Potions, Dungeons, and Firewhiskey Part 17
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...
Bianca was hungry.
Actually, she was starving. The box and a half of chocoballs, small chocolate balls filled with strawberry mousse and clotted cream, she’d consumed from her array of Christmas candy was delicious but didn’t do much for filling her belly. Dinner had already started thirty minutes ago, but she didn’t go down. Why? Well, Frankie didn’t want to go yet. No matter how hungry she may be, and the growling of her stomach signaled that her hunger was more than a smidgeon, she’d much rather stay with Frankie than go down to the Great Hall.
She wasn’t exactly sure why Frankie decided to wait. She was certain the other girl was just as hungry, if not moreso, than she was. Frankie only had a few pumpkin pasties from her assorted collection of treats. Bianca smirked to herself. When Frankie came upon the wrapped box of chocolate frogs and peppermint toads, the look of pure revulsion was hilarious. Bianca was pretty sure the blonde secretly snuck the box over to her side and stole a box of licorice wands for herself.
Candy could only go so far, however. While it was tasty and wonderful, she needed nourishment. They’d had an active day, to say the least. They’d hung out in Gryffindor tower, munching on candy for breakfast and going over their new possessions. Frankie did her best to not show how much she enjoyed receiving so many gifts, but Bianca could see the glimmer in her eye. Not to mention the girl’s reaction to the necklace. It made Bianca’s heart clench when she remembered the tight hug and glimpse of vulnerability. Just thinking about it made her want to hold onto Frankie and never let go. And Frankie’s gift to her was so sweet and thoughtful. If only her friends could see what Frankie got her. Maybe they wouldn’t think so badly about her. Bianca silently vowed to never take it off, and she wouldn’t.
After they had their fill of candy and being lazy in the common room, Bianca coaxed Frankie into a walk. Somehow, Bianca proclaimed pure innocence on this, they saw the singing suits of armor, which Frankie did make a snide remark about. They also took a brief tour of the many amazing decorations around the castle before slipping outside into the snow. Bianca could still hear the crunch of the freshly fallen white powder under her boots as they slowly made a circle around the lake. They talked about random things, mostly just enjoying the day and their time together.
But, now it was evening, and Bianca hadn’t eaten a full meal since the night before. She’d suggested they get a few snacks and skip the meal altogether, but Frankie was against that idea. Bianca didn’t know why. They could get a few sandwiches or something and eat them together in the common room. In the Great Hall, they’d be divided by separate tables, and she didn’t really want to deal with that. Considering her hand had barely left Frankie’s all day, being on opposite ends of a very large room was not appealing.
Frankie was slightly adamant they go, though.
So, close to forty-five minutes after the meal began, Frankie finally relented and led Bianca down to the Great Hall. Before they could enter through the double doors, however, she pulled them over to the side next to the wall.
“We can’t go in together.” Frankie released her hand.
Bianca sighed, her hand already cold without the familiar touch, “I still think we should just grab something and go back.”
Frankie smirked, “Can’t be without me?”
“You might sneak off and switch more of my candy with your chocolate frogs.” Bianca shot back. “Don’t worry, I’ll save you from the evil moving candy.”
Frankie’s smirk twitched, “How gallant of you Gryffindor.”
“It is Christmas.” Bianca grinned, “Can’t let you be defeated by chocolate.”
“Your chivalry knows no bounds.” Frankie rolled her eyes.
Bianca’s growling stomach interrupted whatever the brunette was going to say next. Frankie bit her lip to hold in the chuckle as Bianca glanced down at her belly, “Can we eat now?”
“I forgot your troll tendencies. You might eat someone if we don’t feed you.”
Bianca frowned, “I’m not a troll.”
Frankie opened her mouth, but Bianca placed her hand over it, “Yes, I know. Clomp clomp.”
“Look, there are a few brain cells in Gryffindor. I guess you got all of them.” Frankie grinned.
Bianca crossed her arms, “Both an insult and a compliment. Impressive.”
Frankie shrugged, “I’m very talented.”
Bianca’s stomach growled again.
“I’ll go in first. You wait five minutes then come in.” Frankie shook her head ruefully. “If you can wait that long.”
“I can wait.” Bianca gazed at her, “Or, we could skip the meal and get some snacks.” She was really hungry. But, she also really didn’t want to leave Frankie.
Frankie bent her head. When she looked back up at Bianca a few seconds later, there was an indistinguishable spark in her glance, “You don’t want to skip the feast.”
“Why not?”
“You just don’t.” Frankie stepped away from her. “Wait five minutes.” With that, she slid around the door and into the room.
Bianca exhaled and leaned against the wall. Five minutes. To pass the time, she started humming Christmas carols under her breath. She already missed Frankie. She’d much rather be back in Gryffindor Tower on the couch with Frankie talking and kissing. Food was good, but separation wasn’t. Why wouldn’t she want to skip the feast? Frankie was being cryptic, again.
