Potions, Dungeons, and Firewhiskey Part 16
Title: Potions, Dungeons, and Firewhiskey
Fandoms: All My Children/Harry Potter
Pairing: Frankie/Bianca
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Um...do you really think I could possibly own any of this?
Spoilers: Nothing really for either All My Children or Harry Potter. Just know the generalities of the Harry Potter World and that Bianca's kinda gay.
Summary: Two Houses Both Alike in Dignity...
The early morning sun spilled into Gryffindor Tower, lazily spreading across the floor and over the empty beds. As the bright light crept higher and higher, it touched the edge of the one occupied bed. The golden glow washed over the rumpled sheets and blankets, filling each crevice and contour before finally settling on the young marble hued face. Bianca’s eyelids pressed down harder, fighting to stay asleep. She was in the middle of a very good dream. She was walking hand in hand in Hogsmeade with a certain blonde haired hazel eyed Slytherin. Her friends were around them, talking with Frankie as if they all were old friends. Alas, much to Bianca’s displeasure, the sun wouldn’t go away. It kept shining right on her face.
With a groan, Bianca rolled over onto her stomach. She sleepily flung her pillow over her head. It was way too early to be waking up. Besides, she did not want to leave this dream. The sun seemed to have different plans, though, because its bright rays snuck around the tip of the pillow and dove into the tiny opening Bianca allowed for air. If only she didn’t have to breathe! There probably was a spell for that, but the brunette was too tired to even think about what it could be. Why did the sun have to be shining right on her?
The images of a chuckling Frankie joking with Dani, Erin, and Babe while wrapping her arm around Bianca’s waist slowly drifted away. Bianca shut her eyes even tighter, forming wrinkles as she tired desperately to make them stay.
It didn’t work.
Letting out another pitiful groan, Bianca slammed her fist against the mattress. She pressed her face into the bed and sighed. Becoming more awake by the second, she released a breath and blinked open her eyes. She peeked out from beneath her pillow and glared at the light. If one could hex sunlight, she’d have done it. That would require moving, however. Her exhausted body told her in no uncertain terms that wasn’t happening. Even if her wand was only about a foot away on the nightstand, that would require extending her arm out - into that blasted sunlight - , grasping the wand, flicking her wrist, and muttering the spell. Yeah, not happening. She was lucky if she could even roll back over onto her back.
It wasn’t her fault she was so tired. She’d been up to the wee hours of the morning. Frankie had braved Filch’s security camp - Bianca didn’t ask how she got past the caretaker, but Frankie’s smug smirk had her thinking it might have involved the loud explosion she heard earlier that evening - to meet up with Bianca. They’d hung out together in an empty classroom trading stories and a few kisses. Bianca had really wanted to spend that time with Frankie because….
Wait.
Bianca bolted into a sitting position, her pillow flying off and landing on the floor with a gentle thump. Her gaze darted to the window the sunlight came from, and she could make out tiny snowflakes dancing against the glass. It was daytime. That meant…
Christmas!
It was Christmas! She’d spent Christmas Eve with Frankie. That’s why the girl tricked her way by Filch. Bianca wanted to spend all of Christmas with Frankie, and that included Christmas Eve.
Bianca bounced giddily on her bed, a giant smile forming. It was finally here! Christmas. This was so exciting. As her gaze swept from the window, a burst of laughter bubbled up inside. There, at the foot of her bed, were piles upon piles of packages. Boxes and bags of every shape, color, and size were stacked together, gleaming in the light. Suddenly not tired at all, Bianca hopped off her bed and raced to the gifts. She looked over the bounty with barely suppressed glee. There were presents from her mother and stepfather, her cousins, her aunts and uncles, everyone! This was great. She’d never seen so many presents for her in one spot. Usually, she’d have to wait till her mother and Jack were awake to go downstairs and open their gifts. Then, she had to wait till after Christmas supper with the rest of the family to exchange presents. But, here they all were ready and waiting.
Bianca bit her lip, a flash of sadness hitting her. This would be the first time she’d ever spent Christmas without her family. She plucked at a dangling nametag and flipped it over to read. It was a gift from her stepfather. She wouldn’t be there to hear Jacks’s good-natured ribbing about how much her mother shopped. She wouldn’t get to see her cousins or watch a few of the sports-minded relatives put together a quick quidditch match. None of her grandmother’s infamous fruit cake that everyone secretly dared each other to eat. Picking up the package, Bianca twisted it in her hands. It was a pure white box about the size of one of her textbooks. A dark forest green ribbon looped around it and tied off into a perfect bow.
Green. That was one of the Slytherin colors - Frankie’s colors. The smile returned to Bianca’s face. She might not be spending Christmas with her family, but she was spending it with Frankie. And that was just as special as any horrendous fruit cake dares and shopping jokes. Considering the fluttering in her belly that popped up at only the thought of her girlfriend, it might be even more special.
A sudden urge to rush out and find Frankie hit Bianca like Opal did when the owl’s trajectory was a little off. Would Frankie even be up? They’d been together really late the night before. Bianca rolled her eyes. Frankie was always up. She swore that girl never slept. Thinking about it, Frankie was probably devising some scheme to upend Filch’s camp.
But, there were gifts, too. Bianca felt the weight of the present in her hands and looked down at it. There were so many and they were right there all for her. Like any teenager, she wanted to see what she got. She jiggled the box around, listening to the soft noises the inside made as it hit the box’s walls. Merlin, she wondered what Jack got her. Maybe some candy? She did have a craving for sugar quills.
Would Frankie want some sugar quills? They could munch of them together in Potions. That is, if the candy even lasted that long. They could eat them today. Bianca chewed on her lip. She wanted to see Frankie all day today. She wanted…to do everything Christmasy with Frankie. That meant opening gifts together. She wanted to open presents with Frankie.
Bianca sighed and reluctantly set the box back down. This would just have to wait a few more minutes. She could wait to open them. It would be tough, but she could do it.
Waiting any longer to see Frankie, on the other hand, was out of the question.
*****
Bianca sped out of Gryffindor tower. Her long locks, still wet from the hurried shower she took, flung water droplets into the air. Her cardigan sweater clung to her heated skin, and her skin was slightly red from the quick scrubbing she gave herself. She bounded onto one of the many moving staircases, pausing as it left the landing and swung around. Where would Frankie be? Still in bed catching up on her sleep? Bianca shook her head. She had no idea how the blonde did everything she did. Frankie must be running on a few hours of sleep every night during the regular school year. Maybe that was one of the things she did during break. She slept and played pranks on Filch. Bianca smiled to herself. Pranks were frowned upon by most of the staff, but it seemed Frankie had it down to an art. Bianca should be scolding her girlfriend, but the mixture of cockiness and utter amusement Frankie got from a job well done was too much to pass up. If Bianca had to bet on it, she’d say Frankie took pride in her pranks. If it made the blonde happy, then it was ok. As long as those pranks weren’t aimed at her friends.
