mischief managed

When Astoria heard Calum's approaching footsteps, she silenced her laughter. Taking a moment to just admire the Ravenclaw, who was completely oblivious to her presence, Astoria smiled to herself and silently decided that she really would love to spend the rest of her life with him. Approaching him from behind, Astoria wrapped her arms around Calum, resting her forehead against his back. "Boo," she teased, squeezing around him, adoring how, even in the fresh air of the Scottish highlands, his cologne was all that surrounded her, and she found it so intoxicating. "Looks like we both won." She smiled, pulling away from Calum and adjusting his jumper that hung loosely around her, snuggling into the warmth and comfort it provided. Looking to the lake, Astoria looked to Calum, smiling and offering him her hand. "C'mon, maybe we'll see the giant squid."

Luke watched Ember closely as she studied the pumpkins, and Luke couldn't help but to admire her in that moment. She was at ease, a beauty to behold in the overcast afternoon, and her hair moved elegantly in the wind, and that sight alone, knowing that she belonged to him, that she wanted to be his, was perfect. "Our future will certainly be a bright one. With you by my side, I'm sure I'll be invincible." Luke confirmed quietly, running his free hand through his short curls as the wind dishevelled his hair. But when Ember mentioned giving the ugliest pumpkin a name, he couldn't help but laugh. "I love it." Luke encouraged with a sort of boyish mischief hiding behind his bright blue eyes that he couldn't quite disguise, despite the innocent smile he offered Ember. "I vote we call it Scorpius." He laughed with his own joke, his head falling back onto his shoulders as he pulled Ember to him, only ever wanting to be gentle with her. "What do you think?"

Euphemia looked to Michael when he complimented her ability in magic. "Oh," she felt her cheeks warm, and she offered a bashful smile. "Thank you." She murmured, but when she heard him speak of their future; not his, not hers, their future, Euphemia's smile broadened and she squeezed around Michael gently. But she knew that the future she so desperately wanted with Michael was already promised to Ashton, and she felt her heart sink down. "I can't wait." She promised gently, reaching to cup his cheeks in her hands, running her thumbs along the apples of his cheeks. "As a lady, I think I should win that round." Euphemia teased, moving on from the subject of futures quickly. Listening to Michael compliment her though, Euphemia's warmed cheeks became warmer. "Yeah? Well, you look like perfection in that cloak. Why didn't you go into Quidditch? It suits you." Euphemia smiled, returning Michael's kiss happily.

Ashton laughed when he felt Rowan nudge him gently, and he squeezed around her. "I only want to be sweet to you." Ashton reassured her gently, although her previous words had touched his heart in a way he didn't imagine possible. The fact he was letting his guard down, and Rowan wasn't judging him, or belittling him, made him feel so incredibly lucky, and he wondered to himself silently just why the hell he didn't trust himself to show her this side of him before? Remembering the consequences of what would happen if his Father knew, Ashton tensed for a moment but soon felt himself unwind as he followed Rowan to the table she had chosen. Sitting opposite her, Ashton offered her a smile, considering himself blessed to be in this situation with her. "I can't wait to find out." Ashton promised quietly, his curiosity getting the better of him. Still, he reached over the table to take Rowan's hand within his own, running his thumb across her knuckles gently. "I can't wait to teach you, either."

Calum, mildly startled by the arms around him, nearly jumped, but something felt so familiar and right about the feeling that he just knew it was Astoria and he chuckled quietly. “Full of surprise, aren't you?” he teased with a broad grin before he turned to face her once she released her hold on him, though he grinned broadly as he examined her, watching her adjust the jumper, taking in the sight, because he swore he could never tire of it. “I will gladly take a shared win,” he murmured happily as he leaned forward to kiss her forehead gently. “God, you're gorgeous.” And he never wanted to look away from her, he never wanted to move away from her, swearing hey presence was the most amazing addiction. When she offered her hand, though, he grinned, taking her hand in his, lacing their fingers together before he tugged her close to himself. “Maybe. Our day's gone this well so far. I think that would make for a fun little addition.”

Elise trailed her fingers along the pumpkins they passed, though she blinked as she listened to Luke's words, her heart swelling as she processed what he was saying and what those words meant and she tore her gaze from the pumpkins to peer up at Luke with a broad, happy grin. “Well, that sounds like quite the future, Luke,” she murmured happily, “Definitely one to look forward to, I'd say.” And, she meant it, she truly did, because she couldn't imagine a better future than one with Luke by her side. Hearing Luke laugh at her idea, though, she grinned broadly, glad that he was going along with it, but also glad to provide amusement for him. Watching him, she found herself mesmerized but she laughed when he pulled her to him and she slid her arms around his neck, grinning broadly. “I think that's a splendid idea, Luke.”