By the end of her second song, Winter Wonderland, she straightened up and went to the doors. Opening the first one she came to, she stepped inside.
And froze.
The Great Hall was decorated beautifully. Bright green trees, bursting with life, lined the walls. The luminous bells and berries on them glittered welcomingly. Holly and tinsel draped the walls and tables.
And it was snowing.
A white flake landed on Bianca’s nose. She wrinkled her nose, expecting the cold wetness, but instead it was warm and dry. The magical snowflakes fell lightly from the ceiling, which was enchanted to resemble the clear sky outside. She could see hundreds of stars amongst the darkness, and below them were dozens of candles charmed to float above their heads. The snow gently coated the tables and floor, giving the room a look of total winter bliss.
With wide eyes, Bianca looked over at Frankie. The girl was watching her, a tenderness in her look. Bianca smiled at her. She did like this.
Regaining her composure, Bianca made her way to the Gryffindor table. She sat down and took in the feast. There was a large roast turkey carved to perfection. The juicy meat had a picturesque golden coating that made her mouth water. Thick golden gravy sat beside it, and she could smell the spiced eggnog. It warmed her insides as she poured herself a cup and took a sip. It was like the drink she had at home, except somehow better. She forked a few slices of turkey and cranberry sauce onto her plate, and then dumped a heaping helping of gray over top. The first bite made her eyes close. It was scrumptious.
Taking it all in, Bianca felt the sense of Christmas really set in. The food was spectacular and comforting. The decorations were amazing. The snow was what made it nearly perfect. She was sitting eating her Christmas meal in snow, and it wasn’t cold! It was like being in a dream.
If only…
Bianca peered over at the Slytherin table. Frankie was slowly chewing on a crumpet slathered in cranberry sauce. The blonde had one eye on the girl a few seats down from her and the Hufflepuff table.
That’s when Bianca notice. Besides the two of them, the Slytherin and lone Hufflepuff were the only ones in the room. Bianca’s eyebrows knit in confusion. Where was everyone else? Ravenclaw or the staff?
Frankie peeked over at her. Catching her eyes, Frankie raised a questioning eyebrow. Bianca understood the silent inquiry and grinned back magnificently. She was happy they came and did like the feast. It was nearly perfect, if only Frankie was there with her and not across the snow laden ground at a different table.
But, Bianca consoled herself, they’d meet up after the meal. Christmas wasn’t over just because the meal was. With that in mind, she returned to her food with gusto. She relished in the hot food filling her empty belly. She didn’t even notice as she began to hum Christmas songs again.
She did notice, though, when there was a scrapping noise echoing in the room. Looking up from her third helping of turkey, she blinked. The room was empty. The Hufflepuff was gone. So was the Slytherin. That left only her and Frankie. Frankie, who was surveying the room like a spy.
Frankie, who was standing up.
Frankie, who was casually marching across the room, gaze on the double doors.
“Frankie?” Bianca set down her fork and knife as Frankie approached.
“Hey.” Frankie stared at the door.
Bianca felt her lips spread into a grin, “What are you doing?”
“Having dinner.” Frankie finally tore her gaze away to look at the table, “If there’s any turkey left.”
Bianca pulled Frankie down into the seat next to her. She threw her arms around the other girl. Frankie was there! Frankie actually left her Slytherin table and went over to the Gryffindor table! “How?” it hit her. She pulled back and peered at Frankie, “You made us late for a reason.”
Frankie shrugged and reached for the eggnog.
Bianca’s smile grew even more, “You wanted us to wait because you knew they’d be done eating.”
Frankie poured herself a cup, “People eat fast when alone.”
Bianca grasped Frankie’s hand as she set the eggnog back down, “You planned this so we could eat together.”
Frankie bit her lip at the grateful look, “Whatever. I just wanted to wait a bit. That’s all.”
Bianca leaned in and kissed her jaw, “Thank you. That’s so sweet.”
Frankie squirmed, “I think all this Christmas stuff is getting to your head.”
“Yeah, Frankie. It’s the Christmas stuff.” Bianca’s eyes sparkled.
Frankie nodded at the Christmas cake and trifle, “You haven’t gone for the desserts yet?”
Bianca chuckled at the attempt to change the subject and kissed her jaw again, “You’re so sweet…sweetie!”
Frankie groaned, “Stop with the names.”
Bianca saw the twitch of a grin, “My sweet cute girlfriend.”
Frankie rolled her eyes and grabbed the cake, a rich fruitcake covered with white icing, holly, and berries. “How much candy did you eat earlier?”
Bianca reluctantly let Frankie go and went back to her plate, but not before clasping her hand to Frankie’s that was resting between them under the table. “I can’t be sure, since someone keeps changing what I have.”
Frankie slid a slice onto her plate, “It’s all about giving. Tis the season.”
Bianca soaked up a bit of gravy with a crumpet, “What did you give Filch for Christmas?”