Or, was Frankie at breakfast? It was a ritual of Frankie’s Bianca was sure wouldn’t be broken. Everyday Frankie was up and eating breakfast before the rest of the castle even thought of opening their eyes. Bianca bit her lip. Why did Frankie eat breakfast so early? She ate lunch and dinner with everyone else. Why not breakfast? Hmmm, that was something she’d have to ask her.
Glancing around as the staircase slowed to a stop. Bianca tilted her head curiously. Something was…were those icicles? Yes, they were. Icicles were draped on the banisters. The smooth slick formations of frozen water dangled majestically every few feet. It looked so pretty.
Stepping off the stairs, Bianca took one last glance at the icicles before walking down the corridor. Where would she look first? The Great Hall? The Dungeons? She might run into Filch down there. That would be an explanation if there ever was one. The lone Gryffindor waltzing into the Slytherin area of the castle - Filch would probably threaten to hang her from her ankles.
Bianca halted and frowned. What was that? In the distance she heard a noise. Picking up her pace, she darted toward it. Turning a corner, she was met with quite a sight. A row of suits of armor lined the hallway. Each suit had a candle lit inside, casting a cheerful glow.
And each suit of armor was singing.
The deep voices did their best to harmonize with each other. They belted out jingle bells, the jaunty tune causing their forms to almost sway to the beat. A few of the suits stumbled through the verses, forgetting the words. A burst of Christmas spirit jolted through Bianca at the song. She beamed and found her hands clapping along to the song. Her foot tapped in time and she hummed along. At the end of the song, she gave a round of applause.
The suits of armor began silver bells as Bianca started to walk again. While the suits of armor were great, even if they didn’t seem to know all the words to the carols, she wanted to find Frankie. Maybe they could watch the suits together. Frankie would probably scoff at them and make some snide remark, but she’d secretly love it. Oh Merlin, she couldn’t wait to see Frankie. This was going to be an awesome Christmas. Bianca hopped onto another moving staircase and admired the hanging icicles. Lifting her eyes to scope out the room, her smile grew even wider. The walls were covered with tinsel and holly. Strands of ivy and mistletoe were interwoven. Christmas trees lined the walls at the bottom of the staircase. Peering down at them, she saw they were decorated with luminous holly berries and real live golden owls. The owls blinked rapidly up at her and hooted. The decorations were spectacular. They were so much better than what her family or the neighbors did. Don’t get her wrong, her family decorated. But, not with a dozen trees.
Stepping off the stairs, Bianca found herself in the Entrance Hall. The front doors to Hogwarts stood before her at the end of the rows of trees. The singing suits of armor could be heard faintly in the distance. Bianca chewed on her bottom lip and looked around.
Where would Frankie be?
Bianca walked through the Entrance Hall and to the Great Hall. She opened the huge wooden door and peeked inside. The room was empty. Frankie wasn’t at breakfast. With a frown, she closed the door. That was her best bet for finding Frankie. It was still early, early enough for her to be chowing down a bowl of cereal and a plateful of eggs and bacon.
Was Frankie still asleep?
Bianca bit her lip. That meant having to go down to the dungeons to find out. That meant potentially running into Filch or that other Slytherin girl.
It also meant finding Frankie.
Releasing her lip, Bianca started forward. So what if she had to enter possible danger. If it meant tracking down her girl, she was all for it.
****
That was a bust.
Frankie was nowhere near the dungeons. Well, she could have been in the Slytherin dorms, but by the sentinel stance Filch had facing away from the presumed entrance - because Bianca wasn’t entirely sure where the entrance was to any common room but her own - she figured Frankie was already out and about.
So, she wasn’t in the Great Hall. She wasn’t in the dungeons - Bianca checked a few other rooms while she was down there. Where could she be? A stray thought went through Bianca’s mind. What if Frankie was hiding from her? What if she didn’t want to spend Christmas together? The brunette shook that thought away. Frankie wanted to spend the holiday with her. She’d said so. If she didn’t want to be with Bianca, she wouldn’t have snuck out to spend Christmas Eve with her. Besides, wouldn’t the best place to hide from Bianca be the Slytherin dorms, since Bianca was unable to enter without the password.
Bianca exhaled noisily. She felt like stamping her foot in frustration. This was not how she envisioned this happening at all. She foresaw kisses and Christmas cheer, not traipsing around an empty castle in search of an elusive Slytherin.
Clenching her jaw, Bianca made her way back to Gryffindor Tower. This was ridiculous. She was crazy about Frankie, but these disappearing acts were getting really old. Did she need to put a leash on her? Yeah, that would go over very well.
Mulling over ideas on how to keep track of her girlfriend, Bianca slowly turned toward the portrait of the fat woman - the entrance to the Gryffindor common room.
Wait.
Bianca stopped and peered down the hall.
“Frankie?” Bianca asked under her breath.
Frankie sat next to the large painting, her knees curled up to her chest and her arms hung lazily around them. She was dressed in a dark green hoodie with silver stripes going down the sleeves. Loose fitting blue jeans and threadbare sneakers completed the outfit. Her head was bent, hiding her face from view. Bianca would know her anywhere, though.
“Frankie.” Bianca spoke louder. The blonde head popped up at the call.
“Frankie!” Frankie was outside her common room. A giant smile spread across her face gleefully. Frankie was waiting for her. Unable to contain her excitement, Bianca darted forward. Frankie slowly rose to her feet, barely standing when Bianca crashed into her. She slammed back into the wall, and Bianca wrapped her in a hug.
“Have you been here this whole time?” Bianca squeezed her tightly, “Merry Christmas!” Frankie went to find her. That’s why she wasn’t where Bianca was searching.
Frankie stood awkwardly, not moving to reciprocate the embrace, “Hi.”
That was not a happy tone. Even in her holiday euphoria, Bianca could hear that. She pulled back to look into a blank face, “What’s wrong?”
Frankie stared at her, the corner of her mouth twitching with concealed emotion. Bianca pressed their faces closer, trying to see into closed off eyes, “Frankie? You can’t hide things from me, so don’t even try.”
Frankie pursed her lips and chuckled bitterly, “You couldn’t help yourself, could you? Have to be the big hero, help out the poor little homeless muggle-born.”
