mischief managed

Astoria had spent the lunch hour sat next to Michael, listening to his teasing about Calum and the crush that Astoria harboured towards the handsome Ravenclaw, and admittedly, her gaze hadn't really left Calum, watching him as he spoke to Rowan, her concern for the both of them growing in her chest. However, Astoria considered herself to have the upper hand when she mentioned Euphemia and Michael's cheeks turned a bright crimson, earning a smirk from Astoria in return. When the Great Hall began to empty, Astoria departed from Michael to find her class, and when she heard footsteps jogging up to her, accompanied by Calum's voice, Astoria turned around. "Hi, Calum!" She grinned. "Of course I'm off to class, I wouldn't dare say anything else to a Prefect." She winked, reaching to neaten his tie gently. "I think I'm with Professor Slughorn, I'm honestly not that excited." She admitted. "Who are you with?"

Luke had spent the whole lunch hour with Ember sat opposite him, and he couldn't help but relish in the sight of her smile, the sound of her laughter when Luke cracked a ridiculous joke, and he loved the fact that he was the cause of Ember's laughter. "But Ember," Luke complained as she stood from the bench. "I don't want to go to Potions." He groaned, running a hand through his short curls, looking to the beauty for guidance. Ember made Luke want to study harder, do better, so he could reach her level of brilliance, so he could show her that he was someone worthy, deserving of her attention and love. Still, Luke stood to his feet, his robe had been left in the boys' dormitory during his study break, his sleeves rolled up to the elbows, his red and gold tie loose around his neck, hands shoved into his pocket. "My lady," he grinned, offering Ember his arm to hold onto. "I'm with Slughorn this year, surprisingly." He shrugged. "Never thought I'd be smart enough to get into advanced potions."

Euphemia had spent her lunch hour at the sides of Ashton and Scorpius, as always, and although she hadn't completely forgiven him for his antics, Ashton seemed to be in a better mood, and she'd laughed more than she usually did, practicing Wingardium Leviosa with a goblet. Shoving Ashton as he made a silly remark, Euphemia stood from the Slytherin table, noticing Ashton had a letter in the pocket of his robes, presumably from his parents - that would explain why he was so happy. Euphemia was pulled from her thoughts when she heard Michael's voice, and she turned, grinning at the colourful haired boy. "Hi Michael," she greeted happily, her hair tied into a bun. "I'm with Horace Slughorn, how about you?" She asked, glad and happy to be back in Michael's presence, her wand still in her hand.

Ashton's lunch hour was spent with his two best friends at his side, and he couldn't quite wish for anything better. He'd completely forgotten about this morning's confrontation, and he'd forgotten all about any anger he harboured towards himself for feeling anything for Rowan Chandler. Still, when Michael Clifford approached the Slytherin table, presumably to speak to Euphemia, Ashton rolled his eyes at Scorpius with a smirk. "What a coincidence, I'm with Slughorn, too. Let's all be the best of friends." He sneered at Michael, but he wondered, as he peered over to the Ravenclaw table when Rowan stood to her feet to head out, if Rowan would be in attendance, too. He secretly hoped she would be, and neatening his tie, Ashton stood to his feet, saying a quick goodbye to Scorpius, who was in a different potions class to himself, and made his way down the hall, shoving past Rowan as he caught her up, overtaking her and walking into the Potions classroom.

Calum grinned slightly when he heard Astoria return his greeting and, once he was fully beside her, he slid his arms around her shoulders, figuring there wouldn't be much harm in it - if he was overstepping any boundaries, he was sure Astoria would shrug him off and he would fully respect that decision, because he didn't want to make her uncomfortable in any way. “Between you and me, if you happened to skip class, I wouldn't tell a soul,” he teased lightly, winking as he drew her in closer to himself, examining her, his heart swelling and racing with the sight of her, with the knowledge that she was this close to him, in his hold. “Don't tell anybody, though.” He winked teasingly but listened to her explanation, humming in thought. “What a coincidence, I happen to have Slughorn, too.” And the realization made him grin broadly. “Guess you're stuck with me in that case.” And, really, he couldn't help but to enjoy the thought, hopeful that she wouldn't really mind. “So, mind if I walk you to class, in that case? Since we're both heading that way, anyways.”

Ember watched Luke with a fond smile, having enjoyed every single moment of conversation that she'd been able to have with him. Everything flowed so easily between them, so naturally, and she wondered if it was only her who felt that - that sense of ease, that connection that seemed to tie them together even within the sea of people that existed around them. “You'll be fine,” she teased lightly, grinning at him, “And, if not, I'll be there to help you out, so what's the worst that could happen?” Arching a brow, she watched him but she could feel her heart rate increase when Luke ran his hand through his hair, causing her to chew on her lip in thought, but she smiled and nodded. “What a gentleman.” Moving over, she slid her arm around his, peering up at him. “And, look, we actually do get to be in class together, which makes it easier for me to help you if you need it. I think you'll do wonderfully, though, because you earned your way into Advanced Potions.”

Michael had done his best not to be too affected by Astoria's teasing, though it wasn't particularly easy, because Astoria always knew what to say to embarrass him - and, in truth, Astoria was likely the only person who knew him well enough to be capable of that. But, when his focus returned to Euphemia, he grinned as he heard her words. “Slughorn, too,” he confirmed with a nod, tilting his head, “Who would have thought? Lucky us.” And, despite Ashton's taunting, the grin remained on his features. “Maybe if you were a wee bit nicer, Irwin.” Shrugging, he watched Ashton leave before he settled his gaze back on Euphemia, swearing the sight of her eased every nerve and sense of anxiety that could possibly exist within him. “Let's get going, then, shall we?” And, shifting closer, he offered his hand out to her to help her up from her seat, but also just wanting to get some form of contact to exist between the two of them, no matter how small it was.

Rowan had been so focused on getting to class that she hadn't paid any mind to the fast approaching footsteps - a mistake, it seemed, because she nearly dropped her Potions book when she was bumped into. Straightening, she glared at the retreating figure, her jaw clenching when she realized it was Ashton, although her heart sank to the pit of her stomach when she saw him walk into the Potions class. “You've gotta be kidding,” she murmured quietly to herself, her fingers curling tightly around her textbook, and she chewed harshly on her lower lip, peering around in hopes that one of her friends would be in the class, too. She should have waited and asked Calum or the others, but she'd wanted to get out of the Great Hall to put distance between herself and Ashton, and it had backfired greatly. Ducking her head, she frowned deeply before entering Slughorn's classroom and taking a seat in the far back quickly.

Astoria grinned when Calum held around her, wrapping an arm around his waist in return, laughing as she looked up at him with adoration, biting her lip at the sight of his grin. "Oh?" She teased, happy with his words. "Is that so?" She teased. "Well, I'm glad you're so kind to me, Calum." Astoria followed Calum's lead as he pulled her closer. Astoria swore, in that moment, they looked like the perfect couple, and she couldn't help but feel giddy with the thought. "I won't tell a single soul." Astoria promised, laughing as she looked up to him with a smile. Laughing when Calum asked if he could walk her to class, Astoria shook her head in amusement. "Do I have much of a choice?" She teased. "Calum Hood, I would be honoured if you'd walk me to class." She told him, placing her free hand over her heart in a feigned flattery, although the offer did mean the world to her. "I was actually talking to Slughorn during free break this morning, we're going to be learning how to brew Armortentia." Astoria informed Calum with a smile, leading him into the classroom, pausing as she saw Ashton sat down already. Looking to Calum, Astoria bypassed Ashton with Calum at her side confidently, not wanting the boy to bother Calum. Seeing Rowan though, Astoria smiled, allowing Calum to sit beside her.

Luke smiled, his attention solely on Ember as he collected his things. "The worst that could happen?" Luke repeated with a grin, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Well, the worst that could happen is that I blow up the castle and Hogwarts is no more." Luke shrugged, teasing, but trying to keep a cool exterior to stop himself from laughing. But when Ember slid her arm through Luke's, Luke smiled down at Ember, clearly proud of the bright young witch he had on his arm. "Well, I'm glad you'll be there to help me. I don't even know why Slughorn thought I was worthy." Luke focused on his feet for a second, having never been the most confident when it came to Potions. Luke aspired to be a Professional Quidditch player when he left Hogwarts, so thinks like Potions weren't really his priority. "Alright, let's go, before we're late." He teased, kissing the top of Ember's head as he led her to the classroom in the dungeons, a short walk away from the Great Hall. "So, apparently, the first thing is Armortentia." Luke allowed Ember into the classroom first, grinning as he saw Calum and Astoria, his grin falling as soon as he saw Ashton. Trying his hardest to ignore the Slytherins' presence, Luke pulled a look of distaste at Ember, but found them a seat behind Calum and Astoria, wanting the unity shown that morning to continue.

Euphemia smiled with Michael's words, biting her lip. "Lucky us, indeed." She nodded in confirmation, her own smile broadening when she caught sight of Michael's grin. Watching as Ashton left, Euphemia tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, watching Michael carefully. "How do you always manage to be so kind, Michael?" Euphemia asked, picking up her Potions textbook, taking Michael's offered hand with a smile. "It's no wonder you're a Hufflepuff." And when she felt his skin against hers, Euphemia couldn't help but sigh in content, squeezing Michael's hand gently as she watched him carefully. "You're warm." And when she was stood from her seat, Euphemia didn't let go of Michael's hand, not wanting to, never wanting to. Tucking her wand into her textbook, on the page that was needed, Euphemia followed Michael's lead with a smile, loving how it felt to be close to him. Leading Michael to the dungeons, Euphemia kept a firm grip on his hand, but not too tight, not wanting to scare him off. "I hate that my common room is down here." She admitted to him quietly. "But, I spoke to Slughorn this morning. We're learning to make Armortentia." She grinned over to him.

