Chapter Eight: The Waltz
By Natali K. A.
-Lily's POV-
"Lily?"
My head snapped up, looking around to see who had called my name. (Well, not quite true. I knew who had called for me I just didn't know where James happened to be.)
"Yes, James?" I replied, digging around in my jewelry box again. I couldn't find these blasted earrings and they were being such a terrible bother!
"Are you ready to go?" He stepped out of his walk-in closet (lucky bastard), in the process of tying his tie. "Mum and Dad've already left, and while it's great to be fashionably late, you can only stretch it so far."
"I can't find the emeralds my father gave me for my tenth birthday," I muttered. "It's the only thing that goes with this dress. I knew I should've laid them out beforehand…"
James sighed a little and walked over to where I was sitting. Opening the last drawer, his fingers went in and came back out with my emerald earrings.
"Why, thank you, sweetheart." I stretched up and gave him a pop kiss. "Will you put the necklace on me?"
He did as I asked-what a good little boy he is. But the look he was giving my reflection in the mirror was nothing boyish in the least.
"You look amazing."
I smiled up at him. I was officially ready to go to my second political party now and James had assured me that by the end of tonight, everyone would be all over me.
Surprisingly, I'd received a letter from Dahlia a week after that first party, inviting me to go shopping in Paris with a bunch of the girls I'd met that night. Unfortunately, Fira was not there.
I had been in the mood to bitch at her.
Sirius had assured me she'd be in attendance tonight. Along with this promise was the warning that Fira wouldn't be afraid of making a pass at James right in front of my nose. He also told me how to retaliate.
I believe his exact words were somewhere in the neighborhood of being very firm but clear all while remaining polite and telling her to fuck off.
I adore how Sirius doesn't mince words.
The day shopping in Paris had been delightful. Unbeknownst to me, James had supplied Dahlia with money to buy me whatever caught my eye. As a result, I now have more clothes than I know what to do with. I would've been extremely upset with James had he not begged my forgiveness, saying that he couldn't bare to think of me roaming Paris without having the liberty of buying whatever caught my fancy.
(Dahlia didn't shirk at the task either. I am now the proud owner of a camel which resides somewhere in Saudi Arabia. When I said I wondered what it was like to have one, I did not literally mean I wanted one. The camel's name is Armeg. I made it up-it cost an arm and a leg.)
"Hang on tight," James told me as I grabbed his arm in order to apparate with him.
Three seconds later, we were in the house of some duke or earl or something of Wales.
Oh, my. Lots of people.
-----------
-Sirius' POV-
"There they are," I muttered to Bobby and Kathy. "God only knows what took them so long." We watched as James walked over to us, the beautiful flower-the topic of all conversations now-on his arm.
I wonder if the Potters know that James and Lily spent the night in his room…? Probably not. We have always been excellent at charms and the one on his room is no different.
"Lily, dear!" Kathy exclaimed, practically pushing Bobby aside to get to her. "You look fantastic. Did you buy that on your Parisian excursion?"
"I didn't know you knew about that."
"Of course I did. The mothers are always in touch."
"I didn't actually," Lily said, kissing Kathy's and then Bobby's cheeks. She gave me a little hug. "James bought it for me."
"James, since when do you have fashion sense?" I asked cheekily.
"She means she got it in Paris but I supplied the money," James muttered, glancing around. "I think we should get started introducing her, don't you? The French countess is here, isn't she?"
"There in the corner," I replied. "I'll let you go. I have someone I want to bother."
Bobby raised a brow at me. "Leave Miss Fira alone, Sirius."
I shrugged. "If she gets in my way, she will regret it."
I walked off, fuming once again. How dare she make that jibe about my family? It's no secret, obviously, that I'm estranged from my crazy family but there was no reason to bring the Potters into it.
I think that it's time, once and for all, to tell Fira exactly what she is to James and what she isn't. But for the sake of Mr. and Mrs. Potter-and Lily, who would no doubt get some of the stray bullets from Fira's few faithfuls-I'll let Fira make the first move.
"Black, come on over."
Alright, so I purposely walked past her.
"Yes, Fira?" I asked tersely. Oh, please let her give me a reason… Anything will do.
"Jenkinson here seems to be of the opinion that I was purposely making a stab at the rift between you and your family, but I insist that I wasn't. Please correct him?" She smiled prettily at me, daring me with her eyes to contradict her.
How she underestimates me.
"Not only was she bringing out my family history, Jenkinson, she was also dirtying the Potters' fine name by saying they encouraged it," I told the man flatly. "You see, Fira's been peeved for years because James won't have sex with her. One can't blame her, I suppose, her being the little slut that she is. Now that Lily Evans is in the picture-you should stop by and meet her, she's a dear-she wants to tarnish the Potter family name as much as possible so they won't be respected." I turned then to Fira. "But you are very mistaken if you think people will actually care."
Without awaiting a response, I turned on my heel and headed back in the direction of Lily and James, my job completed.
It wouldn't have been more satisfying if I'd been able to physically slap her. Though that's always a thought... I am only so much a gentleman, after all.
---------------
-James' POV-
"James, you have to let me dance with her," Charles Smith said when a waltz started up. "I hope you'll let me steal her for just a dance."
