little lottie

Shaw knew Lucius. Being in the same year and of course with their families in similar social circles; she’d observed enough over the years to know he wasn’t someone that she’d want to associate with. Clearly just from a glance, neither did the tentative first year who was looking apologetic and frail. She’d barely closed to the door to the green house before she was calling over to the pair; hoping it would some what ease the first years to know they weren’t alone. “Lucius- Leave them alone, they weren’t doing any harm.” Charlotte spoke firmly, even if there was still a softness to her tone. There wasn’t a moment she hesitated before establishing herself between the male and the young students. For a moment she thought of what Wren would say. How when Lottie had ended up in the hospital, she’d atleast promised to try and stay out of trouble. It hadn’t exactly lasted long, but really she hoped it was just a simple misunderstanding and they could all gladly go about their days. But with Malfoy? She doubted it. “Are you really picking on first years? Doesn’t that seem a little low to you?” The witch questioned, brows furrowed lightly with concern. @kingofthemanor​

“It literally doesn’t concern though, does it” Lucius spat back, annoyed that the girl had ruined his fun “last time I checked you’d made yourself in to a nobody.” She hung up with too many blood traitors for his liking. She was lucky her family were who they were. Lucius knew she wouldn’t be able to touch her without causing problems for himself. He would just have to find a different way to get under her skin “so why should I listen to you”

“Oh,but darling they do need to learn something from me” Lucius replied, a smirk rising on his face. Dumbledore may be the face of the school, but Lucius and his friends ran these hallways. “You’ll find I can make people’s lives very difficult if i’m in such a mood- they need to learn what side to pick.” His side. The winning side.

Lucius laughed at her. “You don’t have it in you to stop me” he replied “that’s the difference between people like you and people like me- I don’t hesitate to get want I want. and if someone gets in the way of that- then…too bad”

“A better man?” He scoffed. Bless her, she really believed that didn’t she, delusional little girl. “I’ll give it you, you’re funny”

“He’s not fit to shine my shoes” Lucius continued “my house elf has more right to this world than he does.” It was in her last words that Lucius was given an idea. It would be far too easy to get her message to her family. They would have the mudblood taken care of.

Lottie stood silence as she let him rant it was better than rising to defensive immediately and giving him a reaction even if he was seemingly opinionated. Especially as that’s no doubt what he wanted. Darling. She hated the name from his lips but she didn’t give a single hint to it; the last thing Lottie wanted to do was give him anything to play with. Charlotte had grown up in a snake pit, she knew some things were better left unsaid. Why bother risking a venomous bite over something as little as disrespect? Especially when regarding herself. She could take it; she’d had to enough times. Her expression stayed placid, the only time it faltered was her jaw clenching lightly as he talked about Teddy. She had a right mind to pull her wand and hex him then for his demeaning words regarding him. But she held her stance and was unflinching. 

Lottie let the air settle for a moment as she looked at him, taking in his features and really wondering what had led him to be filled with such hatred. “I feel sorry for you.. I really do.” Lottie spoke a light frown playing on the edge of her features. “Belittling others- it doesn’t make you strong nor does it deem you any superiority over me or anyone else in this school. You’re not Merlin’s gift to society Lucius as difficult as that may be to hear and understand; the world does not revolve around purity and your ‘noble status’ like so many deem it does.” Wasn’t it the most important rule uttered among the twenty eight? She knew talking to him about blood could easily come back to haunt her. But she’d been so silent on it for so long and with him threatening first years; Charlotte was exhausted of the toxicity that came with it. The unkindness and cruelty that was deemed appropriate because it was ‘deserving’, it was ‘how things should be’ to keep tradition. It was not a tradition she wanted any part of. “It might do you well not to underestimate me and others. I’m more capable than you know as are many others you have brushed off as meek. I’m not being funny, I’m simply being honest. I’ve know you both long enough to differentiate deeming qualities.” Shifting her weight under her feet, Lottie only paused to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear before finally adding: “Leave the first years along Lucius, you have nothing of value for them to hear. Perhaps it would do you well to go and practice your quidditch skills along with the rest of your team instead of harassing the rest of the student body.” @kingofthemanor​

“Charlotte SHAW!” James screamed as he caught the girl amongst the crowd after the game ended. “You are an absolute angel, lifesaver, Godsend of a chaser. The way you checked Gosforth, and then that goal -- an absolute stroke of genius, let me tell you, and how you got in Lestrange’s face, you were bloody BRILLIANT! I mean, Wren did say it was a amazing move on my part to put you on the pitch today... Still, still. Couldn’t have done it without you. Mind-blowing, this one,” he said shaking his head as he spread his arm across her shoulders and squeezed her into a tight side-hug. 

James had planned on putting Lottie on for barely the first half of the game, probably less. After anxiously seeing his team stagnate at practice for a few weeks, he’d decided that the one way they could possibly win was to try something different, to be unpredictable, and to switch things up somehow, because as it stood, the Gryffindor team hadn’t been ready to face Slytherin– or so he’d thought. He liked Charlotte, of course he did, they’d been friends forever. And he knew she was good; or, admittedly he’d known she was good enough to maintain them through the first half. He didn’t know how she did under pressure; but for that they always had Marlene.