Frankie’s smirk turned smug, “Something to show my appreciation for his hard work over break.”
Bianca took a bite of the gravy laden crumpet, tasting the mixture of meaty gravy and buttery crunchy crust, “Will I need to hide you for a few days?”
“As much as you’d take pleasure in that, I don’t hide. Especially from Filch.”
“So, that wasn’t you who was hiding behind the statue the day the whiz-bangs went off?” Bianca took another bite.
Frankie licked at the frosting on her fork, “I was observing while waiting for you.”
“I’m your alibi now?”
“An alibi no one would believe.”
Bianca inhaled sharply and scooted closer to Frankie, “They will, someday.” They wouldn’t have to sneak around someday.
“Someday.” Frankie agreed with a nod.
Bianca exhaled and looked at her plate. She peeked back at Frankie and spotted the flash of gold and silver at the collar of her shirt. Frankie was wearing her necklace. “Someday…maybe you’ll sing Christmas songs.”
Frankie snorted, “I don’t sing.”
“Tis the season.” Bianca chirped. She’d tried to get Frankie to sing along with the suits of armor, but Frankie firmly refused to.
“Ask Santa for it.” Frankie cut herself another piece of cake.
“I’ll get you to sing one day, Stone.” Bianca teased.
“Your quidditch team’s been saying they’ll beat us one day, too. Haven’t even come close, yet.” Frankie mockingly looked around, “I can feel the loserness of Gryffindor through the table.”
“Oh, I thought that was the Slytherin residue from your table.”
“Clever.”
“Thank you.” Bianca nudged her, “Is dessert all you’re going to eat?” Frankie’d only eaten the cake and trifle since she sat down.
“I like dessert.”
“Don’t you want to taste the turkey? It’s good.”
Frankie paused. Then, she set down her fork and turned to face Bianca. Bianca opened her mouth to ask what she was doing, but Frankie’s mouth covered hers before she could get a syllable out. Her eyes slammed shut as a tongue slipped inside to tangle with her own.
Frankie broke away as Bianca felt her head grow fuzzy. “Taste’s delicious.”
Bianca blinked her eyes open, “Very…tricky.”
Frankie spun back to the cake, “Must be that Slytherin residue.”
Bianca accepted a slice of cake happily. It did taste good, after all.
****
“I think you should make a snow angel.”
“I think you’re nuts.”
Bianca and Frankie walked through the Entrance Hall, the deep voices of the singing suits of armor faint background noise. They moved side-by-side, their hands swinging so close together the backs touched every few steps. Bianca reached out the last inch and grasped Frankie’s hand mid-swing, locking their fingers together. Frankie peeked down at the hands before rolling her eyes.
“I’m not making a snow angel.”
“Why not?” Bianca bumped shoulders with the blonde, “Afraid to get a little snow on you?”
“I’m not afraid of anything.” How many times was she going to have to tell Bianca that?
“I think it’d be a cute snow angel.”
“Yes, because a human imprint in the snow is completely adorable.” Frankie deadpanned.
Bianca leaned into her and brushed a kiss against her cheek, “You know you want to.”
Frankie’s jaw ticked as she fought to hide her smile, “Your mastery of occulmency is on par with your quidditch team - abysmal.”
“I don’t need occulmency to know what you’re thinking.” She didn’t have to be able to read Frankie’s mind. All it took was a little practice, and Frankie was an open book. You just had to be able to read between the lines with her, so to speak.
Frankie raised a challenging eyebrow, “Dare I ask?”
They walked onto a staircase and began to ascend the steps. The two stopped, and Bianca released Frankie’s hand only to bring both up to cup the girl’s face. She stared unwaveringly into hazel eyes, holding Frankie in place with her gaze. After a few moments she cracked a grin, “You want to kiss me.”
Frankie scoffed, but she gave a tiny smile, “That’s the best you got?”
Bianca wrapped her arms around Frankie’s neck, “Well, you haven’t kissed me since we left the feast. That’s almost two whole minutes.”
“And I, in your mind, have no control when it comes to you?” Frankie murmured.
Bianca pressed their faces together, “You pretend you do, but we both know you can’t resist me.”
“Is that a challenge?” Frankie’s voice dropped an octave.
“No, because I can’t resist you either.” Bianca brought their mouths together in a kiss. Her belly did flip-flops as their lips slid against each other, and a shiver went through her body when Frankie’s hands brushed against her neck and jaw.
“We should go…Filch…stomping about.” Frankie pulled back a fraction. Her eyes opened into tiny slits, a glazed look about them.
Bianca didn’t even open hers as she tugged Frankie back in, “Who cares?”