Michael shook his head when he heard Euphemia's gratitude, though he grinned broadly when he saw how bright her cheeks had become. “It's nothing to thank me for, Euphemia,” he assured her quietly as he examined her, though he couldn't help the way his own grin broadened at the sight of her smile broadening. “Neither can I,” he told her quietly, leaning into her touch, though he swore he saw something in her eyes that he wasn't quite familiar with, and he wondered if he'd said something wrong. When he noticed her quick subject change, he blinked but didn't press the matter, not wanting to make her uncomfortable in any way. “Alright, alright,” he told her with a grin anyway, “I'll let you win that round.” And seeing her cheeks brighten all the more, his grin broadened again before he shrugged. “I like cheering,” he joked but chuckled against her lips, loving the feeling of sharing these moments with her.

Rowan grinned when she felt Ashton squeeze around her, peering up at him as she listened to him, her heart swelling in the fondest way after she processed his words. “Well, I'm quite lucky, then, to be the one who gets to witness this sweet side of you,” she murmured happily, her eyes examining him for a few moments, because she truly believed it to be true. Sure, things hadn't started out in the best ways for them, but if all of that was what led them here, to this, to the feelings they had for one another, she'd go through it all again just to be able to call Ashton hers. With this thought in mind, she sat down, though she smiled. “I can't wait, either,” she murmured quietly, squeezing his hand gently when he took her hand in his. “I think it will serve to be its own adventure, imagine that.”

Astoria listened to Calum's chuckle and smiled to herself, the sound of his happiness being the only tune that Astoria could ever dance to. "Of course I am," Astoria laughed when Calum turned to face her, reaching to cup his cheek, softly running her thumb across the apple of his cheek. "Have to keep you on your toes somehow, don't I?" She teased in return, kissing his cheek before pulling her hand away, already missing the feeling of his skin beneath hers, because every moment she wasn't touching Calum, Astoria felt a little more alone. When Calum kissed her forehead, Astoria smiled, stepping just that little bit closer, her cheeks heating up a little with his compliment. "So are you, you know. Gorgeous, in every way." Astoria promised, squeezing Calum's hand gently when their fingers laced together so naturally, obediently following as he tugged her towards him, more than happy to follow his lead. Astoria smiled with Calum's words. "You're so cute, do you know that?" She smiled, leading Calum to the edge of the lake.

Luke smiled as he watched Ember closely, and as she peered to him with a grin that could light up the darkest day, Luke swore his heart ignited within his chest, and he paused for a short time, just to commit that moment, that smile, everything about Ember to memory. Ember made Luke feel as though he was the luckiest person on the planet, and as lucky as he felt, he was certain that he really was the luckiest person - how could someone who didn't know Ember ever consider themselves lucky, content? Biting his lip with the thought, Luke approached Ember and grinned with her words. "It's definitely a future we can look forward to." Luke nodded, knowing the future he had with Ember by his side was going to be as bright as he'd promised. He'd make sure of it, go to the ends of the Earth to ensure it would be so. "Saying that, Ember, I'm glad it's you that I have a future with. I know I'll be okay, as long as you're with me." Luke smiled, and when Ember's arms slid around his neck, Luke wrapped his arms around Ember's waist in return, squeezing around her gently. "I love you. And I'm glad to have these moments with you." Luke leaned to press a kiss to Ember's forehead.

Euphemia smiled when Michael's grin broadened, because it was the most incredible sight she'd ever witnessed. Michael was all Euphemia had ever wanted, as a person and a personality, excitement and a rush of happiness that she'd never felt before. When Michael brought that feeling to her, she knew, by instinct, it was Michael she was destined for, nobody else. When he leaned into her touch, Euphemia smiled with his words, trying to ignore the slight knock of anxiety in her chest. Seeing Michael blink, Euphemia knew that he'd sussed her out, but she didn't mention it, didn't press the issue, never wanting him to know anything about her life outside of school. "Thank you." She teased, wrapping her arms around Michael's neck, just to hold him closer, wanting to make the most of the quiet time they could share - there wouldn't be much of it in the castle. "You do look quite happy when you're in the stands." Euphemia laughed, her forehead falling to Michael's as she pressed a quick kiss to his lips. "It's adorable."

"In that case," Ashton smiled, squeezing Rowan's hand in return, hoping to convey the love he felt for her within the gesture. "I can't wait to have an adventure with you, Rowan. The first of many." And he really did look forward to it, because Ashton wanted nothing but Rowan; never mind the wealth, the perfect bloodline, the mansion and the parents with high power in the Ministry, all Ashton wanted, ever, was Rowan and the happiness she provided. "Well, whenever you're ready to start, I'll be happy to follow." Ashton offered a smile, although he couldn't deny he was nervous about the thought of dementors being anywhere within the Hogwarts grounds. They held their own bias to muggleborns, and their kiss was far less forgiving compared to the cruciatus curse, or even the killing curse - Ashton had witnessed a dementor's kiss in action, he didn't quite wish to see it again, and he knew if one dared approach Rowan, he wouldn't hold back from protecting her, no matter who saw, no matter who considered him a traitor. "Shall I go and get the drinks?" Ashton offered with a smile. "My treat."