Ashton sat by his desk at the very back of the classroom, for once not even choosing to acknowledge Rowan. When Rowan's friends walked into the classroom, Ashton found himself outnumbered and rolled his eyes, and when Euphemia walked in with Michael, Ashton grabbed her arm and tugged her down beside him instead, just to say he had someone in the class he could rely on. Shifting in his seat, Ashton rolled his sleeves up lazily, placing his wand on the table. Glancing over at Rowan every so often from the corner of his eye, Ashton felt a rush of jealousy run through him, and he realised then just how much of his feelings he'd been pushing down, despite his best efforts to continue being stubborn.

Calum chuckled quietly, loving the sight of her grin, the sound of her laugh, the way her voice lifted when she teased him. “It is definitely so,” he teased lightly as he examined her, chewing on her lip as he felt his heart swell happily as he listened to her. “I’m glad you exist, Astoria - that you’re in my life at all.” And, to reaffirm his words, he gave her a gentle squeeze, holding her to his side, swearing nobody in the world fit in his hold the way she did, that he would never feel as natural with anybody as he did with her. Something about her affected him in the most wonderful ways, gave him the sense that this was all so very right and he never wanted to lose that feeling. “I’ll trust you on that one.” And, teasingly, he winked at her as they walked, though he chuckled quietly. “You’d certainly have the choice, Astoria!” Grinning, he examined her and kissed the side of her head gently, laughing with her act of feigned flattery. As they walked, he listened to her words but nodded slightly. “That’s an interesting choice for the first lesson. Are you looking forward to it?” And, when they entered the classroom, he offered a smile to Rowan, squeezing her shoulder as they passed, but he swiftly took his seat next to Astoria, not wanting to part from her, ever.

Ember grinned up at Luke as she watched him for a moment. “I highly doubt you would do that,” she murmured teasingly, squeezing around his arm gently as they walked, sticking close to him because she knew that she’d never feel as content as she did when she was near him. “Oi, don’t sell yourself short, Luke!” she told him with a pout, though she shifted, reaching her free hand up to cup one of his cheeks to get him to look at her. “You’re bloody brilliant, Luke, in everything you do - classes, Quidditch, all of it. Give yourself more credit, because you deserve it and you are worthy. Don’t forget that, yeah?” And, she smiled, running her thumb over his cheek before realizing what she’d done and she cleared her throat, dropping her hand back to her side, settling her gaze back ahead as they walked, grinning despite herself. “Amortentia, huh?” Humming in thought, she did her best to ignore Ashton’s presence and she sat by Luke as she set her things - her book and her wand - on her desk. “That sounds like fun.”

Michael smiled as he watched Euphemia, arching a brow. “I just feel like everybody deserves some kind of chance, even if they are jerks,” he told her with a shrug, “Whether they take the chance or not, that’s up to them.” But he grinned, giving her hand a gentle squeeze as they walked. “I don’t think we’re defined by our Houses.” And, he decided that Euphemia was the best example of that - despite being in Slytherin, she was one of the kindest, most caring people he knew. As they walked, he smiled, nudging her gently. “I’m glad I’m warm, in that case. I hope it helps.” Because he knew the dungeons were cold, sometimes even murky, definitely depressing at times, but he wanted to be there for Euphemia as much as possible. “I’m sorry. I don’t blame you, honestly.” He blinked, though, to her words and grinned in response. “Yeah? What do you think your Amortentia would be?” But, all too soon, Euphemia was tugged away from him and he pouted slightly. “Stingy, Irwin,” he complained, but he grinned to Euphemia before he moved to take a seat next to Rowan. “Are you ready for class, Rowan?”

Rowan peered up at Michael when he sat next to her and she offered a smile, though she shifted, tugging out her wand to place on her side of the table. Her gaze wandered to the rest of their friends and she chewed on her lip, feeling the relief flooding her with the knowledge that she wasn’t alone with Ashton anymore. “I am,” she confirmed with a small nod before she leaned back in her seat as she relaxed a bit, more at ease now than she had been just moments before her friends had entered the room. Seeing Astoria’s smile when she and Calum passed, she offered a small smile and nod in acknowledgement, watching Astoria and Calum as they sat down before she leaned over to Michael to murmur, “Those two are cute together.” And, when he agreed with a quick, “Of course they are, just look at ‘em,” she couldn’t help but to laugh, shaking her head.

Astoria grinned when Calum chuckled, loving it whenever he showed any signs of happiness, because his happiness meant to much to her, she couldn't explain verbally just the extent of it all. When Calum teased her though, Astoria laughed, ducking her head and nudging him gently, but when he spoke once more, Astoria paused, beaming up at Calum. "Yeah?" She asked, snuggling into his side. "I'm glad you exist, Calum Hood. Something really special about you." She told him honestly, her actions, her words, her trust in Calum, all coming so naturally. "Calum!" She laughed. "I don't have much of a choice when I'm glued to you like this," she squeezed around him again to prove her point. "Not that I ever want to move away." She told him with a smile, her cheeks heating up into a blush when he kissed the side of her head. "It certainly is a little bit advanced for Fifth year, but I am."

Luke laughed with Ember's reassurance, placing a hand on top of hers as he looked to her, certain that she had put the stars in the sky and had illuminated the moon, because no one could ever be as incredible as she was. "You're adorable." And although Luke was teasing, he meant every word: she was more than adorable, she was perfect. When Ember reached up though, cupping his cheek, Luke couldn't help but relish in the feeling, allowing himself to relax into her touch as Ember's thumb ran over his cheek, pressing a kiss to her palm - he was aware that this wasn't what friends did, but Luke felt more for Ember than 'just friends', and he wondered if she felt the same. Whenever Ember was around, Luke's heart seemed to rest, as if to say, thank God, it's you, you're here. When Ember retracted her hand, Luke bit his lip but offered her a smile, biting his lip as he grinned, entranced by the beauty, placing his wand on the desk. "It does, doesn't it?" He asked with a grin.

Euphemia blinked in surprise with Michael's words. "You really think that?" She asked, furrowing her brows at him slightly. She was grateful for the sentiment, but surely not everyone was worthy of such opportunities. But when Michael explained further, Euphemia nodded. "Surely some wizards are an exception." She murmured, squeezing Michael's hand in return gently to show him she stood with him in solidarity. "Maybe, when the time comes, you should say that to Ashton." Euphemia suggested, but when Michael nudged her, Euphemia laughed, moving her hand away from his so she could wrap an arm around his waist. "It does help, you're like a toaster." Euphemia teased. Hearing his question about Armortentia, Euphemia blinked. "Oh," she shrugged. "I'm really not sure. Perhaps butterscotch." She smiled, but made a noise of surprise when Ashton grabbed her arm, pulling her away from Michael. "Brat," she murmured, sitting beside her best friend, choosing to remain instead of following Michael.

Ashton threw Euphemia a cheeky grin before he turned his gaze back to Rowan, feeling jealousy ignite in his chest at the fact that Michael was making her laugh. Ashton was unfamiliar with that particular emotion - he was used to people being jealous of him - but when he found his gaze lingering on her for longer than he'd wanted, Ashton found his cheeks heating up, ducking his head slightly at the thought of the beauty being happy with anyone else rather than him - but dammit, how was he meant to make her happy when all that spewed out of his mouth when he was around her was negativity? Blinking the thought away, Ashton looked up as Horace Slughorn entered the classroom, already bored and disinterested, and when the teacher explained that they'd been paired up to explore Armortentia and Polyjuice Potion - three months of classes in total, Ashton couldn't help but shift uncomfortably. Slughorn read out the pairs, and Ashton's heart almost stopped in his chest when his name was paired with Rowan's.

Calum grinned with the feeling of having Astoria closer to him, his heart swelling with the way she made him feel, with how happy he was in her presence - even more so with her in his arms, with the contact between them. “Definitely, yeah,” he confirmed with a nod when she snuggled into his side and he swore he’d never experienced a better feeling in the world, though a part of him was hopeful that, with Astoria by his side, he’d get to experience all kinds of wonderful feelings with her. “I think you’re the special one, Astoria.” And he meant it in the best ways, because she filled him with so much hope, so much happiness, so much comfort, and he couldn’t imagine what in the world happened to make the stars and planets align to create Astoria and put her in his life in any way. “Well, in that case, I certainly don’t want to let you go any time soon,” he teased, winking gently, though he nodded to her words, “I think you’ll do amazingly with it.” And, he did. He knew Astoria was intelligent and he had all the faith in her. As Slughorn walked in, though, his gaze went to the professor as he began explaining everything and he briefly glanced back at Rowan when he heard she’d been paired with Ashton, but he didn’t want to be overbearingly concerned, so he refocused on Slughorn, his heart igniting in his chest when he announced he’d be paired with Astoria. Grinning over at her, he chewed on his lip as he examined her. “Looks like we’ll be working together,” he murmured quietly, nudging her gently, “Good thing, too. I could definitely use your brainpower to get me through these potions. Plus, I wouldn’t want to be paired with anybody else.”

Ember blinked with mild surprise when she heard Luke’s compliment and she grinned, her cheeks warming slightly but she didn’t mind - if Luke was the person causing her to blush, she’d wear it with pride. “Yeah?” she asked before nudging him gently, “So are you.” And, while she’d felt his skin under her touch, her heart had never raced more than it had when Luke kissed her palm, amazed with just how much the contact meant to her, with how intimate it felt. Once they were sitting down, she leaned forward but grinned at Luke and nodded. “Right, it does.” And, she nudged him gently before looking up when Slughorn walked in, her attention focusing on the professor, even more so when he announced he was pairing them up. Immediately, she felt her hope rising that she’d be paired with Luke and, when he announced their names together, she grinned before peering at Luke. “Looks like it’ll be even more fun now,” she joked quietly, though she peered back at Rowan when she heard the girl’s words. “If he starts anything, we’ll try to talk Slughorn into letting you work with us.”