“What?” where did this come from? Weren’t they past that?
Frankie tilted her head and averted her gaze. Bianca followed to see a pile of wrapped packages she hadn’t seen earlier. She looked back at Frankie to see the girl suppressing the flash of feeling in her orbs. Confused, Bianca stepped over to the pile, keeping one hand wrapped in Frankie’s sweatshirt. She flipped over a tag to read the names.
It was a gift to Frankie from her mother and stepfather.
Bianca felt her heart clench at the thoughtful action. She read a few more tags. They were all from her family, most coming from her mom and Jack. When she looked back at Frankie, she could see her fighting to keep an angry shine on her face.
“I don’t need your charity.” Frankie growled, but a glimmer of vulnerability appeared.
Bianca shook her head softly, “I didn’t tell them to do this.”
“Don’t lie to me.” Frankie took a deep breath, blinking roughly.
“I’m not.” Bianca swung her arms back around Frankie. “I only told them I was staying to spend the holidays with you. I didn’t tell them to send you anything. They must have done it because…you’re my friend.” This was so like her family. “They didn’t do it because of anything other than they want to give something to my friend.”
Frankie ducked her head, “I…”
Bianca sighed, “My family’s like this. They know you’re important to me, so they wanted to share the holiday with you as much as they could.”
“How do they know that?”
Bianca grinned, “I might write about you a lot. When I told them I was staying, they already knew who you were.” She didn’t even know she’d been mentioning Frankie so much.
Frankie rolled her eyes, but there was no malice in it, “You don’t know what discreet is, do you?”
Bianca pushed into Frankie, “Nope, I like showing how I feel.” She pressed her mouth to Frankie’s cheek, holding the wet kiss until Frankie squirmed. She released her with a loud pop, “Merry Christmas.”
Frankie gave a tiny wry smile and her eyes softened, “Yeah, yeah. You too.”
Bianca gave her a look before nuzzling her nose against her ear, “You can stop being angry now. Be happy. I won’t tell your friends you took a day off from being grumpy.”
“I’m not grumpy.” Frankie mumbled.
Bianca playfully cuddled into her, running the tip of her nose against the back of Frankie’s ear, where she gave a quick kiss, “My cute little grumpy Slytherin.”
Frankie pursed her lips to hold in the grin, and her eyes fluttered as Bianca touched the tiny sensitive patch of skin only she knew about, “Not that cute stuff again.”
Bianca maneuvered so they were face to face, “Come on, cutie. Be happy. It’s Christmas.” She winked, “And we have presents to open!”
Frankie swallowed, “Your family didn’t need to get me anything.”
“No, they didn’t. That’s part of Christmas, though. You don’t have to, but you want to.” Bianca gestured at the pile, “Now, let’s get this stuff inside.”
“Inside?” Frankie’s eyebrow ticked up. “Are you breaking the rules?”
“Only when I’m with you.” Bianca replied cheekily, “If only my parents knew how much of a bad influence you are on me.” She turned to the painting, “Fiddlesticks.”
Frankie snorted, “That’s your password? Fiddlesticks? Way to go Gryffindor.”
The painting swung open to reveal the entrance to the common room. Bianca glanced at Frankie who had her wand out and was charming the gifts to float in the air. “Why, what’s it for Slytherin? Arrogance? Narcissism?”
Frankie concentrated on the packages and kept her wand steady. “Wrong.” The real password wasn’t so nice. When she reached the entrance, she paused, “You certain you want to let an evil Slytherin into the bowels of heroic goodness? I might melt or something.”
“I’ll mop up the dark puddle after I open my gifts.” Bianca shot back. She waved Frankie on, “Hurry up, cutie.”
“Stop calling me that.” Frankie grumbled and maneuvered the floating presents through the hole, following a few steps behind. Bianca walked behind her, unconsciously putting her hand on Frankie’s back. By the way the packages dipped down before righting themselves again, Frankie noticed.
Walking into the large circular room, Frankie carefully lowered her pile to the floor. Done, she studied the room. “It’s so red.”
Bianca smirked and quickly kissed the back of her head, “Scared?”
“Absolutely terrified.” Frankie deadpanned. “I can feel mediocrity seeping into my veins already.”
“Funny.” Bianca stepped around her. “I’m going to get my gifts and bring them down. We can open them here.”
“Whatever.” Frankie was already heading toward the cushiony couch in front of the fire.
Bianca watched as the other girl flopped down onto the sofa. She saw as hazel eyes tripped back to the gaggle of gifts every few moments, a hint of uncertainty in the stare. Frankie tugged the sleeves of her sweatshirt down over her hands and hunched over, clear contemplation on her face. Not wanting to waste anymore time, even though watching Frankie was far from a waste, Bianca sped up the stairs to her dorm. She took a page from Frankie’s book and charmed the bunch down to rest next to Frankie’s. She bounced over to the sofa and literally dove next to Frankie. The blonde laughed at her exuberance and gazed tenderly at her, “Someone’s excited.”
“Christmas morning with you and a bunch of presents? I might be.” Bianca grabbed a random package and pressed it into Frankie’s hands, “You go first.”
Frankie’s brow furrowed and she hesitantly twisted the box in her grasp. She wasn’t used to this. In the five years she’d been at Hogwarts, this was the first time she’d woken up to gifts at the end of her bed. “Why don’t you go first?”
“Because I want to see what you got.” Bianca nestled into her side.
Frankie spun the box around, looking at it from all angles.
“You’re supposed to tear away the wrapping paper.” Bianca supplied, snuggling into Frankie. Her body was warmed by the fire, and she felt so soft.
Frankie rolled her eyes, “Thanks.”
“Anytime.”
Frankie tore her gaze away to glance at Bianca before cautiously peeling back the paper. Bianca snuck a supportive arm around her waist and rested her head on her shoulder. Frankie tossed away the last vestiges of colored paper and lifted the lid from the box.
Bianca wrinkled her nose, “They got you a book?” Her stepfather really got her a book? Frankie’s first gift was a book?
Frankie’s wide eyes said she wasn’t unhappy about that, “This is fantastic.”
Bianca gave her a funny look, “What?”
Frankie flipped open the cover and rifled through the pages, “Quidditch Through the Ages.” She shot a dry look to Bianca, “It’s a book about that sport you don’t like.”
“Funny.”
Frankie didn’t hear her, too engrossed in what she’d gotten. Bianca quieted and watched as Frankie looked at every page front and back. Bianca felt a fluttering in her belly at the pure joy in her eyes. She reached up and tucked a loose blonde strand behind Frankie’s ear, “I’m glad you like it.”