Calum grinned when he felt Astoria’s hand against his face and, breathing out happily, he leaned into her touch, swearing her touch ignited every single atom in his body, setting every atom aflame with wonder and love. “Well, in that case, I will definitely take it,” he chimed happily, grinning broadly as he examined her, “I’m sure you’re full of surprises.” When she retracted her hand, he pouted playfully, wanting to tease her, but admittedly missing her touch, but his heart swelled when she stepped closer to himself. “Yeah?” he asked quietly, running his thumb over the back of her hand gently as he examined her for a few long moments, memorizing every single thing about her that he could, amazed by her, wondering how in the world she existed at all. “I think you’re far more gorgeous than I am.” Grinning slightly, he winked teasingly. “You think so?” He offered an amused look as he followed her, squeezing her hand gently as he watched her, not bothering to peer out at the lake, just wanting to take her in, wanting to have her as close to him as he possibly could. “What I do know is that you’re the most amazing thing to exist, love.” And, leaning over, he grinned as he pressed a kiss to her cheek. “I also know that I love you.”

Ember peered up at Luke when he approached, and she tried not to pay too much attention to the way he bit his lip, instead watching him with a small, amused smile, her smile broadening at the sight of his grin. “Then I’m definitely gonna look forward to it, with you,” she whispered as she examined him, taking him in, swearing he was the most amazing sight in the world, accepting the fact that she never wanted to go a day without seeing him. “I’m glad, too, Luke,” she murmured quietly, letting her fingers toy with the hair at the back of his neck happily as she relaxed in his hold. “I think we’d be able to get through absolutely anything together, so long as we fought it side by side.” And, chewing on her lip, she found herself truly believing it, certain they could face anything together, certain that nothing would be able to tear them apart. “I love you, too, Luke.” And, she did, she really did; she loved him in a way that she didn’t fully understand, but she wanted to embrace it. “And I’m gonna cherish every single moment.”

Michael chewed on his lip as he examined Euphemia, but his arms held around her, holding her closer to himself gently, rubbing her back. He couldn’t help but to worry about her, but he hoped that, whatever was troubling her, it would leave her alone, or that she would eventually open up to him about it, that they could talk through it and he could try to be there for her in whatever way she wanted, whatever way she needed him to be. “You don’t have to thank me, sweetheart,” he told her with a fond smile, loving the way it felt to have her so close, loving the weight of her in his arms, and the way her scent surrounded him in the best ways. “Well, considering I get to see you play, I can definitely say that I’m happy watching from the stands. Gives me the chance to watch you without your friends trying to cause problems.” He laughed, though, with the thought, because he knew that her friends could never scare him off; he was determined to make sure that Euphemia ended up remaining as a part of his life for as long as possible. Feeling her kiss, he grinned against her lips as he returned it, murmuring over her lips, “You’re adorable.”

Rowan couldn’t help but to grin slightly when she felt Ashton return the squeeze, her heart swelling slightly, and she almost couldn’t believe how happy and lucky she was. “Neither can I,” she promised quietly as she watched him, wondering what exactly the future had in store for them. She was hopeful that their futures were linked, but she was aware of how unlikely that was, considering how far apart their worlds were. But, still, the hope remained within her, because maybe, just maybe, they could fight against everything that came their way and everything would be okay. “I’ll be ready whenever, it mostly depends on when you’re free.” She was sure she could sneak away from her friends whenever necessary - and, if they happened to ask where she was going, at least she had the assignment with Ashton as an excuse, rather than having to go into details about Ashton trying to help her protect herself. Hearing his offer, though, she nodded slowly. “Sure,” she told him with a smile as she watched him, “I’ll just be here, promise.”

Astoria watched as Calum grinned, and she could of sworn that her heart missed a beat in it's step. "Surprises you'll soon discover, I'm sure." Astoria murmured softly, and when Calum pouted, Astoria giggled, shaking her head in amusement. "Well, aren't you absolutely beautiful?" Astoria teased, reaching on her tip toes to press a kiss to Calum's pouting lips. Feeling his thumb against the back of her hand, the Hufflepuff grinned happily, enjoying Calum's touch, glad to be the focus of his affection. "Yeah." She promised, but hearing Calum's retaliation, Astoria laughed. "You're just bias, Mr Hood. I think you're stunning, and that's the end of it." Astoria teased, her cheeks heating up into a blush as Calum winked, but she followed him carefully, treading over rocks as she adventured with Calum. Feeling Calum press his lips to her cheek, Astoria smiled, turning to look at her boyfriend. "I love you too," she promised, leaning to press a kiss to his jaw. "So, so much."