Well, one thing was clear now– he’d been grossly underestimating his childhood friend’s capacity to be in complete control of an entire game. He’d watched, and gaped, as she slalomed through players and scored goal after goal, wondering why the hell she hadn’t been a regular player to begin with. Moreover, they were so used to each other, they made a perfect team as Chasers, sometimes working together and sometimes dividing to conquer. One thing was sure– with him captain, she was going to play a whole lot more in her final year. “You know what, I did, and I’ll say it again after those moves you pulled. Couldn’t have won without you, especially not with Sirius down.” He looked at her like she’d hung the moon. “Can you convince me to party? Mate, there will be very little convincing necessary for me tonight. Let’s party it up, our adoring fans can join too,” he said with a wink.

Of course at the mention of their fallen friend, Lottie’s smile dimmed momentarily with concern. “Speaking of Sirius have you heard any news of him? It was quite the fall he took.” It was quidditch, it was practically an occupational hazard; risk came with the game they all knew that. But still it didn’t make it easier when one of the team mates fell. Of course being a reserve and not a regular player Lottie had gone into the game with some concerns. She knew that she wasn’t the finest player they had; but she thrived off of team work. With Sirius fallen it only seemed to drive the team on further to succeed in his honor.

“Just checking I wouldn’t be dragging you away from anything or anyone important.” Lottie teased giving him a light squeeze before uncurling her arm from around him. “Mary of course will be glad as always to join in the tabled dance I’m sure we can convince the Alice too. Molly Prewett was incredible too, she really came out of no where. She’s small but she’s feistier than she looks.” The witch noted, truly her admiration for the younger girl growing if that were possible. “You can reign if your victory, Captain. Though I would be wary of the Slytherin’s for a while. I’m sure they are bitter enough without you gloating.” @potterstagger​

Tiberius’ features twisted in thought before he eventually shook his head. “No, no I don’t think so. Anytime there’s a feeling of fear, I just transfer it into something else. If you’re scared of falling, transfer it into staying balanced. Scared of missing, transfer it into focus. Keeping it as fear and fear alone is just a waste of energy and makes you worse,” He mused. While talking, he’d begun to do some typical stretches. Nothing too wild. The last thing he’d ever want though was a pulled muscle, not only because it wasn’t great for quidditch but it also just didn’t do wanders for attracting women. “Huh?” His focus on the stretches meant he’d slightly missed her words. “Oh, Slughorn. I’ll probably be there, yes.”

“You make it sound as easy as counting to three.” Lottie mused, moving her arms from one foot to the other before standing to stretch her arms across her chest. “What about worry? Worry about.. letting the team down or even the house. What to you transfer that into?” The witch asked genuinely curious, hoping that maybe whatever it was she could channel a little of it. @tibxriuss​

Something about the Halloween Party had woken up in Amelia a desire to make the most of her last year at Hogwarts and led her to believe she actually could have it all if she wanted. One of the first things she’d done (while nursing her hangover buried in bed all day) was ask Charlotte Shaw if she wanted to go out to Madam Puddifoot’s with her someday. She’d been glad to see the other witch respond enthusiastically, and hoped her own intentions had been obvious: this was an opportunity to bond and get to know each other now that things between her and Ted were getting serious. Amelia wasn’t planning on ‘testing’ Lottie or anything of the sort, since she liked to assume that Edward was capable of making adult decisions on his own. Moreover, she’d heard so many good things about Charlotte Shaw, and Ted looked so happy, she truly hoped everything would work out. She had one fear, knowing how her closeness with Ted had put off more than one partner on either side -- but she hoped an afternoon of girl bonding time would help with dispelling any jealousy. When she made it to the tearoom, the blonde was already sitting down. “Hello! How are you? Thank you so much for meeting me here -- I thought it’d be nice to get out of the castle for a while.”

Herbology was one of the few things Amelia Bones did not excel at. Thankfully it wasn’t a necessary NEWT for Auror training so she’d dropped the subject as quickly as she could, before any Professors could find out she wasn’t the perfect student after all. It required too much patience for her, and she felt like there was too much out of her control to make successes truly enjoyable and failures any fair. “That sounds nice,” she said kindly. Lottie’s personality seemed to be a much better match for the subject than her own. “I don’t think I’ve ever asked you – do you plan on doing something with plants after Hogwarts?” she inquired, eager to turn the conversation towards the future considering how everything seemed to be going to shit in her life at Hogwarts.

Amelia shrugged, appreciating the concern the other girl seemed to be genuinely experiencing. With a chuckle, she added, “Well, even if I’d wanted it to be more, it definitely won’t be, what with all the insults I’ve had thrown my way by his own friends for corrupting and taking advantage of him,” she said with an eye roll. It was very hard, admittedly, not to let it get to her. But at the same time it did feel a bit stupid when said out loud. “I thought it was, but I guess not for Slytherins. I don’t really know. Can’t imagine what would’ve happened if I’d been muggle-born, to be fair…” she said with a sigh. She tried not to be that person that brought everything back to politics, but it was getting harder and harder lately.

