Judith Harris

Hufflepuff | Bird Boy Lover (Talbott) | A Badger with a Viscious Streak | Black Sparrow hawk Animagus | Tiger Patronus | Hufflepuff Beater | Introvert | A big Softie to her Loved Ones

[judediangelo75]

💙💛Talith - A Thousand Times💛💙

Here’s the completed version of this music video. I’ve been working on it for hours and I’m about to head to bed. It’s damn near 5 AM x.x

Hope you guys like this fluffy video. I know it’s kinda long but all I ask is to give it chance 💛

[tojiriki]

The bird boy needs some charging. Also, hi. It's been a while. Base

[judediangelo75]

Hi Jude! I missed you so much! JD has been less active somewhat but I still hope to work on some OC friendships stuff with him in the near future!

Hey Cato! I miss you too, I hope all is well with you! And JD seems to be more active on Discord, so you could probably reach out to him more there than here. Glad to see that you’re still around 💛💙

[judediangelo75]

Cheers To Memories, Both Old and New

Hello everyone! It has been a long time, I have been in and out as far as being social and creating, but I'm still around. Working on myself, both career wise and mentally.

As per my last several stories I've posted here and there, I've been leaning heavily into my "Kendrick Lives AU", and quite honestly, that's gonna be my more official timeline. I enjoy a lot, so I think it'll be something that'll be here to stay.

I've looking to make a book surrounding this, which I call "The Scarface Hufflepuff". I'm too all over the place to make it in order, since I would have the drive to jump ahead. So it'll be more like a series of stories that will arranged in order later, but they can be read as standalones.

To those who still read my stories, thank you. Sincerely. I've been going through a lot mentally and I missed the days where I was more lively, eager to post stories and drawings. I hope to get back there one day.

Without further ado, enjoy the story!

MC Friends/Side Characters: David Willows, Rue Willows, Thomas Tremblay Thornwood III A.K.A Old Tom, and Marcus Jacques ( @that-scouse-wizard )

Warning: Attempted Murder (mainly implied), Mentioned Child Abuse Cursing, Hurt/Comfort

Based off of @that-scouse-wizard story, Sightseeing: Part One and Part Two

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"Papa..." Kendrick paused at his spot at the sink, glancing over his shoulder to find shy but hopeful pale gold eyes looking up at him.

"Hey, princess. Everything okay," he asked his daughter as he used some lime to clean the shrimp that would be used for their dinner.

"Mhm... I-I... I wanna ask you something," Judith said, fingers fiddling with a piece of paper. The man stilled for a second before rinsing his hands. Turning around, he crouched a little to give his little girl his undivided attention.

"Of course. You know you can ask me anything, baby girl. What is it," he softly inquired. Judith bit her lip, shuffling a bit.

"I-I know...you remember David, r-right?" The man raised a brow. The memory of mischievous brown eyes came to his mind's eye.

"How can I forget my little princess's first friend at school? I'm guessing he sent you a letter," he teased, smiling at the girl to ease her nerves. As he predicted, some of the tension left her body as she gave a small nod.

"Y-Yes... He was asking if I could visit his home in Liverpool for a week. I-I was wondering if that was okay," the girl replied slowly. Kendrick hummed, pondering over it for a bit. The kids had just finished their second year at Hogwarts. It was Judith's first year of having friends her age. It did set the man on edge when he learned that his daughter's first friend was a boy at her Quidditch tryouts. But David Willows proved to be a good kid, praising his princess and not cowering before him. And it turned out that his mother was an old classmate of his as well.

His eyes briefly lingered on the scar on her face.

'It would be the first trip she's been on since the incident, too...'

Kendrick didn't see why not.

"Of course, princess. I'll come with you. Just to be safe, is that okay?" The girl beamed, the edges of her scar shifting to make room for her smile.

"Yes! Thank you, Papa! I'll go write to David to tell him when we'll be there!" With a kiss to his cheek, Kendrick watched as Judith scurried off with a chuckle.

'There's my little sunshine... this would be good for her...'

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Kendrick and Judith stepped off the train hand-in-hand into the hot, busy atmosphere of Liverpool Lime Street. As it was their first time there, father and daughter were slowly walking through the sea of people, admiring the building structure as they made their way to the car park. Judith wore a soft yellow sundress with white sandals, her long brown-black locs pulled up in a high ponytail, save for two locs that framed her face. Kendrick opted for a matching yellow muscle shirt, light blue denim jeans, and white sneakers. His locs were down and free. Kendrick and Judith had a small habit of wearing matching or complementary outfits since the girl was born, and weren't looking to stop now.

Kendrick, being the tallest of the two, was able to spot a familiar young boy dressed in a plain grey tee shirt, denim shorts, and black sandals, pacing back and forth at their promised meet-up spot. The man smirked, squeezing his daughter's hand to get her attention. Judith looked up to see her dad nod his head towards something before following his line of sight to find brown eyes meeting her gold ones.

She smiled.

"Judith!" David called out with a matching smile. The girl released her father's hand and ran up to her friend, hugging him. One in which he happily returned.

"It's good to see you, David," she replied happily. Kendrick walked up on their little reunion, greeting the boy with a kind smirk.

"Hello David, glad to see that you're doing well," the man greeted, ruffling the boy's hair. David chuckled, accepting the affectionate ruffle with a grin.

"Hello, Kendrick, and it's great to see you too. Welcome to Liverpool!" Kendrick took note of the hustle and bustle that went on outside the station. Many vehicles seemed to come and go in several directions. The Neo-Grecian-style stone building and a white tower tipped with a room with blue windows proved to be the main focal point that travelers see as they come out of the station. The view was impressive in its own right, but Kendrick knew that his daughter was promised a tour of the place and was ready to start exploring.

"Thank you for inviting us, David. Shall we be off," Judith inquired eagerly. The boy nodded, leading them out of the station.

"Of course, mum is waitin' for us in the car park. Kendrick may already know this, but just a heads-up, she can be a bit... intense," David warned warily. Judith frowned, fiddling with a silver chain ring on her middle finger. Kendrick easily caught this nervous tick. Taking hold of her hand, he gave her a comforting squeeze.

"Hey, it's okay, baby girl. I'm here with you, no need to worry. Alright?" Judith nodded, squeezing back in quiet thanks.

The trio moved along the pavement that ran parallel to the train platforms, towards the car park, which was separated from the rest of the station by a wrought-iron fence. There were a few parked cars there, all without their owners. All except one.

In front of a silver Ford Escort stood a woman with pale skin and shoulder-length dark brown hair. She wore a grey pinstripe suit, a pale pink shirt under it being the only other colour. Her only accessories were a small, sharp, and serrated tooth hung around her neck by a black thread and a red snakeskin handbag.

Despite it being many years, Kendrick was able to spot that 'no nonsense' look in those brown eyes from his first year anywhere.

Said eyes were mainly trained on his daughter, who was doing her best not to fidget under such a calculating gaze. If this were anyone else, Kendrick would've felt more defensive. But he could see a hint of curiosity and concern in those eyes as she studied his daughter's face. Rue's stoic face broke when her eyes finally met his.

"Well, I'll be damned to a dragon's hellfire... Kendrick Harris is that you," Rue inquired, almost in disbelief. Kendrick snorted, walking over to give the Irish woman a brief side hug.

"Of course, it's me. Who else taught you that you could breathe actual fire in our first year, little dragon," the man teased. Rue briefly returned the hug before smacking his arm.

"You little sh-" Rue glanced at the two kids in their midst, before clearing her throat with a glare.

"You're lucky there are children in our presence, Harris," she grumbled. Kendrick laughed.

"Didn't stop you when we were kids, what changed?" Kendrick evaded the second hit with a smirk.

"I became a mum, you stubborn git," she hissed. David watched in quiet awe as he watched the two adults interacted. He was so used to his mum being so serious and overbearing. Ever since Jacob went missing and she and his dad got divorced, his mother has become the helicopter parent of his worst nightmares. They butt heads constantly as the years pass, as Rue seems to want to shield David from everything that could harm him. After his tryouts for Hufflepuff Beater, Rue seemed to have begrudgingly accepted that she couldn't protect David forever. 

It made her think of her father, whose parents wanted to control his life as they deemed fit. While Rue was nowhere near on their level, she understood that David was a growing boy with interests and desires that she may not want for him. Unless she wanted to be like her grandparents, who were completely cut out of their son's life for the remainder of their lives, she knew she had to try to meet her son halfway. Things have gotten a bit better towards the end of second year, as his mum allowed him to invite a friend over for summer break. Rue was aware how social he was and wanted to extend an olive branch of sorts, hoping to get a glimpse of her son's life outside of home. Of course, she didn't expect that out of all of David's friends that he seemed to acquire in his House, his choice would be Judith Harris.

Rue was well aware of the boy who disappeared alongside her son, Jamal Harris. The rumored sister who was around her youngest's age turned out to be Judith, who was rumored to be even more cursed than her brother. Rue didn't believe rumors, but she did try to insist that David chose someone else.

She didn't want to lose her last child because of another Harris. But David stood his ground.

"Mum, you don't understand. Judith is more than just my fellow Beater and more than someone who shares a bit of history with me. She's one of my best mates. I trust her and she would never hurt me. She even saved me from being skewered by the Ice Knight that protected the Ice Vault. Inviting her here is the very least I could do..."

Rue relented upon hearing that. Facing a magical fighter in such conditions takes guts. Anybody would want to run and hide to save their skin, but the girl proved to be loyal to her son. Her son, who probably wouldn't be standing before her anymore if she had not intervened.

Rue backed down, but she wanted to see the girl for herself. When the letter came with Judith's response, David excitedly told her that she would be coming with her father. Rue, albeit a bit confused at her son's behavior, was perfectly okay with that. She had planned on grilling the man to let him know that if anything happened to David, like it happened with Jacob, she would be feeding his remains to her dragons.

'Turns out it's this lovely bastard. Can't threaten a man who's already immune to my threats...'

"As much as you decided to be a pain in my neck within the first five minutes... It's great to see an old friend," Rue relented with a small smile. Kendrick chuckled.

"Sorry, not sorry, Willows. I had to show my little girl that you're not as scary as you make yourself to be. Speaking of which-" Kendrick pulled his daughter in front of him, holding her by her shoulders.

"Rue, I would like you to meet my little princess, Judith. Baby girl, this is my old House mate, Rue Willows," Kendrick introduced. Rue watched as the girl fiddled with a ring, those same gold eyes as her father's, meeting her brown ones.

"H-Hello, Ms. Willows... It's a pleasure to meet you. T-Thank you for allowing me to visit," the girl said. Rue's eyes soften a bit.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, too, Judith. Welcome to Liverpool." David, albeit a bit surprised, was pleased to hear the warm tone in his mother's voice when addressing his shy friend. His mother's eyes met his as she tossed him a large pouch of money. David looked into the pouch with wide eyes before looking at her with a silent question.

"I was thinking, David. Maybe you could show Judith around the city centre. Even show her Under Mersey. I can catch up with this bloke in the meantime. We'll come and find you kids around 5. Sound good?" David, although taken aback, grinned.

"Y-yeah, okay. Thanks, mum." Kendrick hummed, reaching into his bag.

"That sounds like a great time. Here, let me see if I can-" Rue smacked the man's arm with a glare.

"Aht! You two aren't allowed to spend money here, you stubborn git. You're our guests, so don't even think about handing the girl a single coin, you hear me, Harris?" Kendrick laughed, raising his hands in mock surrender.

"Alright, alright. You win, Willows. You can leave your bags with me, baby girl. Go have fun," Kendrick said with a smirk. The two kids smiled at their parents and each other before taking off. The two adults moved the luggage to the boot of the car before turning to each other.

"So little dragon, where to," Kendrick inquired. Rue gave a small smirk.

"A pub and then the Under Mersey. We can catch up over a drink before searching for some grub." Kendrick returned her smirk before gesturing in front of him.

"Ladies first." Rue let out a graceful snort before leading the way to a nearby bar. The walk there was done in a comfortable silence, Kendrick taking the time to observe his surroundings. The two made it a small establishment, Rue nodding her greetings to the patrons there. Kendrick greeted their curious gazes with a small wave and a kind smirk.

"I must say, Rue, I never pegged you as someone who partakes in happy hour," Kendrick mused aloud as the two took a seat at an open booth. Rue playfully rolled her eyes.

"I don't drink often since I still have a kid at home, but I'm still an Irish lass at the end of the day, Harris. Plus, I'd figured it would be a good way to bond with an old classmate," she sassed. The man let out a soft laugh.

"'Classmate'? Here I thought I was an 'old friend'. That stings, little dragon," Kendrick ribbed. Rue narrowed her eyes before letting out a chuckle of her own. A young waiter came up to their table, asking them for their orders.

"Alright, what's your poison, Harris?" Kendrick raised a brow and shrugged.

"I never really tried much of European drinks outside of Butterbeer. When I became an adult, I never really drank until I moved back home a few years back, when Judith was born. You got anything similar to Bajan rum?" Rue tilted her head, mulling over the options before broaching a request.

"Describe the taste to me."

"Usually sweet, floral notes with undercurrents of spices, leaving a warm and smooth finish. They fall right in the middle of the lighter rums of Spanish-speaking islands and the heavier, romantic rums of English territory islands. But if that's still not helpful, I'll take something fitting for the summer weather," Kendrick stated, leaning back in his seat. Rue smiled.

"I know what will suit ya. A Bulmers for my mate here, and I'll take a Guinness for myself. Please and thank you," Rue rattled off to the waiter. Kendrick raised a brow in question, which Rue waved off.

"Trust me, you'll like it. Now, tell me, what's been going on with ya. It's been many years since we graduated, and now look at us. Parents. Who ended up marrying your romantic arse? Was it Camara," Rue asked, an impish grin tugging on her lips. Kendrick's eyes went wide as they quickly darted around as if the woman would magically appear.

"Damn it, woman! Must you bring her up?! No, I didn't, and I quote "Find my balls and get with her"... It was a harmless crush, nothing more," Kendrick retorted with a flushed face. Rue hummed.

"Bullshit, ya bollox. I would bet my month's earnings that if you ever saw her again, you would freeze like Diricrawl caught in the headlights. Forget Cupid giving you a love tap with an arrow; he stabbed you with one of them. Gods, you were such a sap for the little bookworm," Rue teased. Kendrick groaned, rubbing his suddenly hot face.

"Ya know..." The Bajan man peeked behind his fingers, seeing that same impish grin that usually resided on David's face on Rue's.