Michael grinned to Euphemia and nodded slightly. “I really think that,” he said quietly, “Giving them a chance gives them a chance to change - it’s their choice whether they change for the better or worse, of course, but still… Change.” He shrugged slightly, though his expression brightened when he heard Euphemia’s teasing and he chewed on his lip as he examined her. “Well, I will gladly be your toaster,” he teased with a wink, though he nodded slightly. “So, then, do you like the taste of butterscotch, too? Or just the scent?” He arched a brow, curious, but he grinned slightly, examining her, though his grin softened to a smile as he sat and waited. When Slughorn came in and began introducing the expectations for the year, he watched, waiting patiently, though he blinked when he announced they’d be paired up, perking up immediately when he was paired with Euphemia. Hearing that Rowan was paired with Ashton, though, he nudged her gently. “It’ll be okay,” he assured quietly before he stood up to make his way over to Euphemia and Ashton, figuring that trading spots with Ashton and getting him over where the group was would at least be safer, rather than having Ashton and Rowan secluded. “Trade spots?” he offered to Ashton, though his gaze went to Euphemia and he offered a smile as he examined her. “Looks like we get to sit and work together, Euphemia. Imagine that.” And his smile broadened to a full grin, then, his heart swelling with the fact that he had the opportunity to spend more time with her.

Rowan did her best to avoid looking in Ashton’s direction, wanting to pretend, for the time, that he wasn’t there at all. Leaning forward against the table, she tried to feign confidence and calm and she chewed on her lip when Slughorn walked in, a slight anxiousness building in her chest with the possibilities of what was to come for the advanced class. When Slughorn began talking, she listened intently, hopeful that everything would go well, but her heart sank in her chest, down to the pits of her stomach, when Slughorn announced that she would be paired with Ashton. “I can’t work with him,” she said quietly, though not loud enough for Slughorn to hear, but loud enough for others, her fingers curling into her palms, hard enough for her knuckles to turn white, her anxieties getting the better of her, and she was mostly speaking to herself, but she couldn’t help it. “He’ll spend the whole time being a bully, no work will get done.” And, she’d fail the class, and she didn’t want that.

Astoria looked to Calum as he spoke, her heart almost missing a beat in her chest, just having Calum this damn close to herself. Smiling, Astoria tied her hair up with a hairtie around her wrist. "I won't let you let me go," she winked over at Calum. "You're stuck with me now, Prefect." She teased, reaching to kiss his cheek. When Slughorn walked in, Astoria paid close attention, studying the older man as he spoke. He was certainly eccentric, and Astoria arched a brow, listening to the pairings once he'd finished rambling about the expectations of the Fifth years for that year. When Rowan's name was followed by Ashton's, Astoria frowned, glancing back to Rowan with concern, placing a hand on Calum's arm to calm him, knowing he'd be unsure of that decision. When Astoria heard her name, accompanied by Calum's, Astoria grinned over at the boy, studying him as he chewed his lip, holding back the groan that wanted to escape. "We will be." She grinned, giggling as he nudged her. "You'd be just fine without me, Calum." She murmured. "We can help each other out." She winked, her words having a teasing double meaning.

Luke grinned to himself when Ember's cheeks warmed to a blush, finding that his heart began to thud a little harder against his ribs at the sight. Adorable was an understatement, the girl was perfection, in every sense of the word, and Luke considered himself incredibly lucky to be the focus of her attention. "Yeah," he grinned, leaning to press a kiss to the side of her head as he sat beside her. When Slughorn walked in though, Luke paid attention, wanting to ensure that he didn't distract Ember from her studies, because her success meant so much to Luke. Hearing that he'd been paired with Ember though, Luke couldn't help but grin, because it meant that he had the opportunity to spend more time with her than he already was. Biting his lip as he looked to Ember, offering her a grin, Luke turned serious once more when Rowan's name was read out with Ashton's. "What?" He asked in surprise, and a part of him wanted to stand up and object to the decision, but he didn't want to draw attention to the group. "Don't worry, Rowan. He won't dare start with Calum and I here." Luke promised, turning to look at Rowan, glaring at Ashton as he came over, unable to stop himself or make the effort to be nice.

Euphemia listened to Horace Slughorn as he spoke, making notes on her parchment for the plan for the Fifth year potions classes. Armortentia, Polyjuice potion and "liquid luck", Euphemia found all the possibilities exciting. Looking to Ashton, Euphemia offered her best friend a grin, nudging him jokingly, her gaze soon bypassing the blonde Slytherin boy to settle on the technicoloured Michael, finding her gaze settled on him for a moment longer than she had wanted. When Slughorn began to read out the pairs though, Euphemia felt her heart soar in her chest when her name had accompanied Michael's, but it soon dropped back down when Ashton's had been paired with Rowan. Watching as Michael approached the table, Euphemia looked to Ashton, placing a hand on his shoulder to comfort him. "Be nice." She murmured, squeezing his shoulder, kissing his cheek gently. "Go." Hearing Michael's words though, Euphemia grinned and nodded. "Imagine that." She laughed, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear as Ashton walked off, watching him closely as Michael sorted his things.

Ashton glanced over to Rowan when the other pairings were called out, and his nails almost drew blood from the palm of his hand, his whole demeanour tense and afraid. He was walking into unfamiliar territory, bur Ashton Irwin would rather die than admit he was afraid of a bunch of half-bloods and muggleborns. Pulling a slight face to keep up with his distaste of the group, Ashton looked up at Michael, looking to Euphemia before standing to his feet, picking up his Potions book with unease. "See you later, Mia." He mumbled, approaching Rowan's table as she spoke, and he felt his heart dip to his stomach. Offering Rowan a stiff nod, Ashton sat down silently, opening his Potions book to page 283 to the section on Armortentia, staring at the words but not memorising anything, his heart pounding in his chest because he never thought he'd be this close to Rowan. He could smell the detergent she used for her robes, and Ashton swore it almost made him drunk with adoration, but he picked up his quill to distract himself, exhaling, his shoulders tense as he sat bolt right, head ducked, chewing anxiously at his lip.

Calum could feel his grin broadening with Astoria’s words, his heart swelling when she winked at him, though his cheeks warmed when she kissed his cheek and he found himself so overwhelmed with how happy she made him that he almost couldn’t think straight. “I couldn’t think of anybody else I’d rather be stuck with,” he murmured in return, though he listened quietly to Slughorn, tense at first, but, when he felt Astoria’s hand on his arm, he peered at her, examining her and, in that instant, he felt himself relaxing. “Thanks,” he murmured quietly, grateful to have her there to ground him, to have her there to help him focus - that she was there for him to focus on. “I don’t think I’d be fine without you at all,” he told her teasingly, nudging her gently as he examined her, “You have no idea how much your existence helps me out.” But, when she giggled, he swore everything was perfect, and he breathed out happily, though he grinned with her words. “Well, I’m certainly available to help you out any time.”

Ember could feel her heartbeat increase in her chest when Luke kissed the side of her head and, lifting her gaze, she watched him, swearing that her cheeks warmed all over again, even though she’d only just forced the blush away. But, hearing his words to Rowan, she turned a bit to watch Rowan and Ashton when Ashton had joined their side of the room. “Just power through it,” she murmured quietly before she looked back at Luke, “Don’t do anything unless there’s an actual reason to, okay?” She said the words quietly, because she didn’t want Luke to get in trouble for instigating anything if nothing actually happened. There was the chance that Ashton may be on good behavior - or at least as good as Ashton Irwin could be - and, with that thought, she reached for her book to open it, hopeful that nobody would antagonize each other.

Michael smiled as he took his seat next to Euphemia quickly, setting his things down. “Who would have imagined such luck?” he asked jokingly as he opened his book, flipping to the correct page, though his gaze quickly and easily returned to Euphemia. “Think we’ll manage together?” Arching a brow, he grinned slightly, certain they would - though he couldn’t guarantee that he wouldn’t be easily distracted by Euphemia, because she was honestly the most amazing thing in the room and he certainly preferred to have his attention on her rather than on the classwork and potions. But, then, he didn’t want to distract her too much from the work, because he didn’t want to negatively affect her grades or her life in any way. No, instead, he wanted to be a part of her life, a positive force for her, somebody that she could rely on and trust. “Don’t hate me if I leave most of the work to you.” He grinned teasingly, because he had no intention of actually doing that to her.

Rowan looked to Ember and Luke when she heard them speak and she chewed on her lip, but she offered a small nod in response, hopeful that everything would be okay, that there wouldn’t be anything for her to worry about, that everything would go alright. She breathed out quietly, running her hand through her hair, though her gaze went to Ashton when he sat beside her. She could feel her anxiety rising, but she noticed something odd - Ashton looked as tense and anxious as she felt. Her brows furrowed slightly as she watched him for a moment, curious and, admittedly, concerned, but she chewed on her lip and dropped her gaze to avoid making things any worse for either of them. Reaching for her book, she opened to the proper page and she waited patiently to begin, trying to ignore her urge to peer over at Ashton every now and then.

Astoria watched on in wonder as Calum's cheeks warmed, and she smiled, ducking her head slightly as her own cheeks warmed with the fact that she caused Calum Hood to react in such a way. "Me either." She promised quietly, looking over to him with a smile, squeezing his arm gently, because the feeling of him underneath her was almost intoxicating - Astoria didn't need Armortentia when she was around Calum, the boy was easy to love. "Try not to let him get to you." Astoria murmured back to Calum, skimming over the ingredients that were etched into the textbook, nodding to herself as she noted them down with her free hand. When Calum spoke again, Astoria laughed, shaking her head in amusement. "You lasted this long without me, Mr Hood." She teased, glancing over at him with a grin. "But having you around does make life a lot easier." She admitted. "Well, good, I'll be sure to call when I need that help." She teased.

Luke kept a protective stance over Ember as Ashton sat beside Rowan, glaring at the Slytherin boy with anger and uncertainty. Turning back in his seat, Luke frowned, but nodded to Ember's words, using her voice to anchor his anger, because just being around the slimey git made Luke want to hit him. "Okay," he promised quietly. "But can I still punch him if something goes wrong?" Luke asked with a cheeky grin aimed at Ember, just wanting her to laugh for the sake of hearing it, sure that Ember was the saving grace Luke's ego and temper sometimes needed. Although Luke remained vigilant, keeping his ears open for any cruel word that Ashton would dare murmur to Rowan, because nobody treated any friends of Luke Hemmings in that way. Reaching for Ember's hand under the desk, Luke kept a hold on her hand, his thumb stroking over her knuckles as he read from the book, making a note of the ingredients they'd need for the Armortentia. "Powdered moonstone?" Luke frowned. "That's impossible."

