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Jams

@icantotallysee

HI!! I'm James but you probably already knew that

2,522 posts

𝙾𝚔𝚊𝚢 𝙸 𝚌𝚊𝚗'𝚝 𝚜𝚎𝚎 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚟𝚒𝚋𝚎𝚜 𝚘𝚔𝚊𝚢

James F. Potter at your service 🫡

I'm 16 and I'm Gryffindor's chaser !! And captain!

I use he/him pronouns and I'm pansexual ✨🍳

I LOVE QUIDDITCH!! AND MY BEST FRIENDS!!!!

These are my friends and other ppl at Hogwarts!!!!

@the-h0ttest-star PADS

@somethingso-magic-aboutyou Dorcas!!

@arcturus-shining Regulus ❤️

@barty-party Barty 🖤

@red-hair-dont-caree LILY

@hotblondechic MARLS

@SeverusForcedAccount Snape

@pete-the-rat WORMY

@steal-the-m00n MOONY

@thereelheiressoftheblackfamily Bellatrix

@pandora-the-cooler-rosier Pandora!!

@andis-galaxyyy Andromeda!!

@pretty-fl0wer Narcissa!!

@rosierrelevant Evan!!

@marysgardennnn MARY

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Barty follows James' every move with his eyes, trying to remember the process. It's oddly nice having James take care of him like that. He notices there's quiet between then again and he's learning to appreciate that. It's an unusual thing with James and Barty's glad that he feels comfortable enough with him to let himself not try and fill the silences. He enjoys James' talking too, but it's nice to get to know more sides of him.*

Thanks..

*He smiles and tries flexing his fingers, turning his hand over to look at the wrap.*

I'll try the other hand on my own *he hold out his hand for the wrap*

No problem!!

And here you go

*He hands Barty the other wrap, before getting one for himself. It was actually really relaxing, wrapping like that. James would do it just for fun.*

I'm glad it turned out right, it took a couple tries of seeing it to try and remember what the order it was

*He moves to start doing one of his own hands*

Yeah, I can imagine that

*Barty hums. He's not sure if he remembers the whole process, but hey, James can always correct him. He starts wrapping his hand from memory: hook around the thumb, around the wrist 3 times, knuckles 3 times as well, around the thumb and wrist again, then each finger, secure the knuckles- was there a thumb again? Seems logical.. and finish by wrapping around the wrist.*

There. How did I do? *he grins at James and shows him his hand*

*James looks over, tilting his head to look at it fully. He smiles at Barty nodding his head*

Good!!

I think you did it right, on the first time at that, you did better than i did

And it looks cool as fuck

Lemme just finish up mine, yeah?

Yup, no problem..

*Barty grins, pretty proud of himself. It's nice to have a good memory, especially for things he sees demonstrated. It means that when he cares to pay attention in class, he doesn't need to study to pass his exams. He can't actually hold his attention and read a book, unless it's something he's interested in.

He leans back on his hands and watches James do his wrap.*

*James cannot remember where he left off with his hand, even after staring at it for a moment, so he restarts. He does his first hand, and then after making sure that one felt fine, he does the second one.

He could remember certain things really easily, but after seeing things once, not usually. He couldn't even remember where he left off, for fucks sake. But it's fine because he's used to that.*

Okay, I'm done!!

Next is mouth guards, probably? Cause it'd be hard to put those on with gloves...

*Barty doesn't mind waiting, occupying himself with looking around the clearing and appreciating his view of James.*

Yeah, probably *he chuckles when James is done*

But I expect we won't be able to talk with them on?

It'll probably be hard to, yeah...

I mean, we could probably go without them? It's not like we're muggles, if we get hurt we can use heal ourselves

Eh, I've never really been good at healing magic *Barty ruffles his hair*

I've been trying to learn, but- I guess it's not my calling..

But if you know them then I say let's forget about them because not being able to talk suring thia would be annoying *he chuckles*

Maybe a learning partner could help?

My dad makes potions, so when I first got to Hogwarts I'd try to make the really complicated stuff and learning to make those comes with lots of mistakes which means healing spells, so I've gotten somewhat good at them

*James chuckles a little bit*

So yeah, I can do them!!