Frankie coughed and shrugged, “Well, it’s…it’s alright.”
Oh Frankie, when will you stop acting, “For something about quidditch.”
“Not everyone’s mental like you and hates quidditch.”
“Apparently you and my stepfather.”
Frankie closed the book, “Your…uh…stepdad’s nice for…sending this. He wasn’t a Hufflepuff, was he?”
“Gryffindor.” All of her family was.
“Well, guess there are bleeding hearts in this house too.”
Bianca read between the lines, “I’ll let him know you said thanks.”
Frankie rolled her shoulders and deflected, “Shouldn’t you be opening gifts?”
Bianca gave her a small reprieve and snatched up another box.
***
After an hour of unwrapping, Bianca and Frankie sat on opposite ends of the couch, their opened gifts surrounding them. Bianca alternated between fiddling with her newest possessions and watching Frankie try to subtly touch everything she’d gotten. As she set down the broomstick servicing kit, Frankie clumsily cleared her throat and reached into her pocket. Bianca’s eyebrows knit together, but she beamed as Frankie pulled out a slightly battered package.
“Here,” Frankie held it out.
Bianca took the package, running her fingers against Frankie’s hand as she did so, “Frankie, you didn’t have to.”
Frankie shrugged, “Wanted to.”
You don’t do it because you have to but because you want to. Frankie had been listening. Bianca couldn’t help but gush, “You got me a present.”
“No big deal.” Frankie nodded, “Open it.”
It was a big deal, but Bianca wouldn’t press. She wanted to see what Frankie bought her, anyway. She tore the paper away and lifted the lid. Inside laid a silver charm bracelet. Gaping, Bianca held it up to the light. The fire’s glow reflected off the silver, making the item shine beautifully. “Oh, Frankie.”
Frankie bit back the pleased smile, “I take it you like it.”
Bianca nodded, mesmerized by the shimmer, “It’s wonderful.” She cradled the lone charm dangling from the bracelet against her palm. She wondered what it could be. It would be something special, right? Something sentimental for them?
It was a quill.
Sensing Bianca’s confusion, Frankie smirked, “Don’t remember?”
“Remember?” Bianca peeked at her.
Frankie pointed at the quill, “Hogsmeade last year.”
“I remember Hogsmeade, Frankie.” It was what started it all.
“Clearly not everything.”
“I remember you kissing me.” No way she forgot that.
Frankie smirked harder, “I thought you went after me.”
“You lured me with a bottle of firewhiskey…” Bianca trailed off.
“behind Scrivenshaft’s Quill Shop.” Frankie finished for her.
Bianca gasped, “That’s right.” It all came back to her. She looked at the quill charm, “A quill.” It made sense now.
“Forgotten already?” Frankie teased.
“Never.” Bianca stood up. She walked up to Frankie and pulled her to her feet. “Thank you.” She hugged her tightly.
“You’re welcome.” Frankie murmured, “Just don’t lose it.” She couldn’t afford to replace it.
Bianca lightly smacked her shoulder, “I wouldn’t.” She held the bracelet up to Frankie, “Put it on me?”
Frankie rolled her eyes but grabbed the bracelet. She clipped it on Bianca’s wrist, casually lifting her arm up to plant a tiny kiss at her pulse point. Entirely enamored, Bianca cupped Frankie’s face and brought their lips together. Both shivered at the touch.
Bianca broke away first, inhaling deeply before giving Frankie a quick peck, “I got you something, too.”
“I kind of like this.” Frankie leapt back in for another kiss.
Bianca smiled into the kiss, “Me, too. But, I got you something else.”
Frankie let her go, and Bianca ran over to her pile of objects. Hidden beneath a bag of candy, she revealed a box with a green and silver bow on top.
“Clever.” Frankie glanced at the bow as Bianca handed the box to her.
“Thank you.” Bianca clapped her hands together, “Now, open it.”
Frankie studied the box, “It’s not going to explode, is it?”
“No, Frankie. This isn’t one of your pranks.”
“Maybe it’s a potion.” Frankie snarked.
“Maybe I should take it back.” Bianca playfully lunged for the box.
Frankie dodged out of the way, “No!” she lowered her voice, “I mean, you can’t give someone something and take it back. Maybe Gryffindors do it that way, but civilized people know that’s rude.”
Bianca laughed to herself, “Right, Frankie. You don’t want me to be rude.”
Frankie clutched the box safely, “Precisely.”
By the way Frankie was holding onto the box like it was something precious, Bianca thought it might be a little more than Frankie was letting on. But, she, for once, decided to wait patiently and not tease Frankie anymore. Maybe it was the gentleness in Frankie’s eyes or the touched look on her face, but she knew this really was special to the blonde. Just like the charm bracelet was special to her. She fingered the quill absently, knowing instinctively she was never taking it off.
Frankie steeled her gaze and unwound the bow from the box. She took off the lid and froze. Stoically, she picked up the necklace. The necklace itself was somewhat thick, Bianca wanting to be sure it could stand up to whatever wild activity Frankie got into. The chain was a mixture of silver and gold, the two metals interwoven so they almost blended together into one. At the end hung a heart shaped pendant. In the firelight, flickers of red and green appeared across the surface.
Frankie silently stared at it, no expression on her face.
Bianca grew more and more nervous with each passing second. Why wasn’t Frankie saying anything? Not even a joke or snide comment. Oh no, she must hate it. It was too much too soon. She should have gone for the poster of the Montrose Magpies. But, Frankie got her jewelry. Yeah, hers included a heart and Frankie’s didn’t, but that was just…a small difference. Frankie included a quill!
Frankie tapped the heart, and it opened, revealing two empty sides. Bianca spoke up, “It’s a locket. We can take pictures and put them in there.” She was going to put photos in beforehand, but she didn’t have any of Frankie.
Frankie just stared.
Bianca deflated. She hated it. “Frankie, I’m…”
She was cut off as a body flung into her. A tiny oomph escaped Bianca’s lips as Frankie hugged her. Before she could raise her arms to return the embrace, though, Frankie jumped back. The Slytherin blinked and shook her head, “Thanks. It’s really nice, Bianca.” Frankie gave her all to appear unaffected, but it wasn’t working for a moment.
“Not too much?” Frankie looked so adorable trying to be tough.
“No, not too much.” Frankie sniffed. “It’s, you know, really nice.” She cleared her throat, “Not bad for a troll.”
Bianca was so elated, she didn’t even snap back at the troll comment. Instead, she pulled Frankie back to her and nestled into the warm hold.