Luke leaned to press a kiss to Ember's forehead once more, moving to the tip of her nose, and then her lips. "I'm going to make sure you have the best future, Ember, I promise." Luke murmured into her lips, his arms still wrapped around her waist, wanting to keep her safe from any harm that dared threaten the beauty. "I want you to be mine forever." Luke admitted softly, burying his face into Ember's hair as he listened to her speak, taking in the sound of her voice, memorising the sound. Feeling his heart swell with her words, Luke grinned. "We can get through anything, don't ever doubt it. With you by my side, I'm invincible. And I'll make sure you are, too." And Luke wasn't usually so soft, but he believed that they had something so incredible, something that belonged to them only, and he would do anything to ensure that throughout his life, he would have Ember by his side. "I love you, and I'm so excited to make memories with you, Ember. Make our future brilliant." Luke admitted softly. Pressing a kiss to the top of Ember's head, Luke gently pulled away, hands resting on Ember's hips. "Where would you like to go now?"

Euphemia studied Michael as he chewed on his lip, feeling her cheeks heat up into a blush as he did, finding something about the gesture to be so attractive. Playing with the hair at the back of Michael's neck, twirling it around her fingers, Euphemia smiled softly, wondering what he was thinking as he watched her just as intently. "I want to thank you." Euphemia promised quietly, looking up to the colourful character with nothing but adoration, truly relishing in her feelings for the man who captured her heart. Hearing his words about Ashton and Scorpius, Euphemia laughed. "I'm glad that you're not so concerned about them as some others are." Euphemia admitted. "If I tell you the truth, Ashton and I only deal with Scorpius because his Father is quite a high ranker in the Ministry." Euphemia explained, her eyebrows furrowed when she realised how quickly she could open to Michael, but when she lost her thoughts in their kiss, Euphemia gently held Michael's cheeks within her hands, being so incredibly gentle. "I love you." Euphemia murmured against his lips. "And you're perfection."

Ashton offered Rowan a smile, his thumb running across the back of her hand gently, wanting to show her that he was nice, even if no one else believed it, all that mattered was that Rowan believed it. "We've got a bright future in front of us, Rowan." Ashton murmured, promising himself that he'd do anything to make it true. "I'll make sure of it." Pressing a sweet kiss to the back of Rowan's hand, Ashton listened to Rowan's words, eyebrows furrowed as he thought. "Are you familiar with the Room of Requirement?" Ashton asked with a small smile. "Meet me outside of the Great Hall tonight, at seven. We can start our lessons then. I won't let them hurt you, anyway near you if I can help it." Ashton promised, because damn it, he meant it. "I best get those drinks." Ashton murmured, hesitant to step away from the woman he loved. Squeezing her hand gently, Ashton let go before going to the bar to order two butterbeers, excited to spend time with Rowan, and when she promised to just be there, Ashton believed her, because he knew Rowan wasn't like him, she wasn't a traitor. Biting with his lip at the thought, Ashton accepted the mugs not long after, heading back to Rowan and placing her drink in front of her, sitting opposite her once more and offering her a smile. "Enjoy."

Calum couldn’t help the curiosity that began to fill him and he arched a brow as he examined her. “Oh?” he asked with amusement, though his curiosity seeped into his voice as well, too strong for him to fight it back. “What kind of surprises?” But, really, he found himself looking forward to all the possibilities, all the ways he could make memories with Astoria, and the very thought made a grin spread across his features after he felt her kiss his lips and, when he heard her promise, he couldn’t help but to lean forward to capture her lips with his again, just for a moment, just long enough to convey how much he loved her, how much she meant to him. And, when he pulled back, he couldn’t help but to chuckle. “I will happily be biased,” he declared firmly, happily, and his grin broadened despite himself, “It’s not as though you’re not biased yourself. Either way, I still stand by my word.” Seeing her cheeks brighten, though, caused his grin to broaden all the more, if that was even possible, and he followed her, keeping close, but also keeping an eye on her to make sure she stayed safe, that she didn’t get hurt in any way, because he doubted he’d ever forgive himself if she did. Hearing her words, though, and feeling her kiss his jaw, his expression softened to a fond, happy smile. “I’m so lucky to have you, Astoria.”

Ember gave a quiet laugh against his lips, grinning as she let herself enjoy the moment, but she breathed out happily when she heard his words. “It’ll be the best future so long as you’re in it, Luke - that’s all I want,” she told him quietly before she shifted, burying her face against his chest, relaxing in his hold and swearing she’d never felt more at ease, more comfortable, more wanted, in her life, nor had she felt safer. Closing her eyes, she relished in the feeling of just being in Luke’s arms, of being this close to him, of being able to take in the smell of his cologne and the warmth of his hold, and she swore she never wanted the moment to end. “Alright, I definitely won’t doubt it,” she said with amusement, but she was being honest as well; she believed in them, she really did. Peering up at him, her expression softened, and she smiled, nodding slowly. “I love you, too, I really do.” She chewed on her lip for a moment in thought, though, and shrugged. “Maybe we can just go hang out in the common room?”