Not being able to talk wild definitely be annoying and very very sad for me

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Barty follows James' every move with his eyes, trying to remember the process. It's oddly nice having James take care of him like that. He notices there's quiet between then again and he's learning to appreciate that. It's an unusual thing with James and Barty's glad that he feels comfortable enough with him to let himself not try and fill the silences. He enjoys James' talking too, but it's nice to get to know more sides of him.*

Thanks..

*He smiles and tries flexing his fingers, turning his hand over to look at the wrap.*

I'll try the other hand on my own *he hold out his hand for the wrap*

No problem!!

And here you go

*He hands Barty the other wrap, before getting one for himself. It was actually really relaxing, wrapping like that. James would do it just for fun.*

I'm glad it turned out right, it took a couple tries of seeing it to try and remember what the order it was

*He moves to start doing one of his own hands*

Yeah, I can imagine that

*Barty hums. He's not sure if he remembers the whole process, but hey, James can always correct him. He starts wrapping his hand from memory: hook around the thumb, around the wrist 3 times, knuckles 3 times as well, around the thumb and wrist again, then each finger, secure the knuckles- was there a thumb again? Seems logical.. and finish by wrapping around the wrist.*

There. How did I do? *he grins at James and shows him his hand*

*James looks over, tilting his head to look at it fully. He smiles at Barty nodding his head*

Good!!

I think you did it right, on the first time at that, you did better than i did

And it looks cool as fuck

Lemme just finish up mine, yeah?

Yup, no problem..

*Barty grins, pretty proud of himself. It's nice to have a good memory, especially for things he sees demonstrated. It means that when he cares to pay attention in class, he doesn't need to study to pass his exams. He can't actually hold his attention and read a book, unless it's something he's interested in.

He leans back on his hands and watches James do his wrap.*

*James cannot remember where he left off with his hand, even after staring at it for a moment, so he restarts. He does his first hand, and then after making sure that one felt fine, he does the second one.

He could remember certain things really easily, but after seeing things once, not usually. He couldn't even remember where he left off, for fucks sake. But it's fine because he's used to that.*

Okay, I'm done!!

Next is mouth guards, probably? Cause it'd be hard to put those on with gloves...

*Barty doesn't mind waiting, occupying himself with looking around the clearing and appreciating his view of James.*

Yeah, probably *he chuckles when James is done*

But I expect we won't be able to talk with them on?

It'll probably be hard to, yeah...

I mean, we could probably go without them? It's not like we're muggles, if we get hurt we can use heal ourselves

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Barty follows James' every move with his eyes, trying to remember the process. It's oddly nice having James take care of him like that. He notices there's quiet between then again and he's learning to appreciate that. It's an unusual thing with James and Barty's glad that he feels comfortable enough with him to let himself not try and fill the silences. He enjoys James' talking too, but it's nice to get to know more sides of him.*

Thanks..

*He smiles and tries flexing his fingers, turning his hand over to look at the wrap.*

I'll try the other hand on my own *he hold out his hand for the wrap*

No problem!!

And here you go

*He hands Barty the other wrap, before getting one for himself. It was actually really relaxing, wrapping like that. James would do it just for fun.*

I'm glad it turned out right, it took a couple tries of seeing it to try and remember what the order it was

*He moves to start doing one of his own hands*

Yeah, I can imagine that

*Barty hums. He's not sure if he remembers the whole process, but hey, James can always correct him. He starts wrapping his hand from memory: hook around the thumb, around the wrist 3 times, knuckles 3 times as well, around the thumb and wrist again, then each finger, secure the knuckles- was there a thumb again? Seems logical.. and finish by wrapping around the wrist.*

There. How did I do? *he grins at James and shows him his hand*

*James looks over, tilting his head to look at it fully. He smiles at Barty nodding his head*

Good!!

I think you did it right, on the first time at that, you did better than i did

And it looks cool as fuck

Lemme just finish up mine, yeah?

Yup, no problem..

*Barty grins, pretty proud of himself. It's nice to have a good memory, especially for things he sees demonstrated. It means that when he cares to pay attention in class, he doesn't need to study to pass his exams. He can't actually hold his attention and read a book, unless it's something he's interested in.

He leans back on his hands and watches James do his wrap.*

*James cannot remember where he left off with his hand, even after staring at it for a moment, so he restarts. He does his first hand, and then after making sure that one felt fine, he does the second one.