Euphemia smiled over at Michael once he sat beside her, and she laughed with his words, reaching over to tuck a piece of his hair behind his ear. "Really, who could of imagined?" She teased, flipping her own book open to the correct page, having already made notes about Amortentia to ensure she was advanced in her studies - her Father expected great things. "Ooh, I don't know," she teased, looking to Michael as he spoke. "How dare I betray my bloodline in such a way?" She teased, shoving him gently. "I'm sure we'll be just fine. How could anyone dislike you, Michael?" She smiled, shifting closer to him, laughing with his words. "Oi," she joked. "Armortentia is easy." She promised, showing him the paragraph with instructions on how to brew it. "See?" Although she was curious to how Armortentia would smell to Michael. "Simple stuff - you'll be fine." She promised with a grin, pushing her own stray white locks from her face.

Ashton squirmed slightly as he heard Ember's words to Rowan about 'powering through it' - when he heard Luke's words of hurting him if things got out of hand, indentations of his fingernails evident in his palm as he tried to breathe his way through his anxiety. Shifting once more, Ashton kept his head down, feeling out of place and uncomfortable among the group of friends, and Ashton couldn't push the thought away that this was all he ever wanted, but couldn't allow himself to have in fear of disappointing his Father - of betraying his bloodline. Stroking along his quill to distract himself with the feather, Ashton wanted to look to Rowan and dammit, he wanted to tell her: he wasn't as evil as he made himself out to be, he loved her more than words could ever say, he envied her for her group of friends when he only had one good friend to call his own. Ashton swallowed down his emotions, standing to his feet and exiting the classroom, feeling as though the air around him had grown thicker, like he was suffocating, and Ashton didn't care where he went, he just had to get out of there.

Calum peered over at Astoria after hearing her promise, his expression softening to a fond smile, though his heartbeat skipped when he felt her squeeze his arm, swearing no amount of contact was enough, but every single moment of contact between them was perfect and overwhelming and he never wanted to lose any of it. “I’ll try,” he promised quietly, comforted just by her presence, and, almost in gratitude, he leaned over to kiss the top of her head gently, unable to help it, just wanting to have as much contact with her as possible, his heart easing with the fact that she was there, that she existed in his life in any sense. “Thank you, really. You’re just… Perfect, Astoria, calming and kind and you help, you really do.” And, he meant it, with everything within him. Dropping his gaze to the book, he examined the ingredients and directions, but he grinned, laughing when he heard her laugh, because the sound was so infectious. “Just because I lasted this long doesn’t mean I wanna go back to being without you.” And, looking to her, he hoped she knew he never meant anything more - he didn’t want to go back to his life without her. “I’ll be waiting, in that case.” And, despite himself, he grinned broadly, still teasing, but also so very hopeful.

Ember watched Luke quietly, waiting patiently to ensure that he would try to stay calm, though when he finally agreed, she laughed quietly and nodded to his words. “Sure. But only if something goes wrong,” she told him quietly, offering a small smile, though she honestly found it amazing how quickly he stood up for his friends, how determined he was to protect them. When she felt him take her hand, she watched him for a moment, her heart easing but racing all the same when she felt his thumb running over her knuckles, and she squeezed his hand gently in return, enjoying the contact but hopeful it helped Luke. “Oi, don’t say that,” she murmured with a small grin, nudging him gently but not releasing her hold on his hand, “Nothing’s impossible, Luke Hemmings. Never forget that. I’m sure we’ll find some way to deal with that little issue.” They had to, and, with her words, she was now determined to, just to prove to Luke that impossibilities didn’t necessarily exist.

Michael grinned with the mention of it, tilting his head slightly. “Lucky us, hm?” he teased lightly, though he truly did feel lucky, in every single way that he could possibly imagine. The fact that the girl of his dreams was sitting next to him, that he was partnered with her for this class, that she would actively talk to him, made him feel like he was the absolute luckiest guy to ever exist, and he couldn’t imagine anything better than that - but he also couldn’t imagine what in the world made it so that he deserved this, and he was grateful to every star, every power, every deity to exist, that this was even possible, even more so that it was actually happening. “I don’t know.” Shrugging slightly, he examined Euphemia with a small grin, happy that she seemed to think so highly of him. “I’m sure even I have people who dislike me.” When she focused on what they would have to do, though, he grinned, watching her. “You’re so sure. I’m starting to think you’re certainly a genius.” He blinked, though, when he heard movement and he looked back just in time to see Ashton leaving the classroom. “Is your friend okay?” he asked Euphemia quietly, looking back at her, because he knew how much her friends mattered to her - he could see it so easily in the way she had watched with concern when Ashton had moved seats.

Rowan had peered over at Ashton every now and then, watching him, her concern for him actually growing more the more time passed. He was uncharacteristically quiet and, every moment that passed, he seemed to be growing more and more tense and she could feel her heart clench achingly for the boy. “Guys, it’s alright, really,” she said after a moment, peering towards Ember and Luke, worried that their group would be looked at as bullies for the way they were treating Ashton - especially with the way Ashton seemed to be taking it all. When he stood up abruptly, though, Rowan paused, staring after him in shock and, before she could stop herself, before she could even think, she stood to her feet to follow after him quickly, ignoring Slughorn as he called after the two of them. Following Ashton down the dungeon corridor, she quickly picked up her pace to catch up to him. “Ashton? Are you okay?” she asked quickly, her concern for him getting the better of her.

Astoria noticed Calum peering over, and when she noticed his fond smile, Astoria smiled, biting her lip slightly. "You know," she started quietly. "You have the most wonderful smile." Astoria compliment, linking her arm through his as she took notes, just wanting that contact always, because Calum had the most wonderful affect on her, Astoria couldn't believe her luck. When she felt Calum kiss the top of her head though, Astoria looked to him, smiling as her eyes met his, her heart on the verge of bursting in her chest as she studied him. "I'm glad I could help in some way. There's no need to thank me." She reassured him. "Just know that you do to me what I do to you." She smiled, tickling his cheek with her quill playfully before going back to taking notes, but when she heard his words, Astoria smiled, her cheeks warming. "You won't have to, I promise." She peered to him then, smiling, before finishing the notes they needed to begin practicing the brewing method, to be done outside of classroom. "So," she looked to him. "When we finish this, are you going to be trying it, or me?" She asked.

Luke grinned when Ember laughed, swearing that the sound was the most beautiful melody to ever grace his ears, and he wanted to be the one to make her laugh, always. Luke would consider himself blessed if the opportunity ever came around. "Okay, okay," Luke teased. "Only if it goes wrong, I understand." Luke looked to Ember, throwing her a cheeky wink, although when he noticed her small, offered smile, Luke returned it without hesitation. When Ember squeezed his hand after a moment, Luke seemed to untense completely, not letting go of her hand, because Luke wanted to be the one that her affection was focused on. Understanding it was a selfish desire, Luke bit his lip and looked to the beauty once more. "So," Luke grinned. "You know we're brewing this in the common room, right? Who's going to be the taste tester?" Luke teased, but when Ember told him that nothing was impossible, Luke swore he only believed it because Ember Holt was by his side, holding his hand and simply existing. "Of course, sorry, Ember." He grinned, looking to her with pride. "But a crushed pearl?" He groaned, looking to the ingredients once more and resting his head on Ember's shoulder. "This will be a fun project, won't it?" He teased, looking up to her with adoration, his blue eyes saying what he couldn't yet.

Euphemia couldn't help but smile with Michael's words, because she was honoured that Michael considered himself lucky to be in her presence. Euphemia could admit she felt like the luckiest woman on the Earth to be in Michael's presence. "Definitely." She shot him a sweet smile, studying his features, wondering how someone so perfect could exist. Catching herself getting lost in Michael's presence, Euphemia felt her cheeks heat up and she looked back to her open book, listening to his words, still staring at the words on the page, but not absorbing any information because even when her eyes weren't on him, her ears were listening intently to the sound of his voice, and Euphemia felt her heart swell - his voice was the most calming thing she'd ever heard. "I highly doubt that anyone could look at you, get to know you, and decide you were unworthy of affection." She glanced at him then. "A genius." Euphemia laughed, snorting slightly, shaking her head, but when Ashton left the classroom, Euphemia noticed Rowan follow and decided not to intervene, knowing the two needed time to themselves. "Ashton just doesn't know how to cope by himself." Euphemia informed, not wanting to tell Michael of the feelings Ashton harboured towards Rowan. "He'll be okay, he just... he's out of his comfort zone." She bit her lip in worry, looking to Michael.

Ashton ignored Slughorn as he called for him, following the dungeon corridor, feeling as though the walls were closing in on him, the absence of natural light making Ashton feel light headed. Running a hand through his blonde curls, Ashton took a deep breath and paused as he heard Rowan calling out to him. Had she really made an effort to follow him, even with all the cruel things he'd said to her? This morning and since their very first day? Ashton frowned, turning to face the beauty, his heart jumping in his chest. "Rowan," he sounded defeated, almost weak. Ashton knew, he knew, this was his chance, and he still hesitated. But he was alone, with her, and if he didn't tell her now, he never would, but Ashton was no good with words, which is why he admiration always come across as an insult. Stepping forward, Ashton sighed, studying the girl. "God, I'm so sorry, Rowan. I -" he blinked back his tears of frustration, of annoyance, directed at nobody but himself, because he allowed himself to become the monster that he was. Stepping closer to Rowan once more, closing the space between them, Ashton cupped her cheek in his hands, his touch gentle, and he studied her with heavy, hazel eyes. Ashton bit the bullet, leaning down to press his lips to hers, and he would understand wholeheartedly if she pushed him away, if she slapped him, if she did anything but kiss him back, he just had to get it out before his chest burst.