Michael blinked slowly when he saw the blush that spread its way across Euphemia’s features and, before long, a broad grin spread across Michael’s features in response, and he couldn’t help but to admire Euphemia for every bit of perfection that she was. “Well, I won’t stop you from thanking me. I’ll still say you don’t have to thank me, though,” he told her gently, lifting his hand to brush her hair from her face gently as he examined her, tucking her hair behind her ear and just enjoying the sight of her, the feeling of having her this close. He swore, in that moment, he was the luckiest person to ever exist, because Euphemia was his, and he wanted the world to know. Still, he shook his head. “I’d never let anybody chase me away from you, Euphemia. Honest. Try as they might, I’m not scared of them.” And, he meant it, he really did. Still, as he listened to her explain, he arched a brow. “Yeah? Then why do you deal with Ashton?” He’d be lying if he said he wasn’t curious; while he believed in second chances, at the moment, Ashton was rotten, and he wondered what in him had brought Euphemia to befriend him. Still, he grinned as he returned her kiss. “I love you, too,” he murmured over her lips, nipping at her lips teasingly, “You’re perfection, love.”

Rowan felt herself relax under Ashton’s touch and she swore nothing felt as natural as it did, nothing else could ever compare to the feelings Ashton gave her. “I believe you,” she decided quietly because, with how she felt for Ashton, she was certain that nothing in the world could force her away from Ashton, no matter how hard they tried - she wouldn’t let them. As he began to speak again, though, she nodded slowly. “Alright, I’ll meet you then.” A part of her couldn’t help but to look forward to it - though she knew it would be for lessons on how to defend herself against dementors, she still couldn’t help but to just be excited with the thought of spending even more time with Ashton, certain that she would enjoy every moment. She watched quietly as he stood up and she watched him head to the bar before she settled back in her seat, processing everything that had happened. A part of her was still shocked that the day had turned into this, but she was happy, and she hoped Ashton was happy, too. When he returned, she grinned and leaned forward. “Thank you.” And, with a hum, she took the drink to take a sip.

Astoria listened to Calum intently, the curiosity in his voice making Astoria want to keep him guessing, keep him on his toes so she could see him like this more often. "Well, Calum, if I told you, they wouldn't be surprises, would they?" Astoria teased, pressing another kiss to Calum's lips with a grin, giggling as she held his face within her hands, keeping a gentle hold on him. "So I'm not going to ruin the fun." She murmured into his lips, kissing him again with all the love he had shown her. Calum meant the world to her, and Astoria wanted him to know there was nobody else she'd rather be with. "Oi!" Astoria giggled. "I'm not biased, I'm telling the truth." Astoria grinned, although she could still feel the warmth against her cheeks, such a contrast to the cold air that surrounded the lake. Climbing down, almost professionally, from the rocks, wrapping her arms around Calum as she listened to his words, repeating them in her head. "I'm the lucky one, Cal. Believe me."

Luke allowed his forehead to rest against Ember's, gently squeezing around her hips, being careful not to hurt her. "I want us to last forever," Luke admitted, his own cheeks heating up to a blush. "I mean it. You're all I want, and I'm determined to make our future wonderful." And he smiled with the thought, and when Ember shifted to bury her face into his chest, Luke wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her against him, where he knew she was safe, and loved, and protected, no matter what threat dared to come for them. When Ember spoke up once more, Luke chuckled, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "I believe that we're written in the stars, Ember. I'll do anything to let that prophecy come true. Guess you're stuck with me, darling." But when Ember told Luke that she loved him, Luke was so sure that he felt his heart soar in his chest, and he couldn't stop the wide smile that made it's way onto his cheeks. "I love you the most." Luke promised. And when Ember suggested the common room, Luke's face lit up. "How about we grab a good book and cuddle under a blanket?" Luke suggested. The common room was usually quiet at this time of day, and he wouldn't mind spending some quiet time with Ember in his arms, unable to imagine a better way to spend his time. "Fire lit, of course." Luke winked. The Gryffindor common room was the definition of cosy, and Luke wanted to steal as many of those moments with Ember as he could, although seeing her in his jumper was the most incredible sight. "God, I love that jumper on you." Luke admitted. The way it hung loosely from her form made Luke's heart swell, and he memorised the sight once more, eager to remember this day in general, because this was the day that he confessed his love to Ember, and the day she agreed to be his. Luke had never felt so lucky.