"I've heard from a little birdie that she works at Flourish and Blotts, selling books and such to the young lads and lassies at Hogwarts," she drawled. Kendrick stilled, his right eye giving a faint twitch. It was in that moment that the waiter brought their drinks. Kendrick quickly grabbed his, downing half of it in one go, shocking both Rue and the waiter.

"Bloody menace," he grumbled, still quite flustered. Rue laughed at the man's disgruntment.

"Well, that's usually my ex-husband and my boys. But they did rub off of me a bit, I'm not that much of a hard arse to admit that." Kendrick shook his head in exasperation.

"Looks like that's one thing we also have in common, we're both divorcees. What happened there? I thought you and Matthew were a match made in heaven, even though he was Muggle," Kendrick asked, flipping the attention onto Rue. The Irish woman raised a brow.

"You don't read the Daily Prophet?" The answering scowl was enough, but Kendrick provided a verbal response nonetheless.

"Hells no. Especially if anything is written by the rattlesnake, Skeeter. After what she wrote after Jacob and Jamal's disappearances, I could never forgive her for what she wrote in regards to our boys." Rue felt the unknowing tension in her shoulders ease.

"Well, to make this long, sob story short: after Jacob's expulsion and disappearance, Matthew and I got into a lot of arguments. I made sure to use a muffling charm so David couldn't hear what we were saying, but he knew well enough it had to do with his brother. Matthew blamed the disappearance on the magical world, and I couldn't cope with the emotions of it all. When the shit show with the Daily Prophet finally died down, we agreed to divorce. Neither of us was happy, and we were making our remaining child miserable with our mess. We changed David's name to 'Willows' in hopes of distancing him from the situation with Jacob. No such luck with that blasted woman Rita Skeeter. She heard we were divorcing and exposed David to the malicious and gossipy eyes of the wizarding world. I couldn't handle the stress and threw myself into work while Matthew just upped and left..." Rue let out a heavy sigh before taking a swing of her drink.

"Ugh, I'm too sober for this," she grunted. Kendrick raised an unimpressed brow.

"Try not to get piss poor drunk, Rue. While I can easily carry you if need be, we still have kids to return to. Besides, it's good to have someone to talk about this stuff. Having that support can take you a long way than just handling everything yourself," Kendrick remarked bluntly. Rue glared and took another long drink.

"I'm Irish, ya twit. I'm not gonna kill over just one drink... and unless you got some sage advice on how I can mend my relationship with my son, I'd much rather continue ribbing you over your at least three decades long crush." Kendrick didn't rise to her bait, fixing the woman with an even stare.

"Well, I'm all ears. Based on what you said and what I've seen, you and David aren't close. Outside of Jacob's disappearance and your divorce, what's contributing to the strain," he inquired. Rue glared down at her drink as she answered.

"David claims that I'm being too protective and overbearing..."

"And are you?" The glare shifted to the man sitting across from her. It irked her more to see the cool gaze meeting her own as he took a slow, measured sip of his cider.

"What in the bloody hell is that supposed to mean, Harris? Is it wrong of me to be scared and worried for my last remaining child? David doesn't know all of the dangers that exist out there! It's more than just the dragons that I helped raise. Not everyone can be trusted. I'm not gonna be an oblivious mother and let the world take one of the last pieces of my heart. I'd burned the world for mine. I only want what's best for him!" Kendrick didn't take offense at Rue's angry tone, which made her Irish accent more pronounced.

"And what if what you think is best for him doesn't align with what he believes and needs?" Rue snarled.

"He's a bullheaded 12-year-old boy! Of course, he's gonna believe he knows what he's doing and what he needs out of there," Rue hissed. Kendrick only regarded her with a cool look.

"I'm not attacking you or your parental moral codes, Rue. You're right in a few aspects. The world, no matter if it's wizarding or Muggle, is a dangerous place. David is just a 12-year-old boy. Not only that, he is your son, your youngest child at that. It is your right as a parent, as a mother, to want to be there and protect your kin. But David isn't gonna be that 12-year-old boy forever. Just like he didn't remain the 8-year-old boy when his brother disappeared. Soon, he'll be 13, then 15, and then 18-"

"The. Point. Harris." Pale gold eyes only rolled at the small interruption.

"David is growing up, Rue. In your heart of hearts, he'll still be your baby boy whom you cradled in your arms all those years ago. But he's growing up and trying to become his own person. And being your own person means making your own decisions, even if you don't always know all the possible outcomes and which one you'll handed. This situation we're in is a perfect example." Rue eyed her fellow Ravenclaw warily.

"What are you going on about," she asked slowly. Kendrick leaned in, resting his chin on his folded hands.

"You didn't want David to choose Judith to come here for the summer. I could tell by the way you looked at my daughter when we were walking up. You were trying to study her, trying to see if she's truly trustworthy. Even trying to come across as unreadable and borderline intimidating. You probably deem my son partially responsible for Jacob's disappearance, as they both can't be found to this day. And I know you heard the rumors regarding Judith, how she was deemed cursed, even more so than Jamal. Before realizing who their parent is, you would probably die happy if you never had to deal with another Harris in association with your family ever again. If I didn't come, you would probably be more standoffish around her, only playing nice because David told you that she saved his life and wanted her here. You didn't trust David's decision-making and choices because you thought it'll hurt him in the end. But that changed when you realized that Judith was my daughter. You know me from our school days at Hogwarts. And you can trust that I would raise my children to be someone kind, steadfast, and loyal. David managed to prove you wrong that the Harris name is a bad one." Kendrick's verbal punches came quickly, powerfully, and precisely, bruising and shaking Rue's fears and steadfast beliefs to the very core.

"I-I...you don't struggle with the idea of the world being out to get your kid," Rue asked in a quiet voice. Kendrick took another decisive drink of his cider, finishing the drink.

"Of course I have that fear, Rue. I'm no deadbeat father. Judith is my little girl, my princess. I would lay my life for her. As protective as I am, I still took precautions to make sure she could defend herself. I may treat her as a princess, but I made sure that she would be no damsel in distress. As much as I tried to be there for her, the last person I would've suspected in the world ended up hurting her in a way that will stick with her for the rest of her life. Before physically and mentally," Kendrick finally spoke, his voice thick with remorse. Rue's brow furrowed.

"You mean to tell me that scar was done by a person? And someone you knew at that?! Who would do such a thing to a wee girl," Rue asked in disbelief. Something dangerous flashed in the man's pale gold eyes before disappearing.

"My ex-wife and the mother of my children. You remember Sade Cadet, don't you?" Rue's jaw dropped.

"Sade Cadet is your ex-wife? The same Sade Cadet who would borderline stalk you from afar after your Quidditch matches like a creepy schoolgirl? The same Sade Cadet who tried to slip you a Love Potion? The same Sade Cadet who would act like a bitch to you whenever you do confront her on her deranged behavior, all because she didn't want to admit that she was "in love" with someone from an "inferior" House? THAT same Sade Cadet?!" Kendrick sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Yes, Rue. That Sade Cadet." Rue dropped into her seat like dead weight.

"I'm definitely too sober for this shit. What in the name of the seven Hells possessed you to marry that deranged woman?!" Kendrick gave her an even look.

"Believe it or not, she did grow up quite a bit after graduation, mellowing out most of her... unhinged tendencies. She was also quite persistent. Since I didn't know what happened to Camara after graduation, I agreed to date her. However, all it took was too much alcohol and a single bed. She told me she was pregnant a little while after the fact, and her parents were pushing me to make an honest woman out of her. So I married her in a shotgun marriage. I couldn't even invite my mother with how rushed it was. Though she later told me that she wouldn't have come even if I had sent the invite to her. She didn't like Sade at all. A few months later, Jamal was born," Kendrick breezily explained. Rue shook her head.

"A loveless marriage. Good grief, Kendrick. But how did you not realize that she was abusive?"

"Because she was never like that with Jamal. She adored and doted on him. Eventually, Jamal felt tired of being the only child and wanted a sibling. And I did want a second child. Sade never openly objected. But she was very disgruntled throughout the second pregnancy. I understood that pregnancy could be a difficult time for women, so I tried to make it as comfortable for her as possible. Eventually, I was feeling homesick and wanted to go back to Barbados to be with my mother. I put in my resignation at St. Mungos, and she requested time off for all of us to go. Judith was born there. After a short recovery time, Sade took Jamal and fellow back to Europe so he could attend Hogwarts. I stayed in Barbados with my baby girl and my mother. We lived together for six years until my mother passed away from old age. I decided to fly back with Judith so we can all be a family. Judith, albeit shy, was a very lively and loving child. But I noticed as time passed that the same light I was used to seeing was dimming slowly. For the life of me, I couldn't understand why. Judith insisted that she was fine, but I could tell she was lying to me. But I couldn't help if she didn't tell me. Sade seemed to carry on like normal. While she did take care of her, it was not on the same level as Jamal. It was after Jamal's disappearance, Sade was inconsolable. And it was her breaking point. She found Judith using her wand to light the fireplace with the fire charm Jamal taught her. And burned her." Rue covered her trembling mouth, eyes wide with horror.

She saw the scar branded on the girl's face. With a burn like that, it would've been enough to kill the girl, who would've been 8 or 9. The same age as David. Kendrick didn't wait for Rue to try to respond.

"She threw my daughter's unconscious form out onto the snowy sidewalk before making her way to work. Thankfully, a few minutes later, one of my neighbors found Judith lying there. I was at St. Mungos, retaking my old position as a Healer, so they brought her there. The cold grip of fear on my heart upon seeing my little girl in so much pain isn't something I will ever forget for as long as I live. For weeks, she suffered. She could've died... but thankfully, she pulled through. When she was well enough, I finally coaxed her into telling me what happened. The pure, naked fear in her eye when she said she couldn't tell me the identity of the person who hurt her pained me. It wasn't until she let it slip that it was a woman, I pushed for her to tell me. When she told me it was Sade and how she's been abusing her ever since we moved to London, I just remember my world coming to a stop. The same woman who gave her life just tried to take it. I decided to divorce her as soon as possible," Kendrick recounted, staring at his empty glass. Rue slammed a fist on the table.

"Fuck a divorce! That woman deserves to rot in Azkaban for what she's done to you two," she snarled. Kendrick let out a humorless chuckle.

"Oh wait, there's one more thing. While we were living in Barbados, Sade fell pregnant by another man at her job. Had a son and created a happy little family with him and the father." Brown eyes stared into gold ones in a dead silence.

"For the love of all things holy and unholy, please tell me you're just pulling my leg here, Kendrick."

"'Fraid not, old friend." Rue growled.

"That does it, that bitch is dragonbait-" Kendrick shook his head.

"Fangs in, little dragon. We're divorced, and that's all that I care about. Sade wants nothing to do with us anymore, and I'm perfectly content with that. She has already done enough harm to my daughter. Besides, we ended up growing our family in a way. Sade's boyfriend, Martin Lockheart, found out about Sade's actions the same day I came to her office with divorce papers in hand. He was outside of the door, listening in on our argument. He came to see me at St. Mungos to apologize that he played a role in breaking up my family, even though he didn't know about me and Judith. I could see that he was genuine about his apology and accepted it. Even brought him to meet Judith, himself." Rue sputtered in shock.

"You idiot! You brought the boyfriend of that blasted witch to meet your injured daughter-" Kendrick raised his hand, the same hand gesture she would use on him and disobedient dragons. Her eye twitched at that.

"I said 'fangs in, little dragon'. You know me to be a good judge of character and a good liar detector. Besides, my mother was a Seer. I did inherit some of her abilities, but nowhere near her level. I had a vision of Sade's infidelity before confronting her. So I knew about him way before he knew about me. The man had nothing to gain from coming to me at my place of work and apologizing to me. He could've very well carried on with his life, being a willing participant in the dark. But he came. Judith even claimed him as a stepfather. His next visit, he brought his son to meet her. The two of them became inseparable ever since. Which was good because Judith needed a village around her, people who are willing to show her love. When the bandages finally came off, I closely monitored her sight and hearing in hopes of improvement. I saw that it shattered Judith when I broke the news that she was now semi-deaf and semi-blind due to the scar, which will never fade. Nuri was determined to let her know that she was still loved, even when she struggles to see it herself. And Martin proved to be a good pillar of support for me whenever I let my emotions and thoughts consume me. And you could have that too, Rue..." Kendrick reached out and clasped one of Rue's shaky hands in between his own.

"We can be scared for our kids all we want, but we have to give them space to grow and make their own decisions. Did you know that after her 12th birthday, I didn't want her at Hogwarts anymore. It was her first birthday away from home, and the scar she tried to hide was exposed by some dumb kids seeking a weak target for their entertainment. But she wanted to go back. She knew she needed school to get into her dream career. That's her decision, despite my fears of her being ostracized and being a target for bullies. I have nightmares that she cuts herself as a way to cope, and eventually, the pressure becomes too much for her, so she ends up ending her life. I could never tell if it was something my mind made up or a possible vision for the future. It downright terrifies me to leave her in a place where kids whisper about her, her scar, her missing brother behind her back, and to her face. But then she met David—her first real friend at Hogwarts. I couldn't be any more grateful for him because I saw that bit of sunshine in my little girl's eyes again. I know those two will cherish the friendship that they've found, and they'll help support each other to be better people. Release the lease you have on him, Rue. Let him find out who he is on this adventure called life, and be able to meet and love the people he deems worthy of his heart. You're not the only person who wants to be there for him. Trust in these two things: that even when the world tries to hurt him, he will not go down without putting up a damn good fight and that he will be surrounded by people fighting alongside him so they could all get out alive..." Rue sniffled, wiping her face with her free hand.

"You sappy, old man... fine, I'll take what you said into consideration," she relented. Kendrick smiled at her, eyes glassy.

"Trust me, I know it's not easy to trust the whole world with part of your heart... but they're gonna want to find the parts of the world where they feel like they belong. Just be there for him. Offer guidance, but don't insert your opinion as his final answer. Your love will speak louder than your overprotectiveness ever will." Rue nodded, giving the man a smile of her own.

"Thank you... I appreciate you, Beastie." She laughed at the groan the man let out over that particular nickname, the mood lightening between them.

"Some thanks you have. Here I thought you forgot that nickname," he grumbled. Rue snorted.

"Are you kidding? That's how we first met, how could I forget," she teased. The woman took a glance at the clock on the wall before standing.

"C'mon Beastie, let's grab some food and then find our kids. The Under Mersey city centre has some restaurants and food vendors. It's probably likely we'll find them there too," Rue prompted. Kendrick sighed, following the woman out of the establishment, nodding his thanks and farewells to the people there.