"Sorry, Charles, I'm quite possessive about her," I shrugged, knowing he'd understand. Good ol' Charles. "You're lucky I let you talk to her."
Lily sniffed indignantly. "Thank you for giving me my own choice, James."
"Anytime, Lils."
"If you won't let Charles dance with her, I suggest that you go and do it yourself. I can see several men heading in this direction," Sirius muttered, sipping some whiskey he'd nicked from a House Elf.
"Lily?" I asked, taking her hand in mine. The party was almost over, thankfully. If I have to put up with anymore winks and nudges or compliments I'm going to hang myself.
"I don't know how to waltz," Lily hissed. "Why are you dragging me out on the dance floor?"
"It's easy. Anyhow, I'm good enough for the two of us. Just follow my lead," I muttered. I found an empty spot and drew her close to me. I began dancing and she caught the hang of it eventually. She definitely wasn't a professional, but she was passably good. I even got a giggle out of her when I whirled around a corner sharply.
"I could get used to this," Lily said, relaxing enough to enjoy the dance. "These parties aren't as boring as you think they are."
"After seventeen years, I think you'll find them dull," I grumbled. Ah, my mouth is loose from drinking those cups of wine… "But I'm glad you like them. I'm hoping you'll be accompanying me from here on out."
"That's a lot of parties," Lily replied, leaning her head on my shoulder.
"I know."
"I'd be happy to come with you and entertain you."
"I'm glad to hear it." I want very badly to kiss her or something, but with everyone looking on… I sighed, loathing every single person that was standing in my way of kissing her. "I love you," I blurted out in compensation.
Oh. Hmm.
"I love you, too," she whispered.
We finished out the song like that, after which we made our way back to our group as if nothing had happened.
And perhaps nothing really had. I don't think the words really needed to be said. I'd known she loved me-I didn't need it spelled out for me. But there was, however, something very official about stating it aloud.
I think it was then that I realized I wanted to marry her, and that I would very soon. Not sure when, but soon. Ideas started formulating in my head as to when I'd go buy the ring-with Sirius by my side since he is the stylish faggot of the group and all-and how proud I'd be when she finally wore it.
"Sirius, mate," I muttered, drawing him aside a little. "Leave next weekend open, alright?"
Sirius raised an eyebrow. "Oh? I was wondering how long it'd take you to figure it out. I've been leaving my weekends open for a few weeks now."
I glared at him. "You think you know me so well, don't you? What made you think that you'd be invited to come along?"
"Because you have terrible taste, James," Sirius said flatly. "Duh."
I punched him, not at all nicely, and he grimaced obligingly.
"I shouldn't let you go, just for that. Remus doesn't have too bad of an eye, you know."
"Ha! Remus would probably get something even uglier than you would. Remus can dress himself just fine, but I assure you that he can't pick out jewelry," Sirius snorted. "What are you looking for exactly and how much are you willing to spend?"
"Shut up," I snapped, making sure Lily hadn't heard. She hadn't; she'd been too busy talking to Dahlia and showing off her dress. "You know very well I'll probably put myself in debt for it. It doesn't matter. We'll talk about this later, eh?"
"Done deal," Sirius grinned. "When are you going to ask?"
"I don't know, leave me alone."
"Are you going to take her to dinner?"
"How should I know?"
"Are you gonna get down on bended knee?"
"Sirius, I am not discussing this anymore." I turned and began talking to one of my father's friends, Sirius' chuckle irritating me.
Idiot.
------------------
-Fira's POV-
"Go on over, Fira," one of my friends, Stacey, whispered. "You're never going to get him alone; she's been stuck to his side all night."
"If my father hadn't just had to introduce me to that old coot Warrington, I would have gone over while that whore danced with Mr. Potter," I grumbled, pissed off at my waste of a father.
"Well, she's busy talking to Dahlia and that crowd. She won't even notice you."
"I doubt that. She's an evil, conniving little-Ugh, there's not even an insult bad enough to describe her!" I hissed angrily. "But no matter, it's not like I care. I give it another month and she'll be gone and barely even a memory. It takes more than pretty looks and a low cut dress to keep up with us-though I, personally, think she's hideous."
"Fira, you're my mate and everything," Stacey told me, "but that girl's gorgeous. There's no doubt about it."
I glared at her. "Go suck your dad's balls." I headed for James, convinced that I would get him to shag me. The reason he's never said no is because he's such a gentleman or doesn't wish his parents to know. But at the moment, his parents are nowhere near him and I'll relieve him of any such silly concerns as manners.
The bedroom is no place for manners. Though I don't restrict myself solely to a bed.
"James," I smiled, using my most winning smile. I put my hand on his arm and leaned close. He gave me the strangest look but didn't pull away-a sign that he has no wish to!
"There is this lovely little backroom," I whispered into his ear, "where no one goes and there's sure to be a lot of privacy."
"Is there really?"
Hmm. Had I known any better, I would have said he was… uninterested. How silly.
"Yes, really," I giggled. "Come check it out with me, would you? I've always wanted to explore it, but I am so afraid of dark places."
