Words of Vanity

[fuzzythoughtsofdavid]

It’s her smile. 

No her hair. 

… No her eyes. Her eyes are beyond comprehension. Beyond simple imagery words as in color and simple praises… it was something about them that just captivated me. They were bright, Greenish blue, but I’d never seen similar ones on anyone- no that’s a lie. I’ve seen eyes like hers, eyes that have the same color, same shape, same wonder but never have I had that… electric feeling that courses through my body when I look upon them. 

… I have wanted to call it love since I was seven but how foolish is that. Her eyes just give me this… feeling! Something in those eyes that make me want to do something for her. No! Not something! Everything! I want to defy my family for her! Defy my very way of life! I want to give her everything I have ever owned and will ever own just for a chance at that damn smile… Her smile. 

See her smile is also amazing. It feels like a private little secret between us…. Sometimes I want to write down scenes in my- not scenes. Memories. These are things that happened. And I wish for a way to express that secret smile that we give each other instinctively in some form of a …symbol. Even writing it down here makes me feel like I’m breaking something … sacred. Like it’s all hush-hush. Never talked about. 

It’s in between Evan and Emma’s constant chatter- our secret moments-  well Emma’s constant chatter that Evan banters back into and they’ll either so whole heartily agree (drives me nuts)  with each other that they start talking too fast, or too much in code, or too much in memories, or they go on name after name after name is brought up that clearly means details, memories, birthdays, favorites numbers, all the information they (They, not Liz and I, only Emma and Evan memorize things to get in good with people) could have learnt about them while the aimlessly chatter with all those “important people" that I crave to get away from, the ones Emma use to drag me to, the ones where now Evan is dragged to,  that they’ll leave me and Liz behind. Granted we could have kept up better if we came better but how can I deny sleeping in when I get to be with her? (My adoring and sweet Lizzy.)

It’s even worst when they whole heartily disagree.(drives me nuts) When their banter turns sour and the fights began it’s like a whole different world, the tone is clear aggressive but the words are meaningless to me (as if a different language) as the codes words and pleasantries of their (Always Evan and Emma, never me and Liz)  language. It feels like the same words as before, when they agree, but everything just blends together at this point of the night. At first they’d step one or two steps ahead of me and Liz and then they’re completely ahead, soft and hard whispers at each other while they try and figure out their own problems. 

But Liz. Liz would give me these… glances through out the whole thing. She’d look at me right before we get their as if to say, “Our fun has ended." 

She’d look at me before dinner as if to say, “Does anyone but you know I don’t like these plain tomatoes?" As she drags them lazily to the side of her plate, bewildered that anyone would want to eat it. 

When she was talking to a gentleman and she looked over to me and say, only with her eyes, “help me. He’s a bore. He thinks I care." 

When Emma subtle brings up something to start a fight with Evan and Evan’s hands clench and Liz looks at me to give me a warning (for she knows I’m horrible at things like this) so I can promptly give Emma a bit of room and go to Liz. 

When she looks at me just to look at me, acknowledges that we’re both bored that we (Us, not them) belong someone where else…

     … 

There are a thousand more but … there are some that naw at my mind- the kind of look she gives me that seemed to suggest… something else. My blood would rush, my heart beat increased but i was never sure if it was justified. 

She’d look at me if I was dancing with Emma or sometimes just a rather attractive girl and I couldn’t read her eyes. 

She’d look at me after Evan announced the end of the evening and asked who would accompanied him out on the town- I always said yes, always and yet in those two seconds of silence, she gives a glance as in, “speak up, David. Let us (Liz and David, David and Liz)  do something, don’t go out with him." But I saw them. And I always said yes. Yes, to Evan. 

We (the two of us, a couple, we’re a couple) have our secret language too. And now I know that I fully understood all the meanings… I wish I knew sooner. Maybe this could have happened sooner and I wouldn’t have been so— sad. 

[wordsofvanity]

Liz's voice was almost nasally (but pleasant) with a greater trace of a French accent than Jason's Irish.  She had this talent to make all her sentences end with a hint of a scoff without actually scoffing. It was frustrating to say the last, always tethering on the a voice of disapproval without actually being disapproving with her words. Her voice was lower then Emma's but Liz's voice was able to change much more subtly then Emma- who would change her pitch regularly. Liz's words could soften as soon as "I need help" left the lips of another, she could change her voice to rather disgruntled without alerting most people- just the harden of a word or two in the sentences, focusing on the thing she was annoyed at which disrupted, if only slightly, the smooth lines of speech she was relaying. 

[wordsofvanity]

Jason's voice was rather gruff with a small trace of an Irish accent. His pauses in speech never sounded completely silence more so it was as if his words were lingering… after you hit a key on the piano and the echo of the key lingers in the air, his words always ringing in her ears pleasantly until it died out - unless they were fighting, which was most of the time, then it infuriated her.  When he was fighting with her, as they did a lot, and the words were suppose to cut into her deeply she held her ground because that voice almost sounded to rehearsed and the malice that laced his words when talking about his father was never there when saying the worst things he can think of for Emma and… that reassured her. And as long as Emma was not red in the face, yelling at him as they fought, she could tell when he was lying because his usual melody of a voice would falter, his voice would dip and ruining the melody and she could tell he was lying which was usually confirmed with him avoiding Emma's gaze. 

When he was flirting it sounded smooth and easy, charismatic and all the right strings would be pulled onto the unexpected girl and she would crumble. 

Sometimes his voice was as light as the string section but that was only when they were alone or just after doing something particularly intimate, where Emma would call him Jay and you could actually hear his gruff voice change into a rather friendly pitch, his smile evident in his voice- calm and collected.  

[thewordsofvanity]

Emma’s beautiful white dressed hugged her body tightly, showing off each and every one of her delicate figure while being as modest and fashion forward as wizardly possible.  Evan and her mother’s team had been at work, not stop, constantly reviewing her dress, her intake of food, and the design aspect. Evan had been able to request what parts are shown (like her back was open and half way down a tightly woven white ribbon crisscross making a graceful frame) and which are covered (She wore a high collared front that hugged her body that gave wizards only an impression of what they were missing once Emma was off the market- only an impression because Evan gets the gift and only him at the end of the night.) It was breathtaking. At least that is what everyone was saying. Diamonds, that looked like stars by the magical lights that adorned them in the right places so they’d twinkle was certainly a beautiful master piece of work and the elegant bow that adorned her head was just everything that represented Evan and Emma in one little diamond crusted accessory. Everyone, especially Evan (who shouldn’t have seen her in her wedding dress but no one had pointed it out to him) had been calling her an angel all day. Then why was she going to hell? 

"Liz?" Emma called upon her friend, her voice quivering. Her eyes were red and puffy and her hair was astray which was the only thing that looked wronged in the pretty picture that should be Emma Va- Soon, Emma Rosier… Evan Rosier’s bride was more appropriate. Evan Rosier’s bride should be picture perfect and ready to do anything on a moments notice. Emma was turned around, crying for a good twenty minutes alone before Liz had come in. She was both the last person and first person that she wished to see come through the door. Liz thinking quick, locked the door and her good nature took over and seeing Emma distressed rushed over to her and hugged her tightly without even knowing what was wrong. She wouldn’t want to hear this anymore then Emma wanted to tell her. Emma started crying harder at the thought this could be the last time they hug. Liz shushed her and pattered her back supportively and Emma could not help but feel guilty at the thoughts Liz was being more then a friend- no she had to push that away. All of this just confused her and she wished she had enough strength to push her against the wall… and leave. But no- she had to tell her! It was eating her up inside. 

When she was dating David she thought it was jealousy… she thought it was just… well Liz clearly had some hold over David that Emma did not. It must have been that the way David looked at her was different from how Emma did… although sometimes… sometimes David and her eyes would meet- while both in search of Liz’s and Emma would play it off as catching her boyfriend ogling another women and he would then sit there trying to think of a way to appease Emma later but Emma’s anger wasn’t at David it was at herself for wanting to look. She had caught David looking over many girls before that and after that… even when David went off with others and Emma would stumbling into somewhere where he was kissing another girl she felt nothing. She had hoped it meant she was over David but if she was honest with her self she would have knowing the knots in her stomach was not because of him kissing someone else. 