"Could you at least not call me that in front of David," the man grumbled. Rue snickered.

"So the Winter Beast hasn't haunted the Hufflepuff Common Room, or did it skip your kids entirely? Jacob never said anything weird or ominous prowling the Gryffindor Common Room." Kendrick grimaced.

"Jamal was born in this type of climate. He's used to it. And there's a reason why Judith comes home during winter break, and it's not just because I'm a selfish parent..." Rue cackled.

"Leave her there this winter, I want to hear the stories of the Winter Beast returning to roam the halls of the Hufflepuff Common Room and scare almost everyone shitless," she grinned as they approached Matthew Street.

"Are you trying to scar your child, Rue? I don't know what it is about the cold, but for whatever reason, Judith seems to possess the strength of all her ancestors. I'm pretty sure she could toss anyone like a ragdoll if even so much as anyone let in a small draft," Kendrick sighed. Rue waved him off as they stopped before the Cavern Club.

"Think of it as a way of passage for knowing the Harris clan. Besides, I'm sure David will be fine; you never threw me whenever you were like that. Now, shush up, we're gonna use one of the entrances to the Under Mersey. And fair warning, brace yourself," Rue waved off. Kendrick's brow furrowed as he watched Rue tap her foot six times.

"Hey Jude." 

"Why are-WHALOSS!" Kendrick's shout turned into a series of curses in his mother tongue, and he and Rue slid down an almost vertical slope and were quick to pick up speed. Rue was laughing her head off as if she had lost all sense as the two went further down the dimly lit abyss before eventually slowing down through a small tunnel into a fairly busy pub. Kendrick and Rue got off the slide, albeit the former on shaky legs. Once the man was steady, he grabbed the shorter woman by her shoulders and began to shake her.

"Wuh wrong wid yuh, woman?! Yuh tryna kill me," he demanded. Rue had the nerve to smirk at him, brushing his hands off her shoulders before straightening her suit jacket. A boisterous laugh stole Kendrick's attention. The bartender gave the two an amused look.

"Rue! It's been a while since I last saw you here, and you brought yourself a friend much like your boy," the man said with a grin. Rue smiled back.

"Always good to see ya, Tom. And good to know David has been here with Judith. This here is Judith's father, Kendrick," Rue replied. Kendrick cleared his throat, mustering a small smile.

"Pleasure to meet you, Tom." 

"Oh yeah, definitely like father like daughter. The girl was screaming bloody murder on her way down and made sure to serve David a knuckle sandwich for putting her on that "bloody death trap" as she called it," Tom teased. Kendrick coughed with a small flush.

Not ever was it said that the Harris family ever liked surprises...

"As much as we love to stay and chat, we're gonna find some grub and our children. But we'll make sure to come again. Say hi to Crocky for me," Rue said, dragging the man out of the pub. Tom laughed and waved the two off. 

As the two walked through the Under Mersey, Rue was rattling off the different sights and history of the place. As much as Kendrick hated how they got there, he couldn't help but admire the magical world under Liverpool. Soon, they were able to reach the city centre, bustling with life and an assortment of restaurants bringing in hungry customers.

French, Chinese, Greek, Spanish, Indian...

"So Beastie, which one of these places seems to tickle ya fancy," Rue asked as they walked through. She wasn't in the mood for anything specific, so she would be okay with whatever her friend chose. Kendrick's eyes scanned the different names and decorations, none of them holding his attention for too long, until his eyes landed on one.

The establishment was smaller and had significantly less traffic compared to its competitors that lined the street. There was an assortment of flags that hung above the doors of the restaurant, including a three-striped flag. Blue on both sides and gold in the middle, with a black trident amid the gold.

The flag of his homeland, along with the flags of the Caribbean. 

"Jacques' Caribbean Cuisine," the sign read. Kendrick smiled and, without saying a word, he headed straight for the restaurant. Rue, not expecting the sudden laser focus, sped walk behind him to keep up.

The smell of familiar spices that reminded him so much of home hit the man immediately upon entry. A lean, dark skin man, a few inches shorter than himself, with a balding head and greying goatee, turned to greet the newcomers with a smile.

"Welcome-" Jacques started before pausing, taking in Kendrick's appearance. A slow smile graced the man's lips.

"Wah gwaan, bredda! Welcome to mi restaurant, I'm Marcus Jacques. Nice fi meet yuh!" Rue and Kendrick blinked in surprise as Jacques quickly walked up and enthusiastically embraced the Bajan man. The man's Jamaican accent was clear as day to Kendrick's ears. The Barbados native allowed a smile to grace his features and returned the hearty embrace.

"Wa gine on... Da name's Kendrick, and this is my friend, Rue. How yuh know I was from the islands," Kendrick asked, pale gold eyes curious. Jacques let out a good-natured laugh. 

"A young, sweet gyal is here with her friend. A real sell-off she is, yuh! Yuh two might as well be twins," Marcus teased as the fond memory came to mind.

It was a slow day for business, which wasn't too odd for Marcus. Not everyone was open to exploring different food options, especially if their spice palette isn't high. But it was a pleasant surprise to find two young kids, a boy and a girl, enter his restaurant. 

"Welcome," he greeted the young children with a smile. Their eyes immediately trained on him, though he noticed the girl (Good Gods above, what a scar on the girl! Who would harm such a sweet and innocent face?) had a sparkle in her pale gold eyes, her smile big and excited. "What can I interest you kids in today?"

"Good afternoon, Mr. Jacques! Wa gine on, uncle? Yuh body good," the bright-eyed girl asked. Marcus's eyes widened when he heard her words and the distinct accent in her young voice. 

'A child from the Caribbean here in my restaurant...'

"Kiss mi neck! Yuh from the islands, sweet gyal," he asked, crouching to her level. The girl nodded, proud.

"Sure am! I'm from Barbados. And yuh self?" He laughed merrily, gently patting the Bajan girl's unscarred cheek.

"Jamaica, my child. Good stuff! Girl, if I was born a few decades later, you and me would have practically been neighbors," he replied, clearly enthused. It was incredibly rare for him to encounter someone from the Caribbean, so this was a very pleasant surprise for him. The girl giggled.

"I'm sure you and my Papa would've been great friends if you knew him. He should be around your age. He raised me alongside my Gran-Gran in Barbados for a few years. My name is Judith, and this is my good mate, David," she introduced herself and the pale boy next to her, who seemed very intrigued by their warm interaction. Marcus grinned as he chatted with the children who seemed instantly to brighten up his day...

Kendrick chuckled as the man retold the encounter.

'That's my little sunflower for you...'

"Could you take us to them, Mr. Jacques," Rue asked kindly. Marcus turned to the woman, taking her in before chuckling.

"Ya mon. I'll take yuh to your little ones. I hope yuh taste palette is better than yuh boy's..." Rue raised a brow while Kendrick snorted, already knowing what could've possibly happened. Marcus led the parents to a small table further in the establishment. Judith was feeding a flushed-faced David some yogurt, an amused smile on the girl's face. The two looked up to find Marcus and their parents approaching. 

"Papa," Judith cheerfully called, putting down the bowl before running up to her father. Said man was quick to scoop her up, kissing her forehead as she snuggled close. David gave his mother a sheepish smile as she took over Judith's seat to take a look at her son.

"David here accidentally bit into a piece of scotch bonnet, and it proved to be a little too much for him. I got him some yogurt to help cool him down, and Judith here was kind enough to feed it to him," Marcus informed. Kendrick smirked as he carried his daughter to the other side of the table, seating her in the chair beside his. Rue looked up to find a glint of laughter in the man's eyes. 

"Like mother, like son." Rue blushed, glaring at the man.

"Shut it, Harris." Kendrick only grinned. Marcus looked between the two adults with an amused look. 

"You two came to eat, so let me feed yuh a taste of the Caribbean. What would you like?" Kendrick didn't have to think too hard about what he wanted.

"Mahi-Mahi sounds delicious right now. I take it with some seasoned fries, if that's okay," Kendrick said. Marcus let out a hearty laugh, slapping a friendly hand on the man's broad shoulder.

"Ya mon! I got yuh, and for you miss," Marcus said, turning to the mother, finishing what Judith started and feeding her son the rest of the yogurt. Rue didn't even get a chance to glance at a menu when Kendrick interjected.

"Actually, I want her to try a Barbadian dish. Fish cakes, if you have them, make a bread and two with some fries and hot pepper sauce on the side." Marcus nodded with a smile before walking away from the table. Rue raised a brow at her old friend, who only smirked in response.

"You gave me an Irish drink, it's only right that I return the favor. Plus, I cooked for you before, you should be able to hold your own against some spice," Kendrick said with a shrug. Rue only shook her head, a small smile on her lips.

"Alright, alright, Beastie. You win." David blinked at the nickname, his throat cool enough to speak.

"'Beastie'? Why call him that," the young boy asked. Kendrick coughed into his fist as Judith continued to eat her brown chicken stew with a small flush on her face. Rue patted her boy's head.

"You'll find out one day, David." Kendrick, eager to change the topic, turned to his daughter.

"So, princess, what do you think of Liverpool?" The girl beamed. 

"I'm really enjoying so far! I was just telling David we should do something like this in the future! ...W-Well, if that's okay with you, Papa...?" The man chuckled, squeezing her briefly.

"Of course, baby girl. I'm sure Rue wouldn't mind either, right little dragon," Kendrick confirmed, turning to his friend. Rue seemed to be lost in thought for a few moments, looking at his daughter before giving a small smile.

"That's fine with me. I'll make sure to have a room readily available just for you two." David looked at his mum in slight awe and confusion. The woman turned to her son's curious gaze with a slight quirk in her brow.

"Is that something you would like, David," she inquired gently. The boy paused for a brief moment before nodding.

"Y-Yes. It would be nice to have Judith over. And Kendrick, if he decides to come." Rue nodded.

"Then it's settled. A Willows-Harris tradition," she proclaimed with a grinned. Kendrick laughed freely, grasping his friend's forearm in a familiar old greeting from when they were kids.

"Cheers to memories, both old and new," he said. The kids seemed to agree, clicking their glasses, echoing the sentiment. It was then Marcus came with the adults' meals, alongside some homemade lemonade, free of charge. Kendrick and Rue talked the man before tucking into their food. Rue only coughed a bit when she tasted the hot pepper sauce, but complimented the food with a smile. The Caribbean natives laughed while David pouted at his mother's cool ease.

"You don't get to this level of comfortability without being exposed to it. Trust me, son, Kendrick did not go easy on me the first time around," she assured her boy. Kendrick only chuckled, sipping his lemonade. Rue smiled, her gaze landing on the man across from her.

"...Sooooo, is there any applications for step-mother but not married to you but there for your daughter? David could use a sister. I'll leave the actual step-mother role to Camara," she said, a sly smile on her lips. Kendrick proceeded to spit out his drink, while Judith cocked her head at her suddenly flustered father.

"RUE! NOT THE TIME!"

"Papa? Who's Camara?"

That summer proved to be a start to a lasting friendship, forged from shared pain but filled with chaotic energy and good fun.

[dais-yyyy-deactivated20250224]

Dame Maggie Smith

1934-2024

[judediangelo75]

[judediangelo75]

Hii 🥰

Just a bit of positivity

Aww thank you! 💛💛💛

[judediangelo75]

Day Two: First Kiss

Okay, Day Two for @hphm-ship-week! Had to scrap my original Soulmate AU fic because I'm exhausted and can't pull another 8000+ word story out of my brain. I'm honestly not sure if how I approached this makes sense, concept wise, but I tried.

Enough of my yapping, enjoy the story! (Do I even need to as what version I'm using at this point? Already know I love me some Papa Kendrick and plan on keeping him around until he's completely old and gray)

Word Count: 3,512

Mentioned MCs: David Willows ( @that-scouse-wizard )

Main Pairing: Talbott Winger x Judith Harris (Talith)

Side Relationships: Merula Synde x David Willows (mentioned), Kendrick Harris x Madam Villanelle

(2006)

"Hey, Dad?" Red eyes looked up from the book he was reading, finding two pairs of eyes trained on him. Talbott watched as his two sons walked up to him, sitting at his feet.

"Yes, Bakari, what is it," he asked, placing a bookmark on the page he was reading. Bakari and Kendrick looked at each other, doing that weird sibling communication thing he had seen Judith do with her siblings, both biological and adoptive. He mentally groaned.

'Gods, I hope Merula gets just as lost as I do when her husband does the same thing...'

It was Kendrick who finally spoke up.

"Is today the day you married Mama?" Talbott blinked at his youngest with a baffled look. His eyes glanced at the calendar on the wall not too far from them. He could see today's date marked with his wife's signature burgundy lipstick.

June 17th. Their 11th year anniversary. 

The Ravenclaw alumni returned his gaze to the two boys sitting at his feet, who were still awaiting his answer.

"It is... how did you two find out about that," he asked. Kendrick turned to his older brother with a raised brow, telling Talbott all he needed to know.

"Where did you go snooping this time, little falcon," Talbott asked. Bakari crossed his arms with a pout.

"Storage... not my fault you guys keep all the cool stuff there." Talbott tried to muffle his chuckle with little success. He swore the older Bakari got, the more he believed he inherited a bit of Judith's chaotic energy. Either that or their godfather has been more of a terrible influence on his kids than he initially thought.

But then again, what else should he expect from David Willows, the biggest pain in his arse since 3rd year?

"We know that, but you know not to go there without an adult with you. But I'm not going to scold you over that. What did you find to find out about our anniversary?" He watched as Bakari got up from his seat to run and get something. Only a few seconds later, he returned with an old book in hand. But it wasn't just any book.

It was a photo album, one Talbott immediately recognized.

Bakari flipped to a page before turning it to show their dad. The page held a picture of Talbott and Judith sharing a kiss on their wedding day. Written on the bottom was an inscription.

'June 17, 1995: Our first kiss out of many as husband and wife'

It was in his lovely wife's handwriting, with a love heart at the end.

"Was that your first kiss with Mama, Dad," Kendrick asked, his gold eyes shining with curiosity. The father of two chuckled.

"Yes and no. We shared a lot of first kisses in our lives." He smirked at the confused looks on his sons' faces.

"Wait, how," Bakari asked. Talbott shrugged, settling in his chair. He knew he wasn't leaving that seat until his sons' curiosity had been satisfied. Hopefully, it's before he and Judith get to leave to go out for dinner, leaving the boys with their Grandpa Kendrick and Grandma Villanelle.