Moving the conversation towards her relationship with Ted seemed to be a good idea though, considering Lottie’s reaction. She could see just how much the girl liked him, which warmed Amelia’s heart. She had a passing thought, I can only hope he won’t break her heart, but banished it immediately. There was no reason for such thinking. “He really does, absolutely smitten. I barely get to see him anymore,” she said jokingly. “I’m so glad to hear it. You two make the cutest pair. I want to give you the whole ‘hurt him and I’ll hurt you’ speech, but I can’t even, that’s how meant to be you guys look.” She didn’t want to get ahead of herself, though, so she backed down slightly. “I mean, you know, no pressure or anything, obviously. I just think you guys look sweet, and I’ll take any good news I can get lately.”

As Amelia brought up the future, Lottie’s eyes turned down cast to her ringed fingers. Really what was she supposed to say? That she’d only really started to think about that within the last year? For so long she’d been forced to follow the rules set out by her family, particularly her grandmother. Of course despite her parents and Lottie’s mother being an Auror, her grandmother was adamant that Charlotte would become a more elevated member of the society. Though of course she knew what that meant. Marry ‘well’ - a pureblood- , bear children and carry on the family transition. ‘The pureblood lineage’. Something that Lottie herself had never wanted a part in. A small sigh passed her lips as she hesitated for a moment before admitting with a small half smile: “Truthfully I haven’t really been able to think about that until recently.” The last thing she wanted was to give Amelia a reason to think some what less of her, like on occasion she did herself. She knew so many of the other purists would deem it a privilege and see it as a duty in itself; but to Lottie it only felt suffocating and heart breaking. “For a long time my mother wanted me to follow in her foot steps and become an Auror, my grandmother just-.. well she wanted me to carry on the transitions of the twenty eight and nothing else. Truthfully, I haven’t really been able to think what it is I really wish to do until recently - which sounds foolish I know. I’ve always loved Herbology, so- perhaps a Herbologist or in association with a Healer so I can help people. There is just- alot to think about post Hogwarts.” With her family situation weighing so heavily on her mind, it had taken up the majority of her conscious thoughts. Anything else she knew she could wade through in due course; there were more pressing issues at hand. 

“Corrupting and taking advantage of him? Well they all always did have a sense for the dramatics. It wouldn’t have ended well to say the least..I know.” Lottie spoke with a small frown pulled onto the edge of her features. She knew, of course she did. It felt like she was waiting any day now to get letters and howlers from her family regarding Ted. Thankfully she didn’t associate herself with the purists at Hogwarts, Lottie could only imagine the stares and disagreeable looks they had been receiving would only increase.  Charlotte had grown up with purists, she’d learnt to survive in what often felt like a viper pit from a young age. Yet some how she was still standing despite it all. “Their bite is often worse than their venom, it’s not easy and it isn’t pleasant; but try to ignore them. You know your value and worth, so do your real friends. It shouldn’t be the way it is and I’m sorry. But it will pass.” Lottie tried to assure, hoping it could act as some kind of comfort, reaching over gently to give the other girl’s hand a soft squeeze. 

Of course there was a soft shade of pink cast over her cheeks like there always was when talking about Teddy. But especially as Amelia mentioned just how ‘meant to be’ they looked. Lottie had been trying to keep some what of a level head, truthfully she was grateful for whatever time she was able to spend with him. But after so many years of holding feelings for him, it was nice to hear that he was just as happy as she was. "I'd never do anything to hurt him. He’s very dear to my heart, even before we started seeing each other- really even if you needed to warn you don’t. I’d never dream of it.“ Lottie assured with a soft smile. She knew Amelia was only looking out for her best friend’s interests, Lottie would have done exactly the same for Wren. “Thank you- that’s very sweet of you to say. I care about him very much, I suppose we’ll just have to wait and see what happens.” The blonde spoke softly, a warmness to her smile as she spoke of Ted. Because really, after so many years; there wasn’t a part of Lottie that would hesitate when it came to him. “Actually- I was wondering if I could ask you a favour. Though of course please forgive me if it is over stepping. I just- was hoping to plan something special for him at some point. Perhaps in the Astronomy Tower or even by the fountain at the top of the Herbology staircase. The only catch being it would mostly be when it was quieter in the evening. Of course if it goes against your morals as a prefect, please pretend you heard nothing of the sort. I wouldn’t want to put you in an uncomfortable position.” @milabones​

When: Post-Quidditch Party

Who: Anyone

“Alright you beautiful bastards, listen up.” Sirius’s voice magically amplified as he got up onto the coffee table, drink in one hand and his other arm tucked neatly away in a sling, courtesy of Regulus. One broken wrist, a slight concussion and one afternoon spent in the hospital wing later, he’d finally been able to join the celebrations. “I’m not sure how they managed to pull it off without their best beater, but we fucking won. So in honour of putting the Snakes in their place, there’s a lot of firewhiskey over there by the table – of-age wizards and witches only, thank you very much – so let’s celebrate, Gryffindor style. Oh– and ladies, I’m not sure if you saw my fall, but I’ll be over there if you’d like to try and make me feel better.” The room cheered and he was grinning as he hopped down off the table, heading right for the firewhiskey stash he spoke of where he discovered that he wasn’t alone. “Good speech, right? Think I’ve got a talent for it.” 