He could remember certain things really easily, but after seeing things once, not usually. He couldn't even remember where he left off, for fucks sake. But it's fine because he's used to that.*

Okay, I'm done!!

Next is mouth guards, probably? Cause it'd be hard to put those on with gloves...

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Barty follows James' every move with his eyes, trying to remember the process. It's oddly nice having James take care of him like that. He notices there's quiet between then again and he's learning to appreciate that. It's an unusual thing with James and Barty's glad that he feels comfortable enough with him to let himself not try and fill the silences. He enjoys James' talking too, but it's nice to get to know more sides of him.*

Thanks..

*He smiles and tries flexing his fingers, turning his hand over to look at the wrap.*

I'll try the other hand on my own *he hold out his hand for the wrap*

No problem!!

And here you go

*He hands Barty the other wrap, before getting one for himself. It was actually really relaxing, wrapping like that. James would do it just for fun.*

I'm glad it turned out right, it took a couple tries of seeing it to try and remember what the order it was

*He moves to start doing one of his own hands*

Yeah, I can imagine that

*Barty hums. He's not sure if he remembers the whole process, but hey, James can always correct him. He starts wrapping his hand from memory: hook around the thumb, around the wrist 3 times, knuckles 3 times as well, around the thumb and wrist again, then each finger, secure the knuckles- was there a thumb again? Seems logical.. and finish by wrapping around the wrist.*

There. How did I do? *he grins at James and shows him his hand*

*James looks over, tilting his head to look at it fully. He smiles at Barty nodding his head*

Good!!

I think you did it right, on the first time at that, you did better than i did

And it looks cool as fuck

Lemme just finish up mine, yeah?

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Barty follows James' every move with his eyes, trying to remember the process. It's oddly nice having James take care of him like that. He notices there's quiet between then again and he's learning to appreciate that. It's an unusual thing with James and Barty's glad that he feels comfortable enough with him to let himself not try and fill the silences. He enjoys James' talking too, but it's nice to get to know more sides of him.*

Thanks..

*He smiles and tries flexing his fingers, turning his hand over to look at the wrap.*

I'll try the other hand on my own *he hold out his hand for the wrap*

No problem!!

And here you go

*He hands Barty the other wrap, before getting one for himself. It was actually really relaxing, wrapping like that. James would do it just for fun.*

I'm glad it turned out right, it took a couple tries of seeing it to try and remember what the order it was

*He moves to start doing one of his own hands*

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

I believe you, but you must be cold right now.. You can always lift the spell later if you get too warm *he shrugs and raises his eyebrow in question before reforming the spell on James*

Okay, the hand wrap *he holds out his hand to James after*

Show me

Right, hand wrap!!

*He takes Barty's hand, starting to meticulously wrap it, starting with putting Barty's thumb through the loop, then wrapping around Barty's wrist 3 times, like he'd been taught. He then wraps it around Barty's knuckles three times as well, then moving to go wrap back around his wrist, and looping around the thumb.

He looks completely focused as he continues, going between each finger, and then wrapping around the knuckles again to secure them. He loops it around Barty's thumb again, and wrapping the rest of the wrap around his wrist. He looks it over once he's done before nodding.*

There we go!! All done

Can you move your hand, how does it feel? is it too tight or anything?

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

Okay, that makes sense.. *Barty smirks. It does feel nice to be appreciated like that.

He plops down on the ground next to James and pokes his side playfully.*

You need the spell too. Do you mind? *he asks before pointing his wand at James*

*James giggles at Barty poking him, smiling at him*

I don't, but I'm okay, you don't have to!!

Like I said I'll warm up soon enough, and I've gone without them practicing quidditch plenty

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Barty rolls his eyes and grins*

Come on, nothing you haven't seen before..

*He can't help provoke him a little though, just to see that blush, so he holds his gaze while he takes of his jacket and that the shirt*

That's what I meant, just easier than to try and get my hands through the sleeves with it on

*The cold air hits his skin pnce he's shirtless and he shivers a little. He goes to retrieve his wand from his ttousers to perform the warming charm on himself*

It's precisely because I've seen it before

*James half laughs half sighs. He decides that while he's not doing anything, he can rid himself of his own shirt as well. He just tosses it on the ground next to the bag.

He waits for Barty to be done doing the warming charm on himself before patting the ground next to him for him to sit*

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

Exactly.

It's not freezing yet, but close to *Barty looks around the forest when he takes the sweatpants from James.*

It's actually pretty warm for the start of December..

Yeah, I think it would be better if you showed me first

*He kicks of his shoes and undoes his belt, taking off his trousers. The moss is cold under his feet, but he kind of enjoys that. After he gets into the sweatpants on, he puts his shoes back on.*

Probably should take off my shirt before we do the hand wrap, huh?

*James tries not to stare when Barty takes off his pants, that's not what they're there for. But he couldn't help looking a little. But he clears his throat and nods, blushing only slightly as he picks up the hand wrap*

Yeah, probably

Its not like the wrap will immobilize you— it's for support I think— but it'll probably be easier to take it off beforehand

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

Starting to sound interesting.. *Barty smirks when he hears about losing teeth*

I guess I'll take the sweatpants?

Less skin to worry about with the warming spell.. I don't know how long that can hold anyway, never used it before when I was active, only when sitting down outside.

But I have no doubt we'll figure it out.. And we'll probably warm up too

*James nods, handing him a pair of sweatpants. James already had some on, just from what he was doing earlier.*

Mhm, yeah, like you said we'll figure it out

I also run hot either way, and we'll be working out so it'll get hot

It's not like it's freezing out here, so it'll be fine

Also once you're done, I wanna wrap your hands, I know you could do it but I wanna show you first

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Barty grins widely and takes the black gloves from James.*

Awe, you remembered. Thanks, it's my favourite colour..

So, what's all the other stuff?

Well of course I did

And okay so I've got...

*He pulls out two head guards, color coordinated to the gloves, that way they'd know who's whose*

Head guards, protection of course

And then I've got mouth guards that way we don't lose teeth probably

And hand wrap!! You wrap your hands before you put the gloves on!

Oh- and I've got the shirts but we're not using them, so I've just got shorts or sweatpants too

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

Any place without trees looks like a good place *Barty chuckles with a shrug*

Let's go, can't wait to punch you.. *he smirks, teasing*

Likewise!!

*James untangles himself from Barty, but grabs his hand, dragging him along as he runs excitedly. Once they're there, James drops his bag to the ground, crouching down to ruffle through it. he pulls out a pair of red boxing gloves, and a pair of black ones, looking up at Barty with a grin as he hands the second pair to him*

I hope you like them

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Barty's jaw is tense when he nods. He doesn't feel like he did his best, but he supposes if he could do it better, he would.*

Yeah *he chuckles* It could've been fun if I fought back, but I did feel like I deserved that at the time..

But hey, we have gear now, we can punch each other all we want

*He grins at James. They weave their way through the trees, looking for a clearing where they could box.*

Exactly!! And what about there? That looks like a good enough place?

*James points to a small clearing, a couple feet ahead*

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

I almost forgot I punched you *Barty murmurs*

I guess that tells you how normal that is for me.. *Barty nods*

Yeah, used to get into fights a lot over the summer. When I'm at home, i usually just wander around the neighbourhood, that's where I find all those trinkets I keep. That's where I found my first knife. But yeah, home is- well, shit.. *he grimaces and realised he never talked to James about it either, assuming he wouldn't get it* So, I needed to get all that suppressed rage out somewhere. Been getting into fights even before I got into Hogwarts, didn't really have friends until Reg.. I occasionally snapped at someone at the castle too, but Reg has been trying to help, so I wouldn't do that *he sighs* It got a lot better, actually.. Apart from when I punched the wall when I learned about you and Reg dating *he chuckles apologetically* But at least that was just a wall.. And yeah- punching you that one time

*James nods and listens, putting the pieces together in his head.*

That makes sense...

You handled the emotions the best way you could

*James smiles softly at him*

Well that's good, I'm glad... and hey, two slip ups aren't bad at all

And I was a dick so I kinda had that coming.. and I punched you back pretty sure so

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..

I-

*Barty pauses, realising that there are still things James doesn't know about him. Not that he's ashamed or anything, it's just weird that it never came up. But it serves to remind him that they don't actually know each other for so long. And he spent like a first third of that time hating James. Well, not really, but he thought he did.*

I've never boxed before per se.. But I do know how to throw a punch. I imagine it's similar, just more dangerous *he chuckles*

Oh trust me I know, my face felt it first hand..

*James chuckles, not at all mad about it honestly, he did deserve it. He still kinda feels guilty about what he said to Barty that day.*

I'd wager with all this gear, boxing is actually safer

But I am curious.. cause it was a really good punch, I'm not gonna lie, if I hadn't been mad I would've smiled... have you fought a lot?

*Before Barty, James had truthfully only given boxing half a thought. He thought it was a cool muggle sport sure, but he didn't really take an interest in it. But now, after talking about it with Barty, it was all he could think of.

So, he did his research. He knew they needed gloves of course, but according to his informant— a muggle born Gryffindor he casually knew— he also needed mouth guards, hand wraps, and head guards. Probably shoes too but they could probably work with the sneakers they had. It did take James a couple days to figure out how to get everything aka a lot of spells being used to make or transform the things they need.

But! He wasn't James potter for no reason, he did it quicker than most people would be able to, and as soon as he was finished— he'd been up early to finish this— he went to text Barty.*

BARTY I GOT THE STUFF

I DID IT

WHERE ARE YOU

@icantotallysee

You did? Wow, that's awesome!

Just hanging out in the grounds, didn't feel like being in the dorm..

Meet me near the front gate?

Yup!! I'll be there in less than 5, I was already looking for you and then remembered I could just text you LOL

*James heads to the front gate, almost buzzing in his skin cause he's so excited. It's probably way too obvious, but he's been working hard so. He's rolling back and forth on his heels as he stands there*

*Barty makes his way to the front gate, his hands stuck in the pockets of his trousers because it's starting to get pretty chilly outside. He doesn't mind his cheeks getting a bit frostbitten though. He's been lost in his thoughts, but when he sees James, his face splits into a genuine smile.*

Hey..

That was quick! I thought you said you're gonna need like a week to get everything

*James smiles widely back at him, pushing the bag of stuff he had further up his arm so he could hug Barty, pressing a kiss to his cheek before pulling back.*

I did say that, and then I realized I didn't have to wait on other people to get stuff and I could make it myself and then started and couldn't stop, and next thing I knew I had everything in less than four days!!

At least I think I've got everything, I'll figure it out later if I missed something but I've got everything important at least

I've got the gloves, the mouth guards, the wrap, and... right!! head guards

*he looks through the bag as he rattled off*

*Barty smiles softly at the kiss and quickly hugs James with one arm.*

Hm, you really did your research, huh?

That's a great idea - to make the stuff yourself - I'd probably just summon it and didn't care where it came from *he chuckles*

Where will we go? The Quidditch field? Or somewhere more private like the forest..? I'm not sure if we're allowed to do stuff like this, but on the other hand, maybe nobody cares..

Yes, yes I did

I want this to go well

*He nods*

Hmmmm I didn't think about that

I think the forest!!

Not because I necessarily care about whether we're allowed to or not, but I want it to be just us

*He grins, chuckling to himself. No one else gets to see Barty like that okay*

Cause... we're not really supposed to wear our normal clothes for this, technically, from what I've heard we're supposed to wear just shorts, but it's cold as shit and I don't want either of us to get sick so I brought other acceptable attire

Oh- do you wanna change here first? Probably not the best to change in the middle of the forest...

Well, you did a great job.. *Barty smiles and eyes James' bag*

Other acceptable attire? Colour me intrigued.. *he raises an eyebrow* But I think we could get away with being just in shorts, I've uses warming spells before.. *he says in an amused tone*

Actually, believe it or not, I'd rather change in the middle of the forest than in the middle of the school grounds.. Unless you want to slip in the Quidditch changing rooms on our way

I mean... I'm not gonna say no to you being half naked, who do you think I am?

*James laughs, shrugging a little*

It's just some muscle tanks...

I was also thinking stopping somewhere private, not in the middle of the grounds

But changing in the forest works for me, well, not even changing, we'll just use the warming spells!!

You really are excited about seeing me half naked, aren't you? *Barty teases with a raised eyebrow*

Let's go then.. *he offers a hand for James to take*

That amongst other things!! I will admit, the amount of caffeine I've had is probably not helping the excitement

*James takes his hand happily, already starting to walk off into the direction of the forest. He needs to calm down, and focus on one thing, and preferably stop talking for five seconds so he turns his head to Barty*

How's your day been, what have you been up to?

Merlin, James, you of all people should be forbidden from drinking caffeine

*Barty chuckles incredulously. He squeezes James' hand and follows after him to the forest. His jaw tenses slightly at his question. He still haven't talked to Reg and to say things have been tense in the dorm is an understatement. So, he started to avoid it.*

Not much.. Classes, then basically just wandering around the grounds, hoping I'll find something interesting

*He's been thinking things over, but didn't come up with anything that would at least seem effective, except for the things James mentioned before.*

It actually took a lot more caffeine than you'd think to get me like this, it's always a toss up whether it actually works or just makes me tired

And in my defense, I woke up at like, 4, so I needed it

*James plays with the bag in his hands mindlessly. He too late realizes that probably wasn't the best question to ask, but he'll fix it.*

Ohhh that's nice, I could imagine classes were as bleh as ever... shit.

I totally skipped my morning classes, fuck

It's fine, it'll be fine, it's either a couple points from the house or detention and I haven't had a detention in a while so that's fine

And you did indeed find something interesting.. me

*He winked playfully at Barty*

Well, I know I have a lot to say with the way I'm chugging energy drinks, but- *He chuckles*

Why were you up at 4? Working on this?

*He nods towards the bag, deciding to focus on James. Focusing on something or someone other than himself has always worked for him.*

You really are in and out od detention.. *He shakes his head with an amused smile. It's not like he's any better, but he's worried about James skipping classes with the time he spent in the Room of Requirement even though he doesn't let it show.*

Hm, I did, didn't I? *he tugs on James' hand, pulling him into his side and wraps an arm around his shoulders instead*

Yeah!! I had to make myself sleep in the first place, but then I was still really excited because I was almost done so I just gave up and woke up early...

I was really really close to being done

*James holds it up to him, opening it a bit so he could peek inside*

I am not!! I haven't been in detention in a couple weeks thank you very much... maybe like a month?

Either way, I don't get detention often cause I don't get caught, can't say the same for others

*he laughs, smiling as he nods, happily slotting himself against Barty*

Well, sounds fair, honestly, I do that too..

*Barty peeks in the bag curiously. He can see the gloves and head guards and starts getting excited about boxing again.*

Okay, okay, sorry *Barty rolls his eyes goodnaturedly, chuckling.*

Well, you're basically like a local celebrity. Some of us have to get caught in the act to get credit for our work..

If you wanted I could fix that

*James grins at him*

No detention for you ever again, unless it was for something else

Or even better we could do something together

Imagine how good that could be? No one would know what hit them, we've never collaborated like that

You're gonna make me into a celebrity? *he raises an eyebrow* James, you forget people don't particularly like me. And honestly, I think I prefer it that way.. *he chuckles lightly*

Oh, now that would be wicked.. *his eyes sparkle mischievously*

I don't think we should be allowed to collaborate because we might just end up blowing up the school

Oh... I did, sorta forget that

*James made a real exaggerated frown*

People who don't like you are stupid, how can anyone not like you? Don't answer that, I don't particularly care why, they're still stupid

But if that's what you prefer, I won't interfere

And right??

Nah maybe just a wing, not that I'm underestimating us, I just think we'll both be cautious enough not to destroy the whole school, y'know?

Thanks, Jams.. *Barty leans in to kiss James' hair with a smile*

I don't need to be liked by everyone. It's enough for me to know that there are people who love me.. Like you.

*He tries not to think about Reg and Evan and if either of them still love him after everything, but he fails. It's like a loose tooth. He keeps bumping into that whatever he does.*

Yeah, it would be a damn shame to blow up the school anyway, so we should at least try to be careful.. *he cackles*

Love you I do indeed

*He kisses Barty's shoulder*

We will we will, careful is my middle name actually

I've never done anything dangerous in my life

*He laughs, both of them knowing that statement is beyond false*

Mhm..

*Barty hums, even so his tone is dripping with sarcasm. They are finally nearing the edge of the forest and he starts buzzing with excitement.*

*James is just as excited seeing it too, swinging the bag back and forth as a way to get some of it out.*

I feel like I should mention

*James laughs*

I've never boxed in my life, so we're figuring this out together..