****
When they made it back to Gryffindor Tower, it was much later and they were a bag or two heavier. On the way, they’d decided they would need more than candy for snacks. Frankie guided Bianca down to the kitchens, which Bianca didn’t think any student knew the location of, and procured a few treats for the evening. Of course, Bianca then remembered the time Frankie got her sandwiches and it made a little more sense. Now, Bianca found herself in her dorm changing into a comfortable pair of pajamas. She buttoned the cotton shirt and slipped into the cotton trousers, tiny moons and stars decorating the bright blue material. She bit her lip as she reached the last button. This would be the first time she wore pajamas around Frankie. It wasn’t that big of a deal. She lived with a bunch of other girls and they all walked around in pajamas, and sometimes less. Frankie lived in the same situation.
But, it was a big deal. She was to the point where she could be comfortable enough to wear pajamas with Frankie. It was…relaxing.
Sliding the last button through the hole, she gave her hair a quick brush, grabbed a blanket, and went downstairs. Entering the common room, she was hit by the warmth of the roaring fire and the red and gold interior. Walking over to the sofa, she found Frankie at the foot of the piece of furniture, an open bag of marshmallows and two sticks at her sides. The golden glow of the fire danced across the blonde’s face, giving her an ethereal tint.
“Hi.” Bianca stood at the end of the couch.
Frankie glanced up with a welcoming grin, “Hi.”
Bianca slowly walked up to her and sat down. She unfolded the blanket and draped it over their knees and legs, “Marshmallows ready?”
Frankie nodded and handed a stick to her. Bianca took it and the bag of marshmallows. She threaded a few onto the end and thrust it into the flames, watching as the marshmallows turned a golden brown. Frankie’s batch followed a few seconds later.
Bianca began to hum another Christmas tune as they ate the first batch and went for seconds. She ducked her head as Frankie’s arm crept across her shoulders. She fell into the hold, curling up against the soft frame. A tiny yawn escaped Bianca’s lips, and she stifled it with a fist.
Frankie cleared her throat, “It’s been a long day.”
Bianca nodded, “But a good day.”
“Yeah, a good day.”
Bianca cuddled closer, “At home, my family would be sitting around with cups of eggnog trading stories and gossip by now. The tree would twinkle with its lights. Sometimes I would just sit there and watch the lights, they looked so pretty.”
Frankie took her marshmallows out of the fire and blew at one that had a small flame going. She studied the partially burnt piece of sugar, “Before I came here, sometimes I would walk around neighborhoods at night. A lot of the houses were decorated, and you could look through the windows and see the trees.” She exhaled and lifted her arm from around Bianca.
Bianca peeked up at her, and could tell Frankie thought the admission was too much and wished she didn’t say it. She placed her hand on Frankie’s arm, stilling her movements as the Slytherin went to remove a marshmallow from the stick, “Frankie,” It made her chest ache to hear that.
“Don’t.” Frankie brushed her off. “It was a long time ago.”
Bianca tightened her grip, “It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
Frankie looked at her. Hazel orbs shared a riveting concoction of disbelief and hope. She urged herself to strike back with a well timed insult, but what came out was anything but, “Who said I’m ashamed?”
You did. Every time your heritage is brought up, you show it. “I like you no matter what.”
Frankie narrowed her eyes, searching. Then, her gaze brightened and she smirked, “I know, I know.” Her voice rose to a high squeak, “Get that through your thick skull and stop acting so annoying.”
Bianca slapped her arm, “I do not sound like that!”
Frankie rubbed her arm, “Ow.”
Bianca rolled her eyes and pointed at the fire, “Roast marshmallows.”
Frankie smirked but did as she was told. They turned back to their treats, quietly eating and roasting. Frankie’s arm found its way back around Bianca’s shoulders, which delighted and relieved the Gryffindor. When Bianca’s arm wrapped around Frankie’s back, the Slytherin’s glee showed.
They talked every now and then, small things that different really matter in the grand scheme of life. Little tidbits about classes or likes and dislikes. There were a few chaste kisses, but nothing more. Mostly, though, they curled up together and were just…them.
Bianca didn’t know when it changed. When they first kissed, it was a drunken moment in Hogsmeade. Then, they got together. It was passionate. It involved a lot of kissing. True, they only kissed, but it was still a lot. Then, somehow, it became…more. Yes, they both had feelings for each other. Getting Frankie to admit that was half the battle at the beginning. But, they started to talk more. They still kissed, but it wasn’t the main focus of their meetings. They did more than kiss.
Bianca snuggled impossibly further into Frankie. She really really liked kissing Frankie. Top two things in the world. The other one, surprisingly enough, was what they were doing at that moment. Just…being. She liked just being able to be with Frankie. She liked sitting there with their arms wrapped around each other. Their relationship went from lots of kisses and witty back and forth arguments to holding and understanding. She liked being held and holding Frankie in return. She really did. And it was something they did more and more of. They held each other more. They understood each other more. They cared more…or was it not more but…deeper?
As time ticked by and eyelids drooped, Bianca’s last thought before she fell asleep with Frankie in front of the glowing embers was that she might be feeling something a little more than like for the Slytherin.