Ted thanked Molly as he left the kitchen with a basket full of food. He’d known for a few days he wanted to take Lottie on an evening picnic date and he’d wanted to make as much of the food as he could himself. Whilst he knew he could cut corners and use music, he thought it meant more to make it by hand. He’d dragged Molly in to help, knowing that she’d always been amazing at cooking. He had still done most of it by himself, she’d just been there to calm him down and direct him when he was getting flustered and to tell him when he was totally messing up a recipe. 

After grabbing a second basket he’d already prepared from his dorm, he walked out to the edge of the lake. Laying both the baskets that he was carrying down on the floor. He’d used an extension charm on one of them, one by one he used accio to bringing everything he needed out of it.  He started by laying out a couple of blankets he’d brought, next he set out the cushions and folded the spare blankets in a neat pile on the side. It was a late autumn evening and he certainly didn’t want Lottie to catch a chill. Next he set a little bunch of forget-me-nots in a vase in front on the blankets. He’d asked his parents to send across a few bunches of fairy lights, he draped these around the blankets and charmed some more to hang from the tree above him.

He set the food basket down nicely on one of the blankets and sat down. She should be here soon. He hoped that she liked it all. He’d make her a buffet full of different fruit based dishes. There were mini apple pies, strawberry sundae bites, caramel apple s’mores, strawberry shortcake bites and then a range of different fresh fruits to dip in to a chocolate fondue. He hoped that this lived up to his promise. Times like this were the only times that he felt lesser for not having a lot of money. He wished he was able to give her something extravagant, but he hope that the amount of thought and effort that had gone in to the picnic would help to make up for it. 

He’d put a little extra in to his outfit too, even though Ted wasn’t exactly massively in to style. He was wearing black jeans, and a simple light blue shirt, not fully buttoned up despite the cold air. To keep his warm he’d brought his leather jacket that he usually saved for special occasions. This definitely counted as a special occasion. He ran his hand through his hair nervously waiting for her to arrive. It was only a few minutes later that he spotted her walking towards him. He walked over to meet her, immediately enveloping her a in a hug.

“Wow” he said as he looked at her. She looked beautiful, she always did, but especially tonight. “You look..wow” the boyish grin on his face only growing wider. “I hope you like you like it” He said softly as he took hold of her hand, leading her towards the the area he’d set up.

At first Ted was caught off guard when she started crying. Wondering if he’d done something wrong. A clear look of concern etched on his face until he saw her smile and realised they were happy tears. He didn’t quite know what to do about her reaction. He really hadn’t done that much. It was only a little picnic, he’d thought of all the other things he could’ve done if he’d had more time and saved up some money. It bothered him that she’d said nobody had done anything like this for her before. It was ridiculous. All it had taken was a little bit of planning and effort. He still couldn’t believe that nobody else in this castle saw how wonderful she was. It was insane. It made him want to do things like this for her more often. Make up for all the time she’d gone without people treating her like the princess she was.

“Hey” he finally spoke softly “c’mere”. He brought her in for a tight hug, resting his head on top of hers. He was glad that she liked it so much. Any worries he’d had about that had now vanished. Only excitement was left. Even though he’d basically already been acting like she was his girlfriend, he hadn’t actually asked her yet. He had wanted to wait til this date, to do it properly. She deserved that. He didn’t want to wait til the ending either. He wasn’t sure how much longer he could wait. He kissed her head softly before finally releasing her. “There’s a little bit more, if yur ready.” He hoped that he’d remembered her favourite foods correctly, if he’d done it right and his baking hadn’t been terrible, that would be another good surprise for her.

He led her properly over to the blanket, laying down and getting comfy before wrapping one of his arms around her as soon as she was settled.”I made some snacks for wheneva yur hungry” he advised her, moving his free hand to trace patterns on her arm. “I’m just going t’ keep you ‘ere for a while first though” he teased, pulling her in closer to him and kissing her. He could stay like this forever, she radiated warmth.  She almost glowed with it. He’d come to feel very comfortable being this close to her. All the weirdness he’d worried about when they went from friends to more, didn’t seem to exist. There was no awkwardness. They had just smoothly transitioned in to their own bubble of joy.

“I mean there’s one other thing too” he continued, playing with a piece of her golden hair. He was still half nervous to ask it. They’d been acting like a couple, but that didn’t guarantee she only wanted him exclusively. He tried not to shy away from eye contact “I know that we’ve already been hangin’ out a lot, but I was just wonderin’, if you would like t’ properly be my girlfriend?” He wasn’t going to mention that he’d already been calling her that. Sometimes with being the romantic that he was, he could get ahead of himself. He just never been one for casual dating. He was always all in. It had caused him to get his heart broken a few times, but he still wouldn’t change it even if he could.