The way Liz moved her hips, captivated Emma. But it shouldn’t have! Besides the fact that Liz was clearly a girl… Liz didn’t even dress to provoke a responses like that. She didn’t! And yet Emma couldn’t stop- unless she constantly thought about NOT looking which means she wouldn’t be staring but then it would… get images of her clothes that snug in all the right places, that curved her body the way she knew David didn’t know how to do… Her eyes would close and all her secrets would let out. She wanted Liz… she wanted to give Liz that same breathless feeling that she use to feel with Evan until Liz’s… whole being captivated her mind so much- the secret desire welled up too much in her head that she couldn’t stop thinking about it. She was becoming desperate and she knew it was going to be selfish but she had to tell her! Before the wedding! It was the only thing that kept her going through the day. When her mind got to wrapped up in Liz and then she get to winded up to do anything … she’s began thinking about telling her. Telling her about… her thoughts. Though she didn’t want to recognize it even while she was fantasizing about telling her all her wonderful, consuming thoughts. 

She could pin her biggest downfall one on particular night where she slowly turned the door handle and opened it to see… them. Naked… in bed. David was lying on his back, the back of his head facing the door and Liz’s… body was in all it’s glory. She was sitting on him her whole front facing towards Emma who had her mouth opened… they must not of heard her come in because they continued on in full force and Emma sat their motionless. David’s hands were wrapped around her waist his overly eager thrusts (which made Emma actually roll her eyes even though her whole body was still an unable to move) seemed to be not discouraging by David’s awful attempts Liz seemed valiantly going along and doing a good job to. Her eyes closed an Emma couldn’t help but rack up her body before running out of the room and finding Evan. She thought about the night a lot- usually alone and at first it was just the images of David and Liz that played in her head but slowly it got to be just Liz. 

Soon the dreams started to happen. Dreams where she and Liz were… dating. It would just be them hanging out but it would end with … something date like. A kiss? She’d bring Liz flowers. Sometimes she’d go out dancing with her… sometimes it was so clearly not just two friends hanging out… and their bodies would be pressed together and it was … really rough waking up to that and.. knowing that she … took care of herself when she woke up so… flustered while thoughts of Queen ran through her mind was too much for her. 

She pulled away from Liz and stopped crying, embarrassed at her thoughts and what they lead to. Liz’s face was etched with concerned as she looked at Emma for a reason for the tears. 

"What’s wrong? What happened? Did something happen with Evan?" She asked. 

Nothing happened with Evan. Nothing ever happened with Evan. “No." Emma said, simply and she sighed. 

Slowly it began to change and Emma’s eyes would find Liz as soon as she walked into the door. She would start criticizing her on her dance movements in order for Emma to teach her the “proper" way. She found herself listen more intently to Liz’s story, looking for details relating to how she’d could win her over. Going out of her way to do things, laughing a bit harder at her jokes. She waited for Liz to wake up in the morning so she’d be able to see her… found reasons after reason to hang out with Jason so she’d be in the Ravenclaw common room. Evan’s hatred of Jason grew because of jealousy because Evan had no clue who would actually be stealing her heart. 

"It’s just that I don’t think we should be friends after I’m married Queen." She said sharply, using the nickname that wasn’t very appropriate on her anymore. Liz cringed but pressed on. Emma thought sadly that she always wanted Liz to be her Queen. 

[wordsofvanity]

They were both on his bed, his curtains drawn and they have been here for hours. They fell into a comfortable silence. Emma was very picky about her silences. Emma loved filling gaps of conversation with her own voice, assuming the role of entertainer to the person she was talking to or more likely with her friends, pestering them to talk to her about whatever was bothering them. Silence between two people can be horrible. It could be awful, both parties feeling as if they should be talking- that something unspoken was there- but never with Evan. They kept no secrets. Their silences were always comforting. Although really the only times they shared silence was when they were reading which besides Evan’s love for books was the reason Evan probably suggested they read together so much. So he can have some silence. Emma didn’t mind- it didn’t feel like silence when she was reading. It felt like she was connected to another world… but still holding on to the one piece of her world she wanted to keep most.

Although right now she was tired of reading and her eyes were starting to close. 

“Evan …” Emma purred as she stretched out her arms and closed her eyes.  

“What?” He asked, almost unaffected by her tone. His eyes flicked to her quickly though as she leaned herself on him, placing the book she was reading down on the ground. 

“Read me a story…” she basically whined. 

“But I was…” He was reading and in the middle of a good book but she just wanted to hear his voice, hear a story. He had to stop. 

“No… I want a story. Please?”

“Eurgh fine okay… “

Emma always listen to Evan’s stories and words. She promised… but every time it ended the same way. His slow modulated voice was soon too much for Emma’s heavy eyes that slowly started falling asleep. His words would start out like a rain fall. A slow drizzle where you can hear each individual raindrops just as Emma heard each individual word of the story. Soon the words would start to blend together, just as the rain would pour down harder, and the drops become indistinguishably  just as his words turned into sentences that Emma couldn’t understand explicitly. She just understood the general story of everything- the feeling of it all even though Evan wouldn’t change his voice for each character (no matter how many times Emma would ask for it) and yet his voice wasn’t flat but it wasn’t full of emotion either. It was subtle in his tone just as he was usually and Emma could tell from his movements, his little almost insignificant fluctuation in tone, how his muscle would contract and shift under her… just everything. She could tell the general feeling of the story. She sighed and laid more into him, her eyes closed. 

And then the next part would happen- the story would be weaving together. Evan’s voice stayed calm and steady- his voice finally teetering to the sleepier Evan voice- the one that faltered his dominating tone… the one only Emma got to here. The one that bleed with sweetness… the only person to ever hear it was her and she relished it because it was so far and in between… but it happened. Usually when he was tired and she couldn’t even hear the words anymore… just the tone. She knew it was the there. 

The words were lost on her sleepy spirit and his voice turned smooth and stitched together, weaving his sentence together like a well fitted ball gown. The fabric of the story felt like it was covering her as she felt completely comforted, she inhaled deeply, Evan shifted slightly his voice lowering but at the same time going closer to her ears. His arms tighten around her and she shifted comfortably in his arms. Drifting into an easy sleep. 

[damn-von-damme-blog]

Prompt: Jokes Gone Wrong || The Vain Thief

Emma yawned, stretching her alabaster arms to the ceiling and twisting her back. It’d been a very long night, and she was beat.

“Hey, Heist… Thanks again for last night. You were GREAT.” She said, her rose-red lips curling into a half-smile at how wrong the conversation sounded. The Italian thief looked over at her as he also got up and stretched, laughing as usual as they began making their way down the corridors to the main hallway.

“I mean, we DID stay up all night together.” Emma teased, sticking her tongue out cheekily at Heist who nudged her gently.

“Yeah… Bent over a table. It got pretty rough!” He retorted back as they passed through small clusters of people, who immediately began whispering to each other in hushed voices that often promised juicy gossip as they misinterpreted the conversation.

“Remember when I couldn’t stop screaming you name? I’d though i lost my voice for a bit there.” Emma said, attempting to not to laugh, but tears forming in her eyes from the built-up laughter.

“And when I came, you screamed especially loud then!” Heist guffawed as they entered the large, oaken doors that led to the Great Hall. Emma and Heist passed Evan and Severus, both of whom had their noses in books and were moodily eating their breakfast.

“You came at the perfect moment.” Emma said, attempting to stifle her laughter once more as they took their seats near their respective lovers. “I was almost finished!”

Heists face was split into a large grin as he responded “I know you were.” he laughed winking. ” For a moment there, i thought you were getting worn out. I know I have more … Stamina … than most partners.” 

“Yup. You’ve got to be the best nocturnal partner I’ve ever had at night.” Emma responded, mischief twinkling in her eyes as they continued their convoluted conversation.

“Not to mention when I thought I was about to finished. You really helped ME.” Heist said with a smirk the devil himself couldn’t pull off.

Evan had set his book down at this point and was looking hard at Emma, Severus had practically mirrored his movements, only glaring with all of the hatred the 6th year Slytherin could muster.

“Twice in One night! Not bad… and your …. Project… was a lot longer than i was anticipating.”

“Most people don’t give me enough credit!”

Evan had heard enough at this. He roughly got up from the table, quickly walking over to Heist with rage and grabbed him unkindly by the collar, rushing him out of the room and into the nearest empty class room before punching him fully in the face, knocking Heist backwards and onto his back.

Severus and Emma appeared shortly afterwards. Severus’ eyes going from Heist, nearly unconscious with a bloody - possibly broken - nose on his back.

The greasy-haired teen quickly brandished his wand, pointing is and quickly yelling ” petraficus totalis !” at Evan, who hadn’t been anticipating it, and was hit by a beam of light, freezing instantly in place.

Emma screamed. “NO, STOP IT. WHAT ARE YOU DOING? CAN’T YOU TAKE A JOKE?” she cried at the two brawlers.

Heist took this time to stand up, holding a hand to the blood flowing gracefully from his nose, addressing Severus and Evan.