Euphemia saw Michael's grin, and for a moment, she felt the breath leave her body, and she felt her cheeks grow warmer, and she bit her lip shyly, wanting nothing more than to bury her face into Michael's chest. When he spoke though, Euphemia smiled. "I just want you to know I appreciate you, more than you know." Euphemia promised, and when he tucked her hair behind her ear, Euphemia smiled softly, looking up to Michael, swearing to herself she could get lost in those beautiful green eyes. Euphemia almost couldn't believe how lucky she was, because she had Michael to call her own, and she was sure he was her saving grace, the one to lead her to redemption. "Are you afraid of anything?" Euphemia asked, half teasing and half serious, because she knew Michael was brave, and she adored that about him, his defiance was something to truly be admired. Seeing Michael arch a brow, prompting her for an explanation, Euphemia was surprised with how easy it was to open up to him. "Because Ashton is my genuine best friend. Have been since we were toddlers. I've seen a side of him no one else has." She explained. "He's kinder than Scorpius, I promise you that. Scorpius is ruthless, a true definition of a Slytherin. Ashton and I are just... by default Slytherins." Euphemia shrugged gently, pressing another kiss to Michael's lips, and when he nipped at her lips, Euphemia laughed, gently tugging at his lower lip. "Behave."

Ashton couldn't help the relief that flooded through him when Rowan told him she believed him, because it was only her opinion that mattered. Repeating her words in his head, Ashton smiled, revealing his dimples, before leaning down to kiss the top of Rowan's head, before relaxing back into his chair, and when he watched Rowan take a sip, he smiled as she hummed, just so grateful to have her in his company, swearing he'd never felt so content. "I can't wait to spend time with you tonight." Ashton confessed quietly, and he knew teaching her the patronus was important, but he was just excited for an excuse to get closer to the woman he'd loved for so long, to the woman he wanted to call his for the rest of his life, the woman he wanted to marry. "It'll be nice, hopefully I can convince you that I'm not entirely evil." Ashton offered a weak smile with his words - it wasn't often that he let anyone, outside of Euphemia and Scorpius, see his vulnerability, but he knew he could trust Rowan enough to show her that side of him. "I know all I've shown you is evil, but." Ashton shrugged his shoulders lightly.

Calum laughed against Astoria’s lips as he listened to her speak, and he grinned as he took her in. “I suppose you have a point there,” he teased lightly, but he made a playful face and winked, “It was worth a try, though, you’ve gotta admit that much.” But feeling her kiss, he found himself returning it, holding her close to himself, wanting to enjoy every moment of it that he could, wanting to enjoy every moment of her that he could, swearing that she was the most amazing thing to ever happen to him. He couldn’t imagine his life without her - he didn’t want to. As she spoke again, though, he laughed and leaned to kiss her cheeks gently, sliding his arms comfortably around her waist to hold her as close to himself as he could manage to get her. “You’re definitely biased - it’s okay, though, I happen to like your bias.” Smirking playfully, he reached a hand up to run his fingers through her hair, just relishing in having her there. “We’re both lucky, love.”

Ember blinked several times, surprised with Luke’s words, her expression softening to a fond smile, her cheeks warming, though she was relieved to see that she wasn’t the only one blushing. “I want that, too,” she promised quietly, relaxing in his hold, her fingers curling in his shirt as she breathed out with content, her eyes closing as her face remained buried against him. “I couldn’t imagine anything better than us being stuck with each other,” she teased lightly, though she meant it - all she wanted was to have Luke in her life, to be his, swearing she was her happiest when she was with him. Hearing Luke’s suggestion, though, she pulled back to grin up at him and nodded slightly. “That sounds like an amazing idea, let’s do that,” she decided happily, looking forward to just relaxing with the boy she loved.

Michael smiled as he watched Euphemia, his heart swelling in the best ways when he saw the bright hue on her cheeks and the way she shyly bit at her lip. Feeling her bury her face against him, he held her close to himself, rubbing her back gently, wanting her to know that he was there for her, that she didn’t ever have to worry, because he’d do everything in his power to make her happy, to keep her safe. “I know,” he promised quietly, pressing his forehead to hers when she lifted her gaze, “And I’m grateful you’re a part of my life, that you’re mine. I couldn’t imagine anything better.” And he meant it - he really couldn’t imagine anything better than having her as his, being the one she loved when he loved her so much. He chuckled, though, with her question. “I’m afraid of losing you.” And, despite his playful amusement, he allowed a bit of vulnerability to show, his expression softening as he watched her, because he was sure that losing her in any way would break him in more ways than he could count. Swallowing and clearing his throat to force those thoughts away, he listened to her and nodded slightly. “I’m glad you have a friend like that. Truly.” When she kissed him, he grinned, returning the kiss, though he chuckled. “I’m not doing anything!”

Rowan was mildly surprised to feel Ashton kiss the top of her head, especially in public, but her heart swelled and eased as she watched him, and she offered a small smile as she took him in, finding herself grateful for his presence, grateful that they’d been honest with each other after all this time, finally. Still, she nodded as she listened to him. “Neither can I,” she murmured honestly, taking him in, though her expression softened and she shook her head, “I don’t think you’re evil, Ashton. I think you’re a victim of circumstance - of experiences and environments. An evil person wouldn’t try to do better. You’re good, you’ve just gotta let yourself accept that so that you can see that good in yourself, because there is good in you, Ashton. Probably more than you or anybody could ever realize.” And, he deserved to be able to embrace that side of himself; she wanted him to be able to see it as much as she could.