Lottie was still in complete awe, her head buried into his chest as she tried to blink away the tears that threatened to fall down her soft pale cheeks. Finger tips curling lightly into his shirt as he held her close. No one had ever done anything like this for her before, not even close. Her family were too busy trying to uphold appearances set by their grandmother to really give fully into sentiments and expressed affection like this. It was out of the bounds of anything she’d experienced before. Far beyond anything anyone had done to show their care for her. Before, she’d put it down to simply down to being gestures like this weren’t reserved for girls like her. Or they were only fabricated in stories and were far from the reality. Yet here was Edward Tonks, adorned in shining lights, twinkling eyes and a smile that warmed Lottie’s whole heart. Warm, caring, sweet, with a heart so full of gold that sometimes Lottie worried by touching him with her greyed heart she’d some how dim it. A part of her knew she didn’t deserve something like this, so many years of people diminishing her had told her otherwise. Yet here he was proving them all wrong. Maybe in his eyes she was different. She didn’t have to pretend to be this perfect imagine of what her family wished her to be, she didn’t have to hide or pretend she was anything but who she was. She’d never had to with any of her friends at Hogwarts, but this was different. The fact that he would do something like this and just everything he was, meant more to Lottie than she would ever be able to describe. “Sorry I um-” Lottie murmured quickly with a small shake of her head as her fingers moved to brush the tear stain off her cheek. “Thank you.. Teddy you didn't have to do any of this. Wait- more?” The blonde spoke with a light quirk of an eye brow, truly blow away and her expression showed it. “You really know how to sweep a girl off her feet..” She spoke softly, a warm smile pulling onto her features, pausing as she looked up at him before adding quietly: “..You really are something else.”

Following him gladly, she laid down by his side curling up to him with her head rested on his shoulder as he looped an arm around her. "You made food aswell? So.. You can dance, cook, don’t tell me you are a secret singer too." Lottie teased gently as she turned on her side to face him, smile only widening at his next words. "Maybe I'll just have to object in protest-" She teased with a small scrunch of her nose before pressing her lips against his. A hand moving to rest on his chest lightly as they kissed. Despite the just over a month they'd been spending together, Lottie didn't think she’d ever fully get used to him like this. Still every kiss made a warmth glow in her chest and a light pink cast on her cheeks. Any sparkle she had in her eyes was just for him. If anything, to Lottie it was all him just reflecting in them.

When their lips parted, they barely did; which almost felt perfect to Lottie. She didn’t want to be anywhere else but close by his side. Her eyes brow quirked with curiosity as he said there was one more thing, but really she hadn’t expected him to ask that. Of course she was delighted, she didn’t think her smile could have gotten any wider but it did. With the little dimple forming at her cheeks and as her eyes flickered over his features; wanting to remember every second of this moment. When she could really and finally call him hers. "I'll just have to think about that one-" Lottie spoke quietly, eyes flickering away briefly, as if really she had to think about an answer. It had always been him, there was never a question about it. A soft giggle falling off her lips, the blonde nodded as she spoke: "Of course, yes. You didn't even have to ask." Lottie spoke before closing the little distance between them to press her lips back to his. She'd been his for longer than she'd say, but he'd held her heart long enough that she knew it to be true. A part of her had always been his. There had never been anyone like Edward Tonks in Charlotte Shaw's eyes. Any one else had never fully settled in her heart like he had done so easily.

Breaking the kiss all be it a little reluctantly, just for a breathe, a twinkle flickering in her eyes as she admired his beautiful features cast in the soft light of fairy lights around them and illuminated by the moon. Leaning over she brushed a soft kiss over his cheek where the stars glimmered, her forehead resting lightly against his temple as her fingers tips traced absent circles on his chest. "How did I get so lucky to have you.." Lottie whispered softly her eyes flickering up to look into his. @teddybeartonks​

Shaw knew Lucius. Being in the same year and of course with their families in similar social circles; she’d observed enough over the years to know he wasn’t someone that she’d want to associate with. Clearly just from a glance, neither did the tentative first year who was looking apologetic and frail. She’d barely closed to the door to the green house before she was calling over to the pair; hoping it would some what ease the first years to know they weren’t alone. “Lucius- Leave them alone, they weren’t doing any harm.” Charlotte spoke firmly, even if there was still a softness to her tone. There wasn’t a moment she hesitated before establishing herself between the male and the young students. For a moment she thought of what Wren would say. How when Lottie had ended up in the hospital, she’d atleast promised to try and stay out of trouble. It hadn’t exactly lasted long, but really she hoped it was just a simple misunderstanding and they could all gladly go about their days. But with Malfoy? She doubted it. “Are you really picking on first years? Doesn’t that seem a little low to you?” The witch questioned, brows furrowed lightly with concern. @kingofthemanor​

Did anyone is this castle have an ounce of respect anymore. He had been sat outside on the grounds, practising a few hexes. Not ones that he would be asked to demonstrate of course. These were for the future. Something to keep Bella impressed with him. He’d only been sat there a few minutes when something hit him the back of the head. He turned around to see a young Gryffindor girl sniggering at him. No, no, that wouldn’t do at all. She would have to learn who was boss around here.  He marched over her, using the significant height difference to seem even more intimidating.

He was just about to pull out his wand, to make sure the young girl had fully understood his message, when a voice told him to stop. He swung round to see what idiot had decided to get involved. Charlotte Shaw. Had she not learnt her lesson last time. Bellatrix and Landon had sent her to the hospital wing. They were getting too cocky these days. With every interaction he’d had with these scum lately, Bella’s idea for the future seemed more and more promising.