"We had many first kisses that each meant something different at that certain point in our lives. That picture is physical proof of our first kiss as a married couple. But we had many first kisses before that and even first kisses after, surprisingly." Kendrick tilted his head as if he was an owlet.

"When was your very first kiss then, Dad?" Talbott grinned at the memory, before sharing the tale as it played before his eyes as if it was just yesterday.

"I haven't had this much fun ever since I came here. I never want this day to end," Judith sighed as they sat in their tree. They were watching the sunset from within the branches, watching the breathtaking view. Talbott glanced at the girl, her eyes solely trained on the sunset. Her locs had a bit of curl to them as she allowed him to put them in some braids before undoing them, opting to put them in a half-up half-down style.

'She's so pretty like this...'

"Same here, I never felt this way before," Talbott quietly confessed. Judith looked over at him.

"Felt what way," she asked. He fidgeted nervously, trying his best to control his heart.

"I'm not sure what exactly I'm feeling," the boy mumbled with a blush. Judith pouted.

"Well, try to describe it." The boy spared a glance at her before taking in a breath.

"I feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside. Especially when I see you smile... and it's because of me... my heart feels like it wants to beat out of my chest sometimes when you look at me," Talbott said, feeling his ears burning. Judith was silent for a few moments before letting out a soft laugh.

"Sounds like love to me," she chuckled. Talbott spluttered a response, forgetting himself as he slowly lost his balance. A pair of arms wrapped around his waist.

"Woah! Easy there, you could've fell," Judith chided, though there was no real heat behind her words. He could feel his blush worsen at the feeling of her arms holding him so close. He could smell the same unfamiliar warm, sweet scent coming from her. It threatened to make him dizzy.

"S-sorry..." The two noticed just how close they were. Judith cleared her throat and pulled away a little.

"W-well maybe love is too strong of a word..." Talbott watched as the girl frowned mid-sentence, seemingly remembering something before shaking it off.

"I've read Muggle romance books that talk about similar feelings... you could just like me and care about me. I..." the girl trailed off again to look at Talbott.

"I... I know I like and care about you," she softly confessed. Red eyes went wide with shock at this revelation. She likes and cares about him...?

He let out a breathless laugh, holding her hand.

"I'm glad you feel the same too, little bird," he told her. The girl looked confused for a moment.

"I'm not the one who can transform into a bird, bird boy," she teased, which Talbott chuckled at.

"Consider it my pet name for you. Who knows maybe you can become like me and transform into a bird," Talbott mused as he nuzzled her cheek.

"Really? You'll teach me," the girl asked with a smile. Talbott held out his pinky to her. Her smile widened as she hooked her pinky finger with hers.

"I promise, little bird," he swore. Judith leaned in and gently pressed her lips to the young boy's cheek. When she pulled away, Talbott raised a shaky hand to the spot Judith kissed.

"Wh-what was that f-for?" The girl giggled shyly, eyes sparkling with warmth.

"A little way for me to say 'I care about you, bird boy'." Talbott blushed and leaned in to press a kiss to her cheek. Judith sighed through her nose.

"I care about you too, little bird," the boy whispered against her cheek. The two looked into each other's eyes with a soft smile playing on their lips as the sun set behind them...

"So Mama kissed you first? But she seems so shy," Bakari pondered aloud. Talbott chuckled.

"Oh, she definitely is. But I guess she really wanted to show how she felt about me," Talbott answered breezily. Kendrick let out a tentative hum.

"But didn't you love her? Why did you nearly fall out the tree when she suggested that's how you felt?" The older man blushed, coughing in his fist. Nothing gets by his youngest son, something he definitely gets from his mother.

"I was 8 and she 7, we were still kids. I wasn't mature enough to admit to such a serious emotion like love." Kendrick nodded and Bakari decided to ask his next question.

"So when was your next "first" kiss," he asked, playfully adding air quotations around the word "first". Gods, was he talking to his wife or their sons? They inherited a lot of her mannerisms at their young age...

"It was the night we had our first date. It was our 4th year at Hogwarts. I met her again in our 3rd year but I didn't recognize that she was the same girl from our childhood. But I was crushing her pretty bad. Your uncle Andre encouraged me to play secret admirer for a while until your godfather caught me leaving my latest love note to her. He gave me the right push to finally come clean and ask her out on a date. It was a first for both of us, so we were pretty much the exact picture of two awkward teenagers who obviously had feelings for each other. We were essentially okay for the first half until one of our old friends who came to spy on us broke some fine china, forcing the shop to close. I didn't want the night to end so I suggested we go stargazing. We were out in one of the Creature's Reserve for a few hours watching the stars, even your mom's Porlock joined us. Eventually, we had to sneak by to the castle before Mr. Filch caught us..."

"... I do hope we can do this again soon... I never said this before but... I really do like you...” Talbott gave her hand another squeeze.

“As do I. And thank you, Judith. Perhaps we could take another trip to Madame Puddifoot’s with no interference.” Judith giggled at this.

“I would like that, I never got my “unspillable” hibiscus tea tonight.” Talbott chuckled, deciding to play along.

“Very true, perhaps she’ll give us the recipe. I’d like to try it sometime.” A smirk tugged on the girl’s full lips.

“I think she would have to kill us first.” Talbott returned it with one of his own.

“Or swear a blood pact to never tell another soul lest we suffer a horrific death. Judith threw her head back and let out a warm laugh.

“That would sound about right. After all, everyone has their secrets.” Judith said this as they approached the Hufflepuff Common Room. Talbott waited for her to finish entering the secret passage to enter her Common Room before speaking again.

“I hope to find out yours, I had a wonderful time tonight...” His hand that held hers, slipped free before finding the little Hufflepuff’s waist. Judith squeaked when he pulled her flush against his body, nuzzling her temple. Judith gazed up at him with a flushed face.

“I-I... I-If you plan on sticking around, you just might...” Judith stood on her toes, pressing her lips against the Ravenclaw’s cheek. Talbott stared at her, slightly dazed as she pulled away and out of his grasp.

“G-Goodnight Talbott, s-sweet dreams.” With that parting, the girl hurried into her common room. Talbott stood there for a few seconds longer before a smile broke out on his face.

He turned to leave the basements to his common room, touching his cheek in the meanwhile.

‘I think I may have found my mate for life...’

"Mom is 2-0 as far as first kisses go," Bakari said with a giggle. Talbott couldn't help but give his son the evil eye (he didn't mean it though).

"This isn't a game Bakari," he said with an exasperated sigh. Bakari simply shrugged with a playful grin. Kendrick shook his head at his brother.

"Well, when was the first time you guys kissed on the lips? You two seem pretty shy with each other to stick to the cheek," Kendrick pointed out. The two boys watched as a frown found its way on their father's face.

"Dad? What's wrong? Was it bad," Bakari asked quietly. Talbott shook his head.

"No, no... that kiss was magical... Everything about that night was magical. It's just that... well, you know your mother has her scar?" Bakari and Kendrick nodded, It didn't escape Talbott's attention that Kendrick touched the birthmark over his left eye. It was almost the same shape as the burn scar that was on his mother's face.

"Well, she always felt like it made her ugly, a monster even... It was Valentine's Day and Madam Pince was supposed to be the one hosting the Ball. Everyone at the school knew she would make it a dreary affair so naturally David and your mother helped. I wanted to do something special for her. I wasn't the only one thinking about doing something special for their person. Your godmother and I fought over who would get to use the library. I ended up winning that battle and turned the library into something out of a storybook romance. That was the first time I saw her so awestruck. Even though we spent the entire night as each other's dates, I couldn't stop admiring her..."

They were slow dancing together, lost in their storybook fairytale world. The soft glow coming from the fairies he invited into the library illuminated his little bird's face. It made her eyes seem like glowing embers of a flame. Those long sunbleached locs were in a high ponytail, showing off her angelic face. Her red-to-black floor-length gown highlighted the curves of her body as her black heels brought her closer to his height.

She was gorgeous...

...but Talbott could see that her mind was elsewhere.

“Judith?” The dark-skinned girl mentally shook her head, looking up to meet his gaze. 

“Y-Yes,” she quietly asked.

“Is everything alright? You seemed lost in thought,” Talbott said softly. Even with faint lighting, he could tell that the girl was blushing.

“Y-Yes, I'm fine. I just zoned out for a bit,” she said. Talbott knew her well known to know when she was lying, but he didn't look to push. He couldn't help to take in her features again. From her lovely eyes down to those soft lips. Judith seemed unnerved by his staring because it was her turn to break the silence that befell them.

“W-What?" Talbott blinked slowly as if he was waking up from a daze.

“I’m sorry, Judith. It’s just that...” Talbott trailed off for a moment, his heart hammering against his ribcage as he met those eyes again. The eyes of the person that he was falling in love with.

“You’re so beautiful, little bird,” he whispered, almost breathlessly. He watched as the girl ducked her head so the Ravenclaw wizard couldn’t see her face.

“T-There’s no need to l-lie to me just because it’s V-Valentine’s Day,” she mumbled. Talbott frowned upon hearing this. The pair stopped dancing.

“I’m serious, Judith. You’re really beautiful, no matter the day...” Judith shoved him away. Pale gold eyes looked up, glaring at avian Animagus. A small shiver ran down his spine as the scar covering her left eye intensified the effect of her glare.

“Have you lost your bloody mind?! Talbott, LOOK AT ME! This burn scar is hideous! It makes me look like a monster! No wizard in his right mind would think I’m...” Judith trailed off as if she couldn't bring herself to say the word. Red eyes narrowed as the young wizard stepped closer.

“That you’re what, Judith? That you’re beautiful? Gorgeous? Breathtaking? A literal angel on Earth?” Judith floundered to find a response as if Talbott stunned her with a spell. Taking the opportunity, Talbott grabbed Judith by the waist. Judith ducked her head.

“T-Talbott... d-don’t-”

“Don’t tell me how to feel, Judith. I refuse to hear you talk down about yourself when you’re so much more than your physical looks,” Talbott said firmly. A firm but gentle hand cupped the girl’s cheek, forcing her to meet her date’s eyes. The two stood in silence as Talbott’s thumb slowly swiped across Judith’s bottom lip.

“T-Talbott,” Judith whispered.

“Mmm... yes, little bird,” Talbott answered in kind. A sharp canine peaked from behind plump, glossy lips, biting down on the soft flesh of the lower lip. Talbott silently observed the small motion, feeling warmth blossom on his cheeks and inside his chest.

“K-Kiss me... p-please...”

That was all the wizard needed. Talbott didn't even remember closing the gap between them. All he remembered was suddenly feeling those sweet lips shyly moving against his. The tentative caresses of their lips coming together, hands pulling their bodies closer, the faint sound of hearts beating as one...

When they finally pulled away after what felt like forever, Talbott found himself looking at his little bird's eyes for what was the umpteenth time that night with a single thought on his mind.

'So this is love...'

"I can't believe Mama could ever believe that she was a monster. Monsters aren't lovable like her and she's plenty beautiful! That man at Flourish and Blotts last week wouldn't have been flirting with her if he thought she was ugly," Kendrick retorted, upset on his mother's behalf. Though Talbott could've gone without the memory of the man trying to hit on his wife. When he was less than three feet away. With their boys, one with her facial features and another with her eyes, sitting right next to engrossed in a book.

For God's sake, he was positive that the man didn't even bother to look at her left hand to find the gold diamond ring nestled on her ring finger.

If it wasn't for the fact that he was in his mother-in-law's place of work, he would've made a scene. Talbott has always been an overprotective and territorial man when it comes to his wife. He knew what kind of treasure he held for years. Any man would be blessed to have her and Talbott always felt blessed to be able to hold her fancy, becoming her boyfriend, later fiance, and now husband.

While he didn't deck the man, he did make a point to walk over to greet his wife with a lingering kiss on the lips before addressing the suddenly flustered man.

When the man scurried off, Judith lightly scolded her husband who didn't even look the slightest bit ashamed of what he had done. Bakari rolled his eyes at his dad's antics while Kendrick giggled endearingly. Even Madam Villanelle fondly shook her head with a small smile.

Before Talbott could reply, the blessed sound of the front door opening and closing signaled the arrival of his wife and her parents.

"Talbott, boys, I'm home," Judith called. Bakari and Kendrick tripped over themselves to rush to greet their mama. Just as Judith entered their study, two beings latched themselves onto her legs.

"Mama!" Judith laughed at the joyful cry her boys made, kneeling down to hug them.

"Hello, my little princes," she cooed lovingly, kissing their foreheads. Each boy was branded with the same lipstick that adorned the calendar.

"Happy anniversary, Mama," Bakari said with a grin. Judith raised a brow and looked at her husband. Talbott simply raised the old photo album as an answer. The 33-year-old year witch let out a laugh, squeezing her oldest.

"Thank you, my love. Why don't you two go see your grandparents in the living room? I'm sure your old grandpa would love to see you and your grandma brought a new book for you to look at."

"I may be 68, but I still heard that baby girl!" The Winger family laughed at the indignation heard in Kendrick Senior's voice. The two boys ran off to greet their grandparents as Judith walked over to her husband, gracefully making herself comfortable in his lap.

"Let me guess, Bakari went snooping in the storage room with no one there to watch him?' A nod.

"And Kendrick did nothing to stop him, not wanting to get caught up in his shenanigans?" Another nod.

"And he found the picture of us on our wedding day?" One last nod.

Judith let out a fond sigh.

"I've birthed a nosey fiend," she groaned, resting on Talbott's chest. Talbott chuckled, kissing her forehead.

"It's only going to get worse since he has you as a mother and David as a godfather." Now Talbott was laughing at the offended pout on Judith's face.

"I admit, it did lead to an interesting conversation. About our first kiss." Judith raised a brow.

"Which one," she asked, causing her husband to grin.

"Oh, just the one from when we were kids, our first date, and the night of the Valentine's Day Ball." Judith laughed.

"That's it? I'm surprised you didn't tell them about the others. They love it whenever you tell them stories about us growing up," she teased. Talbott only shrugged, picking up his wife like when she was a bride on their wedding day.

"We would've been here all night and if I remember correctly, we have a date tonight," he drawled as he walked out of the study to head to their bedroom. Judith giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"You're definitely right. It's always nice to have time with each other whenever our anniversary comes around," she sighed blissfully. Judith looked up at her husband, who was already looking back at her with that same lovesick smile from when they were students at Hogwarts. Talbott leaned in to kiss her lips.

"Happy Anniversary, little bird," he whispered against her mouth. Judith returned the kiss with a small smile.