Calum paused in mild surprise when he saw Astoria biting her lip, swearing the sight sent a warmth through him that he didn’t fully understand, a groan nearly escaping past his lips, but he bit it back, forcing it down, and he grinned at her instead. “I don’t believe that,” he murmured quietly as he examined her, “I think your smile certainly beats mine, any day.” And, while his voice was teasing, he genuinely meant it, believing the words he spoke with all of his heart, and he grinned, his heart swelling with the thought, though he was amazed with the way her arm linking through his sent even more warmth through him, his heart speeding up in a way he knew he never wanted to fight. When their eyes met, he genuinely couldn’t tear his gaze away from hers, swearing that he found the most comfort while being this close to her, while having her presence overwhelm him in all of the best ways, and he knew that she was the light he’d search for in any amount of darkness. “Yeah? In all of the same ways? Because you do more than just comfort me,” he teased lightly, nudging her, but he grinned when she tickled his cheek with her quill, laughing with the feeling, but his grin broadened when he saw the way her cheeks brightened, amazed that he had caused such a thing. “You absolutely promise?” he teased, though he hummed in thought, “Ladies first?”

Ember smiled as she examined Luke, nodding slightly when she heard his words, glad that he agreed, and hopeful that nothing would happen for Luke to have to defend anybody, because she didn’t want him to get hurt or for him to get in trouble. While she had faith that he could hold his own in a fight, the thought of him being injured at all made her chest ache - and the thought of him getting in trouble, of missing a moment of spending time with him, made the ache all that much more prominent. “Good,” she murmured quietly, grinning when she saw his wink, her grin broadening when he smiled. “Oh, that’s an interesting question.” She hummed in thought, her eyes running over the pages for a few moments. “We could play a game to decide? Or flip a coin?” Arching a brow, she peered over at him in thought, though she grinned in return when she saw his grin. “We can do it,” she promised quietly, giving his hand another squeeze, though her heart swelled when she felt Luke’s head resting on her shoulder and, before she could stop herself, she lifted her free hand to run her fingers through his hair gently. “I think it will definitely be a fun project. There will probably be a few mishaps along the way, but it’ll be great, well worth the time.” Especially if she got to spend that time with Luke. Grinning, her eyes examined his before she dropped her hand to turn the page to read over the directions.

Michael wondered, as he watched Euphemia, examining her, memorizing her features, the shape and color of her eyes, the way her lips curved into the sweetest smile Michael had ever seen, the way her hair fell so subtly around her face - and, admittedly, he was happy to see it down today, glad his wish from the day before had been granted, because her hair being down suited her so well. “By the way,” he mentioned quietly, leaning closer to her, a grin on his features, “Your hair looks amazing down. I mean, it looks amazing up, too, but… You seem almost freer with it being down.” And he loved the sight of it, he loved seeing her being a little more free, a little more independent - because he couldn’t recall a time prior to now where her hair wasn’t up in a neat bun or a ponytail. And her hair being down suited her and she deserved to know that. “Is that so?” He arched a brow in curiosity but he grinned broadly, chewing on his lip. “Well, it’s too bad. The only person whose affection I truly want is yours.” And he knew that could be taken in a few different ways or that it could push Euphemia away from him completely, but he hoped that she understood and that she didn’t mind it. But, as she spoke, he nodded slightly in understanding, though he watched her for a few moments, his expression softening when he saw how worried she looked. “I’m sure he’ll be alright,” he murmured gently, offering a smile as he nudged her gently, “He’s got you, after all, and he couldn’t ask for a better friend, or a better person in his life.”

Rowan had nearly paused in her steps when Ashton turned on her, for a moment thinking he might throw out harsh words or even a spell but, instead, when he began to speak, her heart ached for him, because his voice sounded almost broken and he looked so overwhelmed and upset and she wasn’t sure what to do. And, when he apologized, her brows furrowed slightly. “What?” she asked in shock, wondering if he was apologizing for his words or if he was about to do something and that was what he was apologizing for. And, when he stepped closer, she could see the tears glistening, forming in his eyes, and she felt her heart ache even more, her breathing hitching in her throat when he cupped her cheek, and she was amazed with just how gentle the touch was, having never expected Ashton to even be capable of gentleness. And, when he kissed her, she felt something inside jolt with electricity that she hadn’t expected, a sense of belonging she’d never really felt, but she quickly pulled back, staring in shock, trying to determine whether this was some cruel prank - but she’d seen the tears, she’d heard the pain in his voice, and she felt her heart racing, but she made her decision. Shifting, she leaned up, pressing her lips back to his, almost desperate for the feeling, desperate to discover whether it meant something, desperate to be as close to him as she could be, and, against her better judgment, she didn’t want to ignore what she felt while kissing him, how right it felt.

When Astoria noticed Calum pause, she arched an amused brow at him, wondering why the sudden hesitation. "Are you alright, Calum?" She asked, her voice laced with innocence, but when he grinned at her, Astoria smiled, loving the sight of his smile, and any instance where Calum was happy, Astoria wanted to be there to witness it. "Well, Calum," she shifted to face him when she noticed that Slughorn wasn't even paying attention, as if he'd lost interest. "You better believe it, because you have this wonderful talent where you light up a room just by crossing the threshold. Such a lucky boy to capture the adoration of everyone to witness such a light." Astoria smiled, and although they were both still teasing, Astoria meant every word. When Calum maintained their eye contact, Astoria found her heart beating slow, calm, and she wondered if her heart was in sync with his at that moment. Biting her lip, Astoria smiled shyly, breaking the chain as she looked down at her parchment, her arm still linked through his. "In all the same ways." Astoria grinned, remaining nonchalant and uncaring, shooting Calum a playful glance. When Calum laughed when she tickled his cheek though, Astoria stared on in wonder, laughing with him. "Calum!" She grinned, adoring his giggle. "I absolutely promise." But when Calum suggested ladies first, Astoria nodded. "Of course."

Luke took in the smell of Ember's hair as he rested his head on her shoulder, deciding that her embrace was the best place to be, and relishing in the calm she brought to him. Butterflies errupted in his stomach with the thought, a rather unusual sensation, because no one had ever managed to wake such a reaction from him before. Of course, Luke had his fair share of quick kisses, but Ember was his fate, of that, he was absolutely certain. He couldn't imagine life without her now, and he wanted her for the rest of his life. "Well, I won't mind taking the fall, because I get to fall in love with you even more for a few minutes while you give me the antidote." Luke grinned, unaware of the words that had left his mouth. If Luke had given them a second thought, he wouldn't of sounded so confident, but when did Luke Hemmings ever second guess himself? Feeling Ember's fingers run through his hair though, Luke sighed out in content, his eyes closing over as he squeezed her hand gently, wanting her to know how much the gesture meant to him. Peeking open an eye to see Horace Slughorn paying no attention, Luke snuggled further into Ember. "As long as I get to spend time with you, I absolutely look forward to it." He grinned. "As for those mishaps, I absolutely promise not to give Albus any Armortentia and force him to date Rosie." He laughed, absolutely amused with the thought.

Euphemia felt the warmth on her cheeks once more when she noticed that Michael was studying her closely, and Euphemia just wanted to reach out, to hold his face within her hands, show him a side of her that she had never shown anyone else, a softer side, because Michael made Euphemia strive to be a better version of herself. She wanted to be forgiven for every bad word she'd ever murmured, she wanted to break free of the shackles that came with the Smith bloodline, and she wanted to take the nobility that clearly came with being a Clifford. When Michael began to speak once more, Euphemia lifted her gaze to meet his, but when he complimented her hair, Euphemia swore her heart was about to burst. "Oh, thank you." She ducked her head shyly. "It feels nice not to have it up." She smiled in return, toying with a strand of white hair as she listened to his words, Euphemia smiled, a big, genuine smile. "Well, I suppose that's just good luck, because the only person I want to receive my affection is you." She told him, being honest. "In every sense of the word." Hearing Michael's reassurance though, Euphemia nodded. "He's got to be." She frowned slightly with his words, not wanting Michael to ever find out the truth of the situation.

When Rowan pulled away, Ashton felt his heart slow down to an almost nervous stop. He'd crossed a line, a boundry between the both of them, but God, the anxiety that coursed through his veins was enough to make the tears that burned in the back of his eyes begin to fall, competing in a silent race down Ashton's cheeks, skin now damp from the overflow of emotion he'd kept in his whole damn life, nevermind the past five years. Running his thumbs gently against the apples of Rowan's cheeks, Ashton blinked slowly, watching her for any sign of annoyance or anger, exhaling a shuddered breath. Ashton couldn't deny, the kiss had been the best decision he'd ever made, because Rowan made Ashton experience completely new emotions, new feelings, a constant need and desire to be around her. Seeing Rowan stare in shock, Ashton ducked his head slightly, almost shy, boyish in his movement, but when Rowan shifted and returned his kiss, Ashton's eyes closed over as he returned the kiss, moving his hands to settle on her waist, pulling her closer, finally giving into the comfort she provided. "I love you, Rowan. I always have done." He murmured against her lips. "I'm so sorry I was never brave enough to admit it until now."

Calum blinked as he examined Astoria, his eyes running over her arched brow, how amused she looked, and his heart raced all the more when he realized the tone she was using, and he pouted slightly, trying his best not to shift too much or show how much she was so easily affecting him. “I’m perfectly fine,” he said eventually, chewing on his lip, hopeful that he sounded even remotely convincing, though he was incredibly doubtful, because he couldn’t maintain his calm, his cool, with the fact that Astoria was so easily and so effortlessly getting under his skin. But, really, he loved it - he loved her, and he wasn’t about to complain one bit about the way that Astoria was affecting him, amazed by her instead. “That so? I think that’s more so a trait you have, Astoria,” he admitted quietly as he examined her, “In the largest room with the most rambunctious crowd, my eyes would always search for you, because that’s how much you mean to me, Astoria.” And, for a moment, he wondered if he should tell her right then and there, but, hearing her assurances and hearing her promise, he decided it was the best opportunity. “Even in the same way of love?” Arching a brow, he examined her for a moment, his expression softening but hopeful, trying not to look to anxious with what he was about to say. “Although, before we do this potion and before either of us take it, I want you to know that, with or without the potion, I truly do love you.”