“I don’t think this concerns you” Lucius snarled, he turn back round to finish the job, only to notice the girl had ran off “now look what you’ve done, first years need to be taught quickly who to respect around here- it’s a courtesy really”

“Speaking of low” Lucius continued. Easily recalling a way he could get under her skin “isn’t it a bit beneath you to be dating that mudblood oaf- whatever would your family say”. Their families knew each other fairly well, having attended many events together. Charlotte had grown up to be quite the disappointment, a waste really.

“If you are going to be threatening a first years, then yes it does concern me Lucius.” Lottie spoke simple, steadying her stance. She knew that maybe she should be cautious around someone like Lucius Malfoy. Even if it wasn’t for his growing reputation around the school, then because of his links to her family. But it didn’t. Maybe it was the braver rooted deep in her that made her a Gryffindor pulling through. Though, dumb braver maybe someone like Wren would say. Yet still, she stood strong and firm with no signs of yielding. She wasn’t afraid of someone like him. Charlotte had grown up with enough snakes in her home she’d quickly learnt not to be afraid of their venom. “Dumbledore, McGonagall and our other professors yes. They need to learn nothing from you.”

Though of course as soon as he brought Ted into the conversation her demeanor changed. Stiffening, she could feel her jaw clenching which was rare for someone like Charlotte Shaw. “I’d watch yourself Malfoy and urge you to hold your tongue. Try. Say another thing about my boyfriend and see what happens.” Lottie warned. In her mind, Lottie was already calculating how quickly she’d be able to reach her wand if needed - which of course was kept at her thigh above her knee high socks hidden by her skirt -. It was a quick easy way for her to reach it especially with her hand lingering by her side she could easily feel it right by her finger tips. It was a trick her mother had taught her and granted saved fumbling in pockets. One of the last people that Lottie would ever stay ideal when words of negativity spewed, was Edward Tonks. Any of her friends really and particularly recently negative words regarding blood. Straightening herself, her placid expression watched him as she spoke evenly and calmly: “He is a better person than both of us combined. A better man and wizard then you could ever hope to be, despite people like you saying he can be anything but. What my family would say is none of your concern.” Lottie knew if it wasn’t for blood her family might actually approve of Ted. But that would never be the reality they lived in. And really, she would never let them close enough to him to be a judge of it. Especially with how spiteful she knew they could be. Lottie would stand as a barrier as long as she could so they didn’t hurt anyone else. @kingofthemanor​

Something about the Halloween Party had woken up in Amelia a desire to make the most of her last year at Hogwarts and led her to believe she actually could have it all if she wanted. One of the first things she’d done (while nursing her hangover buried in bed all day) was ask Charlotte Shaw if she wanted to go out to Madam Puddifoot’s with her someday. She’d been glad to see the other witch respond enthusiastically, and hoped her own intentions had been obvious: this was an opportunity to bond and get to know each other now that things between her and Ted were getting serious. Amelia wasn’t planning on ‘testing’ Lottie or anything of the sort, since she liked to assume that Edward was capable of making adult decisions on his own. Moreover, she’d heard so many good things about Charlotte Shaw, and Ted looked so happy, she truly hoped everything would work out. She had one fear, knowing how her closeness with Ted had put off more than one partner on either side -- but she hoped an afternoon of girl bonding time would help with dispelling any jealousy. When she made it to the tearoom, the blonde was already sitting down. “Hello! How are you? Thank you so much for meeting me here -- I thought it’d be nice to get out of the castle for a while.”

Amelia had a lot on her plate, to say the least. It seemed like she was always doing the wrong thing these days, using the wrong tone, and she had this impression that slowly but surely, everyone was turning away from her. She only ever felt like either the insufferable Head Girl, the judgmental know-it-all, or the absent friend anymore. Reaching out to Lottie to get to know her better came from good intentions, but she was convinced that somehow she’d say the wrong thing and it would all go tits up – that seemed to be the way of her life now. Her mood was a bit morose, but the blonde’s smile did ease her in with her enthusiasm. It felt so good, so relieving, to be in the company of someone who seemed to be radiating goodness and acceptance. Amelia wanted nothing less for Edward.

“Oh that’s absolutely alright. Oh yeah – you do have a thing for Herbology, don’t you? I seem to remember that from years back. Are you growing anything interesting other than saplings?” she asked with a smile. They quickly ordered tea as someone came to table, and Amelia sat more comfortably facing the other girl, resting on her arms crossed atop the table. “That’s no problem at all. I did have fun at the party, actually. But to be fair, now everything’s gone to shit because of it – pardon my French. I’m sure you’ve seen the Gazette by now. Slytherins have been coming at me with insults left and right, all my friends seem to be disappointed in my behavior, and somehow it feels like one party has changed everything about who I am in most people’s eyes,” she said with a shrug. “But enough about me! How are you doing? I asked you here because I just thought it was preposterous that we still haven’t really spent any time together. But then again, I do feel like I already know you what with how much Ted talks about you.”