“We were just helping each other for the divination class. those projects were brutal and annoying… So we stayed up all night last night working on them. I left for some food, and Emma didn’t know where i was, so she shouted my name. She got pretty hyper… please don’t kill each other.” He rattled off, attempting to pacify both parties.

Severus glared at Heist, his grip tightening on his wand before pointing it at Evan, and mumbling the counter-curse. He strode over to Heist calmly, winding up his fist and punching the other teen, knocking him over again before walking out of the room with a hasty apology.

Emma looked bashfully at Evan, who sat up, staring at her. Heist began to feel very uncomfortable and ran out of the room, looking for Severus, leaving the lovers to do what… lovers do.

[wordsofvanity]

Emma was in the library planning on spending the whole weekend there. It was the first Hogsmeade weekend since Jason and her had broken up and she didn't want to run into him- in fact she was actively avoiding him and she was even eating Sugar Quills out of spite- she knew Jason wouldn't be caught in this library especially if he could be out doing things- more like doing girls actually. Emma thought with disgust.  It's only been a week and she heard he's been with four girls. It was awful. And what had she been doing? She was just eating Sugar Quills and other sweets because she hadn't had them in a year and a half. 

She also thought if she stayed her long enough maybe Evan would come in an sit with her but they weren't really on good terms either. He seemed to wanted to avoid her more than usual lately. 

She was trying to focus on the book in front of her when someone stopped right by her table and took the book from her grasp. Emma would have pissed but she wasn't really paying attention to it and when she looked up and saw Liz she relaxed. 

"Emma, why are you here?" Liz asked, studying her carefully. "It's a Hogsmeade weekend. I would be there right now but I had to return a book first but it looks like you actually want to be here. And I know you don't have any homework due at the last minute, so what's up?" 

Emma picked up another Sugar Quill and chewed on it sheepishly unwilling to admit that she didn't want to see Jason to Liz for fear it make her seem… silly. She didn't have to say anything however as Liz watched her friend eat the sugar sweet knowing it meant she was mad at Jason. 

"Don't want to go?" 

She paused briefly, as she didn't want to say it but then did. "...Rather not see Herbert." Liz couldn't help but rolled her eyes even though she wanted to help her friend.

"You won't." She said, certainly and Emma could already see the wheels turning in Liz's head as she thought of a proper distraction. "How about you get dressed in one of your 'special' outfits and we can go terrorize the boys! That way if he sees you- he definantly won't talk to you and probably drink himself into a deeper depression!" Liz said, cheerfully. 

"I don't know, Liz…' 

"Do you think he's just laying around today?" Liz questioned knowing the answer was Jason was probably out there flirting with girls.

Emma turned slightly pink as she shook her head. She knew what he was doing too. "Yeah- okay. You're right. I'm going to go have some fun tonight." She said getting up. Liz nodded approvingly and they began walking back to her common room so she'd change into something more appropriate. 

A little bit later Emma and Liz were both ready and Emma was feeling better already. 

They made their way into the Three Broomsticks but not before going to Honeydukes to buy a ton of more sweets including Sugar Quills, Pepper Imps, Fudge Flies, Chocolate Frogs and some rather explicit chocolate that you're suppose to put on your body and will only come off with someone's tongue.  

They sat down in the corner and bought some butter beer, they were both giggling from the way the shop keeper had looked when they had bought all those sweets including the explicit chocolate. Liz looked around, scanning the area, ready to set start on the distraction for Emma. Her eyes settling on Axton Max. He was perfect. He was a pureblood and Keeper and Captain for the Ravenclaw team. Emma wasn't tongue tied around guys but when Axton Max was brought up she wouldn't get that angry and competitive looked that was usually associated with other Captains or other Keepers. She actually would give a faint smile and Emma had commented severally times how attractive she really thought he was especially in uniform and if anyone could get Emma's mind of Herbert (and anyone should be able to, Merlin he was annoying,) Axton Max can. 

"What are your requirements?" Liz asked, looking over at Emma her eyes not leaving Max who was talking to some of his friends. 

"Easy. Pureblood." Emma said laughing. She just needed to sleep with someone. She didn't feel like she'd ever date again. Especially since Evan seemed to hate her now. 

She thought about it a little longer and added. "He must also enjoy sweets." 

Liz grinned at this. "About a Quidditch player?" She said casually knowing this would spark Emma's interest. 

"Oh, which!" Emma said, finally looking up from her butter beer and around the many people in The Three Broomsticks tonight. 

"A Keeper… A Ravenclaw…" Her eyes narrowing slightly knowing Emma knew who it was, "A Captain?" 

"Axton Max?" Emma asked quietly,  looking at Liz not believing it and then following her eyes to him. 

Liz shrugged but she was smiling. "Why not?" 

Emma was quiet for a moment. "I wouldn't know what to say to him. I wouldn't want anything…. to develop out of this. I just need to let off some steam." 

Liz nodded understanding. "Exactly. He's perfect, let me go talk to him." Liz said and got up grabbing one of the Sugar Quills in the box in front of Emma. 

"Wait," Emma said, stopping Liz. All these questions fluttering in her mind, could she do this? Was this even acceptable? Should she wait to see if Jason wanted to get b- 

No. She pushed all those thoughts out of her mind completely. Jason was off somewhere with some girl- it was completely over and she was going to shag an attractive older guy who happens to also be a captain. It could even help Liz on the team! 

"Make sure he likes sweets." Emma finally said, smiling waving the chocolate syrup to Liz. 

"Of course." Liz grinned- happy she wasn't backing out, and went up to Axton. 

He was talking to his friends and Liz quickly tapped his shoulder to gain his attention. Axton turned around and seeing Liz he gave friendly smile and was unable not to look her up and down because of her choice in attire. Liz smiled at this, for it looked like he was looking for a good time as much as Emma tonight. "Hey Queen. What's up?" 

Liz pulled the Sugar Quill in front of him. "Do you like sweets?" 

Axton looked bemused and chuckled. "Love them, especially Sugar Quills. Why?" 

"I was wondering if you could look over my friend for a while I go … buy something in a shop. She's need of a distraction." Liz said, spinning the Quill between her fingers. 

Axton's eyebrows raised curiously for a second and then he took another sip of his drink. "I don't want anything serious, Queen. I have a lot on my plate right now."

Liz shook her head. "Nothing serious, I swear. In fact if you pretend to be interested in her seriously she'd probably just leave in the middle of it." 

Axton turned back to Liz at this and studied her. "And who might your friend be?" He said, leaning on the edge of the bar. 

"Vanity." 

Axton's expression changed into one of surprise. "Vanity?" He repeated scanning the tables for the dark haired girl. 

"Yup. She likes Sugar Quills. Go talk to her." 

"She's not half bad- An accomplished Captain, very attractive." Axton said as his eyes found her, she had quite a lot of passion and even he had to give her recognizing for some of her moves in Quidditch. She might have been a fifth year but he would be lying if he hadn't thought, even briefly, what she'd be like in bed. The driven Quidditch players always seemed to be partially good in bed… 

"She's also great at snogging." Liz said nodding. 

He took another swing of his drink. "Isn't she with that … Herbert kid?" 

"Not this week." Liz said pleasantly. 

Axton laughed. "Good enough for me. I'll go talk to her." He said, nodding at Liz and patting his friends on the back informing them he was going to go talk to someone else for a bit and took the Quill from Liz. 

"Thanks Queen. Anything you need?" 

"Well, when the position of Captain opens up next year…I'd like a good word." 

Axton nodded. "If this night goes as well as I think- you'll get more then just a good word." Axton said winking at her and finishing off his drink and putting it down on the table. Walking towards Vanity. 

Liz smiled and ordered another Butter Beer saying hi to Axton's friends. 

Axton sat down next to her and Emma couldn't help but watch him. He was really sitting down next to him and he was truely very attractive. 

"Vanity, right?" 

"Max." She said, nodding. He held out the Sugar Quill and Emma took it, nibbling on it. 

"I heard you like sweets?" He said putting his arm around her and Emma moved closer. He was perfect, athletic, smart-  he only needed to be althletic… and pureblood. 

"I do. Sugar Quills are amazing." She said leaning into him. 

"Let me get you a drink." 

Two drinks later and she was already crashing her lips against his, his hands following her curves. They were getting pretty heated even though they were still in the middle of The Three Broomsticks and they didn't stop kissing until Axton pulled away fast, Emma's hands were wet - did something spill on them? 

"What the hell man?" Axton said, looking up at the person. 

"Sorry, my bad." Jason said, watching in amusement. 

"Oh, It's Herbert." Axton said, seeing him and smirking.  Herbert straighten out his back, puffing his chest out, losing his amusement. 