Astoria laughed as Calum scrunched up his face playfully, and she felt her heart swell within her chest, in the best way. He was so incredible, she wasn't quite sure how she managed to capture his heart for herself, because there were girls in their year that were far more spectacular than she was. "It was worth a try, and you almost broke me, Hood." Astoria teased. "But not this time." She murmured over his lips, smiling as Calum held her close, exchanging body heat. Sleeves of Calum's sweatshirt falling over her hands, Astoria pulled away to gently fold the sleeves upwards, blinking in surprise as Calum kissed her cheeks, and as his arms slipped around her waist, Astoria smiled. "I'm not biased, you're just egotistical." She smirked, bumping him playfully with her hip. "Come on you," Astoria giggled, pressing a kiss to his cheek. "We must get back to the castle, you know Slughorn gets very protective of the squid if he finds any students down here." Astoria rolled her eyes playfully, before offering a hand to Calum to hold, never wanting to be apart from him.

Luke waited with baited breath for Ember to process the words he'd spoken - they'd seemed to evaporate around them in smoke thick with anticipation, and Luke felt as though he was suffocating. He knew being vulnerable in such a way might scare Ember off, but he hoped that she understood; hopefully even returned the sentiment. When Luke focused his mind and heart back onto Ember's incredible existence, Luke was surprised to see that she was blushing - it looked wonderful on her - and her smile was soft and fond, and Luke instantly felt his heart began to ease, and damn it, he was so lucky that he was the one who got to see Ember like this. Tightening his hold around her, Luke smiled softly as Ember's fingers curled into his shirt, and he rubbed her back gently, soothingly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. Listening to her words, Luke rested his chin atop of her head, being careful to ensure he was gentle, and listening to her speak, Luke laughed. "It sounds like a wonderful forever." Luke promised, although he knew that danger was on the horizon, he was certain of it. Something was going to happen soon, even with You-Know-Who having been gone for so long. When Ember pulled away, Luke returned her grin, dimples sculpted into his cheeks, and hearing how happy she sounded, Luke pushed his worry away. "I've still got some sweets left from Honeydukes too, so you're in luck." Luke winked, and he offered her his arm. "My lady?"

Euphemia exhaled happily as Michael pressed his forehead to hers, and listening to the words that escaped Michael's beautiful lips, the Slytherin girl felt tears beginning to pool in her eyes, and blinking, Euphemia ducked her head, gripping a little tighter to Michael for comfort. It was amazing, really, just how incredible things had come to be between them, in such a short amount of time. "Life wouldn't be the same without Michael Clifford, I'll tell you that." Euphemia promised, voice meek and sweet. Blinking when he told her his fear though, Euphemia laughed quietly, shaking her head in an obvious amusement, but honoured by his confession, and as his expression softened, Euphemia knew he was lowering his defence, just for her. Wrapping her arms around his neck, Euphemia pressed a kiss to his cheek. "You'll never lose me, Michael. I promise." Euphemia spoke against his skin, and although she was unsure how long she could keep that promise, she swore to herself that she'd try her best. Avoiding the discussion of Ashton, Euphemia kissed Michael again, giggling as he protested her teasing. "Alright, alright... what next on our little date? Back to the castle, perhaps?"

Ashton caught the small smile that Rowan offered him, and he returned it with ease, with a confidence he didn't know he'd had in him, but things just came so easily when Rowan was around that it was a little frightening. Sipping his drink, he listened carefully to Rowan's words, although as she continued, he blinked in surprise. How could Rowan not consider him to be evil, after everything he'd put her through, everything he'd said and done to hurt her? "I... never considered it that way before." Ashton admitted quietly, and he really hadn't. Disguising his expression of thought with another sip of his drink, Ashton went silent for a long moment. "Knowing that you don't think I'm evil," Ashton started. "Is... really important to me, Rowan. I don't think you realise how much." Ashton leaned forward to place his drink on the table. "I wish I could tell you everything, but not yet." Ashton frowned, dimples disappearing from his cheeks. "Maybe not ever. But knowing that you have confidence in me, that really is a tremendous honour." Ashton offered a small smile then, clearing his throat. "So, what do you think your Patronus will be?" He asked, quickly changing the subject so Rowan didn't pry into things that she would be put off by.