"Guilty of my green thumb yes, it's always been my favourite admittedly. We have a few new mandrakes that need care and I’m keeping an eye on the gillyweed we have growing as it’s rather fickle.” Herbology had always been a great passion of Lottie’s, it of course helped that she had a natural talent and that Professor Sprout took her under her wing. But really despite how modest she was about it whenever asked, Lottie was a fine student. She excelled in all of her topics and rather enjoyed them; of course she wouldn’t be in Slug club if she didn’t. 

Her brows furrowed lightly with concern as she listened to the other talk about her experience after the party. Really, Lottie hadn’t thought about it too deeply, though no down that was because of her privileges being a pureblood. Still she frowned with worry as she spoke: “I’m sorry Amelia, they shouldn’t be treating you like that. I did read it and I'm sorry that's the reaction it brought. Truly though, as hard as it is; try not to dwell on it. It was just a kiss, wasn’t it? At parties it's a rather common occurrence. It doesn't change who you are or your believes. You know that and I’m sure your friends do as well. I'm sure it'll blow over in a few days. If you need me to have a word with anyone, I'd be happy to.” And really she meant it. 

At the mention of Ted though, Lottie couldn't help a light pink cast over her cheeks and a slightly warmer edge to her smile. "He does?" It shouldn't have taken aback as much as it did, they'd been friends since first year. But still it was new and exciting and after so many years it was to be expected. But Lottie also knew that when it came to Edward Tonks she'd always hold a special place for him. Shaking her head lightly a little embarrassed, she averted her eyes momentarily before looking back up at the other. “I’m been- well wonderful really. Truthfully I’m almost waiting for someone to pinch me so I can wake up from a dream, it sounds silly I know. But really it’s just been-.. wonderful.” @milabones​

“Ah, Charlotte Shaw.” Melchior stated as he came across the girl in the corridor, surprised to see her on her own. “I’m surprised to see you without any of your friends..” His tone warm as to pass himself with the girl, she was a member of the Sacred Twenty Eight despite her reckless choices. @ohdearlottie​

"Melchior." Charlotte greeted with a nod and small smile like she did everyone with afflictions with her family. The least she could was always be kind. "Oh- I'm sure they are having a fine time without me." The blonde spoke simply, she was a social butterfly at heart. Alone was something she rarely was she'd give him that. But still she always was hesitant to talk about her friends with people who held the same believes as her family. "How are you enjoying your time back at Hogwarts? I'm sorry about Slytherin loosing in quidditch, they tried quite well and there is always next time.” @melchiorparkinson​

“Charlotte SHAW!” James screamed as he caught the girl amongst the crowd after the game ended. “You are an absolute angel, lifesaver, Godsend of a chaser. The way you checked Gosforth, and then that goal – an absolute stroke of genius, let me tell you, and how you got in Lestrange’s face, you were bloody BRILLIANT! I mean, Wren did say it was a amazing move on my part to put you on the pitch today… Still, still. Couldn’t have done it without you. Mind-blowing, this one,” he said shaking his head as he spread his arm across her shoulders and squeezed her into a tight side-hug. 

She’d been busy talking to two younger Gryffindor girls who were shining over her when she heard the familiar scream and she couldn’t help a laugh immediately fall off her lips at her name. “For goodness sake James are you trying to shout the place down?” The blonde teased lightly a warm smile pulling onto her features. Her arms wrapped around his waist giving her childhood best friend a light squeeze. Though as an only child, he'd almost been like a sibling she never had. Granted they weren't nearly as close as they had been before Hogwarts, each finding their own respected groups. But that didn't mean they still weren't friends and spent time with one another. “Please you have enough glory to bask in, what was it you called me one more time? A godsend did you say?” Lottie laughed softly with a small shake of her head. "And of course none of us would have been able to do it without one wonder of a captain. Of course celebrations are in order, can I convince you of giggle water and a victory dance with me in the common room this evening? Or will you be too busy with your adoring fans." @potterstagger​

“Late?” Tiberius repeated, outraged. “I would never. I could never,”  He chuckled. Tib set his stuff down and began setting it up. “I am looking forward to it. It’s busy, but the best time of year y’know,” The man shrugged a shoulder before then shrugging off his jacket. “I don’t really get nervous.”

A soft smile fell onto her lips as he laughed and followed suit. Setting her broom down and folding over to hold onto her toes with ease. Ballet really did her flexibility wonders. “I’m joking Tiberius, I was just early. Everyone gets nervous over something. Does it really not scare you even a little?” Granted quidditch had always been a thrill for Lottie too. She loved the adrenaline that came with flying. The sense of freedom with the wind brushing over her cheeks. It was easy to forget your worries when you were quite literally in the clouds. But more so she adored the team work. Though of course that didn’t mean she didn’t worry some times about letting people down. “Are you planning on going to the Slug horn meeting next month? I heard a rumour he was planning a more casual soiree before one of this dinner parties.” @tibxriuss​

Ted thanked Molly as he left the kitchen with a basket full of food. He’d known for a few days he wanted to take Lottie on an evening picnic date and he’d wanted to make as much of the food as he could himself. Whilst he knew he could cut corners and use music, he thought it meant more to make it by hand. He’d dragged Molly in to help, knowing that she’d always been amazing at cooking. He had still done most of it by himself, she’d just been there to calm him down and direct him when he was getting flustered and to tell him when he was totally messing up a recipe. 