Emma shot him a look and quickly cleaned up the mess. 

"Are you okay Axton?" Emma said, smiling. Herbert knew that tone and he scoffed. 

"Fine, Vanity. We should go." 

Jason watched him stand up and he was about to respond when two giggling girls found him and wrapped themselves around his arms. 

"We were looking for you Jason!" The girl on the right said giggling. 

Jason smirked. "Ladies." Put his arm around both of them. "Vanity, 1. Herbert, 2. Wonder whose winning. I bet the Captains could figure it out?" He said, walking out of The Three Broomsticks. 

Emma shook her head and looked back at Axton. "Do you think we can go back to your dorm?" Axton gave a smile. 

"Yes, we can- you can show me how that chocolate works." 

Emma grinned. "Of course." 

Next morning, Liz got a owl saying, "The Captain postion is yours. -Max" 

[wordsofvanity]

Emma awoke to the sound of whimpering. She blink a few times, her eyes trying adjusting to the darkness. She gave out a yawn and took the book that was on her face off it, letting it fall onto the floor with a light thud. She scratched her head and sighed, annoyed that she was plunged out of her sleep. Her eyes finally adjusting, followed by the acute sound of whimpering  flooding her head again.Her eyebrows automatically furrowed, unsure of the sound and why it sounded so close. She turned her head to see Evan. 

 'Oh.' She said softly. She must have fallen asleep again with him after studying. His usual calm demeanor had changed. He was whimpering, his face was scrunched up as if he was in pain, his eyes shut tight as if was bracing himself for something. He seemed to be slightly sweating. 

 He started mumbling a bit coherently. It was quiet and stressed but Emma could hear everything quiet clearly, since she was so close. 

"Stop, no. Please-" 

Could he possibly be awake? Emma sleepily thought, trying to focus on him. No- he was clearly asleep just having a nightmare? Did this happen a lot? She had slept next to him before and this hadn't happened. What could he be dreaming about? 

"Sir- Stop, enough. I learned my lesson- Please-"

She felt her heart sank. Knowing what it must have been- he was dreaming of his father teaching him a lesson. She frown, her desire to help poor little Evan growing with every passing second exponentially.

She reached out to touch him, her fingers grazing his arm. He seemed to settle a bit, his body seemed shocked at the contact and it paused everything very briefly but it started to resume seconds later, albeit less frazzled. 

The words were about to come on again and Emma couldn't help but try something else. Her hand traveled down to his and she held it- hopefully showing him he wasn't alone and this seemed to help him. She even felt him lightly respond back, his hand faintly gripping hers. She smiled lightly but she soon frowned again- he was still under some stress. After some hesitation, for fear he'd wake up and be mad at her for her next action, she quickly pulled him into a hug, wrapping her arms around him carefully. Her hands finding the back of his head to bring him even closer to her.  He seemed to almost relax into her and she closed her eyes and kissed his temple. He responded by wrapping his arms tightly around waist, bringing her in closer and Emma thanked the fates that it was dark and he was asleep because she started blushing profusely. 

"Armen Kleinen Evan." She softly. "Sehr traurig." She said nodding into him. He seemed calmer now magically as she wrapped herself around him. His breathing was becoming steady but Emma kept quietly whispering to him, letting her fingers run through his hair. 

"langsam langsam, You'll get better. langsam langsam, You'll feel better." She closed her eyes, still extremely tired and feeling she could sleep now that Evan was okay. "Everything is going be okay. I'm here." 

She yawned and he pulled her in tightly and she couldn't help but think how he'd never do that when he was awake. He'd never try anything like this with her. It was so- peaceful. Calming. Amazing and yet the best she could get were kisses when they won a game.Her heart was beating too fast. She closed her eyes again. He jolted again when Emma tried to take his arm off her so he wouldn't have a heart attack when he woke up but he responded with holding her tighter- his nightmares must be horrible. She bit her lip, studying his face closely, as she keeps finding herself doing lately. He seemed okay now. How long have these been going on? 

Emma closed her eyes again, concluding it was useless to try and resist and she didn't really want to. She knew it be over in the morning and Evan, who usually woke up first, would wind up leaving her and probably freaking out that he has his arms around her but that was a problem for morning Evan. Not Emma. 

She yawn again and snuggled herself into him more, figuring there was no harm in that action since he wouldn't know. She stayed up for at least another hour or two before she was able to fall asleep. A mixture of her heart beating too fast from the contact of him and her worrying that she wasn't enough to stop the nightmares the plagued his mind. She eventually fell asleep only to be awoke to an empty bed. 

[thoughtsofvanity]

[wordsofvanity]

Evan Rosier gripped Emma’s hand tightly before entering the small little music store in Muggle London. A muggle was trying to exit the store at the same time they were trying to enter and Evan had tugged on her hand quite forcefully, bring her closer and away from any contact. He grumbled, his eyes scanning the store automatically, first counting the muggles, to make sure there were no surprise and because Evan was never caught unaware and then finding what they came here for so they could get out as quickly as possible. His eyes found the record players and he walked purposely that way, Emma having no choice but to follow him and match his walk. 

Evan stood in front of a simple black one and nodded at it and then looked at Emma. 

“This one.” 

But he found Emma’s gaze else where. “I want this light green one.” Emma said, memorized by this small record player. 

Evan turned up his nose, “Emma- it’s too- no it’s just unacceptable.”

Emma seemed to consider this but her eyes never left the record player. “Would you ever use this?” 

Evan gave a slight laugh. “Never.” he said seriously and confidently. 

Emma smiled. “Good. It’s settled. I’m getting this one. I wouldn’t want you using my record player anyway.” 

Evan slightly frowned. “Hey- but I let you use mine all the time…” 

“Now you won’t have to and you won’t touch mine so I guess we both win.” She said, nodding her head definitively, bending down slightly to pick up one of the boxes that held the green player. 

Evan balanced on the heels of his feet for a second, hesitating to speak, unable to find the correct words he settled for. 

“But it just looks so… girly.” He said, putting his hands in his pocket. 

Emma shot him a look, frowning. “No one asked you. Next time don’t come. And I promise you I’ll bring you something frilly and pink to wear. Then you’ll know ‘girly’” She said, shaking her head and holding the box tightly. 

Evan couldn’t help but laugh at her huffy attitude and when she turned around to go up to the register he smiled softly and gripped her shoulder lightly, turning her back around to face her. 

“What?’ She asked, trying to convey a hurt tone after he insulted the record player she wanted but her tone came out much friendly then she had wanted because his smile was unfortunately, infectious to her. A smile soon crept on face as well. 

Evan grinned a bit broader- still amazed he could do that to her with just a smile before he gently cupped her cheek bringing her into a gentle kiss. 

“Nothing. Just- I had almost forgotten to kiss you like that today.” Evan said, smiling and walking up to the till before Emma could react. Evan will not allow the dynamic to switch today. He had decided to have the upper hand today and he’s not  about to lose it with Emma’s little demands of defiance He will keep her on her toes. He was also going to pay for this damn record player even though he did not enjoy it. 

[thoughtsofvanity]

[wordsofvanity]

The first time they slept together it wasn’t anything special. 

The rare moments Evan would give into Emma’s excessive pleads to do something with her it would always turned into something like this, but this was the very first time they had went quite so far. 

They were on his bed,( which has happened many times before as they became default study partners because of Emma’s pestering first year to study together turning into a default habit that neither really thought about ) school books sprawled around them and they had finished all their homework and had studied everything and anything they had gotten up to in their classes. But Evan was having a good time and he couldn’t help but feeling a slight ache in him- wanting her to stay. So when Emma suggested he read to her, Evan didn’t object even a little bit even though he usually would. He opened up the book he was in the middle of and began reading, his voice was low and modulated. He started reading exactly where he had left off and didn’t consider the fact Emma might have wanted him to start from the beginning.  Emma, for once, didn’t protest anyway and she slowly sunk down onto his pillow, watching him read. Evan moved in closely, propping himself up with his arm- the book in between them, Evan purposely positioning it so he wouldn’t be able to see her face for sometimes her sleeping form distracted him and - well he didn’t really understand it. He kept reading and as the night went on and all his dorm mates fell asleep, he got closer and closer and his voice lower and lower as to not awake the other and because he was getting tired. Soon he was unable to keep his arm and head up- resorting to putting his head on the pillow with her. Then an hour after that he was unable to lift the book in between them and finally put the book down on the table next to his bed and when he faced back around he was face to face to a small, steadily breathing, sleeping Emma Vanity. His breathe caught- for he was just so surprised that she was asleep and he had never really been this close to her. He rationalized he was just pleased she was quiet for once and too tired to do anything else his eyes slowly felt heavy and he soon closed them, drifting off to sleep. 