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...
Bianca was hungry.
Actually, she was starving. The box and a half of chocoballs, small chocolate balls filled with strawberry mousse and clotted cream, she’d consumed from her array of Christmas candy was delicious but didn’t do much for filling her belly. Dinner had already started thirty minutes ago, but she didn’t go down. Why? Well, Frankie didn’t want to go yet. No matter how hungry she may be, and the growling of her stomach signaled that her hunger was more than a smidgeon, she’d much rather stay with Frankie than go down to the Great Hall.
She wasn’t exactly sure why Frankie decided to wait. She was certain the other girl was just as hungry, if not moreso, than she was. Frankie only had a few pumpkin pasties from her assorted collection of treats. Bianca smirked to herself. When Frankie came upon the wrapped box of chocolate frogs and peppermint toads, the look of pure revulsion was hilarious. Bianca was pretty sure the blonde secretly snuck the box over to her side and stole a box of licorice wands for herself.
Candy could only go so far, however. While it was tasty and wonderful, she needed nourishment. They’d had an active day, to say the least. They’d hung out in Gryffindor tower, munching on candy for breakfast and going over their new possessions. Frankie did her best to not show how much she enjoyed receiving so many gifts, but Bianca could see the glimmer in her eye. Not to mention the girl’s reaction to the necklace. It made Bianca’s heart clench when she remembered the tight hug and glimpse of vulnerability. Just thinking about it made her want to hold onto Frankie and never let go. And Frankie’s gift to her was so sweet and thoughtful. If only her friends could see what Frankie got her. Maybe they wouldn’t think so badly about her. Bianca silently vowed to never take it off, and she wouldn’t.
After they had their fill of candy and being lazy in the common room, Bianca coaxed Frankie into a walk. Somehow, Bianca proclaimed pure innocence on this, they saw the singing suits of armor, which Frankie did make a snide remark about. They also took a brief tour of the many amazing decorations around the castle before slipping outside into the snow. Bianca could still hear the crunch of the freshly fallen white powder under her boots as they slowly made a circle around the lake. They talked about random things, mostly just enjoying the day and their time together.
But, now it was evening, and Bianca hadn’t eaten a full meal since the night before. She’d suggested they get a few snacks and skip the meal altogether, but Frankie was against that idea. Bianca didn’t know why. They could get a few sandwiches or something and eat them together in the common room. In the Great Hall, they’d be divided by separate tables, and she didn’t really want to deal with that. Considering her hand had barely left Frankie’s all day, being on opposite ends of a very large room was not appealing.
Frankie was slightly adamant they go, though.
So, close to forty-five minutes after the meal began, Frankie finally relented and led Bianca down to the Great Hall. Before they could enter through the double doors, however, she pulled them over to the side next to the wall.
“We can’t go in together.” Frankie released her hand.
Bianca sighed, her hand already cold without the familiar touch, “I still think we should just grab something and go back.”
Frankie smirked, “Can’t be without me?”
“You might sneak off and switch more of my candy with your chocolate frogs.” Bianca shot back. “Don’t worry, I’ll save you from the evil moving candy.”
Frankie’s smirk twitched, “How gallant of you Gryffindor.”
“It is Christmas.” Bianca grinned, “Can’t let you be defeated by chocolate.”
“Your chivalry knows no bounds.” Frankie rolled her eyes.
Bianca’s growling stomach interrupted whatever the brunette was going to say next. Frankie bit her lip to hold in the chuckle as Bianca glanced down at her belly, “Can we eat now?”
“I forgot your troll tendencies. You might eat someone if we don’t feed you.”
Bianca frowned, “I’m not a troll.”
Frankie opened her mouth, but Bianca placed her hand over it, “Yes, I know. Clomp clomp.”
“Look, there are a few brain cells in Gryffindor. I guess you got all of them.” Frankie grinned.
Bianca crossed her arms, “Both an insult and a compliment. Impressive.”
Frankie shrugged, “I’m very talented.”
Bianca’s stomach growled again.
“I’ll go in first. You wait five minutes then come in.” Frankie shook her head ruefully. “If you can wait that long.”
“I can wait.” Bianca gazed at her, “Or, we could skip the meal and get some snacks.” She was really hungry. But, she also really didn’t want to leave Frankie.
Frankie bent her head. When she looked back up at Bianca a few seconds later, there was an indistinguishable spark in her glance, “You don’t want to skip the feast.”
“Why not?”
“You just don’t.” Frankie stepped away from her. “Wait five minutes.” With that, she slid around the door and into the room.
Bianca exhaled and leaned against the wall. Five minutes. To pass the time, she started humming Christmas carols under her breath. She already missed Frankie. She’d much rather be back in Gryffindor Tower on the couch with Frankie talking and kissing. Food was good, but separation wasn’t. Why wouldn’t she want to skip the feast? Frankie was being cryptic, again.