After grabbing a second basket he’d already prepared from his dorm, he walked out to the edge of the lake. Laying both the baskets that he was carrying down on the floor. He’d used an extension charm on one of them, one by one he used accio to bringing everything he needed out of it.  He started by laying out a couple of blankets he’d brought, next he set out the cushions and folded the spare blankets in a neat pile on the side. It was a late autumn evening and he certainly didn’t want Lottie to catch a chill. Next he set a little bunch of forget-me-nots in a vase in front on the blankets. He’d asked his parents to send across a few bunches of fairy lights, he draped these around the blankets and charmed some more to hang from the tree above him.

He set the food basket down nicely on one of the blankets and sat down. She should be here soon. He hoped that she liked it all. He’d make her a buffet full of different fruit based dishes. There were mini apple pies, strawberry sundae bites, caramel apple s’mores, strawberry shortcake bites and then a range of different fresh fruits to dip in to a chocolate fondue. He hoped that this lived up to his promise. Times like this were the only times that he felt lesser for not having a lot of money. He wished he was able to give her something extravagant, but he hope that the amount of thought and effort that had gone in to the picnic would help to make up for it. 

He’d put a little extra in to his outfit too, even though Ted wasn’t exactly massively in to style. He was wearing black jeans, and a simple light blue shirt, not fully buttoned up despite the cold air. To keep his warm he’d brought his leather jacket that he usually saved for special occasions. This definitely counted as a special occasion. He ran his hand through his hair nervously waiting for her to arrive. It was only a few minutes later that he spotted her walking towards him. He walked over to meet her, immediately enveloping her a in a hug.

“Wow” he said as he looked at her. She looked beautiful, she always did, but especially tonight. “You look..wow” the boyish grin on his face only growing wider. “I hope you like you like it” He said softly as he took hold of her hand, leading her towards the the area he’d set up.

Edward Tonks had always held a very special place in Lottie’s heart. Truly as much as she tried to deny it or even let her self fully believe it, he’d held a piece of it unknowingly for years. Because to Lottie, that boy she’d met her first day on the train to Hogwarts, really was unlike any other. They weren’t just another pair of blue eyes, a kind smile and warm heart. They were his blue eyes. Eyes so beautiful she swore she could see the ocean in them, so deep as if they were filled with a fountain of wonder and marvelous things. Here she was, lucky enough that she was the one that got to hold and cherish them by being so close to him. Lottie always spoke about Ted like he put the stars in the sky, because really; there was never anyone quite like him. 

By the time she’d left her dorm and common room, she’d gotten a few bright encouraging smiles from her room mates, even a whistle from the friend in the common room which was encouraging, even if a little embracing. She’d tried, really; because she wanted to look good for him. It had felt like years in the making, after so long all Lottie wanted was just a night alone together with him. It didn’t matter what they did, it would be special regardless because she got to spent it with him. She’d braided two small sections of her soft blonde hair back and decorated them with soft delicate white, green and blue flowers. With soft mint green heels, white tights to keep her warm under her soft lace and satin dress that almost held a pearl iridescence under the moonlight. Cropped cream jumper adored with embroidered flowers and of course the forget me not necklace he’d bought her for her birthday. 

Her wand giving a enough light to find her way down the path to meet him. As it normally did though, when her eyes caught sight of him any nerves she had disappeared with the glimpse of his smile. It always had the ability to ease her no matter what. Arms wrapping around him gladly, her shoulders relaxed instantly as her features softened just by being close to him. “What surprise have you got up your sleeve this time Tonks?” Lottie hummed softly a bright smile on her features as she peered up at him before pressing a soft kiss to his cheek. Pausing only to put her wand back by her thigh where she normally kept it.

Fingers lacing with his, she gave his hand a soft squeeze gently before she finally averted her eyes away from him and to the scene before her. It had Lottie stopping dead in her tracks as her eyes took in the setting. It was beautiful. And Lottie was left completely speechless. “I-“ The lights practically sparkled in the darkness, with the picnic set up it felt like worlds away from the castle. If her heart wasn’t full of warmth before, it felt like it would almost burst now. Butterflies filling her chest as she tried to take in the scene. But really, how could she ever comprehend something as perfect as this. “Teddy I-“ shaking her head lightly, her hand moved to cover her mouth in shock. He’d really out done himself, one thought radiating in her mind; how on earth had to managed to get so lucky? It was silly she knew and she tried to blink away the tears that edged her eyes from shock and pure happiness. Never in a million years would she have ever imagined this. “It’s-” Shaking her head in disbelief. Despite her efforts, she couldn’t will them to stop. With tear slipping from her green eyes down her cheek Charlotte spoke: “Sorry I um-“ Her delicate fingers moving up to brush it away as she turned to face him. “No ones ever done anything like this for me before.” She muttered quietly with a small shake of her head in wonderment up at him. He really was like no other. “You are just-“ The blonde spoke, a warm affectionate smile pulling gently onto her features. Her free hand that wasn’t laced with his moving to brush over his cheek gently as she added gently: “Full of surprises.” @teddybeartonks​