Nothing special. 

[wordsofvanity]

Emma Vanity was taking a swim since it was Thursday and Rosier was busy with his advance apparition classes. Last night another round of bruises were given to her and it stung a bit as she swam in the Great Lake. She heard a clearly Scottish accent cry out, rather suddenly, “Emma, Keech!”

Emma looked over surprised and saw Victor Lynch standing there with a ton of books laid on the floor. He was standing tall and his eyes were wide. Emma, who swam out of the water was generally confused. What was the matter with him? She got out of the water and she realized Victor was looking at her scars and bruises.

‘What’s the matter, Victor?” Emma asked curiously, understanding it was about the scars but not understanding what was actually wrong. Did she look that unattractive?

“Nothing is wrong with me, Emma. But look at you!” He said, waving his hand around her. “Your body! When did this happen!” Victor said, his voice teetering on anger. Knowing that these must be recent. Because not only have they gone swimming before and decently recently but these bruises still looked like they hurt.

“Oh…. It’s nothing. I don’t know. Evan.” Emma said, shrugging. Expecting that to explain them.  

“That doesn’t explain anything, a real boyfriend wouldn’t treat you like this!” Victor said, loudly still taking in her scars.

Emma looked annoyed. “Firstly, Evan is not my boyfriend. Everyone has to stop saying that. We’re just promised to each other.” She rolled her eyes.

“Fine, husband. Doesn’t change that he shouldn’t treat you like that. “ Victor said, narrowing his eyes.

Emma looked down at them again. She hesitantly asked,“Do they make me look ugly?” Her brows furrowed and she looked at him frowning. It was about the only thing that bothered her about these scars.

Victor returned with a smile. “I wouldn’t say that…” he said it jokingly and still Emma glared at him and took a seat on his blanket. She sighed.

He looked her over once more, taking in her body appreciatively.  “They’re attractive. I guess.”

Another glare. Victor laughed. “You really look fine.”

Emma looked hesitantly at him and smiled. “I don’t mind it too much. Its just pain. I think it gives Evan pleasure .”

“M’dear that’s not pleasure. That’s abuse.”

Emma squirmed, uncomfortable all of a sudden. Is it really that bad? 

“I think Evan does it show he cares.” Emma said, flashing the define scar on her neck of his name, lifting her hair up.

Victor blinked a few times. Was that really his name carved into her? Keech, he was crazy. “That’s not caring, that’s obsession!” Victor said, matter of factly.

“An unhealthy obsession at that.”

Emma shrugged. “Well I technically don’t know any other way.” She said slowly. “What is it usually like?” She asked, letting her hair fall back into place.

Victor smiled and closes his book and puts it on the pile of other books next to him.

“A real boyfriend…” Victor began, ignoring Emma’s protest of calling him a boyfriend.

 “holds your when you cry and kisses the wounds that you have gotten not from him but others, mental and physical. Someone you can snuggle with and watching movies together.  Someone who can makes you smile daily and writes you little notes through out the day. Takes you out to dinner because he wants to.” His eyes were warm and inviting in this moment and he looked up into the sky and away from her until he got to the last part. “Someone who doesn’t beat you and leaves scars all over you body.” At which point Victor glared at her once more.

“He basically does that,” Emma said.

“Whenever I’m hurt he finds the person who hurt me and torture them, isn’t that love?” Emma asked, looking towards him. Pretty sure that his answer will be a no. She didn’t understand why not though.

“Emma, that’s not the right thing to do!” She was still not getting it! He grabbed her hand, looked into eyes to make sure that she’ll understand.

“You’re worth more than this, Emma. Find a guy who doesn’t brand you.” He said seriously.

Emma looked cautiously at him, still unsure what to believe.  “But the sex is pretty great Victor… I don’t really understand those wants anyway. Why would I want to snuggle with someone? What is even snuggling?” Emma asked.  

“Snuggling,” Victor said, loudly and important as if he was a teacher and she her student. “ is the warming felt from the inside of the person, bringing it outside to show them they care. Here let me show you.” He said quickly shifting.

 “Victor- what.” Emma said, beginning to protest.

Victor shushed her and carefully laid her down, his arms wrapped around her as they starting spooning. He whispered, softly in here ear, “This is snuggling.”

“Well… this is okay. I can understand the appeal.” Emma said, slightly smiling. Happy to be done with their confusing conversation before and she moved in closer into Victor’s arm. She then winced in pain as he accidently brushed her back to hard and she shifted to look at him.

“My back still kind of hurts because of the bruises.” Emma said, looking down since this apparently was bad. Victor’s eyes darken considerably as Victor moved his face closer to hers. “I just don’t like to see you hurt, Emma.” Their faces were pretty close.

Emma rolled her eyes and tried to take the conversation off this. She was fine.

“So, do you give soft kisses, Victor? Emma asked.

“What?” Victor asked incredulously. What did she mean?

Emma giggled. “Well you clearly don’t like it rough so are you just ever so gentle?” She raised her eyebrow playfully.

Victor almost scoffed. “Clearly from the statement alone, you know nothing about me.”

Now it was time for Emma to look surprise. “What do you mean?” Now she was curious. “What do you do? “

Victor laughs. “I don’t know…it looks like you’ll have to find out.” Victor gave a grin and tapped Emma on the nose lightly.  

Emma, who couldn’t resist a challenge had to ask. “Is that a challenge, Victor? Because I take my challenge very seriously.”  She was smiling now. Tempting him.

“Depends on where you want to go with that challenge, Vanity.” His arms still wrapped around her brought her even closer to him.

She studied him for a moment and lifted her head up and put her lips centimeters away from his. “Oh, Victor.” She started. “I don’t think you could handle me.”

“I think you want a challenge yourself, Vanity and who am I to deny a lady her challenge?” He said, smirking.

“Correct me if I’m wrong Victor but are you calling yourself a challenge?” She said, matching his tone.

“I might be, Vanity. If you think you can handle me.” His eyes now trained on her lips.  

“Well Victor, I see no reason to try and get with you. Clearly I have my hands filled with Evan. If I even want to kiss you, which I do not want to do, You’ll have to deal with him.” Emma said, her body language telling a different story.  

“I think you have your hands filled with me now, Vanity. I’ll deal with Evan later.” He said as her pushed just a bit further and kissing her softly at first then a bit harder. Emma returning it, smiling until she pushed away, their bodies still close.

“No… seriously we should stop. I rather you not have to deal with him.” Emma said, sitting up.

Victor was still smiling as he sat up and went just as close as they were before, her words not affecting him. She cupped her face and leaned in. “I thought I was going to show you how a real boyfriend would act?” As he kissed her once more, this time Emma did not stop him and finally when both were out of breath they stopped and broke apart.

“You’re decent.” Emma said, grinning at him teasingly.

“You’re okay.” Victor said, running his hands through his hair, returning the tone. Emma suddenly frowns and got up quickly. “You seriously shouldn’t have done that though…” Emma said, looking around. What if someone saw?

He got up and stood next to her putting his fingers on her lips. “I won’t tell, will you? I’m pretty sure you won’t.”

“Why is that?” Emma asked, studying his eyes and then letting her eyes travel back to his lips.

“I don’t think that’s how you’d want to go unfinished…” Victor said quietly, smiling hold her cheeks softly so she’d look up at him.

Emma started stuttering. “I have to go…” And then she ran back to the castle leaving Victor standing there alone with his books. Emma didn’t look back.

[wordsofvanity]

They had won once more, against the Gryffindors. James Potter upset was the best thing about winning she smiled and waved as he left the field, grumbling.  She patted most of her teammates on the back and turned around anxiously looking for Evan, since they kissed after each win but she quickly remembered he was away on family business. Jason however was here. And he smirked at her carefully approaching her, tilting his head as he faked his concerned.

“Oh,” He said looking towards her then he dramatically looked around, “precious Rosier is no where to be found! How will he kiss your daring lips today?” His words were paired with a sneer as Emma noticeable cringed.

‘What are you talking about?” Emma said, snapping at him.

 “Are you confused because Rosier isn’t here? I’m sure he misses you too.” He leaned closer to her, his voice clear with menace.

‘What are you on about?” Emma said, snapping at him.

 “You know what I’m on about Vanity. You kiss Rosier after each win and now you’re lost without him.” He raised his eyebrows suggestively and even though it look like he was amused Emma could see his jar clench. 

“I am not lost without him. It’s just a tradition!” Emma said, taking her broom and trying to walk away from Jason but Jason followed behind her closely. 

“Pretty sexual tradition.” He stated.