Fandoms: All My Children/Harry Potter
Pairing: Frankie/Bianca
Rating: PG-13
Disclaimer: Um...do you really think I could possibly own any of this?
Spoilers: Nothing really for either All My Children or Harry Potter. Just know the generalities of the Harry Potter World and that Bianca's kinda gay.
Summary: Two Houses Both Alike in Dignity...
The early morning sun spilled into Gryffindor Tower, lazily spreading across the floor and over the empty beds. As the bright light crept higher and higher, it touched the edge of the one occupied bed. The golden glow washed over the rumpled sheets and blankets, filling each crevice and contour before finally settling on the young marble hued face. Bianca’s eyelids pressed down harder, fighting to stay asleep. She was in the middle of a very good dream. She was walking hand in hand in Hogsmeade with a certain blonde haired hazel eyed Slytherin. Her friends were around them, talking with Frankie as if they all were old friends. Alas, much to Bianca’s displeasure, the sun wouldn’t go away. It kept shining right on her face.
With a groan, Bianca rolled over onto her stomach. She sleepily flung her pillow over her head. It was way too early to be waking up. Besides, she did not want to leave this dream. The sun seemed to have different plans, though, because its bright rays snuck around the tip of the pillow and dove into the tiny opening Bianca allowed for air. If only she didn’t have to breathe! There probably was a spell for that, but the brunette was too tired to even think about what it could be. Why did the sun have to be shining right on her?
The images of a chuckling Frankie joking with Dani, Erin, and Babe while wrapping her arm around Bianca’s waist slowly drifted away. Bianca shut her eyes even tighter, forming wrinkles as she tired desperately to make them stay.
It didn’t work.
Letting out another pitiful groan, Bianca slammed her fist against the mattress. She pressed her face into the bed and sighed. Becoming more awake by the second, she released a breath and blinked open her eyes. She peeked out from beneath her pillow and glared at the light. If one could hex sunlight, she’d have done it. That would require moving, however. Her exhausted body told her in no uncertain terms that wasn’t happening. Even if her wand was only about a foot away on the nightstand, that would require extending her arm out - into that blasted sunlight - , grasping the wand, flicking her wrist, and muttering the spell. Yeah, not happening. She was lucky if she could even roll back over onto her back.
It wasn’t her fault she was so tired. She’d been up to the wee hours of the morning. Frankie had braved Filch’s security camp - Bianca didn’t ask how she got past the caretaker, but Frankie’s smug smirk had her thinking it might have involved the loud explosion she heard earlier that evening - to meet up with Bianca. They’d hung out together in an empty classroom trading stories and a few kisses. Bianca had really wanted to spend that time with Frankie because….
Wait.
Bianca bolted into a sitting position, her pillow flying off and landing on the floor with a gentle thump. Her gaze darted to the window the sunlight came from, and she could make out tiny snowflakes dancing against the glass. It was daytime. That meant…
Christmas!
It was Christmas! She’d spent Christmas Eve with Frankie. That’s why the girl tricked her way by Filch. Bianca wanted to spend all of Christmas with Frankie, and that included Christmas Eve.
Bianca bounced giddily on her bed, a giant smile forming. It was finally here! Christmas. This was so exciting. As her gaze swept from the window, a burst of laughter bubbled up inside. There, at the foot of her bed, were piles upon piles of packages. Boxes and bags of every shape, color, and size were stacked together, gleaming in the light. Suddenly not tired at all, Bianca hopped off her bed and raced to the gifts. She looked over the bounty with barely suppressed glee. There were presents from her mother and stepfather, her cousins, her aunts and uncles, everyone! This was great. She’d never seen so many presents for her in one spot. Usually, she’d have to wait till her mother and Jack were awake to go downstairs and open their gifts. Then, she had to wait till after Christmas supper with the rest of the family to exchange presents. But, here they all were ready and waiting.
Bianca bit her lip, a flash of sadness hitting her. This would be the first time she’d ever spent Christmas without her family. She plucked at a dangling nametag and flipped it over to read. It was a gift from her stepfather. She wouldn’t be there to hear Jacks’s good-natured ribbing about how much her mother shopped. She wouldn’t get to see her cousins or watch a few of the sports-minded relatives put together a quick quidditch match. None of her grandmother’s infamous fruit cake that everyone secretly dared each other to eat. Picking up the package, Bianca twisted it in her hands. It was a pure white box about the size of one of her textbooks. A dark forest green ribbon looped around it and tied off into a perfect bow.
Green. That was one of the Slytherin colors - Frankie’s colors. The smile returned to Bianca’s face. She might not be spending Christmas with her family, but she was spending it with Frankie. And that was just as special as any horrendous fruit cake dares and shopping jokes. Considering the fluttering in her belly that popped up at only the thought of her girlfriend, it might be even more special.
A sudden urge to rush out and find Frankie hit Bianca like Opal did when the owl’s trajectory was a little off. Would Frankie even be up? They’d been together really late the night before. Bianca rolled her eyes. Frankie was always up. She swore that girl never slept. Thinking about it, Frankie was probably devising some scheme to upend Filch’s camp.
But, there were gifts, too. Bianca felt the weight of the present in her hands and looked down at it. There were so many and they were right there all for her. Like any teenager, she wanted to see what she got. She jiggled the box around, listening to the soft noises the inside made as it hit the box’s walls. Merlin, she wondered what Jack got her. Maybe some candy? She did have a craving for sugar quills.
Would Frankie want some sugar quills? They could munch of them together in Potions. That is, if the candy even lasted that long. They could eat them today. Bianca chewed on her lip. She wanted to see Frankie all day today. She wanted…to do everything Christmasy with Frankie. That meant opening gifts together. She wanted to open presents with Frankie.
Bianca sighed and reluctantly set the box back down. This would just have to wait a few more minutes. She could wait to open them. It would be tough, but she could do it.
Waiting any longer to see Frankie, on the other hand, was out of the question.
*****
Bianca sped out of Gryffindor tower. Her long locks, still wet from the hurried shower she took, flung water droplets into the air. Her cardigan sweater clung to her heated skin, and her skin was slightly red from the quick scrubbing she gave herself. She bounded onto one of the many moving staircases, pausing as it left the landing and swung around. Where would Frankie be? Still in bed catching up on her sleep? Bianca shook her head. She had no idea how the blonde did everything she did. Frankie must be running on a few hours of sleep every night during the regular school year. Maybe that was one of the things she did during break. She slept and played pranks on Filch. Bianca smiled to herself. Pranks were frowned upon by most of the staff, but it seemed Frankie had it down to an art. Bianca should be scolding her girlfriend, but the mixture of cockiness and utter amusement Frankie got from a job well done was too much to pass up. If Bianca had to bet on it, she’d say Frankie took pride in her pranks. If it made the blonde happy, then it was ok. As long as those pranks weren’t aimed at her friends.