"Happy Anniversary, bird boy..." The two stared at each other for a few moments longer before the sound of something dropping broke the trance they were in. Kendrick and Villanelle were quietly laughing as their boys stared at them with gobsmacked expressions.

"DID WE JUST WITNESS THE FIRST KISS ON YOUR 11TH ANNIVERSARY?!" The two couples laughed at the boys' enthusiasm for witnessing their parents' love on their special day.

Life was good.

[judediangelo75]

Day One: Quidditch

I said I was gonna attempt this challenge for @hphm-ship-week and by the corner of Jesus' pure white robe, I was gonna do it. I'm cutting it close with Day One and I might have gotten a *little* inspired to write this one.

I'm not gonna do a lot of yapping, I'm half-dead as is. Hope you guys enjoy this Kendrick Lives AU installment. (Might as well be my new main storyline).

Word Count: 8,316

Featured MCs: David Willows, Phoenix Lang ( @that-scouse-wizard ) and Katriona Cassiopeia ( @kc-and-co )

Main Pairing: Talbott Winger x Judith Harris (Talith)

Side Relationships: Merula Synde x David Willows (subtle), Murphy McNully x Katriona Cassiopeia (subtle), and plenty of friendship

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Whenever Quidditch season rolls around in the magical school called Hogwarts, you can expect a lot of excitement and hype. The students would crowd their section of the respective house with colored face paint or some Quidditch-afflicted gear to cheer on the players on the field. There was always a sense of friendly rivalry, with its occasional resentment when it comes to a reigning champion. But nothing comes from it. 

The Quidditch pitch is the last place you would ever expect a Ravenclaw loner to be.

Let alone amid the Hufflepuff House section. Wearing one of their player's jackets magically sized up to fit his frame. Next to a Slytherin witch wearing a matching jacket to the boot.

But that was before he started dating a Quidditch player.

Talbott would've gladly flown under the radar during his school years at Hogwarts. But fate decided that would be too boring for him. He was given two years of peace until his third year. Where two Hufflepuffs were searching for him, Hogwarts Curebreakers.

David Willows and Judith Harris. The latter is more infamously known as "Scarface". 

Granted, Talbott knew about these two Hufflepuffs... but Judith proved to make a bigger splash than her Housemate. From what Talbott understood, Judith had the habit of hiding the left side of her face with her hair for the first few months of their first year. It wasn't until a fateful day in October, that a group of Slytherins and Gryffindors found a new target. Judith tried escaping the group, only for one of the boys to grab her by the ponytail, causing her hairstyle to fall apart.

Revealing the most nastiest burn scar anyone has seen. On a child, nonetheless.

To make a long story short, those group of boys learned quickly not to piss off a girl—a Hufflepuff girl, at that.

After that day, rumors about her scar spread across the school like wildfire. And she was christened with her new nickname, Scarface.

But that day in the Great Hall was the first time Talbott properly saw the young witch face to face. Even Talbott's impeccable poker face couldn't hide the surprise upon seeing her face. The large scar covered about half of her face and went back to her ear. Surprisingly, her brow was present, but a bit spotty in some places. Her eye was forced into a permanent glare, he could barely make out the gold of her iris (even though that particular eye looked a bit paler than its twin).

But that wasn't the thing that stole Talbott's attention. It was the almost painfully shy look on her face. Her brows were drawn close together as her lips were pulled down in a timid frown. Her fingers were fiddling with the multiple solid plain rings she had on. Her eyes...

Talbott could see that she was nervous, but there was a particular warmth that seemed to be reserved for just for him. It was confusing but...

He couldn't help but secretly like it. Even though he wasn't ready to admit it.

Took a while for the Ravenclaw to properly acknowledge his feelings for the Hufflepuff witch. With the encouragement of Andre and David, he finally asked Judith out on a date. While it left a lot to be desired (*cough* Tonks *cough*), Talbott enjoyed being close to his date. Amid their growing closeness, that meant Talbott was slowly being sucked into the world of Quidditch. Granted, Andre has been trying to get him to come to a match and teach him the mechanics of the game since the start of their friendship, but Talbott turned him down almost every time. But now with Judith as his blatant love interest... Talbott couldn't help to be a little curious about the sport the wizarding world seem so crazy about.

Honestly when Talbott learned that Judith was the famous "Tigress", he was skeptical. Tigress is one of Hufflepuff's Beaters, one of their best Beaters in many years. With the few snippets of information, Andre tried forcing down his throat, Talbott knew that Beaters were strong. They had to be to beat back iron spheres formerly known as Blooders (Andre would be happy to know that he was learning something, at least). Tigress, like her fellow Beater Hound (who Talbott came to learn was David), was incredibly strong with a deadly aim. A lot of people say it was as if she could interpret the Bludgers movements, knowing when and where to strike. 

Talbott couldn't keep the suspicious look out of his eye for anything when Judith said that she was Tigress during their date. He never asked her about her scar but he had eyes. And he could see that her left eye left her a little impaired. It was the one time he made the girl feel subconscious about herself during their date, which he internally slapped himself for as she turned the left side of her face away from his view.

"I know it sounds hard to believe that I'm Tigress, but I have no reason to lie to you. After my... incident, it took some time to even learn to properly walk. My coordination and balance was terrible. Before, I could only see the vague shadows of shapes. After you helped me become an Animagus, it surprisingly helped my vision in my left eye, though not by much. The outline of shapes are a bit sharper if it's close enough to me and I can kinda see colors if it's bright enough, but there are times my vision will get a little blurry. My dad, along with my little brother and stepdad, spent a lot of time helping me adjust to my scar after I first got it. I was determined not to let it hinder me, though. Papa was the first to train me to be a Beater. I spent the entire summer before second year so I would have a chance to prove myself... to show that I won't be a liability if I was chosen."

Talbott felt like a bastard for doubting the girl, something that she probably felt for years. After stumbling over his apology, he asked if he could watch her play or at least practice if she was comfortable with that. He wanted to understand her and be there for her if she would let him.

And to his pleasant surprise, she readily agreed. 

During that time, Quidditch season was long over. Normally around that time of the year, Judith and David were trying to break the latest curse that befell the school in hopes of finding their brothers. But Judith was human.

A human who was very familiar with stress.

Beating dummies with Bludgers seemed to be one of her many stress relievers. The first time he was invited to watch her practice, he was silently surprised. It was slowly starting to warm up as winter turned to spring in Scotland. Judith was already stretching, seemingly counting the seconds in her mind before switching forms. A yellow sleeveless crop top molded to her upper body and a pair of black athletic tights hugged her legs with black running shoes adorned her feet, presumably for comfort. Her long locs were maneuvered into a low ponytail by a yellow silk ribbon. Granted, Talbott had only seen Judith outside of her usual class robes only a handful of times, but he had rarely seen her show so much of her body and skin until recently.

While being only 15, Judith had muscles a lot of guys in their year and possibly older wished had. But the muscles didn't make her seem like a boy, rather it added to the curves her body was slowly displaying as she matured into a young woman. The dress she wore to their date made him feel like he was hit with the Stupefy spell. Her workout outfit seemed to have a similar effect.

But watching her practice?

Nothing could get him to look away from her. She easily slipped into the familiar notion of her practice exercise. She had three Bludgers sent out, each coming towards her with terrifying speed. Talbott couldn't remember all the details of Quidditch but he can safely assume getting hit by one of those iron spheres meant an overnight stay in the Hospital Wing. But Judith stepped into her swings with the confidence and swagger of the best duelists or even a Quidditch pro. Confident, focused, and calculating. He did take note that she would duck on a rare occasion when she took a misstep and leaned into her left side.

Gods know how much time has passed until Judith whipped out her wand and froze the Bludgers, which dropped to the ground with a frightening thud.

'I would love to never know what it's like to smack with one of those...'

Judith grabbed a water bottle before walking around and sitting next to the awestruck Ravenclaw.

"So what do you think," she asked before taking a swing of her water. He watched as her throat worked around the deep gulps of water she was taking in.

"Is it possible I can come to more of your training sessions?" Judith capped her nearly empty water bottle with a quirked brow.

"You actually like seeing me train? Watching me beat a bunch of Bludgers into some dummies can't be that entertaining," she insisted. Talbott felt a blush work its way onto his cheeks.

"I beg to differ... so is that a no," he said with an embarrassed cough. Judith narrowed her good eye at him before giving him a nod.

"You can come. I don't mind."

It soon became a part of Talbott's routine to sit in on Judith's practices. Talbott finds that she does alternate her routine. And got to witness the relationships with her Quidditch mates. 

Sometimes it'll be just her and the dummies. 

Other times, David would be present to train with her as well. Talbott could see the playful energy between the two Hufflepuffs, almost as if they were siblings. Most times, they would practice beating a Bludger to each other, while others the dummies will be involved. There were plenty of jabs and playful ribbing in their conversations. Whenever they were done, they would join Talbott in the grass for a quick chat until Judith's eyes would get droopy and David would give her a piggyback ride back to their Common Room. 

'Hate to cut the conversation short, mate, but this one needs her rest. C'mon Little Tigress. Time for your cat nap.' Talbott watched in quiet amusement as David shifted on his knees so he could allow the girl to crawl on his back before standing. The young witch yawned, nuzzling the back of her best mate's neck with an annoyed grumble.

'Mmmm... I'm not little, you stubborn git. Later bird boy...' With a cute little wave to the Ravenclaw, Judith allowed herself to be toted away to their shared Common Room. (Talbott would deny blushing at that nickname if you asked him)

Maybe even one (or both) of her on-sight Beater teachers, the fierce Erika Rath or the mischievous Phoenix Lang, would be present. Which he found strangely interesting as Erika and Phoenix were both well-known Beaters of the Houses of Slytherin and Gryffindor respectively, prodigies in their own right. Erika seemed more of the stern one of the two, more in charge of her training exercises while Phoenix would fill in the gaps where she could. Those sessions tended to be more intense as Erika tried to push Judith into using her left side more, which frustrated the Hufflepuff Beater greatly. Talbott knew it wasn't his place to question her mentor's methods but he couldn't help but to worry how close Judith would be to getting hit by the magical sphere of iron. The hits she was able to get in weren't always perfect as far as accuracy and impact. There were times when Talbott would witness Judith would drop to her knees with tears in her eyes. The first time it happened shocked him to his core, his heart ached at the sight.

'I-I-I can't! I can't see well, Rath!' Pale green eyes narrowed briefly before letting out a soft sigh. With a brief spell, the Bludger in use fell to the ground as Erika walked up to her mentee. The older witch rested a hand on her shoulder, giving it a brief squeeze as she glanced over to where Talbott was seated.

'Talbott, was it? Can you stay with her while I find Phoenix? I... I'm not exactly good at "comforting" as I would like to be.' Talbott nodded replacing Erika by the crying girl's side as she disappeared into the castle. 

'Little bird...?' Watery gold eyes glanced at him before Judith roughly started wiping her face to get rid of the evidence of the tears that seemed neverending.

'I-I'm sorry, I... I was hoping you wouldn't have to s-see me like t-this. I promise I'm not this weak-' The girl's ramble was brought to a halt as Talbott grabbed her by the arm and pulled her into a hug, tucking her face against his neck. The soft gasp that escaped her tickled the sensitive skin there.

'I want you to breathe with me, little bird. Can you do that for me?' Judith remained still for a moment before giving a shaky nod. Talbott took a slow, deep inhale, feeling the girl do the same. They held it for a few seconds before slowly releasing it. They did it a handful of times before Talbott felt the faint tremor in the girl's body disappear. He gently pulled her away from his neck to look at her face. The tears were still there, but they seemed to have slowed significantly. Gentle hands cupped her face, thumbing away the tears and dried tear tracks that remained. Shaky hands wrapped around Talbott's wrists before Judith leaned into his touch. With one last caress to her scarred cheek, Talbott pulled away a bit only to be surprised by the ironclad grip on his wrists. Judith's eyes reminded him of a wounded Hippogriff, wild with an underlying hint of fear.

"D-don't go... please, don't go...' she whimpered. Talbott leaned in again, brushing a soft kiss to her sweaty brow.

'Shhh, darling. I promise I'm not leaving you. But it would be best if you rehydrated, little bird. Let me grab some water for you.' Judith blinked slowly, recognition flashing in her eyes. She gave a timid nod before letting go of his wrists. Silently deciding not to get up and leaving his little bird's time, Talbott got out his wand to use the Summoning Charm instead. Judith took the bottle with a small thanks before taking small sips. When Talbott was sure she was okay, he tilted her chin up so she could look him in the eye.

'I'm not sure where your head is, exactly. But I want you to know that you're not weak. You're one of the strongest people I know and even strong people can cry sometimes. They can get overwhelmed sometimes. And that's okay. I would never think less of you, and you shouldn't either. I won't let you. Do you understand me, little bird?' Talbott watched as her eyes widened, the scar tissue surrounding her left eye stretching a bit. Judith pursed her lips before giving a nod. That wasn't good enough for the Ravenclaw wizard.

'Words, Judith. I need to hear you say it.' The girl winced at the firm tone before letting out a shaky sigh.

'I-I understand, Talbott. I... I'll do my best to take it easy on myself in these moments.' Talbott gave her a small smile before placing a small kiss on her cheek.

Not even a few moments later, Phoenix came into view while Erika trailed a few paces behind. The Gryffindor Beater fell to her knees before the couple, cerulean blue eyes studying the Hufflepuff's face intensely.

'Judith! Erika told me what happened, are you okay?!' Judith blushed as Phoenix cupped her face, fussing over her. Erika sat down by her rival, silently watching her with a hint of worry. Judith cleared her throat, pulling away before resting against Talbott's chest.

"I-I'm fine now... I just got overwhelmed, b-but Talbott helped me calm down.' The eyes of the older Beaters were suddenly trained on their "guest", who blushed under their intense gaze.

'I... I'm not too familiar with what caused her anxiety, I just knew I couldn't stand there and watch her cry. Judith means a lot to me. Great players can have bad days and she's entitled to have those days...' Phoenix gave the boy a delighted grin while a glimmer of respect can be seen in Erika's eyes.

'I think I like this one for her, Rath. What do you think?' The Slytherin Beater gave an amused snort at the matching blushes that could be seen on the duo's faces.

'As long as I don't always have to find you whenever she gets overwhelmed, he can stay.'

'HEY! I resent that!' Erika let out a short laugh at Phoenix's disgruntlement. Deciding that her student/adopted little sister needed a well-deserved break, Phoenix dragged the girl to head to the Great Hall for some lunch. Just as Talbott was going to head to the Owlery, a hand on his shoulder stopped him.