She turned around, “Oh like you’re one to talk!” Emma said, waving her arm at him.

“What’s that suppose to mean?” he questioned.

“You’ve sleep with every girl in the castle, besides me!” She said loudly, raising the hand not carrying the broom. 

“Correction. I’ve sleep with all the respectable girls.” He said, smirking.

Emma sighed and crossed her arms. “I’m respectable, you twat!”

“You’re not even a girl.” He said casually. He smiled.

“Hmpft. You’re the only person that can get me angry after winning a Quidditch game.” Emma said pushing him. Jason moved a bit back from the push but then got closer to her, his hands in his pockets, raising his eyebrows as if amused.  

“You’re just upset you’re not kissing Rosier right now.” He said, bending over, since he was so much taller than Emma, putting his face in hers.

“It has nothing to do with Evan! I can kiss anyone and it would be the same!” Emma said harshly, glaring at him.

“Oh yeah, Vanity?”

“Yeah Herbert.”

“Prove it.” He said.

And with that she started kissing him, harshly at first, to prove herself but when he started to return the kiss, they both let their brooms fall and he put his arms around her bringing her closer and she put her arms around his neck and her hands ran through his hair. Jason, let his hands travel her curves and Emma didn’t protest in fact she kissed him harder.

They stopped after a few minutes, both looking away from each other once they broke apart.  Not out of embarrassment but because they were angry that it was enjoyable. Both their jaws locked, unbeknownst to one another.

“See? But Rosier was better so don’t assume I’d do that again.” Emma said, picking up her broom to not show how flustered she really was.

“I’m ashamed to even speak of this again!” Jason said, walking the opposite direction. 

[wordsofvanity]

“Why was that baker flirting with you, Em?” Evan asked his voice rising, he gripped her hand angrily unable to calm himself down.  “He’s a muggle.” Evan felt like doing something simply horrible to him, skinning him alive, letting his blood fall to floor and leave him begging for mercy for an hour before killing him. His hand was gripping on his wand tightly the whole time he was in there.

Emma looked over surprised, not at Evan’s sudden anger but at his thought the muggle was hitting on her. “No he wasn’t?” Emma said, watching him closely. In Paris they usually held hands while outside just incase Evan needed a reminder of who Emma was when they eventually saw a Veela.

“He was looking up and down your body and trying to undress you with his eyes Emma!” He let his hand run through his hair. “Don’t you understand!” It took all the strength he could to not firing spells in that bakery. “Merlin, Em!”

“Why what were you going to him?” Emma asked smiling. She had tried several times to get him to calm down when he was like this and it never worked so now she just got him more riled up. “Tell me what you’d do to that poor, defensive less baker.”

“Gut him and put his guts into one of those fucking pasties he was selling.” His eyes had that passion in that it always did when he talked about torture.

“AND THE MUGGLES WOULD EAT HIM BECAUSE THEY’RE SAVAGES,” He said rather loudly,”and they like the taste of meat Emma!” He paused looking widely around. “He’ll die because he talked to you and… he wanted to touch you.” They stopped walking now and they were on a bridge and Evan seemed to be hesitating which was odd for his state.

“Yes Evan and you’d do that all for me.” Emma said nodding moving in closer to him, moving his hands so they circled around her. “You can punish me for talking to him later when we get back to your manor.” She whispered in his ear. Evan was going to need somewhere to put all this anger.

She felt his hands tighten around her like claws. “Not this time…No. It’s just!” 

He reached in his pocket and took a deep breath in, pulling out something from his pocket. He took her took her hand and slipped a ring on it.

“Now you see. I want you to marry me. Lets get married.” The ring was stunning and Emma couldn’t help but stare at it while Evan continued on. “No more other guys, just me. We’re done with that. Never ever. You’re going to now be stuck with me. Now will you marry me for Merlin’s sake?”

When she didn’t reply right away he added. “I’ll fuck you senseless if you say yes.” And still she said nothing. “I’ll still do it even if you say no but it be better if you said yes.”

“Oh Evan. We’re already promised you don’t need to-“ She said looking between the ring and him. ”Yes Evan. Of course I’ll marry you.” She said throwing her arms around him in a hug. The ring was spectacular, an at least 2 carat Emerald set on top of it of an elegant silver band. Diamonds adored the edges and half way up the band was rectangular diamonds leading up to the magnificence emerald. She took it off almost as soon he put it on to see if there was anything engraved, which of course there was, “toujours ma demande”

            Forever my claim.

Emma smiled and switched the Rosier ring she had been wearing since they were official promised to her non wand hand and put the new ring back on.

“So what does it do?” Emma asked excitedly.

Evan laughed. “Well… My darling. The longer you wear it the more pronounced the words engraved on it would be. Soon you should have toujours ma demande on your finger permanently.” Evan said smiling. Emma laughed.

“That’s a lot more permanent then a silly ring.”

 “Evan you really didn’t have to… We were already promised….” Emma said blushing.

“I wanted to, Em. Not really like this but…” He said trailing off. At least he had given her the ring. He had been carrying it around since the beginning of the summer holidays and had sent for it to be made much earlier.

She hugged him gently his bloodlust state almost calmed completely because of Emma and he smiled down at her sweetly, letting his hand fall upon her back as he kissed her forehead. “Toujours ma demande, mon Cherie”

“Toujours ma demande, Mon cher.”  

[wordsofvanity]

“He’s standing there, near the south wall now.”  Emma said whispering excitingly, her eyes completely transfixed on the tall elegant man, who seemed to be radiating power, her hand gripping Evan’s shoulder tightly, her hand clasp with his, her poise impeccable besides her head, which would lean in just to whisper updates to Evan quietly and in hushed excited tones on the what The Dark Lord was doing at the very moment. Evan was clearly fuming but must stay silent and Emma didn’t notice.

And when Emma messed up her step once more because her eyes were too trained on the Dark Lord then her actual dance partner, Evan, jolted her. His grip firm and left no room for interpretation, her eyes should be on him. She shifted herself back; her cheeks were hot from the implications of her not being able to look away. She looked away from him quickly as if she had done something wrong but then she realized she hadn’t and she stared right back.

“Is there a problem, Rosier?” Emma asked, smugly. While Evan’s jealous took on new impossibly heights every time Emma flirted with the idea of letting another guy look at her, she was sure that Emma could look and lust over The Dark Lord without Evan saying anything.  This could be fun and before she could make another comment her eyes caught where The Dark Lord was headed, closer towards her and her eyes trailed over to Bella who… had just taken the Dark Lord’s outstretched hand. “He’s offering her to dance, Evan!” Emma said gasping softly. Emma was sure that Evan rolled his eyes but Emma couldn’t stop watching. He was so graceful as if he was floating on air instead of dancing and he was even making Bellatrix have a wide eye expression.  Emma watched carefully as- “Evan! Even the way he holds her- it looks as if Bella weights nothing! He’s leading her flawlessly!” Evan’s own hand tightens around Emma’s at that moment, his jar clenching and Emma’s eyebrows furrowed, her eyes following the pair around the dance floor. “No, no. He’s doing it softer- gentle and sophisticated.” Emma said shaking her head. Evan held her hand even tighter and Emma sighed getting her to miss another step. “Sorry!” She said quickly, looking at him for only a second.

Evan cracked his neck to the side, pushing his shoulders out trying to get himself to calm down.

Emma continued watching them. “He just spun her and it was –“ Emma started but Evan didn’t get to hear the finish of that thank Merlin. He spun her too, a bit too fast and hard, letting her spin into him a tad too forcefully and held her in place for a moment too long, whispering in her ear. “What are you trying to do to me, Emma? You know how I get-“

Evan murmured, unable to continue as he spun her back to their original position.  Evan let his fingers dig into her dress and waist as she finally looked at him. It hurt a lot but she knew it’s him trying to control himself. He pulled her closer, his fingers unable to let go and Emma kept her eyes on him finally, trying to figure how much time she had before Evan would lose it. How many more comments, how many more looks. Evan, ignoring the proper way as only Evan would, letting the inches between them disappear as his nails only increased their pressure into her. Emma suppressed a gasp at the pain.  

Emma glanced once more at the dancing pair as the nails dug into her as they continued dancing, his movements becoming quick and forceful. “Merlin,” Emma whispered. “Evan, he’s whispering in her ear!” The Dark Lord had let himself closer to Bellatrix and he looked amused. Bellatrix gave a polite little laugh.

The music had finished and Emma gave a distracted curtsy towards Evan. Her eyes returning to Bellatrix and The Dark Lord once more. He was too close- she hadn’t seen him stand that close to anyone thus far. Bella caught her eye and gave a small smile and beckoned her over. Emma smiled and smoothed out her dress as Evan had crumpled it while they danced his fingers messing up the sides quite a bit. Evan grimaced and walked closely behind Emma. Emma walked up to both of them and did a deep curtsey. Evan bowed swiftly with a smile.