Ember had let herself relax with the close contact between herself and Luke, enjoying every moment of it, because nothing in the world put her more at ease, and she didn’t understand how that was possible, but she absolutely loved it. And, as she processed his words, she blinked, peering at him in surprise, but her heart swelled and she chewed on her lip, realizing it wasn’t just the way Luke put her at ease that she loved. She loved Luke, too, and the very thought, the realization of it, had her squeezing Luke’s hand again. “You know, I’m falling pretty fast and hard for you,” she said casually, though she made sure not to watch him after saying the words, almost worried about his reaction because the words had passed through his lips so easily that she almost wondered if it had been a joke and she didn’t want to make things awkward. Feeling him snuggle further into her, she couldn’t help but to smile, but she settled her gaze back on the book. “In that case, I think we’ll have a splendid time together,” she murmured, offering a small grin to him, though she laughed quietly, unable to help it. “I’ll take your word for it, in that case.”

Michael’s eyes ran over Euphemia’s features for a few moments, his expression softening, a fond smile forming on his features when he saw how she had ducked her head shyly. “You don’t have to thank me for saying the truth, Euphemia,” he murmured quietly but, seeing her toying with a strand of her hair, he couldn’t help but to reach out, gently running his fingers through her hair before he tucked it behind her ear, his eyes never leaving her and clearly far more focused on her than he was on the work. “Yeah? You should definitely wear it down more often, then, if it feels nice not to have it up.” And, then, he retracted his hand, but he didn’t dare move away from her. No, instead, he shifted closer to her, his heart swelling with her words as he processed them and he chewed on his lip for a few moments, debating for a few moments before he eventually gathered his courage and grinned. “Yeah? Does that include romantic affection?” Arching a brow, he couldn’t help but to ask the question, curious to how she would respond, but also hopeful that she wouldn’t be put off by him, especially as he proceeded with his next words. “Because, if I’m being honest, Euphemia, you’re the most gorgeous person I know, inside and out - it’s no wonder I’ve fallen in love with you, but I’m not entirely certain if that’s how you feel in return.” And, while he was curious about her words, he didn’t question her further, instead focusing on how she would react to what he had said.

Rowan was almost in disbelief from everything, not only surprised with the fact that Ashton had kissed her, but with the fact that she wanted to kiss him back, that she wanted that contact between them, that she enjoyed the way Ashton’s hand against her cheek and his thumb against her skin felt. But, more than any of that, she was surprised with the fact that she didn’t want it to end. Her own hands lifted to cup his face once she felt his hands on her waist and she could feel his tears under her fingertips, causing her to brush them away gently, her heart aching with the fact that he was crying. Hearing his words, feeling them murmured against her lips, she could feel her heart racing in her chest in a way she wasn’t familiar with - and in a way she’d certainly never expected to feel because of Ashton, of all people. Pulling back so that she could search his eyes for any sign of it being a lie, her expression softened as she examined him. “I can’t tell you I love you, too, not yet, not when I don’t yet,” she murmured eventually, chewing on her lip, anxious with the thought that her words could hurt him, but hopeful that he would understand - all of his cruelty had left their scars, and she couldn’t immediately forget all of that. “But I think I could, if given the chance, Ashton.”

Astoria studied Calum with an amused smile, absolutely loving every subtle detail about him. How his eyes were the equivelent of black coffee in colour, how his lips were full, and slightly pouted, and that pout alone made Astoria want to hold his face within her hands and kiss him. Grinning with the thought, Astoria paid close attention when Calum spoke, ensuring that she did to keep herself away from those thoughts - goodness, what would her mother think? "I'm sure you are, sweetheart." Astoria teased, reaching over to ruffle his hair, loving the soft curls beneath her fingers, admiring how kempt Calum's whole appearance was. He was a true Ravenclaw, incredibly intelligent with a wit nobody could match and a sense of pride that was as admirable as it was attractive. "Calum," Astoria ducked her head shyly with his words, because the fact she'd captured his attention in that sense was so incredible to her. "If it's a trait that I have, I must of learned it from you." She told him, scribbling a love heart with her quill on her parchment, her cheeks warming once more. When Calum brought up the word love though, Astoria smudged the love heart with her quick movement, looking to him and noticing his anxiety, and she couldn't help but smile fondly with the sight. "Yes, even in that way." She promised. "Because I love you too."

Luke stayed in Ember's embrace, snuggled closely into the space between her neck and her shoulder, because she felt like home, and Luke never wanted to lose that feeling, he never wanted to lose her. He felt as though their fates had been woven together, and he loved every moment of discovering that perhaps, they were written into the constellations. Humming happily, Luke ran his thumb along Ember's knuckles gently, wanting to comfort her, wanting to show her the love she deserved. When Ember squeezed Luke's hand, Luke lifted his gaze to study her slightly, and when she spoke, he listened, and he always would, because dammit, she mattered, she had a voice and Luke swore to make sure that people heard her. When she replied, her response casual, Luke felt his heart almost combust in his chest, and the smile that formed on his face was wide, happy, genuine. Not wanting to make a big deal out of it, Luke merely smiled, lifting a hand to run through Ember's hair as he pressed a kiss to the top of Ember's head. "Love is a crazy thing, but if you're willing, I'd go crazy with you any day." He murmured into the top of her head, kissing her forehead then, wrapping an arm around her shoulders - he had no qualms in doing so, Luke got along with most students and Slughorn wasn't even paying attention, instead reading a book of complicated potions made simple at his desk, half moon glasses halfway down his nose. Pulling Ember close, Luke focused his attention back to the book. "We should find somewhere quiet to make the potion. I don't want Albus getting into it." He murmured into Ember's hair. "But you should know, that I do love you, Ember. No potion could ever change that, for better or for worst."

Euphemia lifted her gaze and smiled softly as Michael's expression softened, and when he smiled, Euphemia felt her heart flutter in a way she was almost unfamiliar with. "But I want to thank you, Michael." Euphemia murmured in return, shifting just a little closer, because being around Michael made Euphemia feel like a brand new person. When he reached out, running his fingers through his hair, Euphemia breathed out happily, loving Michael's attention. When he tucked the strand of hair behind her ear, Euphemia smiled, reaching to cup his cheek within her hand. "Such a gentleman." She murmured, running her thumb along the apple of his cheek. "You know what? I think I will wear it down more often." She smiled, watching as Michael shifted closer, missing his presence when he retracted his hand. After a moment, Euphemia retracted her own hand, but seeing the handsome Hufflepuff toy with his lip, Euphemia watched him carefully, wondering if there was anything he wanted to say. When he said what he wanted to, Euphemia blinked, her cheeks warming up nearly instantly. "It does," she confirmed. "Michael, I -" She paused, ensuring she wouldn't stumble over her words again. Trying to push the thoughts of her family's disapproval to the back of her mind, Euphemia smiled at Michael. "I love you too, Michael, really." She promised, watching him so he knew she was serious. It was a dangerous attraction, but at that moment, Euphemia decided she could worry about the consequences later.

Ashton's tears didn't cease, even when Rowan's gentle touch brushed them away, when when she returned his kiss, even when she didn't pull away and when she remained right where she was. Ashton was grateful to her for that, because Rowan had every damn right to push him away and tell him never to speak to her again, but she didn't. She stayed right where she was. When Ashton realised that he was crying, he sniffled slightly, keeping his head ducked slightly because Ashton had never been so vulnerable around anyone outside of his own social circle before. When Rowan spoke though, Ashton lifted his gaze, like a shy child about to get into trouble, but he listened intently, nodding. "I understand." And he did, he really did, because he'd been so cruel to her and all of this must of been so confusing. "I want to us to have that chance, Rowan." He told her, maintaining eye contact so she knew this wasn't some sort of sick joke, or anything other than him admitting feelings he'd kept inside for a long time. "Just..." he exhaled another shuddered breath, squeezing around her waist gently as he nuzzled into her hair, the smell of her shampoo the most wonderful thing Ashton had ever experienced. "Be patient. Please." He murmured, unable to tell her, yet, about anything, but wanting her to know that he really was going to try, because he wanted her. Ashton wanted to forget everything he was taught and start fresh. Just because he was a Slytherin, it didn't mean he had to conform to those mean old stereotypes anyway.

Calum couldn’t help but to chuckle quietly when he heard Astoria’s words, though the way she teased him, the way she called him sweetheart only made him all the more certain that she was the person who was meant to be in his life now and forevermore. “Oi, you could at least pretend to believe me,” he teased lightly in return, though he grinned when he felt her hand in his hair, regardless of the fact that she was ruffling it, probably making it a mess - and he didn’t care one damn bit, completely unbothered by it, because it meant that, for that moment, there was more contact between them and he enjoyed every second of it. As he examined her, though, his expression softened to a fond but worried smile when she ducked her head and, for a moment, he worried that perhaps he’d said something wrong or that he’d upset her in some way, but, instead, when she spoke again, his heart swelled slightly. “I don’t think so,” he murmured quietly as he examined her, his heart racing, swelling, igniting, when he saw the pink hue against her cheeks, finding it the most amazing thing to ever witness. “I think you’re perfect how you are, Astoria - and you are who you are because of you. You should take pride in that, because it’s bloody amazing.” And, he meant it, with everything within him, because she truly was, and he wanted her to see that. But, when she looked to him, he paused, blinking with surprise, but he grinned broadly when he processed what she had said. “Lucky me, in that case,” he murmured quietly, in awe of her, before he leaned over, cupping her face gently in one of his hands before he pressed his forehead to hers, “That’s the most amazing thing I’ve ever heard.”