'Wait.' The wizard turned to find Erika's eyes boring into him. And to his surprise, her stern gaze softened around the edges.

'I just wanted to say, thank you. Normally I don't care what people think of me, especially those who would just be stuck in the sidelines and nothing more. But I see that you care about her. I'm not trying to be a hardass on Judith for shits and giggles. We both are well aware that her left side is a weakness. I suffer from a blind spot, obviously not on the same level as Judith but you get the idea. If people are within that area, they're more than likely to get hurt. I don't want Judith to have to deal with that struggle, or even worse, have that blind spot used against her. I hope you understand.' Talbott's brows rose in silent surprise before nodding.

'I understand... you didn't have to explain your methods to me, but... I appreciate it either way. I'll do my best to be there for her whenever it gets too much for her.' Erika gave a firm nod, before turning on her heel back into the castle.'

Talbott had thought long and hard over what he had seen and what Erika had told him. He hated to see the haunted look in Judith's eyes as she broke down on not doing good enough. He was no Quidditch player so he wasn't sure how to help the girl. He went to the only other Quidditch player he knew for any advice. Granted, Talbott knew that Andre was no Beater, but he knew he had to try. Luckily for him, Andre knew two people who could help. Unluckily for him, Andre saw it fit to drag his ass out of bed on a late Saturday morning. The only day Talbott will grant himself the luxury of sleeping in. With no damn coffee.

'KC, McNully!' The two Ravenclaws, who seemed to be in the middle of a game of chess, looked up to find the Seeker Reserve dragging over one of their fellow Housemates who seemed to have rolled out of bed.

'Hey, Andre! What can we do for you?' the commentator asked with a bright grin. Andre gave a fond smile, clapping a hand on the disgruntled Ravenclaw's shoulder.

'Oh no, honestly, you've helped me enough mate. It's my friend here who could use your creative expertise on the matter of Quidditch.' Talbott shrugged Andre off with an embarrassed glare. The strawberry-blonde girl raised a cool brow, flustering Talbott further.

'My apologies. I asked Egwu for help on a Quidditch issue and this overexcited bloke dragged me out of bed before I had a drop of caffeine in my system.' KC let out a hearty laugh.

'A man after my own heart. Tell you what, I made a pot of coffee this morning. I grab you a mug and you tell us what you need...' Talbott quickly understood what the witch was subtly asking for.

'Talbott. Talbott Winger.' KC grinned, getting up from her comfortable seat to loop an arm around the wizard's arm.

'Katriona Cassiopeia, feel free to call me KC if you want. It's a pleasure to meet you, my fellow coffee fiend.' After Talbott had a bit of caffeine fix (and an introduction to one Murphy McNully), he felt more level-headed about broaching this topic.

'So, what seems to be the problem? Looking to join the Quidditch team? While I don't know you at all, I can see you being a Seeker for some reason.' KC pointedly ignored Andre's offended squawk in the background, eyes solely trained on Talbott.

'No, I'm not looking to join. I didn't get into Quidditch until recently...' Murphy raised a brow, curious.

'Because of our local Pride of Portree fanatic here?' Talbott gave an amused snort.

'He wishes. Egwu has been trying to teach me about the sport or at least drag me a game since we became friends.' KC blinked, confusion flashing in those bright blue eyes.

'So why the interest now?' Talbott coughed into his fist, slightly flustered.

'I'm kinda dating a Quidditch player. A Beater, to be exact.' Murphy gave a knowing smile.

'Is it Judith Harris?' Talbott was glad he didn't sip his coffee when the Quidditch announcer spoke because he was pretty sure he would've spit it out all over his chessboard. Either that or choke.

'Wha-?! Did Andre tell you?!' Andre waved his hands in alarm as Talbott rounded on him with a glare. Murphy laughed, waving off the outburst.

'Well, it's simple really. There are two Beaters to every team. It can't be Rising Star here, seeing how you just met her. And I doubt you know the other Beater on Ravenclaw's team seeing how you're coming to learn the sport and its players. Even if you heard more well-known players like Erika Rath and Phoenix Lang, more well-known as Rath and Fireball on the Pitch, they don't seem like your type per se. And again, you probably don't know the other Beaters on those two teams so that rules Slytherin and Gryffindor from the running. All that's left is Hufflepuff's Beaters, Tigress and Hound. Or as you normally know them as Judith Harris and David Willows. Both are well known enough outside of Quidditch and are in the same year and you and Style Wizard here. Plus, David seems more like a lady's man so that leaves just Judith. It's really simple when you think about it.' Talbott narrowed his eyes, slightly put off at how well someone he just met was able to pinpoint his crush with just one detail and how much he could talk without seemingly taking a breath.

'Yes, it's her...' KC chuckled, giving the boy a grin.

'I think it's cute. But one thing I'm not understanding is why she would need help. She's a phenomenal player. From what I hear, she has a bit of a religious training schedule to stay up to par with anyone on the field.' Talbott sighed, suddenly feeling unsure about exposing what he knew. Technically, Katriona and Judith were rivals. While he may not know much like the average Quidditch fan, he does know not to reveal secrets to potential rivals or enemies. 

But the memory of Judith crying flashes in his mind's eye. He didn't want her to continue to suffer from anxiety attacks if he knew he could find help for her.

'I haven't seen her play but I've seen her train. And she's earned every right to be known as a phenomenal player. But... she's not one without struggle. Can I trust you two with what I'm about to tell you?' KC and Murphy watched as those red eyes carefully studied them both, heavily guarded with a glint of worry beneath the surface. Andre wore down his bottom lip with his teeth at the intense silence. He placed a hand on Talbott's shoulder.

'Tal, mate. I wouldn't have brought you to them if I didn't believe they could help Judith. Let alone hurt her.' Talbott's hands curled into fists on his lap, his gaze stubbornly switching between the wizard and witch sitting across from him.

'I trust you, Egwu. But I need to hear it from them.' KC's eyes softened.

'Hey, Judith and I may be rivals on the Pitch but it's all friendly competition. I wouldn't actively try to hurt someone who pushes me to be a better player myself.' Murphy nodded.

'I wouldn't do anything malicious to harm the girl either. I met her father on the day she tried out for the open Beater position years ago. She's a force in her own right but it's not strange to have flaws. It's not unusual for players to come to me for advice. I do my best to be unbiased so I'm not spilling any secrets to other teams to give them an advantage. Talbott let out a small sigh.

'Thank you. I'm sure you're well aware of Judith's scar. The thing is... she's semi-blind in that eye. While she can see shapes and colors, it's only with certain exceptions. She's been training to strengthen that weakness but she still experiences some difficulties. Maybe she has days where that particular eye would cause everything to be more blurry and of course, that can be a danger to anyone, including her. It overwhelms her to the point she would experience an anxiety attack...' Talbott sighed, running a hand through his messy bedhead.

'I told her that it's okay to have bad days and she should take it easier on herself. But I feel like this cycle will continue if she doesn't find a more effective way of handling this... s-so, will you help?' KC and Murphy looked at each other for a few moments before turning back to the wizard with a nod.

'Of course, Talbott. It might take a little time for us to brainstorm something but we'll help you two. Besides, it would be nice to get to know Judith more outside of our matches.' Talbott let out a sigh of relief at KC's words, giving the pair a small smile.

'Thank you...' Murphy gave Talbott a nod.

'Of course! Once we're ready for you, we'll send you an owl for you to bring Judith to the Quidditch Pitch later on. Don't worry, Talbott. We'll help your girl out.' This time Talbott did end up choking on his next cup of coffee, much to the amusement of the three people surrounding him.

Much to Talbott's surprise, Talbott received an owl the next day from KC. He did find it odd that it said to come to the Quidditch Pitch at night, but he decided to trust his fellow Ravenclaw. Judith accepted his invitation to meet him at the Changing Tents just outside of the Pitch with a bit of wariness.

'Not that I don't like spending time with you Talbott, but why are we out here?' Talbott gave his little bird a small smile.

'I want to help you train. Especially with... your struggle area...' The Hufflepuff narrowed her eyes as they reached the entrance of the Pitch.

'How do you plan on doing that?' Talbott stopped in front of her, taking the time to grab her hand. Judith couldn't fight the blush that crept up to her cheeks as the boy laid her palm over his chest while looking into her eyes. She could feel his heart quicken but his face gave nothing away.

'Do you trust me, Judith?' The young witch didn't have to think about it.

'I do.' Talbott smiled, bringing her hand to his lips to place a soft kiss to her palm.

'Then trust me when I say that I'm looking out for you. Now come on.' Judith stumbled over her feet to follow her crush, fanning her face to cool down her intense blush. They continued to walk until they were in the middle of the field. When she finally got her blush under control, she looked up to find that they were not alone.

'Judith! Glad you could make it!' Murphy greeted with a grin. The witch next to him stepped up to offer a handshake.

'Hey there, Tigress. Nice to officially meet you outside of a match.' Judith took KC's handshake with a befuddled expression.

"McNully, Rising Star, it's... nice to see you too. But, what exactly is going on here?' Now it was KC's turn to give a smile.

'Your boy here came to McNully and I for some help. To help you matter of fact in regards to your blind spot.' Talbott glared at KC's small tease before looking at the surprised face of his little bird.

'You told them about my blindness?' Talbott bit his lip at the question. He couldn't decipher her tone for it gave nothing away. Her face even more so. Outside of the pinch of her brows that signifies her confusion, he wasn't sure how the girl felt about exposing her secret to one of her rivals.

'I did. I-I... I wanted to help you in some way. But I wasn't sure as to how. I know Rath is doing her best but maybe you needed a different approach. I'm not a Quidditch player, let alone a Beater so Andre led me to two people who possibly could provide that. Please, don't be mad, little bird. I know it's your secret to tell, but I couldn't stand to see you like that again. Frustrated and feeling hopelessly lost to yourself over something that you couldn't have helped. I'm sorry if I overstepped.' Judith stared at him for a few seconds longer before bringing him into a hug. Talbott looked down at the girl in surprise but didn't hesitate to wrap his arms around her. 

'I'm not mad, bird brain. You have nothing to apologize for. I know you wouldn't do anything to hurt me, and if you think that KC and McNully can help, I'm more than willing to hear them out.' Talbott squeezed her tighter, hiding his smile in the crown of her head.

'Great to hear that! Now, Talbott if you could remove yourself from my fellow Beater Babe's person, I want to show her what we came up with.' Talbott blushed, taking a stand by Murphy as KC looped her arm with Judith's to pull her to the crate with Beater Bats and a Bludger. There was a few metal practice dummies just a few yards away. Talbott turned to the handsome blonde commentator with a quirked brow.

'Care to share what you and Katriona came up with?' Murphy gave a smirk.

'Nope! For once, my lips are sealed this time. Just watch this lovely lady at work.' Talbott sighed, watching as the two witches converse with one another. He could spy Judith fiddling with her fingers, one of her nervous ticks, before grabbing a bat. KC already had the other one in hand, with her wand in her opposite hand.

'Now I'm gonna enchant the Bludger and we're gonna practice for a few minutes. Remember, don't be too hard on yourself and I'm right here with you so you don't have to experience so many close calls, alright?' Judith nodded, allowing herself to face forward with her left just as KC cast her spell. To Talbott's surprise, the Bludger began to glow a bright yellow, almost like a mini sun, zipping through the air before making its way towards the Hufflepuff Beater. Talbott watched with bated breath as he watched the familiar motion of Judith's swing and-

BANG! And-

CLANG!

Judith's smile was brighter than the glowing Bludger that night. And Talbott couldn't have been more happy to see the pure joy on his little bird's face.

While Judith was big on her training, both day and now night, that wasn't the only thing she did to improve. There were some instances where there were no bats and Bludgers involved. Those days were usually with her Captain, Orion Amari. Talbott found those practices a bit strange as the pair would be sitting on the ground meditating (something Judith would strong-arm him into doing as well), balancing on their brooms on a single leg, or being Inspired Broom Surfing. 

'Training is great to hone your skills, but a clear and steady mind can elevate one's game to substantial heights.' Talbott turned to find Orion standing beside him as he watched Judith surf on her broom. He regarded the older Badger with a raised brow, his silent question loud in the ears of the captain.

'I've known Judith since she was just a second-year student. Seen as a small, skinny, and shy Hufflepuff girl by many but I saw the fire in her eye. A spirit beaten down, but not broken. She wanted to prove herself. Something that is admirable but I could sense it was deeper than that. You saw it too, right?' Talbott froze as Judith's words flashed back to him.

'I promise I'm not this weak...'

'Yeah, I did...' Orion gave the young Eagle's shoulder a warm squeeze.

'You're good for her, you know? I noticed a shift in my Beater. She's not as hard on herself as she used to be. Her smile is brighter. And that only happened a little after you started coming around. And I greatly appreciate that...' Talbott swallowed around the emotional lump in his throat.

'I-It's nothing really. I would do anything for her...' Orion smiled, giving Talbott's shoulder another squeeze.

'The people who love her can see that. Trust me when I say that it means a lot to them and to her...' With that Orion hopped on his broom to surf alongside his student. Talbott watched as Judith gave her captain a bright smile, feeling one make his way on his own lips.

'She's so beautiful like this. In her element. Happy and healthy...'

Seeing her go through these different motions made him think of what she said on their date. How much she represents and values balance in her life. It just made her all the more intriguing and endearing to him.

It wouldn't be until their 5th year when he got to see her practice with her team. While they were real matches, Talbott always found them to be interesting and exciting. Seeing her play in action made him realize how good his little bird was and how well she and David worked together on the field. Even down to the Dobbleganger Defense, one of the most difficult plays for a Beater. The pride he would feel upon hearing the praise of her skill by the Quidditch commentator warmed his chest.

He couldn't wait for the girl's first game of the season.

Of course, he could've done without the pressure of meeting the girl's family. Talbott knew about her father through many sources. A former Beater-a Ravenclaw Beater at that, Talbott knew about her little brother, a Slytherin wizard in his third year if he remembers correctly, who he would see cling to her whenever he could get the chance. How he managed to avoid the little brother up until now is beyond him, but there was no avoiding it when the first fame of the season came around. It was Hufflepuff versus Ravenclaw.

There was usually a pregame party happening in the Courtyard before each game but Talbott knew his little bird well enough that she wasn't always one for mingling with others, at least not often. The next best place she would be is the Quidditch Pitch. 