By the end of her second song, Winter Wonderland, she straightened up and went to the doors. Opening the first one she came to, she stepped inside.
And froze.
The Great Hall was decorated beautifully. Bright green trees, bursting with life, lined the walls. The luminous bells and berries on them glittered welcomingly. Holly and tinsel draped the walls and tables.
And it was snowing.
A white flake landed on Bianca’s nose. She wrinkled her nose, expecting the cold wetness, but instead it was warm and dry. The magical snowflakes fell lightly from the ceiling, which was enchanted to resemble the clear sky outside. She could see hundreds of stars amongst the darkness, and below them were dozens of candles charmed to float above their heads. The snow gently coated the tables and floor, giving the room a look of total winter bliss.
With wide eyes, Bianca looked over at Frankie. The girl was watching her, a tenderness in her look. Bianca smiled at her. She did like this.
Regaining her composure, Bianca made her way to the Gryffindor table. She sat down and took in the feast. There was a large roast turkey carved to perfection. The juicy meat had a picturesque golden coating that made her mouth water. Thick golden gravy sat beside it, and she could smell the spiced eggnog. It warmed her insides as she poured herself a cup and took a sip. It was like the drink she had at home, except somehow better. She forked a few slices of turkey and cranberry sauce onto her plate, and then dumped a heaping helping of gray over top. The first bite made her eyes close. It was scrumptious.
Taking it all in, Bianca felt the sense of Christmas really set in. The food was spectacular and comforting. The decorations were amazing. The snow was what made it nearly perfect. She was sitting eating her Christmas meal in snow, and it wasn’t cold! It was like being in a dream.
If only…
Bianca peered over at the Slytherin table. Frankie was slowly chewing on a crumpet slathered in cranberry sauce. The blonde had one eye on the girl a few seats down from her and the Hufflepuff table.
That’s when Bianca notice. Besides the two of them, the Slytherin and lone Hufflepuff were the only ones in the room. Bianca’s eyebrows knit in confusion. Where was everyone else? Ravenclaw or the staff?
Frankie peeked over at her. Catching her eyes, Frankie raised a questioning eyebrow. Bianca understood the silent inquiry and grinned back magnificently. She was happy they came and did like the feast. It was nearly perfect, if only Frankie was there with her and not across the snow laden ground at a different table.
But, Bianca consoled herself, they’d meet up after the meal. Christmas wasn’t over just because the meal was. With that in mind, she returned to her food with gusto. She relished in the hot food filling her empty belly. She didn’t even notice as she began to hum Christmas songs again.
She did notice, though, when there was a scrapping noise echoing in the room. Looking up from her third helping of turkey, she blinked. The room was empty. The Hufflepuff was gone. So was the Slytherin. That left only her and Frankie. Frankie, who was surveying the room like a spy.
Frankie, who was standing up.
Frankie, who was casually marching across the room, gaze on the double doors.
“Frankie?” Bianca set down her fork and knife as Frankie approached.
“Hey.” Frankie stared at the door.
Bianca felt her lips spread into a grin, “What are you doing?”
“Having dinner.” Frankie finally tore her gaze away to look at the table, “If there’s any turkey left.”
Bianca pulled Frankie down into the seat next to her. She threw her arms around the other girl. Frankie was there! Frankie actually left her Slytherin table and went over to the Gryffindor table! “How?” it hit her. She pulled back and peered at Frankie, “You made us late for a reason.”
Frankie shrugged and reached for the eggnog.
Bianca’s smile grew even more, “You wanted us to wait because you knew they’d be done eating.”
Frankie poured herself a cup, “People eat fast when alone.”
Bianca grasped Frankie’s hand as she set the eggnog back down, “You planned this so we could eat together.”
Frankie bit her lip at the grateful look, “Whatever. I just wanted to wait a bit. That’s all.”
Bianca leaned in and kissed her jaw, “Thank you. That’s so sweet.”
Frankie squirmed, “I think all this Christmas stuff is getting to your head.”
“Yeah, Frankie. It’s the Christmas stuff.” Bianca’s eyes sparkled.
Frankie nodded at the Christmas cake and trifle, “You haven’t gone for the desserts yet?”
Bianca chuckled at the attempt to change the subject and kissed her jaw again, “You’re so sweet…sweetie!”
Frankie groaned, “Stop with the names.”
Bianca saw the twitch of a grin, “My sweet cute girlfriend.”
Frankie rolled her eyes and grabbed the cake, a rich fruitcake covered with white icing, holly, and berries. “How much candy did you eat earlier?”
Bianca reluctantly let Frankie go and went back to her plate, but not before clasping her hand to Frankie’s that was resting between them under the table. “I can’t be sure, since someone keeps changing what I have.”
Frankie slid a slice onto her plate, “It’s all about giving. Tis the season.”
Bianca soaked up a bit of gravy with a crumpet, “What did you give Filch for Christmas?”