Or, was Frankie at breakfast? It was a ritual of Frankie’s Bianca was sure wouldn’t be broken. Everyday Frankie was up and eating breakfast before the rest of the castle even thought of opening their eyes. Bianca bit her lip. Why did Frankie eat breakfast so early? She ate lunch and dinner with everyone else. Why not breakfast? Hmmm, that was something she’d have to ask her.
Glancing around as the staircase slowed to a stop. Bianca tilted her head curiously. Something was…were those icicles? Yes, they were. Icicles were draped on the banisters. The smooth slick formations of frozen water dangled majestically every few feet. It looked so pretty.
Stepping off the stairs, Bianca took one last glance at the icicles before walking down the corridor. Where would she look first? The Great Hall? The Dungeons? She might run into Filch down there. That would be an explanation if there ever was one. The lone Gryffindor waltzing into the Slytherin area of the castle - Filch would probably threaten to hang her from her ankles.
Bianca halted and frowned. What was that? In the distance she heard a noise. Picking up her pace, she darted toward it. Turning a corner, she was met with quite a sight. A row of suits of armor lined the hallway. Each suit had a candle lit inside, casting a cheerful glow.
And each suit of armor was singing.
The deep voices did their best to harmonize with each other. They belted out jingle bells, the jaunty tune causing their forms to almost sway to the beat. A few of the suits stumbled through the verses, forgetting the words. A burst of Christmas spirit jolted through Bianca at the song. She beamed and found her hands clapping along to the song. Her foot tapped in time and she hummed along. At the end of the song, she gave a round of applause.
The suits of armor began silver bells as Bianca started to walk again. While the suits of armor were great, even if they didn’t seem to know all the words to the carols, she wanted to find Frankie. Maybe they could watch the suits together. Frankie would probably scoff at them and make some snide remark, but she’d secretly love it. Oh Merlin, she couldn’t wait to see Frankie. This was going to be an awesome Christmas. Bianca hopped onto another moving staircase and admired the hanging icicles. Lifting her eyes to scope out the room, her smile grew even wider. The walls were covered with tinsel and holly. Strands of ivy and mistletoe were interwoven. Christmas trees lined the walls at the bottom of the staircase. Peering down at them, she saw they were decorated with luminous holly berries and real live golden owls. The owls blinked rapidly up at her and hooted. The decorations were spectacular. They were so much better than what her family or the neighbors did. Don’t get her wrong, her family decorated. But, not with a dozen trees.
Stepping off the stairs, Bianca found herself in the Entrance Hall. The front doors to Hogwarts stood before her at the end of the rows of trees. The singing suits of armor could be heard faintly in the distance. Bianca chewed on her bottom lip and looked around.
Where would Frankie be?
Bianca walked through the Entrance Hall and to the Great Hall. She opened the huge wooden door and peeked inside. The room was empty. Frankie wasn’t at breakfast. With a frown, she closed the door. That was her best bet for finding Frankie. It was still early, early enough for her to be chowing down a bowl of cereal and a plateful of eggs and bacon.
Was Frankie still asleep?
Bianca bit her lip. That meant having to go down to the dungeons to find out. That meant potentially running into Filch or that other Slytherin girl.
It also meant finding Frankie.
Releasing her lip, Bianca started forward. So what if she had to enter possible danger. If it meant tracking down her girl, she was all for it.
****
That was a bust.
Frankie was nowhere near the dungeons. Well, she could have been in the Slytherin dorms, but by the sentinel stance Filch had facing away from the presumed entrance - because Bianca wasn’t entirely sure where the entrance was to any common room but her own - she figured Frankie was already out and about.
So, she wasn’t in the Great Hall. She wasn’t in the dungeons - Bianca checked a few other rooms while she was down there. Where could she be? A stray thought went through Bianca’s mind. What if Frankie was hiding from her? What if she didn’t want to spend Christmas together? The brunette shook that thought away. Frankie wanted to spend the holiday with her. She’d said so. If she didn’t want to be with Bianca, she wouldn’t have snuck out to spend Christmas Eve with her. Besides, wouldn’t the best place to hide from Bianca be the Slytherin dorms, since Bianca was unable to enter without the password.
Bianca exhaled noisily. She felt like stamping her foot in frustration. This was not how she envisioned this happening at all. She foresaw kisses and Christmas cheer, not traipsing around an empty castle in search of an elusive Slytherin.
Clenching her jaw, Bianca made her way back to Gryffindor Tower. This was ridiculous. She was crazy about Frankie, but these disappearing acts were getting really old. Did she need to put a leash on her? Yeah, that would go over very well.
Mulling over ideas on how to keep track of her girlfriend, Bianca slowly turned toward the portrait of the fat woman - the entrance to the Gryffindor common room.
Wait.
Bianca stopped and peered down the hall.
“Frankie?” Bianca asked under her breath.
Frankie sat next to the large painting, her knees curled up to her chest and her arms hung lazily around them. She was dressed in a dark green hoodie with silver stripes going down the sleeves. Loose fitting blue jeans and threadbare sneakers completed the outfit. Her head was bent, hiding her face from view. Bianca would know her anywhere, though.
“Frankie.” Bianca spoke louder. The blonde head popped up at the call.
“Frankie!” Frankie was outside her common room. A giant smile spread across her face gleefully. Frankie was waiting for her. Unable to contain her excitement, Bianca darted forward. Frankie slowly rose to her feet, barely standing when Bianca crashed into her. She slammed back into the wall, and Bianca wrapped her in a hug.
“Have you been here this whole time?” Bianca squeezed her tightly, “Merry Christmas!” Frankie went to find her. That’s why she wasn’t where Bianca was searching.
Frankie stood awkwardly, not moving to reciprocate the embrace, “Hi.”
That was not a happy tone. Even in her holiday euphoria, Bianca could hear that. She pulled back to look into a blank face, “What’s wrong?”
Frankie stared at her, the corner of her mouth twitching with concealed emotion. Bianca pressed their faces closer, trying to see into closed off eyes, “Frankie? You can’t hide things from me, so don’t even try.”
Frankie pursed her lips and chuckled bitterly, “You couldn’t help yourself, could you? Have to be the big hero, help out the poor little homeless muggle-born.”