Flying to the pitch was much faster than walking, and Talbott wanted to spend every second with the Hufflepuff Beater before her match. It wasn't until he was flying overhead that he realized that she wasn't alone. Part of him wanted to turn around and transform back into his human form so he could walk into the stadium instead. But Judith, ever so keen with her surroundings, spotted him. She waved him down with a bright smile, while the two males with her looked up to find him circling in the sky.

"Come down, love! I want you to meet my family," she called. After hesitating for a few seconds, he swooped down to land in front of the trio. The man and young boy looked at the eagle with a well-timed head tilt, though Talbott could see the suspicion in the man's pale gold eyes while there was a youthful glint of curiosity in the boy's near-black eyes. He looked to his little bird who gave him an encouraging smile. With that, he allowed himself to transform back into his human form. The boy flinched back before staring at him in awe. The older male version of his little bird only smirked.

"Like mother, like son," her father chuckled. Talbott eyed the man suspiciously. 

"I'm sorry?" Gold eyes regarded him with a knowing glint.

"Ah, you don't recognize me, don't you son?" Talbott's brow furrowed, racking his mind.

Has he met Judith's dad before? There's no way-

'Talbott, this is Kendrick Harris. He's my best friend from when I went to school. And his daughter, Judith...'

Talbott's eyes lowered to find a familiar necklace. The cord was decorated with dark red beads with a tooth of an animal of some sort.

"You... you were my parents' best friend. You came to my house that one time with..." he whispered, eyes watering. He turned to the witch next to him, finding that same warm look from that day in the Great Hall. The same look he got as they sat in the grand old tree on his parents' old property when they were children. Judith gave him a tentative smile, leaning in to kiss his cheek.

"L-Little Bird?" He watched as her smile grew.

"Yeah, it's me Bird Boy." He didn't hesitate to bring her into the circle of his arms, hugging her with all the strength she could muster. He smiled the joyful laughter in his ear.

"Talbott! You're gonna squish me," Judith giggled, hugging him back despite this. 

"You're the powerhouse Beater, little bird. If anything I should be worried about you breaking my bones with your bear hugs," he hummed. Kendrick let out a laugh at that, bursting the bubble the two teens found themselves in.

"As strong as my little girl is, she has one of the gentlest souls on this Earth. You should know," he said, with a kind smile. Talbott blushed before nodding.

"And I have you to thank for siring such a soul, Mr. Harris." Kendrick chuckled, waving him off.

"Call me Kendrick, Talbott. I'm not that old... plus, from what I heard you've proved me right. That you'll be good to my daughter and earn the right to be with her." Talbott and Judith balked at the elder Harris with blushes staining their cheeks.

"PAPA!" Kendrick raised a brow at his daughter's outburst.

"What? I'm the more tame parent. Ava had tried planning you two's wedding when you guys were toddlers," he said with an amused smirk.

"W-With all due respect, K-Kendrick, we're not officially together," Talbott stuttered. The man chuckled.

"Not yet, anyway." Judith groaned.

"Papa Kendrick, quit it. I already have to share Juju with her friends, I'll probably never see her if she gets a boyfriend," Nuri whined, finally chiming into the conversation. Talbott noticed the genuine discontentment on the boy's face. Judith huffed, extracting herself from Talbott's arms to snatch up her little brother. She placed her hands on his cheeks so she could meet his eyes.

"You listen here, Riri. No one will keep me from seeing and spending time with you. You're my little brother and will always hold a special place in my heart, understand," she said sternly. Nuri gave his sister a shy smile, before hugging her back. 

"I understand, Juju..." Kendrick and Talbott smiled at the sight before the man cleared his throat.

"The stands should be filling up soon, best if you boys find some good seats. You go ahead and change, baby girl. And remember, I'm proud of you no matter the outcome." Judith smiled at her dad, giving him one quick bear hug before the man went to the commentator booth. The three of them stood ready to go their separate ways before Judith stopped her brother.

"Before I forget, here you go, Riri." Talbott watched as the Hufflepuff took off her jacket, casting the Enlarging Charm before handing it to Nuri. She pulled the younger boy down to kiss his forehead, before making her way over to Talbott's side to kiss his cheek.

"Hope to see you two in the stands," she said before jogging her way out of the Pitch. 

The two wizards made their way up to the stands. Talbott could see Nuri eyeing him from the corner of his eye.

"What is it?" Nuri flinched, a bit surprised to be caught before deciding to speak up.

"This way is the way to the Hufflepuff Stands. You're a Ravenclaw, shouldn't you be sitting with them instead?" Talbott turned to look at the Slytherin wizard with a cocked brow. The boy didn't sound dismissive or hostile, just... curious.

"I want to support Judith. She's the whole reason why I got into Quidditch in the first place. It doesn't matter to me if it looks like I'm going against my own House. I'm here for her, and will always be here for her." Nuri smiled at the wizard, handing him the jacket her sister was wearing. Talbott took it with uncertain hands.

"Why are you giving me this," he asked as they made their way up the stands. Nuri paused on his next step and gave a shy smile, long fingers messing with a ring on his right hand. The same nervous tick as his little bird.

"My sister always gave me her letterman jacket whenever she played as a way for me to be comfortable sitting in with the Hufflepuffs ever since I came to Hogwarts. I'm going to be honest, I'm pretty selfish when it comes to her, and having to share her has been difficult for me. But as I got to see her interact with others and see those people care and love her too, I began to loosen up. While this is my first time officially meeting you, I can see how you look at her. Like she's the sun. The center of your universe. Papa Kendrick seems to like you a lot and he doesn't like the idea of sharing her love with any boy. Consider this my way of showing you that I'm willing to give you a fair chance. People who love my sister tend to be my favorite people, and I think you could be one of them." Talbott felt a flush wash over his face but he couldn't help but return the smile Nuri was giving him.

"Thank you. That means a lot and I would like to get to know you better too, Riri." The Slytherin boy sent the older wizard a playful glare.

"Okay, that's a step too far. Only Juju can call me Riri. My real name is Nuri. Nuri Lockheart." Talbott laughed at the look, it reminded him so much of Judith so he knew this look well enough to know that the boy wasn't actually upset.

"Heh, got you. I'm Talbott." The two wizards shared a smile as they continued their way up and reached the top of the stands. Talbott took the time to study the jacket, a letterman jacket as Nuri called it.

It was mainly black, with two stitched designs on either side of the torso. There was a gold honey badger symbol on the left side with two Beater bats in an "X" formation on the right. The sleeves were white and a bit baggy, looking like they would fit over his wrists thanks to the yellow cuffs with black and white lines. The same cuffs outline the collar and the bottom of the jacket. It even had decently sized-pockets. He flipped it over to find the word "TIGRESS" stitched on the back, the word beautifully made with gold yarn in impressive calligraphy. Talbott slipped on the jacket and immediately smiled.

The scent of his little bird lingered on the piece of clothing and he felt as if he was being embraced by the girl himself.

'If I could get away with it, I would never take this off...'

The duo decided to sit in the center on the bottom bench, only to be surprised to find someone already there.

"Merula?" The girl's head snapped up to find the two wizards standing beside her. And it didn't escape Talbott's attention that she was wearing a matching letterman jacket as himself, only it was obvious the jacket was made for someone much bigger than her.

"What are you doing here? Ravenclaw is on the other side and Slytherin isn't playing today," she snarked. Nuri frowned at the clear dismissal but Talbott knew better.

"The same reason why you sitting in the Hufflepuff stands. We're here to support someone we care about," Talbott clapped back. The witch blushed, grumbling.

"Fine, whatever. It's not like these seats are taken..." Taking that as an obvious invitation to join her, Talbott sat down next to the self-proclaimed "The Powerful Witch of Hogwarts" while Nuri sat beside him. Within minutes, the stands were starting to fill with eager Quidditch fans and casual watchers for the game. Even though there were some weird looks from the Hufflepuffs at the two newcomers who sat in their section, no one said anything to them. There was a buzz in the air until the crowd quieted with the sound of Murphy's voice.

"Welcome Hogwarts to the first game of this Quidditch season! Are you ready for this year's competition?" The crowds roared with approval and to Talbott's personal surprise, he was right there with that.

Talbott had to admit, he was excellent at getting the crowd going as he introduced the two teams. Ravenclaw had already made their entrance and waited in the middle of the field. It was now Hufflepuff's turn. He watched as the Hufflepuff team flew in, zooming through the stadium. He watched with bated breath as the team briefly paused in front of their stand, to the joy of the students there. Judith found him and Nuri easily, her eyes reflecting her surprise at him wearing her jacket before giving them a large grin. He could see the two top canines of her teeth were capped in gold before they zoomed off to meet their opponents in the middle of the Pitch. Despite being in his own heart-melting moment, he did notice that David, who was beside his fellow Beater, gave Merula a grin of his own followed by a cheeky wink. Talbott pretended not to see the blush on the pale girl's face.

Madam Hooch made sure to set the rules between the two teams, the captains of each team gave a firm handshake, and soon the balls were in.

The game has begun.

Talbott had to admit, it was the most fun he had in a while. Despite not fully knowing what was happening (Talbott was so grateful that he befriended Nuri as he was able to explain the mechanics of the game to him), the energy was contagious. Even Merula was standing and cheering for the team. The players were fast, it was sometimes hard to keep up with the action, even with his 20/20 vision. Sometimes he opted to just watch his little bird, who was her own beautiful force of nature. He watched as her mind was constantly at work, deciphering the patterns of the Bludgers before deciding on a play. Often passing the iron sphere to David, who used it to scatter the Ravenclaw Chasers. Other times, taking out unsuspecting players with a hit of her own. His favorite moment was the well-executed Bludger Backbeat, seeing her use the scarred side to knock a Chaser off their broom while dropping the Quaffle for Orion to steal for a goal, putting points up on the Badger's board. He was so caught up in watching her, he almost missed a stray Bludger making its way to him-

"Talbott, get down-" Nuri tried to warn him, but before he could pull Talbott down, it was deflected to the Ravenclaw Seeker (whom Talbott was sure spitting out some colorful language as they were so close to catching the Snitch). Talbott could only stare in a daze as Judith hovered over him on her broom. 

"You okay, Talbott," she quietly asked. Talbott, still in shock, gave a mute nod. Judith chuckled, leaning in to kiss his cheek before flying back into the fray.

"Awww, what a sweet moment from Hufflepuff's fiercest hunter, Tigress. Saving her handsome beau from a Bludger gone rogue before comforting him with a kiss! And who said romance was dead?" Talbott buried his red face in his hands as the crowd around him cooed along with Murphy's sentiment. Before Talbott knew it, the Hufflepuff Seeker managed to catch the Snitch, signaling the end of the game.

"Give it up for the Hufflepuff team! They will move on to the next round to face off the winner of the Slytherin and Gryffindor match!"

The next hour was a blur. With the win, of course, everyone on the Hufflepuff team had to accept the congratulations from fans and their rivals alike. Speaking eagerly amongst each other and toasting with some Butterbeer. Judith spent some much-needed time with her brother and father before they had to leave.

But soon, the field was empty and it was just Talbott and Judith. The young witch didn't get a chance to say a word as she was swept up in Talbott's arms, sinking into his warmth.

"I'm so proud of you. You were amazing." She smiled.

"How can I not? I have my number one fan cheering me on, wearing my letterman jacket better than I ever could." Before Talbott could say anything, most likely to refute the claim judging by his blush, she placed a single finger to his lips.

"Seriously Talbott. You helped me in more ways than you could ever know, and I wanted to show you by playing my absolute best. Your support, whether on the sidelines during my practices or in the stands at one of my games, means everything to me. Thank you." The boy beamed as he kissed her forehead.

"Anything for my champion..."

[king-nyx]

Say it with me now

You are never late to a fandom. Your fic is never "invalid" for being "late". Your fic doesn't need a high word limit. Your fic does not need a high standard. Your fic does not need to be highly popular. Your fic isn't less valid than a popular author's fic. Your fic isn't inheritly bad. Your fic is amazing. Your fic is valid. The only thing that matters is that you're having fun. Fandom is not consumption and consumerism. Fandom is fun, free and for the people. Fandom is not a popularity contest. We're all nerds at the end of the day.

[hphm-fandom-events]

The Official Prompt List is out !!

Friday, August 2nd: Dance | Quidditch | Confession

Saturday, August 3rd: Soulmate AU | Second Wizarding War | First Kiss

Sunday, August 4th: Ball | Sunset | Stargazing

REMINDERS:

- You are not required to do every single prompt, nor are you required to participate each day. You can do as many or as few prompts as you want- have fun with it!

- Any HPHM ship you have is allowed, whether that’s mc x game character, two game characters together, or two mcs together!

- You can create any sort of content you’d like for this event, not just artwork.

- No NSFW content will be allowed. This is a SFW only event.

- And lastly, of course, no hate or drama over anyone’s pairings! Everyone in this fandom has different tastes, headcanons and pairings- I expect everyone participating to respect that. This is an event solely for fun and community!

[judediangelo75]

I could try to do this… maybe…

[judediangelo75]

Funny Feeling

*Looks around for a few seconds, sneaks in, drops this, and goes back into my little hidey hole*

MC Friend: David Willows ( @that-scouse-wizard )

Kendrick Lives!AU Installment

Word Count: 3.026

"Talbott, what are you doing?" The young wizard jumped at Andre's voice, immediately hiding the journal he was writing in behind his back. The Style Wizard raised a brow, noting the nervous look on Talbott's usual impeccable poker face.

"Andre, I didn't hear you come in," Talbott said, slowly inching closer to the entryway that led to the dorms. The loner Ravenclaw fought the urge to fidget under Andre's narrowed gaze.

"...whatcha got back there, Winger," Andre finally asked after a few beats of silence.

"Nothing, just some class notes," Talbott replied, though Andre could hear the slight tremor in his voice. Andre smirked.

"Class notes don't make you nervous, Winger. Let me see. It's only me..." Andre and Talbott stood in the middle of their common room, staring at each other in silence. Before they both broke into a run--Andre chasing after a red-faced Talbott.

"MIND YOUR DAMN BUSINESS, EGWU!"

"NEVER! JUST LET ME SEE, YOU STUBBORN GIT!" Talbott faltered for a moment, a fond memory of a particular dark-skinned Hufflepuff calling her fellow Housemate the same thing for her "little." Of course, that distraction cost him greatly. The next thing the avian Animagus knew, he was on his stomach with his best mate on his back, crowing his victory as he held Talbott's journal in the air.

Talbott wriggled, trying to get Andre off of him.

"Now, let's see what's got you so flustered that you're too afraid to tell your best mate about it," Andre drawled. Talbott growled, thrashing harder.