"Fira, I really don't think that would be such a great idea. You'll have to ask your father to take you or something like that."
Was that an insult?
My smile began to strain. I decided to play myself up a little more. I let my breast touch his arm.
"Fira. How lovely to see you again. You mustn't have seen me earlier, because you completely ignored me," Lily interrupted, disengaging me from James to give me a hug.
The bitch!
"Yes, I'm afraid I missed you. How have you been?" I asked dryly.
"Great and yourself? Oh, do come with me to speak to your friend there, Stacey was it? I've just finished hearing that she collects dolls." She steered me away from James, to my annoyance.
The little skank. I hope she rots in hell.
"Stacey? It's a silly thing really," I snapped, not bothering to contain my hatred. We reached Stacey. "I didn't know you were interested in things like that, Lily."
Lily nodded, an evil smile on her lips. "If it's a silly little hobby and just something Stacey collects on the side, I do pray you'll excuse me. I left Dahlia in the middle of a thrilling tale and I promised I'd be back. Stacey, I would, however, love to hear about your doll collection at a later time. Later, girls."
My eyes bore holes through her retreating back, and I wished with all my might that her ugly little red head would just pop off or some bloody thing like that!!
"What do you mean `silly'? My collection isn't silly! Is that what you really think, Fira?" Stacey gasped. "All the others are right."
"Right about what exactly?" I rolled my eyes.
"You are a self-centered, lying skank whore bitch," Stacey said in a whisper, eyes narrowed. "Excuse me, I've got better people to chat with."
Who said that about me?!
------------------
-Chloe's POV-
I drew my robe tighter around me as I stepped down into the common room. Sirius Black was there, looking at some weird piece of parchment.
"You're up late," I yawned. "Or did you just get up like me?"
Sirius started and looked at his watch. "Wow, I hadn't noticed it was past four." He shrugged, rolling up the parchment. It intrigued me because I knew he was hiding something, even though he'd been very nonchalant about it. "Couldn't sleep?" he asked.
"I was sleeping fine until Ariana started snoring loudly," I growled. "It's not her fault, I suppose. She's got sinuses again. But it was irritating nonetheless. What about you?"
"I suffer from insomnia."
"I didn't know."
He smiled. "Usually I stay up in the dormitory, but… Well, James and Lily were up there."
I snickered. "Yes, I know. She never came in last night. Didn't they put a Silencing Charm though?"
"Oh, of course, but it creeps me out anyway," he shuddered. "Have a seat, Chloe." He patted the couch next to him and I plopped down, yawning again.
"Was the party fun?"
"Not really. It never is. I don't know why I even bother going anymore."
"I say you enjoy it even though you won't admit it. It must be nice."
"It lost its novelty long ago," he said under his breath. "Unfortunately, I think I still go because it's a link to my old life and my family, no matter how much I dislike them. It's still a part of me."
I nodded. "So, this girl you've told me about. Fara?"
"Fira. Yeah, what about the ogre?"
I suppressed a grin. "I've heard nasty little stories from Lily-all from that one night and one party! Did she act up tonight in any way?"
"Of course. Tried to get James to sleep with her. Again. As always."
"What did he say?"
Sirius snorted. "Didn't have to say a word-didn't get the chance. Lily stepped in and redirected her back to her friend, who stormed off just seconds after. She got less than she deserved, but I'm satisfied for now."
I smiled proudly. "Lily's such a strong person. I'd be afraid to go against her in a fight. Or at least, if she disliked me. I fight with her often enough, but we like each other."
He nodded. "Uneventful otherwise. She was a big hit, as ever."
"Very attractive personality. James too."
"And me?"
"You too," I laughed. "You especially. So now she's like the most interesting this since the self-destructing letter?"
"In a sense. She was definitely the topic of conversation tonight. The dress sure did help."
"She did look spectacular," I said, not without a hint of envy in my voice. Lily always got to go to all the exciting parties in the amazing dresses with a handsome man.
I sensed his gaze and turned to look at him curiously.
"I would be very honored if you came with me to the next party."
Oh, well if that just isn't a big surprise!
"No, Sirius, I couldn't," I said nervously. "I wouldn't know how to act, I-"
"You just act like yourself."
"Sirius, no, I-"
"Please? They're becoming increasingly dull now that James is off seducing Lily and we don't play pranks." He gave me his favorite puppy dog eyes and I couldn't resist.
What witch could??
"Alright," I groaned. "I'll go with you. But only if you're absolutely sure!"
"I am," he said happily, laying his head on my shoulder. "I think I'm going to sleep now. You're welcome to use my good-looking self to lean on if you'd like."
I rolled my eyes. He's so arrogant.
So damn sexy.
*~*
A/N: Still on time!!! I have more than half an hour left till midnight and it's still Saturday!!! No apologies, because it's on time!!
I do, however, apologize for last week. My laptop was absent from me, and the story had been started here and yeah. Anyone who knows me knows I'm too lazy to rewrite it, lol.
As for "oz" (dontcare89), thank you for reminding me to post, and you were not being pushy at all.
Mucho love to all who review,
JOSH GROBAN IS LOVE!!!!!
Natali K. A.
-->