Frankie’s smirk turned smug, “Something to show my appreciation for his hard work over break.”
Bianca took a bite of the gravy laden crumpet, tasting the mixture of meaty gravy and buttery crunchy crust, “Will I need to hide you for a few days?”
“As much as you’d take pleasure in that, I don’t hide. Especially from Filch.”
“So, that wasn’t you who was hiding behind the statue the day the whiz-bangs went off?” Bianca took another bite.
Frankie licked at the frosting on her fork, “I was observing while waiting for you.”
“I’m your alibi now?”
“An alibi no one would believe.”
Bianca inhaled sharply and scooted closer to Frankie, “They will, someday.” They wouldn’t have to sneak around someday.
“Someday.” Frankie agreed with a nod.
Bianca exhaled and looked at her plate. She peeked back at Frankie and spotted the flash of gold and silver at the collar of her shirt. Frankie was wearing her necklace. “Someday…maybe you’ll sing Christmas songs.”
Frankie snorted, “I don’t sing.”
“Tis the season.” Bianca chirped. She’d tried to get Frankie to sing along with the suits of armor, but Frankie firmly refused to.
“Ask Santa for it.” Frankie cut herself another piece of cake.
“I’ll get you to sing one day, Stone.” Bianca teased.
“Your quidditch team’s been saying they’ll beat us one day, too. Haven’t even come close, yet.” Frankie mockingly looked around, “I can feel the loserness of Gryffindor through the table.”
“Oh, I thought that was the Slytherin residue from your table.”
“Clever.”
“Thank you.” Bianca nudged her, “Is dessert all you’re going to eat?” Frankie’d only eaten the cake and trifle since she sat down.
“I like dessert.”
“Don’t you want to taste the turkey? It’s good.”
Frankie paused. Then, she set down her fork and turned to face Bianca. Bianca opened her mouth to ask what she was doing, but Frankie’s mouth covered hers before she could get a syllable out. Her eyes slammed shut as a tongue slipped inside to tangle with her own.
Frankie broke away as Bianca felt her head grow fuzzy. “Taste’s delicious.”
Bianca blinked her eyes open, “Very…tricky.”
Frankie spun back to the cake, “Must be that Slytherin residue.”
Bianca accepted a slice of cake happily. It did taste good, after all.
****
“I think you should make a snow angel.”
“I think you’re nuts.”
Bianca and Frankie walked through the Entrance Hall, the deep voices of the singing suits of armor faint background noise. They moved side-by-side, their hands swinging so close together the backs touched every few steps. Bianca reached out the last inch and grasped Frankie’s hand mid-swing, locking their fingers together. Frankie peeked down at the hands before rolling her eyes.
“I’m not making a snow angel.”
“Why not?” Bianca bumped shoulders with the blonde, “Afraid to get a little snow on you?”
“I’m not afraid of anything.” How many times was she going to have to tell Bianca that?
“I think it’d be a cute snow angel.”
“Yes, because a human imprint in the snow is completely adorable.” Frankie deadpanned.
Bianca leaned into her and brushed a kiss against her cheek, “You know you want to.”
Frankie’s jaw ticked as she fought to hide her smile, “Your mastery of occulmency is on par with your quidditch team - abysmal.”
“I don’t need occulmency to know what you’re thinking.” She didn’t have to be able to read Frankie’s mind. All it took was a little practice, and Frankie was an open book. You just had to be able to read between the lines with her, so to speak.
Frankie raised a challenging eyebrow, “Dare I ask?”
They walked onto a staircase and began to ascend the steps. The two stopped, and Bianca released Frankie’s hand only to bring both up to cup the girl’s face. She stared unwaveringly into hazel eyes, holding Frankie in place with her gaze. After a few moments she cracked a grin, “You want to kiss me.”
Frankie scoffed, but she gave a tiny smile, “That’s the best you got?”
Bianca wrapped her arms around Frankie’s neck, “Well, you haven’t kissed me since we left the feast. That’s almost two whole minutes.”
“And I, in your mind, have no control when it comes to you?” Frankie murmured.
Bianca pressed their faces together, “You pretend you do, but we both know you can’t resist me.”
“Is that a challenge?” Frankie’s voice dropped an octave.
“No, because I can’t resist you either.” Bianca brought their mouths together in a kiss. Her belly did flip-flops as their lips slid against each other, and a shiver went through her body when Frankie’s hands brushed against her neck and jaw.
“We should go…Filch…stomping about.” Frankie pulled back a fraction. Her eyes opened into tiny slits, a glazed look about them.
Bianca didn’t even open hers as she tugged Frankie back in, “Who cares?”