Ember peered at Luke when she heard him humming and she offered an amused look, though she admitted to herself that she enjoyed the sound, that it brought a sense of comfort she found herself enjoying listening to him, whether he was talking or humming. The way his thumb ran along her knuckles, the way she could hear his breathing from how close he was, she knew she had genuinely lucked out with the way everything Luke did and said made her feel like the world was brighter than ever, more alive, even. And, when he lifted his hand to run through her hair, she watched him, her cheeks warming in the slightest when he kissed the top of her head, but she made a joking face at him. “I’d happily dive right into love induced craziness so long as you’re there to do so, too,” she murmured jokingly, though she grinned, because, despite her joking tone, she certainly meant her words. Once she felt Luke’s arm around her, though, she couldn’t help the way her grin broadened and she leaned into his hold, and she nodded to his words. “Probably a good idea,” she agreed quietly, though she blinked, peering over at him. “I do, too, Luke - love you, I mean. I mean it.”

Michael watched Euphemia as he listened to her speak and he smiled slightly, deciding against debating it, because if she wanted to thank him, he couldn’t get in the way of that - he’d never get in the way of anything she wanted, because she deserved the world and he wanted her to have it, to have everything she could ever want. “Okay,” he murmured quietly, offering a small nod as he examined her, though, when he felt her hand cup his cheek, his smile broadened to a grin and he couldn’t help but to lean into her touch, amazed by the effect she had on him and swearing he was the luckiest person in all the world to have a moment like this with her. Feeling her thumb against his cheek, he shifted to press a kiss to her palm, just wanting her to know how much the touch, the contact, meant to him. “I’ll look forward to seeing that, then,” he murmured quietly, his eyes locked on hers, wanting her to know how much he meant the words. When her hand dropped after his did, he shifted, reaching to take her hand gently within his own, his fingers lacing through hers once she confirmed what he’d been hoping to hear. “Well, look at us,” he murmured with a broad grin as he examined her, “Who would have thought?” But, he loved it, he loved her. “I feel like the luckiest man to exist, hearing that.” And, with his words, he lifted their hands, brushing his lips over her knuckles gently before he leaned to kiss her temple, just wanting her to know how much she meant to him.

Rowan’s expression softened as she watched Ashton, her heart aching with hearing him sniffle, seeing him duck his head, and she wished, more than anything, that she could help him somehow, but she didn’t want to cross any lines or boundaries or seem like she was pushing Ashton in any way. Still, with her hands still cupping his face, she brushed away what tears she could before she reached a little higher to run her fingers through his hair, hoping to comfort him in some way without being too obvious about it and embarrassing him. When he spoke, her eyes searched his and she chewed on her lip as she processed his words before she offered a small smile and nodded. “Then we’ll give ourselves that chance, somehow,” she murmured eventually, though she was mildly surprised when Ashton squeezed around her and, when she felt his face in her hair, realized how close they were, she was surprised that she found herself relaxing rather than tensing. “Of course,” she murmured quietly, nodding slightly as she continued to run her fingers through his hair, eventually sliding her own arms around him. “I’ll be patient.”

Astoria grinned when Calum chuckled, loving the fact that she could make him laugh in anyway, because God, that's all Astoria wanted to do, she wanted to make him happy, because he brought out the best in Astoria, and Calum was already at his best, Astoria wanted him to see she was worthy of being his. "I do believe you, love." Astoria promised, a little gentler this time, but her grin turned to a smirk. "Barely, mind you." She shifted though, to run her fingers through Calum's hair lovingly instead of ruffling it up, but the dishevelled look suited him so well. Retracting her hand, Astoria smiled, noticing Calum studying her when she lifted her gaze back to meet his. "You have this other talent, you know," Astoria murmured. "You bring out the best in everyone." And she realised she was blushing, and she wanted to hide, because it was rare that someone made Astoria blush. Listening to his words carefully, Astoria blinked in surprise, her blush deepening. "Calum Hood," she grinned teasingly to distract herself. "There's makings of a Philosopher in you." She teased. "More like lucky me." She grinned, her voice quiet, but not too quiet, because she wanted him to know she meant it. When Calum's forehead met hers, Astoria smiled, biting her lip as her hands rested gently at the back of his neck. "Oh, really? I should say it again. I love you, Calum."

Luke saw Ember peer to him as he hummed, and seeing her amused look, Luke chuckled, tugging her gently, further to his side to bring her closer, needing that contact more than anything. "You enjoying that, love?" Luke teased once he decided the situation was right for words, and he squeezed Ember's hand gently, his thumb still running along her knuckles, feeling like the luckiest man, like the stars and moon had smiled down on him, because Ember loved him. When Luke pulled away from the kiss he placed to Ember's forehead, Luke grinned when he saw her cheeks, a bright pink in colour, and he just sat and admired her, because dammit, she was beautiful. "I just want to tell you I love you all the time now that it's out in the open." Luke chuckled, twirling a strand of her hair around his finger, but when Ember made a joking face at Luke, Luke laughed happily, shifting so he could face her, pressing his forehead to hers and scrunching up his face jokingly. "The wind might change darling, be careful." He teased, kissing her cheek with delicate lips, smiling despite himself. But when Luke heard Ember's words, he smiled, his forehead falling to her shoulder. "I'd dive into the abyss for you, Ember, always." He murmured into her shoulder, his hands settling on her waist. He loved this position, because he could admire her for every ounce of perfection she was, and Luke really did consider himself lucky. "I love you, Ember. I've never meant anything more."

Euphemia watched Michael closely with a slight smile, her smile mimicking his, her thumb still running over the apple of his cheek. When he leaned into her touch, Euphemia's slight smile turned to a grin, and she bit her lip happily, her head tilting in curiosity as she watched him, wondering what was going through his mind in that moment. "You're so precious." Euphemia admitted, her blue eyes studying his features carefully, afraid she'd miss anything important. When Michael kissed the palm of her hand, Euphemia felt a jolt of electricity shoot through her veins, and in an instant, she became addicted to the feeling, only wanting Michael to give her that feeling. She smiled with his words, ducking her head slightly. "The only reason I wore it down was for you to notice me." She told him honestly, but she couldn't deny the freedom that wearing her hair down gave her. She was so sick of an updo. When Michael took her hand, Euphemia smiled, gently squeezing Michael's hand and looking at their laced fingers, loving how her hand seemed to fit within his so beautifully. "Who really would have thought?" She repeated, voice laced with wonder, but she picked her gaze back up once more, feeling a burst of love through her chest. When he kissed her knuckles - then her temple - Euphemia quickly caught Michael's lips in a quick kiss, her cheeks warming.

Ashton exhaled into Rowan's hair happily, almost struggling to believe that this was real, and although his heart was tugging between what was right and what was easy, he told himself that the conflict would be worth it to call Rowan his. When he felt Rowan's fingers run through his hair, Ashton nuzzled into her further, not caring if anyone caught them, or saw them at that moment, because the comfort he experienced in Rowan's arms was something he'd never felt before and probably wouldn't again without her there. Why the hell didn't he realise it before - he only ever stayed at this school because it was a chance to see Rowan every day. When he pulled away, and when Rowan's gaze met his, and when she offered him a small smile, Ashton nodded in agreement to her words. They could make it work. "Somehow." He repeated, nodding, not very confident of himself, but all of his confidence sat in Rowan, because her love would make him a better person - he knew that. Squeezing around her once more, Ashton buried his face back into her hair, and when he felt her arms around him, Ashton smiled, his cheek pressed to the top of her head. "Thank you, Rowan. Really." He murmured, running his thumbs along her waist through the material of her shirt, just relishing in the moment that he'd wanted for so long. Ashton kept hold of Rowan for a few long moments, never wanting to let her go in case she disappeared from his line of sight, because it would break his heart if he lost her now. "I understand this must seem sudden." He murmured, taking a step back, but still holding to her waist. "And how odd it must seem."

Calum's eyes ran over Astoria's features for a few long moments, taking in every single thing about her that he could, swearing that, each time he did, he ended up discovering something more. This time, it was the light in her eyes, the way her eyes sparked so brightly when she made the promise, her teasing present even in her eyes - if he hadn't been able to decipher it from her tone, he certainly would have realized it by seeing it in her eyes because it was there, so real, so present, and he loved it. “Well, at least you believe me a little,” he teased lightly as he watched her, winking, amused and happy, loving the way he so easily interacted with her, the way she made every sense within him ignite in the best ways. When she ran her fingers through his hair, he leaned into her touch, breathing out in content, happy with the contact between them, amazed that she seemed to have the most amazing effects on him, in every single way. And, when she retracted her hand, his gaze examined over her, and his heart swelled as he listened to her, his expression softening. “I think you give me a lot of credit,” he murmured quietly before he offered a soft smile, “And you should start giving yourself some credit, too. You deserve it.” His forehead resting against hers, he relaxed fully when he felt her hands resting at the back of his neck, amazed with the way the contact made him feel warm and happy. “I love you, too, Astoria, more than I can ever put into words.”

Ember gave a happy noise when Luke pulled her closer to his side and she grinned as she peered up at him, examining him for a few moments in thought. “I am,” she confirmed quietly as she watched him, her heart racing, electricity flooding through her, with the way Luke's thumb ran over her knuckles, amazed how such a simple gesture affected her so much, so easily. Her cheeks still warm from the kiss Luke had placed to her forehead, she lifted her gaze to him, her eyes running over his features, memorizing every single detail she could about him, but finding herself always drawn to the gentleness in his eyes. “Yeah? I'll never get tired of hearing it, or saying it in return,” she murmured quietly, though she grinned when she saw him twirling her hair, her heart swelling when his forehead found hers. “Hm? Would that be so bad?” And, when he kissed her cheek, she could feel the warmth return, but she didn't mind, she embraced it, because Luke caused it. Feeling his head against her shoulder, she leaned her head against his, relaxing. “Might as well dive into the abyss together.” She grinned with the thought, because she just wanted to be with him, to fall with him. “I love you, too, Luke. With everything in me.”