“What?” where did this come from? Weren’t they past that?
Frankie tilted her head and averted her gaze. Bianca followed to see a pile of wrapped packages she hadn’t seen earlier. She looked back at Frankie to see the girl suppressing the flash of feeling in her orbs. Confused, Bianca stepped over to the pile, keeping one hand wrapped in Frankie’s sweatshirt. She flipped over a tag to read the names.
It was a gift to Frankie from her mother and stepfather.
Bianca felt her heart clench at the thoughtful action. She read a few more tags. They were all from her family, most coming from her mom and Jack. When she looked back at Frankie, she could see her fighting to keep an angry shine on her face.
“I don’t need your charity.” Frankie growled, but a glimmer of vulnerability appeared.
Bianca shook her head softly, “I didn’t tell them to do this.”
“Don’t lie to me.” Frankie took a deep breath, blinking roughly.
“I’m not.” Bianca swung her arms back around Frankie. “I only told them I was staying to spend the holidays with you. I didn’t tell them to send you anything. They must have done it because…you’re my friend.” This was so like her family. “They didn’t do it because of anything other than they want to give something to my friend.”
Frankie ducked her head, “I…”
Bianca sighed, “My family’s like this. They know you’re important to me, so they wanted to share the holiday with you as much as they could.”
“How do they know that?”
Bianca grinned, “I might write about you a lot. When I told them I was staying, they already knew who you were.” She didn’t even know she’d been mentioning Frankie so much.
Frankie rolled her eyes, but there was no malice in it, “You don’t know what discreet is, do you?”
Bianca pushed into Frankie, “Nope, I like showing how I feel.” She pressed her mouth to Frankie’s cheek, holding the wet kiss until Frankie squirmed. She released her with a loud pop, “Merry Christmas.”
Frankie gave a tiny wry smile and her eyes softened, “Yeah, yeah. You too.”
Bianca gave her a look before nuzzling her nose against her ear, “You can stop being angry now. Be happy. I won’t tell your friends you took a day off from being grumpy.”
“I’m not grumpy.” Frankie mumbled.
Bianca playfully cuddled into her, running the tip of her nose against the back of Frankie’s ear, where she gave a quick kiss, “My cute little grumpy Slytherin.”
Frankie pursed her lips to hold in the grin, and her eyes fluttered as Bianca touched the tiny sensitive patch of skin only she knew about, “Not that cute stuff again.”
Bianca maneuvered so they were face to face, “Come on, cutie. Be happy. It’s Christmas.” She winked, “And we have presents to open!”
Frankie swallowed, “Your family didn’t need to get me anything.”
“No, they didn’t. That’s part of Christmas, though. You don’t have to, but you want to.” Bianca gestured at the pile, “Now, let’s get this stuff inside.”
“Inside?” Frankie’s eyebrow ticked up. “Are you breaking the rules?”
“Only when I’m with you.” Bianca replied cheekily, “If only my parents knew how much of a bad influence you are on me.” She turned to the painting, “Fiddlesticks.”
Frankie snorted, “That’s your password? Fiddlesticks? Way to go Gryffindor.”
The painting swung open to reveal the entrance to the common room. Bianca glanced at Frankie who had her wand out and was charming the gifts to float in the air. “Why, what’s it for Slytherin? Arrogance? Narcissism?”
Frankie concentrated on the packages and kept her wand steady. “Wrong.” The real password wasn’t so nice. When she reached the entrance, she paused, “You certain you want to let an evil Slytherin into the bowels of heroic goodness? I might melt or something.”
“I’ll mop up the dark puddle after I open my gifts.” Bianca shot back. She waved Frankie on, “Hurry up, cutie.”
“Stop calling me that.” Frankie grumbled and maneuvered the floating presents through the hole, following a few steps behind. Bianca walked behind her, unconsciously putting her hand on Frankie’s back. By the way the packages dipped down before righting themselves again, Frankie noticed.
Walking into the large circular room, Frankie carefully lowered her pile to the floor. Done, she studied the room. “It’s so red.”
Bianca smirked and quickly kissed the back of her head, “Scared?”
“Absolutely terrified.” Frankie deadpanned. “I can feel mediocrity seeping into my veins already.”
“Funny.” Bianca stepped around her. “I’m going to get my gifts and bring them down. We can open them here.”
“Whatever.” Frankie was already heading toward the cushiony couch in front of the fire.
Bianca watched as the other girl flopped down onto the sofa. She saw as hazel eyes tripped back to the gaggle of gifts every few moments, a hint of uncertainty in the stare. Frankie tugged the sleeves of her sweatshirt down over her hands and hunched over, clear contemplation on her face. Not wanting to waste anymore time, even though watching Frankie was far from a waste, Bianca sped up the stairs to her dorm. She took a page from Frankie’s book and charmed the bunch down to rest next to Frankie’s. She bounced over to the sofa and literally dove next to Frankie. The blonde laughed at her exuberance and gazed tenderly at her, “Someone’s excited.”
“Christmas morning with you and a bunch of presents? I might be.” Bianca grabbed a random package and pressed it into Frankie’s hands, “You go first.”
Frankie’s brow furrowed and she hesitantly twisted the box in her grasp. She wasn’t used to this. In the five years she’d been at Hogwarts, this was the first time she’d woken up to gifts at the end of her bed. “Why don’t you go first?”
“Because I want to see what you got.” Bianca nestled into her side.
Frankie spun the box around, looking at it from all angles.
“You’re supposed to tear away the wrapping paper.” Bianca supplied, snuggling into Frankie. Her body was warmed by the fire, and she felt so soft.
Frankie rolled her eyes, “Thanks.”
“Anytime.”
Frankie tore her gaze away to glance at Bianca before cautiously peeling back the paper. Bianca snuck a supportive arm around her waist and rested her head on her shoulder. Frankie tossed away the last vestiges of colored paper and lifted the lid from the box.
Bianca wrinkled her nose, “They got you a book?” Her stepfather really got her a book? Frankie’s first gift was a book?
Frankie’s wide eyes said she wasn’t unhappy about that, “This is fantastic.”
Bianca gave her a funny look, “What?”
Frankie flipped open the cover and rifled through the pages, “Quidditch Through the Ages.” She shot a dry look to Bianca, “It’s a book about that sport you don’t like.”
“Funny.”
Frankie didn’t hear her, too engrossed in what she’d gotten. Bianca quieted and watched as Frankie looked at every page front and back. Bianca felt a fluttering in her belly at the pure joy in her eyes. She reached up and tucked a loose blonde strand behind Frankie’s ear, “I’m glad you like it.”