 “This is Evan Rosier, my cousin and his betrothed, Emma Vanity.”  Evan walked besides

Emma and stood up tall next to her.  Evan gave a nod towards him, his hands behind his back. “Eagerly awaiting graduation to join your rank, My Lord.”

Emma looked up at him with hopeful eyes, waiting for her permission to speak.

A light nod in her direction from him, which was all she needed.

“An honor, My lord.  What you are doing is truly beneficial and I’ve been waiting since I was a little girl for a great powerful leader to be able to do everything you will accomplish and now our wait is finally over. I simply can not wait to join the war efforts!”

“Your dedication is greatly appreciated, Mr Rosier, Miss Vanity. The war cannot be fought by the elder generation alone. As you can see, the ranks are growing.” the Dark Lord, his featured carefully schooled into an expression of cool politeness.

“My Lord, both my cousin and his betrothed are highly skilled. They would be valuable proponents to your cause…” Bellatrix smiled at them, her eyes bright with fervour.

“No doubt, Bella. Your cousin commends you, Mr Rosier. No doubt we will speak again…”

“It be an honor for both us.” Evan said, his arm went to grip her waist as Emma smiled letting Evan speak for her.

  The Dark Lord nodded in acknowledgement.

 ”Emma, we must speak later. I-“

“Bella.” Bellatrix broke off as the Dark Lord laid a hand on her arm, clearly intending for them to take their leave. “There are things which must be attended to.” He said, looking down at her.

She inclined her head respectfully. “Of course, my Lord.”

The Dark Lord nodded to Emma and Evan, and Bellatrix smiled almost apologetically, before they left, the crowd parting before them.

They excused themselves and walked away, Evan gripping her by the waist quite fiercely once again and Emma was about to ask if they were going to dance once more when Evan lead her to outside the ballroom and then he quickly apperate the both of them to his room, dying to be in control of this situation again. “You’re going to be punished.” Evan said softly throwing her on to his bed.

[wordsofvanity]

Emma wasn’t watching Regulus when he had caught the snitch, but she still knew the game was over but the sound of the crowd. She heard the announcement of Regulus catching the snitch! But it didn’t register. She heard the crowd shout and cheer from only one side of the stadium and she could tell it was the Slytheirn crowd without even looking. They have a certain sound to them Emma now knew.  But it still didn’t register. Only when she had flew down and looked at the Slytherin Banner saying For Captain Vanity’s Sanity, Let’s win!  Flashing Green and Silver.  Only then did she smile and then her players started congratulating her. It was the first game she had played as Captain. And they had won and it felt exhilarating. “We won! We won!” She started shouting, grinning madly. She hugged Regulus first then Alio for hitting one of the Ravenclaws particular hard and she got to Evan next who didn’t much enjoy human contact and his slight hesitation to enter the hug was amplified in this moment of pure bliss for Emma and she chuckled and hugged him tightly and then gave him a quick kiss on the lips. “Thanks for scoring all those points, Evan.” She said rather quietly compared to the commotion happening around them. She smiled at him before turning towards her other team mates as they began praising her. 

[wordsofvanity]

Emma had been at a small get together for most of the night but she had left early with an equally inebriated Lucius Malfoy. Emma was pretty sure all the snakes were at the party so when they entered the common room they saw no reason not to keep their hands off each other and he quickly found a love seat in which Emma was dragged off too, while giggling of course, and she sat down as they resumed. Him hungrily attacking her and her kissing back just as fiercely. He was a decent distraction.

His hands were roaming down her legs as he moved on top of her on the love seat when she thought she heard something to the left of her. She briefly looked over, seeing Evan’s mess of dirty blonde hair over a thick book. He was of course reading and she felt that he turned the page rather loudly for her to have been able to hear him. She’ll just let him enjoy the show then.

She moaned quite loudly and Malfoy looked up surprised but he tried to hide it. 

Evan simply rolled his eyes and turned his attention back to the texts in front of him.

His mindframe in that moment was ‘This is how long it takes you to make her sound like that?’

Malfoy’s continuing efforts were cute and Emma played the part of someone attracted to him well. She pulled him closer, kissing him a bit more passionately then she had before, let his hands explore her. She hadn’t at the party and now he just assumed she had either more to drink or she didn’t want to let him with so many people there.

When he started kissing her neck, Emma let her head go back, giving him more access. “Oh, Lucius.” She moaned. “This feels so fucking wonderful.”

She heard another page turn.

He’d not attended the party for the specific reason that he’d known the common room would be empty. He’d known he’d be able to read whatever the hell he wanted and enjoy himself and the next thing he knew Emma and the blonde-haired bimbo that was Lucius Malfoy crashed through his silence like a nuclear explosion. Evan Rosier was not amused in the slightest. He was deliberately making his presence known, without speaking.

Emma felt Malfoy had no idea anyone but her was present as he reached to unbutton her top.

He didn’t even bother to look up as he heard Emma moan Lucius’ name. Typical. She seemed to be enjoying herself but Evan had a feeling blondie wouldn’t appreciate his sudden interruption.

Malfoy started to unbutton her top and she felt no need to stop him.

She started kissing him again in the middle of it so her shirt hung open. She heard the page turn again and it took all Emma had in her not to pull away and laugh.

He quickly undid the other buttons letting the shirt fall off her and onto the floor she couldn’t help herself as she stole another glance at Evan. Malfoy persisted, determined if somewhat clumsy. They kissed a bit harder. In between kisses she started encouraging him. “Yes, just like that.” Her voice was breathy and pretty loud.

She heard another page turn. And then another page.

She felt Malfoy’s hands start to take off her skirt and was about to stop him but she heard another page turn and this time a cough and so she let Malfoy continue. She slide it off herself as Malfoy greedily roamed her body, he started kissing her neck once more so she had a chance to actually look at Evan who was still sitting there. Reading. She moaned once more as Malfoy got almost close to hitting anything considered a sweet part. “Lucius!” She almost has to laugh but passed it off as sweet giggle. Now she was down in just her knickers and Malfoy was getting even bolder, letting his hands fondle her breast and she closed her eyes to resist how much she wanted to roll them. She stole one more glance at Evan who had finally looked up and they locked eyes.

Emma gave a smile to him as Malfoy unhooked her bra, letting it fall of her to join her shirt. Emma was actually surprised he had done it so fast and would have tried to stop if she had not heard three pages turn and then a shuffle flipping through pages.

She let Malfoy continue once more and they began kissing and it wasn’t until she felt his hands pull on the elastic of her panties, (she was just about to tell him to stop), that he did in fact in stop. There was a presence over both as Evan lightly tapped on Malfoy shoulder.

“Excuse me, Lucy. Thanks for warming her up, I’ll be taking it from here.” Malfoy jumped up in surprise, unaware of Evan presence until that moment. Emma just wanted to laugh. He was rather loud.

Malfoy regain his composure quickly. “Excuse you, Rosier. But I think I’ll be finishing today.” Emma was laying down on the love seat, naked besides her panties. She was looking on in amusement as they discussed her.

“From the way you were going, Lucy, I’m pretty sure you couldn’t get her to finish if your life depended on it. I can tell you what each sigh and moan Emma makes means and trust me, you weren’t even almost close.” Evan let out a sigh for dramatics and he picked up her shirt and bra and her skirt.

“Wh- what are you doing?” Malfoy asked. “Why are you picking her clothes?”

Evan looked with a mocked expression of confusion. “Oh gee, I don’t know. But I think Emma won’t be needing them where I’m going to take her.”

“What?” Malfoy asked. Still confused.

Evan gave an exasperated sigh. Emma giggled. She could see where this was going.

Evan then bent over to Emma, picked up bridal style and gave Malfoy one last look a smug smile played on his lip. “Bye Lucy.”

“Wait.” Malfoy said. “I think we should let Emma decided who she’ll sleep with tonight.”

Evan’s face broke out in a wicked grin. “Yes Emma. What would you? The clumsy inexperienced one or the one and only Evan Rosier?”

Emma looked between boys as if she was decided and then wrapped her arms around Evan’s neck and snuggled her head against his shoulder. And whispered.  “Oh Evan, just take me upstairs. Stop fooling. Like I could pick him.” 

“What Emma?” Evan loudly. “Can you repeat that? Speak up.”

Emma sighed. “Sorry Lucy. Maybe next time.”

And with that Evan carried her upstairs, his book laid forgotten. “Don’t come in our room, Lucy. All of what we do is a bit too advance for you.”