"Andre, don't you dare-!" But it was too late; Talbott could hear Andre flipping through the pages.

What Andre saw was something he didn't expect.

"I remember hearing about her when I first came to Hogwarts, but today was my first time officially meeting her. I heard about her fight in our first year. I heard about her famous dad. I heard how she and her best friend defeated the first Cursed Vault. Heck, she was well-known about just two months after the school year started. I always heard whispers about her scar and never understood why everyone made such a big fuss until I saw her for the first time. The scar was impossible to miss, covering almost half of the left side of her face. It went as far back as her ear, forcing her eye into a permanent glare. The nickname "Scarface" made a lot more sense than before. But the one thing about the rumors I could never agree with was her being scary or ugly. Something about those pale gold eyes said a lot more than she would ever say. The shyness, wariness, and hidden warmth... and I never thought I would say this about anyone before, but... she had to be the most beautiful person I've ever seen..."

"...how can someone like her, someone who seemed to have experienced so much pain, still show kindness? Even to those who reject her? ...even to me?"

"It's been years since my parents died. The only thing I had left of them was my mum's feather necklace. Losing that nearly made me lose my mind. The anxiety of losing my last connection to my parents threatened to pull me under. I would have never thought that two insistent Hufflepuffs would be hellbent on helping me find it. I still remember taking the necklace from her small hands. The brief contact rattled me more than the miracle that my necklace was with me again. Her hands were soft, save the light calluses on her fingertips and a bit on her palm. They felt a bit cold, but not in an unpleasant way. I remember hearing once that people with cold hands have warm hearts. Normally I wouldn't believe stuff like that, but for her, it seems fitting..."

"Why did I have to open my big mouth and tell her to make her secret interesting? I've been trying to get her to tell me that secret for what feels like forever, to no avail. I know that defeats the purpose of the Memory Charm, but it's been some time since then... surely it should be okay now that we know each other better? Clearly she begs to differ. She's hellbent on keeping her secret from me. She's always so evasive, asking why I want to know. I always found it difficult to answer that question... how was I going to tell her that I wanted to know the reason why I remember the sweet flush on her cheeks, the cute shuffle she does on occasion, and her endearing habit of playing with her rings before those soft lips told me a secret she was too nervous to tell me without that spell ensuring my ignorance? Why would Professor Flitwick and David look at the two of us with a knowing smirk if we were in each other's space? I feel like I will go insane just trying to figure it out..."

"This can't be healthy. The girl is all I could ever think about. Her brown-black sunbleached locs that sway down to her hips. The sweet scent that clung to her dark skin. Her adorable height of 5'6 (and a half, as she would stress, heh.) The breathtaking smile where that sweet dimple would appear on her right cheek. Those otherworldly pale gold eyes that outshine a treasure trove of galleons whenever she lets her guard down. She's so beautiful... what are you doing to me, Judith Harris?"

Andre's shell-shocked state was the perfect opportunity for Talbott to throw him off and grab his journal back. Talbott had a thunderous glare on his face, holding the little book close to his chest. Andre stood up, reaching out to touch his friend's shoulder.

"Talbott-" The Quidditch player cringed at the sight of angry red eyes.

"Damn it, Egwu! You couldn't leave it alone, could you?!" Talbott felt an embarrassed blush working up his neck and turned away before it could show on his face. The Ravenclaw loner has been trying to work out his feelings for the Hufflepuff witch since he met her. Whenever he's with her, he feels like he's both flying and falling at the same time. There was something there, something familiar, but for the life of him, he couldn't figure out what it was.

He hoped to keep his feelings a secret until he felt ready to talk to someone about it.

'So much for that. And it had to be Judith's date to the Celestial Ball out of all people?!'

"...oltt... Tal... TALBOTT!" The young boy jumped, shaking himself out of the panic he nearly fell under.

"What?" The Seeker let out a weary sigh, turning his friend around so he could face him.

"Hey, it's okay, Talbott. There's no need to be embarrassed because of how you feel for her," Andre said softly. Talbott narrowed his eyes at him.

"How can you say that? I like your crush, and you're telling me it's okay?" Andre stared at Talbott for a few moments before chuckling. Talbott bristled.

"I'm sorry, did I say something funny," he hissed. Andre shook his head fondly.

"Talbott, mate. I don't like Judith that way. At least not anymore. It was only temporary," Andre said. Now, it was Talbott's turn to stare.

"How?" Andre rolled his eyes.

"It's called a "crush" for a reason, mate. Temporary feelings of infatuation. Plus, her father may or may not have talked with me before I could consider asking Judith to the Celestial Ball," Andre said, his voice softer towards the end. He could still remember the sight of those cold, pale gold eyes in his mind's eye.

'If you like my daughter more than a friend, Andre, I'm telling you now; you better be prepared to properly court her and give her the love she deserves. If I ever find out you broke my little princess's heart, I'll break your bones in a way that they'll never properly heal for you to play Quidditch another day in your life. Do you understand me, son?'

Andre may find Judith to be a sweet and beautiful girl, and he admired her father, one of his Quidditch role models, but he was nowhere near ready to consider a serious relationship. He also would like to play Quidditch professionally. Andre wasn't looking to test the older man to see if he'd be true to his word.

If his daughter is capable of putting people in the Hospital Wing, he doesn't want to know whether the man will use his knowledge as a Healer for its opposite purpose.

"...if you're sure, mate," Talbott said slowly. Andre mentally shook his head, shaking himself out of the memory. He gave his friend an encouraging smile.

"Of course I am, Tal. Besides, what you're feeling is more than a crush." Talbott blushed, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.

"I'm not entirely sure what to call my feelings towards her. I only experienced this funny feeling only once before. The person who suggested what it could be nearly had me falling out of a tree..."

"Sounds like love to me..."

Talbott could remember only a few details of the girl he spent the day with when he was eight, but her shy smile will forever be etched in his memory. He never saw her again after that day.

"Still, you can't just pine after her. Do something about it," Andre insisted. Talbott's lips formed into a worried frown.

"Like what? I'm not exactly the "romantic" type," he sassed. Andre had got to know the loner long enough to know he was using sarcasm to hide his nerves. Andre regarded him with a gentle smile.

"Give yourself more credit, mate. You may seem cold to others, but you have your charms. Besides, you could use your strengths to your advantage." Talbott cocked a brow at the style wizard.

"What strengths are you talking about," Talbott asked slowly. Andre grinned.

"You like to play the background character a lot, making you mysterious. What's more romantic than a romantic note from a mysterious secret admirer?" The Animagus let out a soft hum.

"Go on..."

"I'm sure you can add an extra little something. You seem interested in botany, so maybe a flower with the note? You could leave it before one of her classes starts so she would have something to look forward to," Andre continued, pleased to see that Talbott was considering his advice. Red eyes stared into brown ones for a few silent moments.

"I'll think about it... thanks, Egwu." The boy smiled.

"Anytime, Winger..."

--------------------------------------

Judith let out a soft yawn as she headed for her Charms class. It was early morning; the girl was known to be an early riser. She inherited the philosophy from her father that an early start is a peaceful start. Hardly anyone would be up around when she awoke, giving her the alone time she always loved. She made her breakfast in the Kitchens, under the watchful eye of Pitts, and wanted a quiet place to study. She didn't have Charms for at least another hour, and Professor Flitwick didn't mind if she was in the room alone to study.

What she didn't expect that early morning was to find a lone folded piece of paper and a flower at the spot where she would sit during class. The girl was positive she didn't see anyone in the halls on the way to the classroom or hear anyone lingering...

She slowly approached her seat. On the top layer, read 'To Judith' in impeccable cursive with a love heart at the end of her name.

"Well, there's no question on who it's for," she mumbled with a blush. Unfolding the paper, she began to read,

"Excuse me, miss... I don't wish to take up too much of your time,

For I simply wish to express to you a few things that have captivated both my heart and mind; I'm...

I'm not one who wears his heart on his sleeve,

But even without it being out in the open, it was my heart you managed to thieve...

Stolen by an angel in disguise,

...at least that's what I secretly tell myself when I think about your beautiful eyes.

No amount of galleons could outshine such eyes colored gold,

For they hold such a priceless, precious story that has yet to be told.

I often think to myself, "How can one who experienced so much pain, hurt, and rejection... remain to have a heart so kind?"

For you are an undeserving gift to all of mankind...

To those who only see your scar, I consider to be fools who are blind,

For they're unwilling to see the true you beyond the exterior, in which you hide behind...

Darling... when I see you,

I see a mystery with hidden clues.

When I see you,

I see one who's known by many but understood by few.

When I see you,

I see a girl who makes me feel as if... I'm see-through...

Such a revelation would normally make me turn and flee,

But there's something about you that makes me wonder, "What could we be...?"

Oftentimes, I would find myself caught up in a daydream,

With the idea of you and me as the main theme...

To have the privilege to play with such long, beautiful locs,

With your pretty little head on my chest as we lose ourselves in one of our idle talks...

To be constantly graced with the sight of your breathtaking smile,

That radiates such a warmth that makes me want to bask in it for a while...

To be able to breathe you in, taking in your signature scent,

Something that I find both unfamiliar and comforting, warm and sweet, matching perfectly with your accent...

To be able to feel your soft dark skin,

Even if it's just to hold your hand, I would still consider it as a win...

To no longer have to wonder what it's like to feel those perfect lips,

Quietly yearning for more as I pull you closer by the curves of your hips...

What I feel for you... it's like I'm both flying and falling,

There's just something about you that is just so bewitching... enchanting... enthralling...

There are times I like to believe that... you were made just for me,

The one I would ask to spend my life with while down on bended knee...

Heh. My apologies... I'm getting ahead of myself, seeing how we're both still so young,

But I hope you can understand that I could no longer hold my tongue.

I can't reveal myself just yet... but I will in time,

So, until then, I will appear to you in the form of poetry and rhyme.

Maybe by then, I could finally say the name of this feeling that, in the past, had me reeling,

But for now, my dearly beloved, what I feel for you, I'll call a "funny, funny feeling..."

Signed,

Your Secret Admirer

A single blink. Followed by another.

Slender fingers shook slightly as the person's sign-off whirred around in her mind.

"I-I... I have a..." The last two words died on her tongue as Judith stared at the sign off with baffled astonishment. Ever since her mother scarred her, Judith could never see herself as someone desirable. She almost didn't go to the Celestial Ball; most of her friends had dates, and being in a fancy dress with an eye sore on her face made her uncomfortable.

The idea that someone could like her was impossible.

'Well, not anymore, so it seems...'

Judith set the paper down to rub her temples when the back of her hand brushed against something soft. Amid her flustered confusion, the young witch almost forgot the flower left alongside the note.

It was a dark pink and deep red carnation. In quiet awe, the young girl picked up the flower, feeling its soft petals. Bringing the flower to her nose, she inhaled quietly before sighing blissfully at its natural perfume.

"Oh wow, this is so sweet, but why..." Her voice trailed off, noticing an extra little note towards the bottom of the page.

"Carnations symbolize many things: fascination, distinction, devotion, gratitude, and love. Depending on the color. I chose this flower in those particular colors, so you know that... I find you interesting and unique... and to symbolize my budding feelings for you. I hope you accept my token of longing, dear Judith."

'Why is the room spinning right now...'

Judith can feel all the blood rushing from her heart to her suddenly hot cheeks. She had never had someone do something like this...

To think that this person is falling for her?

She shyly twirled the flower between her fingers before tucking it behind her scarred ear. A slow smile appeared on her lips for the first time that morning.

'I hope to meet you soon, my secret admirer...'

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Charms class seemed to have flown by because the next thing the young witch knew, it was time for lunch. While Judith did pay attention to Professor Flitwick's review, she couldn't help but take a few peeks at her note. The warm fuzzy feeling in her chest only grew as she reread the romantic poem.

The girl wore a dopey smile as she left the classroom and headed into the Great Hall.

"Who's got you smiling like that, Little Tigress?" Judith nearly jumped out of her skin as her best mate, David, appeared beside her. She gave him a brief glare for the "little" comment before a blush blossomed on her face.

"I don't know what you're talking about," she retorted, walking over to the Hufflepuff table. David raised a brow at her.

"Uh-huh... I saw you in Charms class peeking at something in your pocket with that same smile. I'm guessing who gave you that note gave you the flower, too," he sassed. He quickly evaded a punch from his embarrassed House mate with a laugh. He poked her side, smirking as the girl let out a high-pitched squeak.

"C'mon.... tell your best mate who it is," he teased. Judith let out a long-suffering sigh.

"Stubborn git... and I don't know who it's from. They signed themselves as "Your Secret Admirer," she admitted, fiddling with her rings. David's grin softened.

"Any idea who it could be?" Judith gave a small shrug.

"Your guess is as good as mine... but I hope to meet them one day..." Unknown to the two Hufflepuffs, a Ravenclaw was watching from their assigned table. Those red eyes were trained on the female witch, catching sight of the flower tucked behind a scarred ear.

Talbott let out a secret smile behind his book.

'One day, I'll be able to reveal myself to you, darling. You can count it...'

[dorkynerd23]

[OC X CANON APPRECIATION POST! 🩷✨]

REBLOG IF YOU LOVE AND SUPPORT OC X CANON!!

[defoozor]

Me and my friend had a brainstorm on what animals could MCs friends be if they also became animagi

And we came to a conclusion that it would be fitting and kinda ironic if Chiara was a little lamb

Wolf in sheep’s clothing

Or more like, a sheep forced into wolf hide or whatever

[judediangelo75]

Wow...

I’ve literally been a ghost on here because I just looked at my ask box and I could only imagine how far back these messages go. I’m embarrassed...

So sorry for everyone I didn’t answer. It wasn’t on purpose, I promise 😭🥺

[judediangelo75]

Hello! So, just out of curiosity hehe, whatchu think about the adult models for the characters in hphm (esp. birdboy)?

I've been a ghost on here...

The wonky ankle and the hands definitely brought out a snort (something I rarely do), but hopefully, that would be fixed. Jokes have been made about his haircut, but I think it could grow on me. Adult Talbott is still handsome regardless (even though Andre could still argue to Judith that her partner has no fashion taste whatsoever. She will continue not to comment since that's and Andre and Talbott's problem. Not a her problem).

[sunsetquotes]

“…and I am out with lanterns, looking for myself.”

— Emily Dickinson; The Letters of Emily Dickinson

[clumsyladybug]

I loved @autisticarachnid take on merula’s adult design so I wanted to draw it. It’s awesome! I really see her with this look!