Frankie coughed and shrugged, “Well, it’s…it’s alright.”
Oh Frankie, when will you stop acting, “For something about quidditch.”
“Not everyone’s mental like you and hates quidditch.”
“Apparently you and my stepfather.”
Frankie closed the book, “Your…uh…stepdad’s nice for…sending this. He wasn’t a Hufflepuff, was he?”
“Gryffindor.” All of her family was.
“Well, guess there are bleeding hearts in this house too.”
Bianca read between the lines, “I’ll let him know you said thanks.”
Frankie rolled her shoulders and deflected, “Shouldn’t you be opening gifts?”
Bianca gave her a small reprieve and snatched up another box.
***
After an hour of unwrapping, Bianca and Frankie sat on opposite ends of the couch, their opened gifts surrounding them. Bianca alternated between fiddling with her newest possessions and watching Frankie try to subtly touch everything she’d gotten. As she set down the broomstick servicing kit, Frankie clumsily cleared her throat and reached into her pocket. Bianca’s eyebrows knit together, but she beamed as Frankie pulled out a slightly battered package.
“Here,” Frankie held it out.
Bianca took the package, running her fingers against Frankie’s hand as she did so, “Frankie, you didn’t have to.”
Frankie shrugged, “Wanted to.”
You don’t do it because you have to but because you want to. Frankie had been listening. Bianca couldn’t help but gush, “You got me a present.”
“No big deal.” Frankie nodded, “Open it.”
It was a big deal, but Bianca wouldn’t press. She wanted to see what Frankie bought her, anyway. She tore the paper away and lifted the lid. Inside laid a silver charm bracelet. Gaping, Bianca held it up to the light. The fire’s glow reflected off the silver, making the item shine beautifully. “Oh, Frankie.”
Frankie bit back the pleased smile, “I take it you like it.”
Bianca nodded, mesmerized by the shimmer, “It’s wonderful.” She cradled the lone charm dangling from the bracelet against her palm. She wondered what it could be. It would be something special, right? Something sentimental for them?
It was a quill.
Sensing Bianca’s confusion, Frankie smirked, “Don’t remember?”
“Remember?” Bianca peeked at her.
Frankie pointed at the quill, “Hogsmeade last year.”
“I remember Hogsmeade, Frankie.” It was what started it all.
“Clearly not everything.”
“I remember you kissing me.” No way she forgot that.
Frankie smirked harder, “I thought you went after me.”
“You lured me with a bottle of firewhiskey…” Bianca trailed off.
“behind Scrivenshaft’s Quill Shop.” Frankie finished for her.
Bianca gasped, “That’s right.” It all came back to her. She looked at the quill charm, “A quill.” It made sense now.
“Forgotten already?” Frankie teased.
“Never.” Bianca stood up. She walked up to Frankie and pulled her to her feet. “Thank you.” She hugged her tightly.
“You’re welcome.” Frankie murmured, “Just don’t lose it.” She couldn’t afford to replace it.
Bianca lightly smacked her shoulder, “I wouldn’t.” She held the bracelet up to Frankie, “Put it on me?”
Frankie rolled her eyes but grabbed the bracelet. She clipped it on Bianca’s wrist, casually lifting her arm up to plant a tiny kiss at her pulse point. Entirely enamored, Bianca cupped Frankie’s face and brought their lips together. Both shivered at the touch.
Bianca broke away first, inhaling deeply before giving Frankie a quick peck, “I got you something, too.”
“I kind of like this.” Frankie leapt back in for another kiss.
Bianca smiled into the kiss, “Me, too. But, I got you something else.”
Frankie let her go, and Bianca ran over to her pile of objects. Hidden beneath a bag of candy, she revealed a box with a green and silver bow on top.
“Clever.” Frankie glanced at the bow as Bianca handed the box to her.
“Thank you.” Bianca clapped her hands together, “Now, open it.”
Frankie studied the box, “It’s not going to explode, is it?”
“No, Frankie. This isn’t one of your pranks.”
“Maybe it’s a potion.” Frankie snarked.
“Maybe I should take it back.” Bianca playfully lunged for the box.
Frankie dodged out of the way, “No!” she lowered her voice, “I mean, you can’t give someone something and take it back. Maybe Gryffindors do it that way, but civilized people know that’s rude.”
Bianca laughed to herself, “Right, Frankie. You don’t want me to be rude.”
Frankie clutched the box safely, “Precisely.”
By the way Frankie was holding onto the box like it was something precious, Bianca thought it might be a little more than Frankie was letting on. But, she, for once, decided to wait patiently and not tease Frankie anymore. Maybe it was the gentleness in Frankie’s eyes or the touched look on her face, but she knew this really was special to the blonde. Just like the charm bracelet was special to her. She fingered the quill absently, knowing instinctively she was never taking it off.
Frankie steeled her gaze and unwound the bow from the box. She took off the lid and froze. Stoically, she picked up the necklace. The necklace itself was somewhat thick, Bianca wanting to be sure it could stand up to whatever wild activity Frankie got into. The chain was a mixture of silver and gold, the two metals interwoven so they almost blended together into one. At the end hung a heart shaped pendant. In the firelight, flickers of red and green appeared across the surface.
Frankie silently stared at it, no expression on her face.
Bianca grew more and more nervous with each passing second. Why wasn’t Frankie saying anything? Not even a joke or snide comment. Oh no, she must hate it. It was too much too soon. She should have gone for the poster of the Montrose Magpies. But, Frankie got her jewelry. Yeah, hers included a heart and Frankie’s didn’t, but that was just…a small difference. Frankie included a quill!
Frankie tapped the heart, and it opened, revealing two empty sides. Bianca spoke up, “It’s a locket. We can take pictures and put them in there.” She was going to put photos in beforehand, but she didn’t have any of Frankie.
Frankie just stared.
Bianca deflated. She hated it. “Frankie, I’m…”
She was cut off as a body flung into her. A tiny oomph escaped Bianca’s lips as Frankie hugged her. Before she could raise her arms to return the embrace, though, Frankie jumped back. The Slytherin blinked and shook her head, “Thanks. It’s really nice, Bianca.” Frankie gave her all to appear unaffected, but it wasn’t working for a moment.
“Not too much?” Frankie looked so adorable trying to be tough.
“No, not too much.” Frankie sniffed. “It’s, you know, really nice.” She cleared her throat, “Not bad for a troll.”
Bianca was so elated, she didn’t even snap back at the troll comment. Instead, she pulled Frankie back to her and nestled into the warm hold.