She laid him on her bed, tossed her clothes on his trunk and quickly got on top of her. They started kissing passionately. In between kisses she laughed. “I told you should have come to the party. You shouldn’t have left me alone for the night. I get inexperience fools that I have to tempt you with to save me from. It’s all too much work. Now make me forget about his touches, darling.”

Evan grinned. “Make me.” And those were the last words said that night.

[wordsofvanity]

The party was in – as Muggles would say – ‘full swing.’ And Evan Rosier could quite care less. He’d suffered through these elaborate masked balls since he could remember, which was at least 13 years now. Every summer … He sighed and dipped his goblet back into the firewhiskey fountain. At least there was firewhiskey.

And where the hell was his mother? If he had to endure this farce, she should, as well. But no. She was nowhere to be seen. He huffed. Perhaps she felt that his own attendance was shameful. Yet still she insisted that they attend and now she’d slunk away. Quite unfair in Evan’s opinion.

He grimaced behind his elaborate silver and black mask. An exquisite piece, if he had to say so himself. He’d ordered it from a Wizarding mask-maker in New York. It covered roughly half of his face the rest being left to shadow gaining Evan a sense of mystery about his person.

He liked his disguise – had even charmed his hair black for this occasion. He felt a strange comfort in the anonymity. He looked about at the other revellers. They all liked disguise, he supposed, considering how many of them he included should be attending a meeting right about now. Some were garish in bright colours and puffed-up gowns. Others were simply too maudlin in their Gothic restoration costume, prancing about like fairy tale vampires.

Evan scoffed and sipped his drink. Simple black, he thought. Head to toe. Simple. He watched a jester-masked wizard dance by in purple and green striped trousers. Shook his head sadly. Ridiculous. They all looked ridiculous. Like a freak show dancing a waltz after too much drink.

He saddened further at the thought of how much fine wine the Vanity’s had exhausted in pursuit of this evening…

A gasp fluttered through the room. Evan’s gaze followed the turning heads. There in the drawing room archway stood a wonderful sight. His fingers tightened on the goblet in his hand as his eyes took in the girl, immediately he recognised her – She was Emma Vanity.

She was like the prize of the evening. Every wizard there knew it. Like a perfect porcelain doll prime to be collected and showcased, she was slim, curvy and spectacular. Emerald green material clung to her like a half-shed skin, covering the best parts of a pale body. But only the best parts.

He noted there were no slits on either side of her dress much to his disappointment, he often found himself wanting to comment on her rather astounding legs there would be no such comment tonight. Evan assumed the dressmaker had further decided to showcase her natural beauty by leaving out the back of the dress entirely. Two lone ribbons hung teasingly down her spine, occasionally stroking the detailed bone work there as she moved gracefully about the crowd.

And her mask… She was obviously as versed in mask craftsmanship as he was. The piece was remarkable; simple emerald that vaguely shadowed her eyes and highlighted the elegance of her features. She truly did look astounding.

Her fingers and hands spoke of refinement and regality. This woman was a woman – not one of the giggling girls who approached him hopefully for dances.

Evan moved about the outskirts of the throng his eyes studied Emma, a slight smirk curling his lips. He knew he was not the only person here to study her but he felt a need to go to her. To talk to her. To dance with her.

However Evan paused when she took the hand of a hawk-masked Marcus Yaxley. Obviously, the other wizard was asking her to dance. Behind his own mask, the young Rosier’s nostrils flared. Hardly, he thought. She shall dance with me first. And he moved like oil through the mingling, tipsy crowd, smoothly and confidently seizing her free hand.

“Madame Vanity.” She turned, slightly startled, and gave him a curtsy. “Voulez-vous danser avec moi?” He hadn’t the words for pleasantries and they weren’t truly necessary. His tone was firm yet questioning, masked also by a charm for the evening. The implication of the sentence essentially stating that he wasn’t about to take no as an answer.

Marcus Yaxley drew up sharply, offended by this brash faux pas. But she recognized the superior aura that radiated off this stranger. “Very well.” Her voice was rather soft, too. He couldn’t help the smile that formed on his lips when she delicately excused herself from Yaxley’s odious presence and curved her willowy body to his. He led her assuredly in the slow waltz. She was a fabulous dancer – if a bit formal.

She didn’t appear to recognise him – did he really look that different? No matter, he’d play the role of the mysterious guest tonight and Evan could reside in the shadows. “Who are you?” He questioned as if he had to know.

“Who are you?” She asked in return.

His lips quirked into a smile. “Touché.” His tone laced with amusement. This could be fun… “I hope you’re enjoying your evening?”

“My evening has only begun,” she answered. She glanced about.

Evan tensed. “Looking for someone?”

Her attention returned to him. “No, well… Maybe… I had a friend who said he would be attending tonight … it would appear he hasn’t lived up to his promise. He was the only one I made promise he’ll come but no matter. I guess I can stick with you tonight.”

He spun her leisurely, eyes sweeping over her hips. ‘Oh, well. If we’re going to be anonymous and she is looking for me…’ He was in for a sickle. “It would be my honour mademoiselle”

She settled back into his slightly tighter embrace, slightly ruffled from the dance manoeuvre.

His thumb brushed the soft bare skin of her back purposefully causing her to faltered slightly in her step and a soft gasp to escape her lips. Seeing eyes on them – jealous eyes – he resumed their dance. “Warm here,” he murmured.

“Mhm. And loud.”

His hand spread open on the small of her back. “Shall we find a more comfortable and quiet place to…talk?” Merlin, let her say yes.

He couldn’t quite decipher her eye shadow colour in the shadow her mask created – possibly green? He wasn’t sure. She hesitated. He held his breath. Then… “I would like that.”

Yes! He waltzed her briskly to the edges of the swirling mass. “This way, then.” He led her from the lavishly decorated dining hall into the long corridor leading to the library and back patio. He ushered her outside ahead of him, checking the corridor for any audience. Finding none, he ducked into the cool night air behind her and quietly let the door fall shut in his wake.

She stood in the moonlight a few feet away. Her chest rose and fell quickly, and Evan stood for a moment just taking her in. But then her lips parted barely as she issued her first true question of the night. He clasped his hands behind his back moving to stand beside her as she let her gaze roam over the grounds.

“Are you foreign?”

“Oui, je suis Français.”

“Where in France do you come from?”

“Just outside of Languedoc, a nice place actually although I doubt you would know of it. Near to the Mediterranean coastal plain. My family own some Vineyards there.” A convincing lie that rolled off of his tongue smoothly he paused before adding. “Might I say Miss. Vanity vous avez l’air magnifique ce soir.”

She felt heat rise in her cheeks at the compliment that left his lips. “Merci, mais vous êtes trop gentil monsieur.” Looking away from him to the sky above their heads. “It’s a lovely night.”

“Indeed it is.” He agreed quietly his eyes studying her carefully. There was a lapse in conversation and the sound of a window opening caused music to drift from the ongoing event. Emma had turned to look over her shoulder at the event and when she turned back to the stranger she noticed he’d moved closer. Her breath caught, the proximity allowed her to see his sharp features his eyes were indistinguishable, she took a few moments to commit a study of him only to be reminded of his closeness.

Her eyes widened for a second and she found herself looking up at him the quietness only being broken by the sound of their breathing. He stood two inches taller than her and she found herself looking at his lips. Everything about him was perfect, like the Prince she’d always dreamt would arrive and make her his Queen. Was that why he was here? Was he going to make her his Queen? Would they live in a castle? Her thoughts were scattered in that second when she found herself blurting out rather foolishly.

“You’re a Prince.” She sounded excited continuing on to explain about how she’d read all about the Princes of faraway lands and how heroic they sounded. How long she’d talked for he didn’t know but he found his lips curling slightly - she looked radiant as she spoke.

It was possibly five minutes after she’d made this statement and she still hadn’t stopped talking, Merlin shut her up. He sighed, if Merlin isn’t going to help then I’ll do it myself, and in the next second raised a finger to tilt he head back stooping ever so slightly to catch her lips in a gentle yet completely silencing kiss. Merlin the peace was wonderful. He broke away and she was staring at him wide-eyed and with slightly parted lips - yet no words left them. Perfect.

“That I am.” He glanced to a small silver watch settled on his wrist. “Unfortunately the night is drawing to a close and I must wish ma belle princesse une bonne nuit et meilleurs voeux.” He took her hand and stooped for a second pressing his lips to the back of her hand.

As soon as he’d arrived the mysterious Prince had vanished as though he were nothing more than smoke on the wind.

And so was the tale of Emma Vanity and her mysterious (yet familiar) French Prince.