Michael couldn't help the grin that formed on his features when he saw Euphemia grin, swearing it was the most dazzling sight he'd ever seen. And, when she bit her lip, he stared at her for a long moment, his gaze resting on her lips for a few long moments, unable to help it, not even really wanting to stop himself, anyways. “I think you have me confused with yourself, love,” he told her quietly, his grin broadening as he finally lifted his gaze to her eyes, though he watched her for a few long moments, wishing he could put into words just how much, how easily, she affected him. As she ducked her head, his expression softened and he smiled as he took in the sight, the way her hair fell over her shoulders in the process, and he was in awe by how ethereal she looked, always. “I’ve always noticed you, Euphemia. Nothing in this world has been capable of attracting my attention as much as you have.” And, he knew it was the truth, every single word, because she was the only person who had ever had this kind of effect on him. When she squeezed his hand, his heart swelled, and he took it as a sign, the best sign, and he chewed on his lip again, grinning. “And, yet, here we are,” he murmured teasingly, though after placing his kisses, he was surprised, amazed, when he felt her kiss him and, his cheeks burning bright, he grinned broadly as he examined her before he leaned forward, capturing her lips with his, his heart bursting with the happiness he felt.

Rowan breathed out quietly when she felt Ashton nuzzled further into her and she shifted, burying her face against his shoulder in return, silently taking in his scent while she let herself relax in the silence between them, finding comfort in Ashton's presence - an odd thing when she always associated Ashton's presence with the cruelty he threw around and the pain he tended to cause. She listened quietly as he began to speak and her fingers curled against the fabric covering his back, only wanting to be as close to him as she could be, and she nodded slowly when he repeated her words back, tucking the word into her memory so that she never forgot it, so that it would always be a promise, a hope, that she could hold onto. “It's not something to thank me for, Ashton,” she murmured quietly, though she peered up at him when he took a step back, and she watched him for a few moments while she thought. “I think it's more… Shocking and confusing than it is odd… But I'm incredibly happy to hear it all, honestly.”

Astoria ran her thumbs across the skin at the side of Calum's neck, being delicate as she traced his freckles, like constellations marked permanently into his skin, and how beautiful and blessed must one be for destiny to decide that he was worthy of wonder etched into his skin? The stars, Astoria decided, would be jealous. Keeping that thought to herself, Astoria smiled as she heard Calum's words. "Calum," she spoke softly. "You deserve the credit I give you." She promised, returning his soft smile. "Don't you ever doubt that." Lifting her gaze to meet Calum's once more, Astoria smiled, wondering if she should kiss him, because she really wanted to. His lips were slightly parted, and the temptation was there, but Astoria wondered if she'd be moving at a pace that was too fast for him - but she didn't want things to be too slow either, she wanted things to come naturally, and her desire to kiss Calum was the most natural thing in the world, so she might as well. Shifting closer, her knees touching Calum's, Astoria played with the hair that sat against Calum's neck, twirling his dark curls around her fingers with content. "This is going to sound absolutely bizarre." She started, almost anxious. "Calum... can I kiss you?" With her own words leaving her mouth, Astoria's cheeks warmed up for what seemed to be the millionth time that day, and she ducked her head slightly to hide it.

When Ember lifted her gaze to Luke, the blonde boy swore his heart would combust with adoration for the girl he'd so quickly fallen for. "You have the most beautiful eyes, Ember." Luke murmured, his eyes studying her carefully, memorising every detail he could about her, because she was what Luke would categorise as perfection, and Luke was sure that she was the only one who could proudly own that title - perfect, Luke decided to himself, suited her so well. Hearing Ember's words, Luke grinned, his smile soft, his eyes crinkling at the corners slightly with just how wide his smile was. "Good, because I love you, and I just..." Luke exhaled happily as he reached to tuck a strand of Ember's hair behind her ear, his touch delicate, afraid of hurting her. With Luke's position in Quidditch, it often required him to be heavy handed, and he made sure to always ensure that Ember received the calmest of touches. Keeping his forehead against Ember's, Luke smiled when he felt the warmth of Ember's cheek beneath his lips, and the sight alone was enough to make Luke hold back the groan that wanted to escape, because Ember affected him in all the best ways. "Might as well." Luke grinned, confirming that he wanted exactly what she did. "So, I suppose, all that's left to do is ask you to be mine - if you'll have me." Luke teased, but he meant every word - he wanted Ember to be his, and that was all he ever could of wanted, her by his side, now, forevermore. "What do you say?" He asked, eyes returning to hers for any hint of her answer. Eyes, after all, were windows to the soul.

When Michael returned Euphemia's kiss, Euphemia gently cupped his cheeks within her hands, feeling his heated skin beneath her finger tips, smiling into the kiss when she felt his blush, although knowing that her own cheeks were heated and decorated in a pink hue that was less obvious in the dim light of the dungeon. The kiss lasted for a moment, but to Euphemia, the beauty of that moment made it feel so much longer, and she thanked every star in the sky that Michael Clifford existed in her timeline, having shown her a love she was unsure even existed. When she pulled away, hesitantly, Euphemia's forehead came to rest against Michael's, and her eyes met his and she smiled bashfully, her hands resting delicately at the back of his neck now. "Here we are," she repeated, almost breathless as she laughed, and Euphemia decided, right there, that nothing would ever tear her away from Michael. The consequences would be great, she knew that, but how could she ever refuse to take that risk? Any punishment, the worst punishment, would be worth it, because Michael's words, Michael's love, was all she needed to push herself through that worry. Memorising the flecks in Michael's eyes, Euphemia smiled, pressing a kiss to Michael's cheek, because now that she started, she never wanted to stop.

Ashton felt Rowan bury her face against his shoulder, and Ashton swore to himself silently that he would do anything to protect her. In that moment, everything that Ashton knew, everything that Ashton had learned, the world that his parents had built around him since the day he was born crashed down around him, brick by brick, and in the dust, Ashton was glad it was gone. Squeezing around Rowan with that thought, Ashton kissed the top of her head, promising that no harm, either by his parents hands or anyone else, would come to her, because god dammit, he would let himself die before anything touched her with the intention to harm or kill. When he felt Rowan's fingers curl into his shirt, Ashton tightened his hold, only slightly, but enough to ensure she was protected, that she was loved and cared for, because happiness was all she deserved. When Ashton pulled back, the afternoon chill seemed to hit him harder without Rowan's warmth to keep him occupied. "It is something I need to thank you for, Rowan." He told her gently, squeezing her waist once more to reaffirm his words, but when she spoke, Ashton listened, keeping quiet, keeping vulnerable, because he so desperately wanted her to see that part of him. "I understand it's confusing, too." Ashton laughed nervously with that, exhaling as he removed a hand from her waist to rub the back of his neck. "I've not been the best person." Ashton ducked his head. "But, this is why I'm asking for your patience, Rowan. I've had fifteen years of hatred ingrained into me, unfortunately, it's not something that can be undone overnight. But I want to try." Ashton looked to her with desperate, hazel eyes, the tears dried but determination more prominent, if possible.

Calum relaxed under Astoria’s touch, breathing out in content, because he’d never felt more relaxed in his life, just knowing that she was this close to him, that he had contact with her at all, made him want to never let her go, a sense of desperation to have her in his life filling his senses in a way he couldn’t quite articulate. “You deserve to give yourself some credit as well, Astoria,” he pointed out gently, offering a small grin to her as he shifted, sliding his arm around her waist to hold her closer to himself, gentle but deliberate, wanting her to know how much he wanted her near him, how much he needed her near him, because he never wanted to lose her. When she spoke again, though, he grinned slightly, his eyes searching hers when he felt her twirling his hair, when he felt her knees against his, his heart swelling to near extremes, because everything she said, everything she did, drove his senses wild. “You can kiss me if I can call you mine,” he said gently, grinning, hopeful, because the opportunity was too perfect to let slip through his fingers.

Ember chewed on her lip when she heard Luke’s words and she grinned slightly as she examined him. “I don’t think my eyes compete with yours, Luke, not at all,” she murmured quietly, honestly, because she swore that his eyes brightened her whole world, that she’d never seen such a gorgeous blue in her life, and she never wanted to forget the color. As Luke began to speak again, her expression softened and she closed her eyes when Luke tucked her hair behind her ear, breathing out in content with the way it felt to have Luke’s lips against her skin in any way. When he spoke about being his, though, she blinked her eyes open and she watched him for a few long moments, amazed how Luke’s question made her heart accelerate in a way she couldn’t help but to love, finding she wanted to associate the feeling with Luke, always. “Of course I will, Luke,” she whispered as her eyes searching his, “I can’t imagine anything better.”

When Michael felt Euphemia’s warm cheeks so easily matching his own, he couldn’t help but to grin against her lips for the few moments the kiss lasted, swearing that he never wanted to lose the feeling that Euphemia gave him, because he felt like he was drowning in a sea of wonder, breathing every bit of her in, and he never wanted to stop doing that, he never wanted to breathe in anything other than her. When the kiss ended and when her forehead was against his, he grinned as he examined her, loving the sound of her voice, how breathless she sounded, the sound of her laugh sending flames of happiness throughout his entire being. “You know what would make all of this all the more perfect?” he asked gently, his eyes gazing into hers, locked onto hers and never wanting to look away, never wanting to move away from her in any way, not until he absolutely had to. “If you would be mine, I think I would be the happiest I’ve ever been.”

Rowan closed her eyes when she felt Ashton squeeze around her and, despite everything that had happened between herself and Ashton, she’d never felt safer than she did while in his embrace, even more so when he kissed the top of her head. Peering up at him, she watched him for a few moments, though she smiled gently as she listened to his quiet tone, her eyes searching his, and seeing how vulnerable he looked, how nervous he looked, she shifted, lifting a hand to cup his face gently. “Everybody’s capable of changing, Ashton, even somebody who’s had hatred ingrained in them their whole life,” she whispered, “And I’m not going to rush you with that, okay? Take your time with it, do it at your pace. I believe in you.” And, then, she smiled, leaning to press a quick kiss to his lips. “If anybody can change for the better, it’s you, I genuinely think you’re capable of anything.”