#hphm fluff

The Ravenclaw alumni returned his gaze to the two boys sitting at his feet, who were still awaiting his answer.

"It is... how did you two find out about that," he asked. Kendrick turned to his older brother with a raised brow, telling Talbott all he needed to know.

"Where did you go snooping this time, little falcon," Talbott asked. Bakari crossed his arms with a pout.

"Storage... not my fault you guys keep all the cool stuff there." Talbott tried to muffle his chuckle with little success. He swore the older Bakari got, the more he believed he inherited a bit of Judith's chaotic energy. Either that or their godfather has been more of a terrible influence on his kids than he initially thought.

But then again, what else should he expect from David Willows, the biggest pain in his arse since 3rd year?

"We know that, but you know not to go there without an adult with you. But I'm not going to scold you over that. What did you find to find out about our anniversary?" He watched as Bakari got up from his seat to run and get something. Only a few seconds later, he returned with an old book in hand. But it wasn't just any book.

It was a photo album, one Talbott immediately recognized.

Bakari flipped to a page before turning it to show their dad. The page held a picture of Talbott and Judith sharing a kiss on their wedding day. Written on the bottom was an inscription.

'June 17, 1995: Our first kiss out of many as husband and wife'

It was in his lovely wife's handwriting, with a love heart at the end.

"Was that your first kiss with Mama, Dad," Kendrick asked, his gold eyes shining with curiosity. The father of two chuckled.

"Yes and no. We shared a lot of first kisses in our lives." He smirked at the confused looks on his sons' faces.

"Wait, how," Bakari asked. Talbott shrugged, settling in his chair. He knew he wasn't leaving that seat until his sons' curiosity had been satisfied. Hopefully, it's before he and Judith get to leave to go out for dinner, leaving the boys with their Grandpa Kendrick and Grandma Villanelle.

"We had many first kisses that each meant something different at that certain point in our lives. That picture is physical proof of our first kiss as a married couple. But we had many first kisses before that and even first kisses after, surprisingly." Kendrick tilted his head as if he was an owlet.

"When was your very first kiss then, Dad?" Talbott grinned at the memory, before sharing the tale as it played before his eyes as if it was just yesterday.

"I haven't had this much fun ever since I came here. I never want this day to end," Judith sighed as they sat in their tree. They were watching the sunset from within the branches, watching the breathtaking view. Talbott glanced at the girl, her eyes solely trained on the sunset. Her locs had a bit of curl to them as she allowed him to put them in some braids before undoing them, opting to put them in a half-up half-down style.

'She's so pretty like this...'

"Same here, I never felt this way before," Talbott quietly confessed. Judith looked over at him.

"Felt what way," she asked. He fidgeted nervously, trying his best to control his heart.

"I'm not sure what exactly I'm feeling," the boy mumbled with a blush. Judith pouted.

"Well, try to describe it." The boy spared a glance at her before taking in a breath.

"I feel all warm and fuzzy on the inside. Especially when I see you smile... and it's because of me... my heart feels like it wants to beat out of my chest sometimes when you look at me," Talbott said, feeling his ears burning. Judith was silent for a few moments before letting out a soft laugh.

"Sounds like love to me," she chuckled. Talbott spluttered a response, forgetting himself as he slowly lost his balance. A pair of arms wrapped around his waist.

"Woah! Easy there, you could've fell," