence, much less one who had made an direct impression on him, for better or for worse. And if the claims were true, neither would Emma, whom Andrew cast a corner glance at, analyzing her reaction.
24 Nov 2021, 22:32
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Oddly enough, the more time she spent away from her bed, the more her stomach began to growl. I guess snack cakes and soda weren't enough to satisfy her appetite. She'd been living off of Rice Krispie Treats for the last three hours she'd been awake. Not everyone could get up at six every morning with the energy to run a marathon.
Abraham was dressed up in a white Polo shirt that brought out his lanky figure, light blue jeans, and white sneakers. A daring look, considering he had the confidence to keep them stainless all night. Not that it'd matter, he was finally seventeen and curse-free. The Ministry had permanently removed the trace from his wand and he could at long last cast spells around the house solely to rejoice or keep it clean. He had a big responsibility that wasn't made easy with the other two hoarding junk like Trash Island.
Emma welcomed in Stacy's bear hug by matching her enthusiasm, bouncing up and down as she wrapped her arms around her soft sweater. As she put her head on her shoulders, her eyes grazed Andrew's, but she was sure to avert her eyes in a different direction. She wasn't ready to put on a brave face and admit to her imperfections, but it didn't seem like she had a choice. Any fib she selected to play would come back to bite her later on, she was certain of it. Still, it felt like the first real hug she'd received in months. One that didn't come with baggage; something carefree that she wouldn't have to reimburse later on. It felt good.
Even with the attention shifted to Andrew, she still found it difficult to face him. Playing with her thumbs behind her back, she glanced in the Vances' direction every few seconds or so to ensure she wasn't missing out on much. With the way she saw it, she was a terrible person to look up to or to call a role model. Hogwarts was a stable place, but in good, there was the bad that occasionally showed.
Yeah... me. His words caught her eyes. For the first time in the night, her brown eyes met his grayish-blue. Perhaps she could have snapped back in the same way she treated his words; with disappointment and shock, but there was no point in ruining a night that hadn't even started. "I do have a name, remember?" She quipped in an attempt to conceal her dissociation from the conversation.
Height was something she never took pride in until now. Though it wasn't important to her, competition was. To suddenly be compared to someone else in a diminishing way only made her feel bitter. Though it was in a humorous manner, it wasn't helping. It wasn't like she could control it, but much to her demise, she hadn't grown as much during the summer and it appeared as if Andy was only beginning his growth spurt. If only she could alter her height like some of the gifted kids at Hogwarts. Until then, she'd be stuck inside his shadow... literally.
The space between them was infinite. She was there physically, nearly about to touch rears with her old friend, but mentally, she was miles away safe in her quarters. As the two lined up for comparison, both her eyes and stomach were focused on the aromantics and bustle of the Pub. Maybe it was a sign her diet wasn't as healthy as she pretended it to be. "I think he is taller." He agreed, shortly taking a blow to the arm by Emma. If only her hands were covered in pink paint; a color that could undoubtedly disorient his outfit.
"Oh, wow, you're going to a uni?" His astonished words came. Abrahram wanted to experience the college aesthetic, maybe not for four years however. He had already donated a good chunk of his lifetime to learning, he was tired of it. He had never honestly given schooling any thought and wanted to dive right into his occupation whenever he was done with Hogwarts. He wanted to go straight into the Ministry of Magic, sharing information about objects he'd grown up with. It was an uncomplicated job, hopefully, something he could find himself doing for the remainder of his life. "What're you doing to study? I want to go to the Ministry and do something... close to home." He nodded in Emma's direction somewhat.
"How was Brazil?" Oh great. She knew the question was coming eventually, but Stacy chose to jump right in. While it would have been a lie to say she wasn't preparing herself, the brunette would have liked a little more time to gather her thoughts.
"It was..." she glanced at the boys while she assembled the appropriate words to say, "long." It seemed like it was the only thing that came to mind. In reality, it was painful being away from her home. She was exhausted from arguing with her mother months ago, though she could remember each and every word that came from her mouth. Ale's words were encircled around her figure as if she could recite them off the page. They influenced every move she made like a package with a warning label, pressing others to proceed with caution. Maybe she was right, but she couldn't tell them that, not even her brother, cousin, or whatever he was to her now. "I'm just happy to be back in the UK, Castelobruxo was no Hogwarts.
I could barely speak their..." Her words weakened as she progressed, watching heads turn in the direction of the door, even Abe's. Without realizing it, she heaved a sigh over the tavern's commotion, her gaze was hard on the girl. She always knew when to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, not even Emma could stay away from her, at least when she was trying. She had been staring maybe a bit too long. "Sorry- speak their language."
As long as Aurelia kept her distance, she'd keep hers.
"Maybe we should sit down?" Abe prompted, shifting his weight to resemble the change in topic. While he wasn't as hungry as Emma, the Gryffindor's appetite could never be satisfied. The night had to begin at some point, why not begin it with food (and save the best for last)? He felt a bit awkward standing amongst everyone. While catching up with old friends was nice, it was also something that could be done from one of the tables, behind a face-full of food.
The Ravenclaw followed the three to the table, her eyes grazing the girl again as she prayed for a calm get-together with her friends. Aurelia definitely wasn't on her friend's list. She was about two more negative encounters away from a restraining order; the girl was blacklisted.
Finally regaining her composure, Emma stumbled into her chair and began to play with her thumbs underneath the table. Anything to distract herself from the girl's presence. Her nailbeds were damaged, the cuticles of her thumbs were flaky and crooked. Most of the girls her age would have done anything to keep their hands clean and neat, but recently, they had been her source of distraction. Like a stress ball or fidget toy, it helped take her mind off of things. As long as it helped her take her mind off things, she'd pick at them till they bled.
Taking a menu in her hands, she analyzed every item as if she wanted to try something new. Nah, she was contemptuous with her regular. Halting her excuse to remain silent, she put down her menu. "So. Catch me up. What've you lot been up to recently? I feel like I've missed so much." She glanced at Andrew with a smile that met her eyes. Like always, she was curious, not invested, in the conversation.
~ Emmaline Louise Milanes ~
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Andrew Vance
6 Jul 2022, 09:50
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
"Oh, wow, you're going to a uni? What're you doing to study? I want to go to the Ministry and do something... close to home."
"Veterinarian, hopefully," Stacy answered, her face aglow at the prospects. "I'd love to specialize and work with horses, become an equine vet. Cambridge University has a veterinary program, you know. If I went there, I could see you guys more often."
See Abe more often. Andrew couldn't help but convey the thought, glancing at Emma with a knowing smirk and slow nod. Did she know about Stacy and Abe being…a thing?
"It was…long. I'm just happy to be back in the UK, Castelobruxo was no Hogwarts.
Could Castelobruxo be any worse than Hogwarts? He was dying to know the details, what Emma's school life was like over there. Surely she must've made friends, being the sporty and outgoing person he admired for most of their childhood together and when he first started out at Hogwarts. Not to mention as former captain of the Ravenclaw Quidditch team, she seemed so…popular, to him. Why so happy to be back? If not school, then it must be family. Something he'd have to pry into later.
"I could barely speak their… Sorry- speak their language."
"That bad, was it?" Andrew joked, noting Emma's discomfort toward their mutual acquaintance as his gaze did a double-take at the two boys shouldering Aurelia. Was that…Heinrich? He was surprised to recognize one of them. Heinrich had vanished from Hogwarts as suddenly as he had appeared. Gone to Ilvermorny, so Aurelia had told him. So, brother and sister were together once again in London. Heinrich must be happy for that. Last he recalled of their sole and brief encounter, Heinrich seemed to be fondly close with Aurelia and was rather shy and timid without her. How sweet. Sibling bonds warmed his heart.
"Maybe we should sit down?"
"Don't you two have…plans?" Andrew gestured, waving a finger between the two lovebirds.
"Oh, we can have some appetizers," Stacy went along enthusiastically. It wasn't everyday his sister got to eat magic food (at least, magically prepared food). And it wasn't everyday a long-lost friend suddenly appeared. Emma would be the exception to any dinner plans Stacy had with Abe. It wasn't like they didn't have the whole summer to reschedule, anyway.
"So. Catch me up. What've you lot been up to recently? I feel like I've missed so much."
"Recently?" Stacy echoed. "Well, our dad's birthday was yesterday, so we celebrated that."
Birthdays. The past year had been at least two party guests short, with Emma and her mother away in Brazil. Why did things have to change? Back when ignorance was bliss, everything was perfect. The Hills would show up regularly, they were nearly second family. But after the Letter, the truth… Was magic to blame for their severed relationships? Emma's parents' separation. The Vance-Hill separation…
A bite of his grilled cheese would drown out the dismal thought. Emma was here, now. He had to think optimistically about the future. Hopefully, a piece of their old friendship could be restored.
8 Jul 2022, 16:34
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Despite putting in her best efforts into her studies, hours upon hours spent with her nose buried in a textbook, Aurelia only barely grazed through her fourth year, to the absolute chagrin of her parents. Missing more than half a year of school meant a heap to catch up on. Granted. It was her fault. A choice made solely on her own accord. Nevertheless, an action that had its consequences. No matter how independent and in control of everything she seemed, her parents undoubtedly called the shots in terms of her own future, her life, far more than she did herself as a 15-year-old.
Actions had their consequences indeed. And with dignity, Aurelia had to respect their decision. By blood or not, she was her parent's daughter.
Hadrian was staying on British grounds far longer than it should be legal, in her opinion. They were to be married in a few years time, granted, but for months since her return, the Zuheirs never bothered to recall him back to the lands of North America. Or perhaps they did, but knowing the Zuheirs and Hadrian, one had their disclosed motives, and the latter had quite a skill of persuasion. Whichever side was calling the shots, Aurelia would not know.
For the most part of the summer, she had not a day of peace to herself. At least there was Heinrich to keep him away for a bit. Miraculously, Hadrian and Heinrich were getting along spectacularly, too well actually if Aurelia was to be honest. But she was not complaining. The day soon came when Hadrian who had grown bored in the massive mansion, pushed for her to tour him down diagonalley. Supported by an eager Heinrich by his side, one could say Aurelia had not much a choice. Nothing good came out of two bored teenage boys.
"Wouldn't have been down the alley during your time at Hogwarts exchange?" Her voice perked a question as the trio walked down the streets.
"Definitely down Hogsmaede, yeah. Here?" His head would turn as if registering the area for any signs of familiarity. A corner of his lips would tilt ever so slightly into a look she was all too familiar with. There had been no need for her to bring him all the way down, for all she knew, he knew the place, with the intention for her not to serve as a tour guide, but rather a scapegoat if anything went wrong. At that realisation, her lips would purse into a thin line, her perfect little facade disarrayed.
Initially, it had been her leading them along, but now, the roles had been flipped, Hadrian definitely knew his way around now, it was her trying to keep up with both of them as they navigated through the cobbled streets. Whilst grumbling to herself at what she had to deal with. "Early Lunch?" She asked as they turned into the leaky cauldron.
The trio took their seat. Heinrich was quick to notice the Slytherin and company, the lycanthrope seemingly having caught the scent before sight. With a snuffle, he said, "Thats the guy from Hogwarts who knows you right?" Aurelia turned, finding out who he was referring to. "Yes... he did try to drown me by throwing me into the lake. Attempted homicide." She said with an eyeroll. Divuldging such information was clearly a mistake as Hadrian, clearly disturbed, stood from his seat, marching toward the group. "Hadrian-" Aurelia called out in a plea, standing up to chase after him before he made a ruckus of a scene.
But not fast enough as with a few strides, Hadrian made it to the table. "From what I've heard, you tried to drown my girlfriend. Care to explain?" His voice was hostile, his accent distinctively American. Aurelia hadn't noticed Emma seated down yet, for now, preventing a hotheaded Hadrian was her top priority. "No - no, no. You're going to return to our table and we are going to have lunch. Peacefully." Grabbing his strong arm, as if tugging the tank of a boy would do much.
Actions had their consequences indeed. And with dignity, Aurelia had to respect their decision. By blood or not, she was her parent's daughter.
Hadrian was staying on British grounds far longer than it should be legal, in her opinion. They were to be married in a few years time, granted, but for months since her return, the Zuheirs never bothered to recall him back to the lands of North America. Or perhaps they did, but knowing the Zuheirs and Hadrian, one had their disclosed motives, and the latter had quite a skill of persuasion. Whichever side was calling the shots, Aurelia would not know.
For the most part of the summer, she had not a day of peace to herself. At least there was Heinrich to keep him away for a bit. Miraculously, Hadrian and Heinrich were getting along spectacularly, too well actually if Aurelia was to be honest. But she was not complaining. The day soon came when Hadrian who had grown bored in the massive mansion, pushed for her to tour him down diagonalley. Supported by an eager Heinrich by his side, one could say Aurelia had not much a choice. Nothing good came out of two bored teenage boys.
"Wouldn't have been down the alley during your time at Hogwarts exchange?" Her voice perked a question as the trio walked down the streets.
"Definitely down Hogsmaede, yeah. Here?" His head would turn as if registering the area for any signs of familiarity. A corner of his lips would tilt ever so slightly into a look she was all too familiar with. There had been no need for her to bring him all the way down, for all she knew, he knew the place, with the intention for her not to serve as a tour guide, but rather a scapegoat if anything went wrong. At that realisation, her lips would purse into a thin line, her perfect little facade disarrayed.
Initially, it had been her leading them along, but now, the roles had been flipped, Hadrian definitely knew his way around now, it was her trying to keep up with both of them as they navigated through the cobbled streets. Whilst grumbling to herself at what she had to deal with. "Early Lunch?" She asked as they turned into the leaky cauldron.
The trio took their seat. Heinrich was quick to notice the Slytherin and company, the lycanthrope seemingly having caught the scent before sight. With a snuffle, he said, "Thats the guy from Hogwarts who knows you right?" Aurelia turned, finding out who he was referring to. "Yes... he did try to drown me by throwing me into the lake. Attempted homicide." She said with an eyeroll. Divuldging such information was clearly a mistake as Hadrian, clearly disturbed, stood from his seat, marching toward the group. "Hadrian-" Aurelia called out in a plea, standing up to chase after him before he made a ruckus of a scene.
But not fast enough as with a few strides, Hadrian made it to the table. "From what I've heard, you tried to drown my girlfriend. Care to explain?" His voice was hostile, his accent distinctively American. Aurelia hadn't noticed Emma seated down yet, for now, preventing a hotheaded Hadrian was her top priority. "No - no, no. You're going to return to our table and we are going to have lunch. Peacefully." Grabbing his strong arm, as if tugging the tank of a boy would do much.
|
“One can never be too careful,” STM — 5 | EVA — 19 | STR — 5 | WSD — 12 | ARC — 5 | ACC — 9 |
Lovely Creature — Evasive Manoeuvres — Monster Hunter — Terrible Presence
Andrew Vance
15 Jul 2022, 07:33
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Nothing like food to bring people together. You're not you when you're hungry. A few bites in and the mood at the table seemed to improve, loosening up with smiles and laughter. If only Kiyana and Kyle were here. Would've been like old times, the six of them eating together at the Leaky Cauldron. Soon to be like old times, he hoped. Catching up was a tall order. There wasn't much eventful to catch up on, nothing life-changing for Andrew to report. Except for, maybe, his goldfish dying. Same house, same school, same people… Same scar. He would flash Emma a peek under his left sleeve, rolling up his sweater to where the tiny black veins poked out below his elbow, farther down his arm than the last time Emma had seen them.
"Can't believe it's taking them so long." He couldn't help but grumble under his breath. Hogwarts was a joke. He'd just about given up hope on them ever finding a cure. Didn't seem to be on their list of priorities, helping the Cursed students. Why are we still here? Just to suffer? "They said they're working on it, but…" He sighed, shaking his head in disappointment.
"I…thought about going to the Air Force…" He kept his voice low, glancing around a bit self-consciously at the other patrons. He never felt much comfortable talking about his Muggle aspirations around other wizards. Whenever talk of careers came up at Hogwarts, he'd entertain thought of what his wizarding profession might be. Potioneering, magizoology… maybe even Muggle studies or magical language translator, helping the Ministry with Muggle and magical creature relations. After all, why go to Hogwarts just to throw it all away for some Muggle career? They'd likely frown upon it, try to talk him out of it anyway, so why ask for argument by bringing it up. "But if they can't fix this," he gestured to his inflicted arm, "Maybe I'd go into computers, work from home like my dad." Unless he found a way to get a cover-up spell, this stupid Curse was going to derail that dream of him becoming a pilot. If the future was even worth planning for… Frankly, he might as well have the dreaded 'c' word. The blight on his arm would still spread, it would still kill him, without a true cure. Slowly, eventually. It was hard to be patient and not get all depressed and angry about it when the authorities in charge of finding the cure weren't the ones Cursed themselves.
"So, what about you?" He'd perk a smile at Emma beside him. It was her turn to share, being on the topic of careers and such. "What're you gonna be when you grow up?" He knew it was unfair of him to blame the Hills for his misfortune. Accidents happen. But if they hadn't encouraged him… If he didn't trust them so much… If he could go back in time and take it back, refuse the Letter. Honestly he would. Magic was dangerous, the Curse was proof of that.
From the corner of his eye, the brusque approach of newcomer beside him would jerk Andrew's attention. Body tensing and shifting away uncomfortably at the intrusion of personal space, he leaned closer towards Emma, raising an eyebrow at the boy who had interrupted his table's conversation.
"Uh…hello?" Stacy uttered first with a bewildered stare at the strange boy, cracking an awkward smile at him so as to help ease the tension. Glancing between Hadrian and Andrew as if to say 'You two know each other?', worry would crease Stacy's face when a perplexed look from Andrew told her that he didn't.
"Who?" Stunned by the accent accusation, Andrew barely had time to get a word out before Aurelia caught up, hot on the American boy's heels.
"Hey…Aurelia." Recalling the girl's name, Stacy's smile broadened in relief, seeing Aurelia's rather comical attempt to diffuse the situation by dragging Hadrian away. "Nice to see you again." She gave a small friendly wave.
Girlfriend?...Drown?...TRIED?
The incident at the Lake was all water under the bridge, now. Or so Andrew thought. As long as Aurelia's lips were sealed, so were his. He was happy to forget. She was the only witness who could have told anyone anything about what had happened. And if she was going around spinning the narrative, telling people HE had tried to drown HER, then…
"Alright, just to be clear, I never tried to drown anyone." He turned to the boyfriend, though he supposed his admission was for everyone at the table to hear. "Yes, I tried to push you." His hand gestured firmly at Aurelia. "I also tried to rescue you. Which I did." He scoffed toward the group collectively again. "She's the one that didn't know how to swim. She drowned herself."
"Can't believe it's taking them so long." He couldn't help but grumble under his breath. Hogwarts was a joke. He'd just about given up hope on them ever finding a cure. Didn't seem to be on their list of priorities, helping the Cursed students. Why are we still here? Just to suffer? "They said they're working on it, but…" He sighed, shaking his head in disappointment.
"I…thought about going to the Air Force…" He kept his voice low, glancing around a bit self-consciously at the other patrons. He never felt much comfortable talking about his Muggle aspirations around other wizards. Whenever talk of careers came up at Hogwarts, he'd entertain thought of what his wizarding profession might be. Potioneering, magizoology… maybe even Muggle studies or magical language translator, helping the Ministry with Muggle and magical creature relations. After all, why go to Hogwarts just to throw it all away for some Muggle career? They'd likely frown upon it, try to talk him out of it anyway, so why ask for argument by bringing it up. "But if they can't fix this," he gestured to his inflicted arm, "Maybe I'd go into computers, work from home like my dad." Unless he found a way to get a cover-up spell, this stupid Curse was going to derail that dream of him becoming a pilot. If the future was even worth planning for… Frankly, he might as well have the dreaded 'c' word. The blight on his arm would still spread, it would still kill him, without a true cure. Slowly, eventually. It was hard to be patient and not get all depressed and angry about it when the authorities in charge of finding the cure weren't the ones Cursed themselves.
"So, what about you?" He'd perk a smile at Emma beside him. It was her turn to share, being on the topic of careers and such. "What're you gonna be when you grow up?" He knew it was unfair of him to blame the Hills for his misfortune. Accidents happen. But if they hadn't encouraged him… If he didn't trust them so much… If he could go back in time and take it back, refuse the Letter. Honestly he would. Magic was dangerous, the Curse was proof of that.
From the corner of his eye, the brusque approach of newcomer beside him would jerk Andrew's attention. Body tensing and shifting away uncomfortably at the intrusion of personal space, he leaned closer towards Emma, raising an eyebrow at the boy who had interrupted his table's conversation.
"From what I've heard, you tried to drown my girlfriend. Care to explain?"
"Uh…hello?" Stacy uttered first with a bewildered stare at the strange boy, cracking an awkward smile at him so as to help ease the tension. Glancing between Hadrian and Andrew as if to say 'You two know each other?', worry would crease Stacy's face when a perplexed look from Andrew told her that he didn't.
"Who?" Stunned by the accent accusation, Andrew barely had time to get a word out before Aurelia caught up, hot on the American boy's heels.
"Hey…Aurelia." Recalling the girl's name, Stacy's smile broadened in relief, seeing Aurelia's rather comical attempt to diffuse the situation by dragging Hadrian away. "Nice to see you again." She gave a small friendly wave.
Girlfriend?...Drown?...TRIED?
The incident at the Lake was all water under the bridge, now. Or so Andrew thought. As long as Aurelia's lips were sealed, so were his. He was happy to forget. She was the only witness who could have told anyone anything about what had happened. And if she was going around spinning the narrative, telling people HE had tried to drown HER, then…
"Alright, just to be clear, I never tried to drown anyone." He turned to the boyfriend, though he supposed his admission was for everyone at the table to hear. "Yes, I tried to push you." His hand gestured firmly at Aurelia. "I also tried to rescue you. Which I did." He scoffed toward the group collectively again. "She's the one that didn't know how to swim. She drowned herself."
2 Oct 2022, 07:38
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
Abraham's eyes were locked on Stacy, lolling in the idea of a promising future with her. In all honesty, his upcoming plans didn't exactly include secondary schooling. Starting on the lower levels in the Ministry's hierarchy, it was his dream to one day ascend the tower and become an Auror. Well, either that or the Head of Magical Transportation, but he doubted the position would come with much less rule-bending. He needed plenty of miracles and, hopefully, Stacy was one of them.
"If I went there, I could see you guys more often," without realizing it, the older's smile had almost vanished instantly, his mentality plagued with contemplation. With every movement he made, the aspiration of their future ran through his mind; the idea of tomorrow was constantly there, good and bad, but he couldn't help but shake the belief that he was tossing her destiny in the trash for his own personal benefits. Sure, everything appeared perfect now, but what if they evolved into different people with distinct passions? It certainly wouldn't have been a first or a second even. He didn't want to disappoint her, but what if it wasn't the right call?
The younger, however, threw a glance in Andrew's direction. While the concept was nice, she knew her words had a double meaning. Meeting his sights with a snicker, she threw her hand up to conceal a laugh, desperately trying to find something else to state at but the table. He only talked about her every day, Emma was beginning to believe he'd found his other half. It was an proposition he couldn't refuse, right?
"Oh... wait, really?" He put a smile back on to brighten the tone of his words. In his soundest attempt to camouflage his uncertainty, his monotonous voice bounced a bit. Twenty minutes away from his home, he'd seen many undergraduates transfer into the University. It was an ancient, historical school, but he got the feeling its national academic ranking and scenic views weren't her reasons for applying. But for now, he'd leave the matter alone. "There's an equine vet near the University I know you can score an internship at!"
Emma could always tell when the Gryffindor was close, but not for her looks, beauty, or even the way she carried herself. There was something abnormal about the girl. How arachnids tickled her lower back with every glimpse she snuck at Aurelia. It wasn't irritation, nor disgust, but whatever it was, the two boys at her side didn't seem affected. She wouldn't put it past her if they were tranced. Regardless, she took her seat, determined to have a pleasant evening.
Running a finger throughout the brim of her glass, the Ravenclaw threw a glance from the newcomers and back to Andy, who had, sure enough, noted the trio's arrival as well. Please just get it over with, she begged as she drew a sip of lemonade. Even in a year, she hadn't messed much. It was a tad startling. Nothing but the same birthdays and Hogwarts dances that happened every year.
But of course, that was too good to be true.
Eyes widening, she opened her mouth as if to gasp, but only a stiff, dry cough escaped. Emma immediately set her glass down to regain her composure. It happened, again and again, and again. Her eyes formed tears, though none of them fell. She didn't know why she was so taken aback but one thing was for sure, that wasn't normal, not even in the wizarding world. She had never seen such a disease or infection, or whatever the Ministry wanted to dub it. The girl cleared her throat and dabbed the redness from her eyes. If the night was going to be complete with surprises like that, she'd be steering clear of that. "What is that? Oh- Does it hurt? Wait, is it contagious?" The last question was a force of habit. She traced the veins up and down, once, thrice, four, five times... yeah, she had missed a lot.
"Hey," the older called out to catch his attention. "They're working on a cure, I promise." Abraham worded, almost acquainted with the deformation on Andrew's arms. He'd been at Hogwarts to witness the Curse affect the Slytherin students. Though he wasn't sure of the origin, the Gryffindor had overheard multiple stories and pieced together his own version. "Thankfully, you aren't the lab rat."
"That's okay," she tried sympathizing with him, though she was at a loss for words. It wasn't okay, and she couldn't imagine the misery he was in, not even if she wanted to. "I... don't really know what I wanna do... I just haven't given it any thought." Her words were deliberate, making them up as she went. Though it was in opposition to her house's reputation, she had spent most of her time at Hogwarts worrying less about her grades and more about her parents. There was no one to prompt the girl about her grades and exams. Abe retained his own completely different schedule and her mother, well, she was still putting together those pieces. She only wanted to help them, nothing else mattered. Emma wanted to help people get out of the flawed situations she was in. She sighed, acknowledging she had no dreams for the future. She was stuck in the past, while the rest of the world moved forward. "I dunno, it'll come to me eventually... I guess," she smiled weakly, trying to shrug off her thoughts.
"What on Earth?" She exclaimed shortly after Stacy. The brunette was not expecting that voice or accent. Her head bobbed back and forth between Andrew, the American boy, and Aurelia, trying to make the connection between the three. Her brain clicked and clicked, rewinding the words of the boy in her head. It was a tad uncomfortable to imagine her version of Aurelia with a boyfriend. No man willingly tangoed with her, unless it was documented on the business mandate. She had the memories and receipts to prove it.
"Yes, I tried to push you," his words pressed a grin on Emma's lips as she took another sip. "And probably for a good reason," she added swiftly, not bothering to suppress her voice.
That's Aurelia? The thought rang inside of her head, except it wasn't her voice. Her attention darted to Abraham, who was looking right back at her. She nodded once, rolling her eyes. Yep, little miss perfect. Her hands moved along with her messages, forgetting not everyone could tune into their conversation. Why doesn't he just teach her how to swim? It's not exactly the hardest thing to learn.
"If you'll excuse us, we have plans to follow through on." Abraham tightly voiced.
~ Emmaline Louise Milanes ~
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Andrew Vance
16 Oct 2024, 18:00
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
"Yes, plans indeed." Stacy turned to Abe with an eager grin. Now was the time for two lovebirds to make their escape, in the midst of what seemed to be a rather tense and personal exchange unfolding with Aurelia and Co. "If you don't mind, I think we'll leave you all to this conversation," Stacy said as she stood up, nudging Abe along with her. "Have fun, you two; we'll be back," she waved cheerily at Andrew and Emma, before she and Abe were briskly gone.
Andrew wasn't too worried for his sister. She would find her way home eventually, if not with him, then with Abe. Thus far, Stacy had never broken the 9 o'clock curfew laid down by their parents, being the rebellious but smart sort so as to never get caught breaking rules up front (how he knew this, well, Andrew was no tattletale, sibling code and all). Still, Andrew made sure to keep an eye on the magical clock nearby. He and Stacy had about a comfortable hour and a half left to spend with Emma and Abe, until they had to scramble on home.
After a brief interruption from Aurelia and Co, he and Emma were left at the table by themselves. Once the troupe was out of earshot, Andrew leaned forward to Emma sitting across from him.
"What's with you two?" Above the chatter of other patrons, he could use his normal indoor voice without being much overheard. Somewhat low, until Aurelia and Co were fully out of sight. "You and Aurelia, are you friends or…ex-friends.?” He teased slightly, suspecting the latter at least, given the current tension between the two.
Nevertheless, it was about time he got some answers, having asked Emma about how she knew Aurelia before, some three years ago, and gotten nowhere. He was seriously going to get to the bottom of this whole Emma-Aurelia business, now or never. Frankly, it was Emma who owed him answers, after being gone from him all this time.
Andrew wasn't too worried for his sister. She would find her way home eventually, if not with him, then with Abe. Thus far, Stacy had never broken the 9 o'clock curfew laid down by their parents, being the rebellious but smart sort so as to never get caught breaking rules up front (how he knew this, well, Andrew was no tattletale, sibling code and all). Still, Andrew made sure to keep an eye on the magical clock nearby. He and Stacy had about a comfortable hour and a half left to spend with Emma and Abe, until they had to scramble on home.