Calum couldn’t help but laugh as he listened to Astoria, shaking his head slightly. “How am I egotistical?” he asked with amusement, watching her, admiring her, swearing she was the most gorgeous sight in the world, and he found himself falling more and more in love with her with every passing second. For a moment, he just fell silent, watching her, taking her in, committing every detail to memory, because he never wanted to forget even a single tiny detail about her. Still, he grinned and made a face. “Alright, alright, I will agree for us to head back to the castle. The last thing I want is for you to get in trouble because of me, after all.” He never wanted to cause her any troubles at all. Shifting, he took her hand, giving her hand a squeeze before he began leading the way.

Ember smiled to herself, relaxing in Luke’s hold, and she breathed out happily when she heard his laugh. “It does,” she agreed quietly - and, in truth, it was the only forever she wanted, a forever shared with Luke. As she watched him, she couldn’t help but admire him, taking in everything about him, always so easily amazed by him, but even more so now that she could be open about her feelings for him. “Oh? What sorts of sweets do you have?” With a grin, she slid her arm around his, offering a small nod. “Lead the way.” She motioned ahead, but kept close to him, never really wanting to part from him at all.

Michael watched Euphemia, his expression softening when he saw the tears in her eyes, and he held her closer to himself, wanting to comfort her as much as he could, wanting to provide as much comfort and protection for her as he could, though he wasn’t sure how well he could manage that when he didn’t even know what was troubling her so suddenly. “Well, I am glad to hear it. My life wouldn’t be the same without you either,” he told her quietly, gently, rubbing her back as he held her close, letting himself relax with her in his arms. “Good. I’d never wish to lose you, I want you in my life, always.” It was the only thing he knew he needed: her. Still, he grinned with her kiss, and laughed, nodding. “Alright, let’s head back to the castle.”

Rowan blinked as she listened to Ashton, watching him for a long moment. She wasn’t sure what to think about his words or how to feel about them, uncertain of what future they could even have together if there was the chance he would never tell her anything important. She could feel the thoughts weighing on her heart, but she tried her best not to be obvious about it and instead offered a smile when she heard his question. “I don’t know,” she said eventually, lifting her shoulders in a small shrug, taking a sip of her drink to fill the silence for a bit before she spoke again, “Perhaps a fox or a sparrow or something.”

Astoria smiled as the moment of silence fell between them, and for that moment, she admired Calum, reaching to press a kiss to his cheek. "My love, you're a prefect now. That means trouble doesn't find us as easily as it used to." She teased. "Calum Hood, you've made me the happiest girl at Hogwarts, you really have." Astoria smiled, squeezing his hand gently - a quiet stance of solidarity - as she followed him, sticking close to the golden skinned boy as the sky began to dull, a sign of the times with the early sunsets of the Scottish winter. Looking to Calum, Astoria wondered just how lucky she'd gotten to have someone as wonderful as Calum Hood at her side. "I'm falling for you, Calum... I never want this to end."

Luke grinned with Ember's question. "Well, I have quite the collection!" Luke playfully nudged Ember, wanting her to be comfortable with him, wanting her heart to soar the way his did whenever he looked at her, heard her voice, her laugh, the way he had fallen hopelessly in love with her whole existence. Sighing happily with the thought, Luke gently pulled Ember closer, to the point there was no space left between them - and Luke knew that this was what he wanted, more than anything. "Although my favourite is fudge, personally." Luke grinned. "But, my Mum always sends me packages with different flavours, so my collection is better than anyone's." Luke winked at Ember then, wondering just how on earth he would manage to impress her with fudge, of all things. "Now that you're mine," Luke pressed a kiss to the side of Ember's head then. "She'll probably be sending extra for you, too."

Euphemia held onto Michael's hand, their fingers intertwined in a way that felt meant to be, felt as though destiny itself had ensured that this moment would manifest. Leading Michael from the changing rooms, Euphemia smiled as she looked to the goal hoops, and squeezed Michael's hand. "You'd probably think of me as a fool if you found out I want to be a professional Quidditch player." Euphemia whispered - she wanted Michael to think highly of her, and her parents had always told Euphemia that her dream was silly, and they wouldn't dare allow their only daughter to berate the Smith name in that way. Looking to Michael then, Euphemia smiled. "What about you? What do you want to do once you leave the castle?"

Ashton listened to Rowan carefully, committing the sound of her voice to memory, just as he'd done all the times before - but this time, it was different. She spoke to him with ease instead of hesitance, and Ashton knew he could get used to this, the change of pace and change of heart, quite easily. "A sparrow would suit you quite well." Ashton nodded with a sip of his butterbeer, and with her question, he nodded. "Of course, it was a spell I learned just before coming to Hogwarts. Mine's a magpie." Ashton smiled then. "Although, my happy memory has certainly changed over the years." Ashton smiled, nursing his butterbeer. "I think you'll pick it up quite easily." Ashton grinned then, dimpled and hiding a small bit of mischief. "No matter what I've said to you in the past, Rowan, I didn't mean any of it. I believe you're quite a brilliant witch." Ashton smiled softly then. "Another butterbeer?"