****
When they made it back to Gryffindor Tower, it was much later and they were a bag or two heavier. On the way, they’d decided they would need more than candy for snacks. Frankie guided Bianca down to the kitchens, which Bianca didn’t think any student knew the location of, and procured a few treats for the evening. Of course, Bianca then remembered the time Frankie got her sandwiches and it made a little more sense. Now, Bianca found herself in her dorm changing into a comfortable pair of pajamas. She buttoned the cotton shirt and slipped into the cotton trousers, tiny moons and stars decorating the bright blue material. She bit her lip as she reached the last button. This would be the first time she wore pajamas around Frankie. It wasn’t that big of a deal. She lived with a bunch of other girls and they all walked around in pajamas, and sometimes less. Frankie lived in the same situation.
But, it was a big deal. She was to the point where she could be comfortable enough to wear pajamas with Frankie. It was…relaxing.
Sliding the last button through the hole, she gave her hair a quick brush, grabbed a blanket, and went downstairs. Entering the common room, she was hit by the warmth of the roaring fire and the red and gold interior. Walking over to the sofa, she found Frankie at the foot of the piece of furniture, an open bag of marshmallows and two sticks at her sides. The golden glow of the fire danced across the blonde’s face, giving her an ethereal tint.
“Hi.” Bianca stood at the end of the couch.
Frankie glanced up with a welcoming grin, “Hi.”
Bianca slowly walked up to her and sat down. She unfolded the blanket and draped it over their knees and legs, “Marshmallows ready?”
Frankie nodded and handed a stick to her. Bianca took it and the bag of marshmallows. She threaded a few onto the end and thrust it into the flames, watching as the marshmallows turned a golden brown. Frankie’s batch followed a few seconds later.
Bianca began to hum another Christmas tune as they ate the first batch and went for seconds. She ducked her head as Frankie’s arm crept across her shoulders. She fell into the hold, curling up against the soft frame. A tiny yawn escaped Bianca’s lips, and she stifled it with a fist.
Frankie cleared her throat, “It’s been a long day.”
Bianca nodded, “But a good day.”
“Yeah, a good day.”
Bianca cuddled closer, “At home, my family would be sitting around with cups of eggnog trading stories and gossip by now. The tree would twinkle with its lights. Sometimes I would just sit there and watch the lights, they looked so pretty.”
Frankie took her marshmallows out of the fire and blew at one that had a small flame going. She studied the partially burnt piece of sugar, “Before I came here, sometimes I would walk around neighborhoods at night. A lot of the houses were decorated, and you could look through the windows and see the trees.” She exhaled and lifted her arm from around Bianca.
Bianca peeked up at her, and could tell Frankie thought the admission was too much and wished she didn’t say it. She placed her hand on Frankie’s arm, stilling her movements as the Slytherin went to remove a marshmallow from the stick, “Frankie,” It made her chest ache to hear that.
“Don’t.” Frankie brushed her off. “It was a long time ago.”
Bianca tightened her grip, “It’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
Frankie looked at her. Hazel orbs shared a riveting concoction of disbelief and hope. She urged herself to strike back with a well timed insult, but what came out was anything but, “Who said I’m ashamed?”
You did. Every time your heritage is brought up, you show it. “I like you no matter what.”
Frankie narrowed her eyes, searching. Then, her gaze brightened and she smirked, “I know, I know.” Her voice rose to a high squeak, “Get that through your thick skull and stop acting so annoying.”
Bianca slapped her arm, “I do not sound like that!”
Frankie rubbed her arm, “Ow.”
Bianca rolled her eyes and pointed at the fire, “Roast marshmallows.”
Frankie smirked but did as she was told. They turned back to their treats, quietly eating and roasting. Frankie’s arm found its way back around Bianca’s shoulders, which delighted and relieved the Gryffindor. When Bianca’s arm wrapped around Frankie’s back, the Slytherin’s glee showed.
They talked every now and then, small things that different really matter in the grand scheme of life. Little tidbits about classes or likes and dislikes. There were a few chaste kisses, but nothing more. Mostly, though, they curled up together and were just…them.
Bianca didn’t know when it changed. When they first kissed, it was a drunken moment in Hogsmeade. Then, they got together. It was passionate. It involved a lot of kissing. True, they only kissed, but it was still a lot. Then, somehow, it became…more. Yes, they both had feelings for each other. Getting Frankie to admit that was half the battle at the beginning. But, they started to talk more. They still kissed, but it wasn’t the main focus of their meetings. They did more than kiss.
Bianca snuggled impossibly further into Frankie. She really really liked kissing Frankie. Top two things in the world. The other one, surprisingly enough, was what they were doing at that moment. Just…being. She liked just being able to be with Frankie. She liked sitting there with their arms wrapped around each other. Their relationship went from lots of kisses and witty back and forth arguments to holding and understanding. She liked being held and holding Frankie in return. She really did. And it was something they did more and more of. They held each other more. They understood each other more. They cared more…or was it not more but…deeper?
As time ticked by and eyelids drooped, Bianca’s last thought before she fell asleep with Frankie in front of the glowing embers was that she might be feeling something a little more than like for the Slytherin.