After a brief interruption from Aurelia and Co, he and Emma were left at the table by themselves. Once the troupe was out of earshot, Andrew leaned forward to Emma sitting across from him.
"What's with you two?" Above the chatter of other patrons, he could use his normal indoor voice without being much overheard. Somewhat low, until Aurelia and Co were fully out of sight. "You and Aurelia, are you friends or…ex-friends.?” He teased slightly, suspecting the latter at least, given the current tension between the two.
Nevertheless, it was about time he got some answers, having asked Emma about how she knew Aurelia before, some three years ago, and gotten nowhere. He was seriously going to get to the bottom of this whole Emma-Aurelia business, now or never. Frankly, it was Emma who owed him answers, after being gone from him all this time.
19 Oct 2024, 05:47
Oh Sugar Honey Iced Tea
The oldest's gaze softened on the unexpected couple, deactivating his "momma bear" mode as he felt Stacy's fleece sweater brush against his arm. Abraham stood up for everyone. Though he wasn't necessarily the extroverted sort like his cousin, he took pride in his defensive personality. No one would hurt his siblings; he would die for those girls. Well, for anyone sitting at the table, frankly. Following her lead, the boy sprung to his feet, the wooden chair beneath him scuffing the tattered floor of the Leaky Cauldron. He gave Emma one last look, warning her to maintain her composure around her rival. The Ravenclaw's eyes met his, an affirming look to confirm. Yeah, yeah, ya sé.
All the siblings had twin telepathy - well, minus the twin part. It was fantastic for scheming against the adults of the household, but easily weaponized to annoy each other during their summer recess. Nevertheless, it was a valuable tool to gossip about those around, including Emma's father, Arden. She wasn't worried about making it home before the sun departed. For the last few weeks, he had plunged into depression. Sulking and safeguarding the living room with his life, very rarely did he leave the house. Other than working or going to pick up his takeout, he frequently binge-watched re-runs of rugby matches to keep his aggression at bay. The two had plenty of time, as long as they returned with gifts or an airtight alibi.
The oldest guided his date outside, taking Stacy by the hand and weaving her through the crowd of wizards, elves, and goblins. Like navigating through a maze, the two bobbed through the crowd exchanging apologies for the many toes and shoes they trampled. The Wizarding World was a chaotic place, and he didn't want his partner throwing away her life. It was selfish, voracious even. However, after the domestic disarray of the Hills, he owed it to himself to relax.
Over and over, his thoughts turned to obsession he couldn't control. Stacy was always on his mind. The two families had come a long way since their 2016 Norwegian cruise. Uniting them seemed like a fever dream; it couldn't be real, but there he was: holding her delicate, velvety hands.
Her brown eyes tracked the pair as they fled from the saloon, quietly sighing to herself. Maybe one day she'd experience love, whatever that meant. Perhaps her cousin had found his "true love," but Emma had the luck of a lottery ticket. Besides, there was nothing wrong with being the funtie. "What's with you two?"
The brunette heaved a sigh, flying undetected over the commotion of the Hall. Granted, out of all the questions, that was presumably the least painful, she couldn't stand giving her enemy attention she didn't deserve. Plopping her elbow on the table, Emmaline looked down at her plate, strategically designing her response. "Look," she began, exaggerating another breath and finally meeting his icy eyes. She's just... not the person you think she is. We've always bumped heads, since we were eleven even."
Aurelia had been a pledged enemy of hers since their first year. Their initial meeting in the library was enough to judge her character. First impressions were critical, and she didn't let the Gryffindor insult her intelligence. She wouldn't disclose this information to Andrew; she couldn't. Emma didn't exactly have the cleanest record at Hogwarts, earning herself multiple detentions with her nemesis. Andrew looked up to her as a role model, at least she assumed, she couldn't tarnish his image of herself.
"Never mind that, her gaze drifted to his arm, curious and slightly alarmed. "Please tell me Stacy yaps just as much as Abe." The two had some catching up to do. That was for certain, even if her obscure answers weren't.
~ Emmaline Louise Milanes ~
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition
Stamina » 9 || Evasion » 9 || Strength » 10 || Wisdom » 7 || Arc Power » 2 || Accuracy » 14
Poison Resistance || Binding Mark || Prodigal Transfig. Learner || The Muggle Condition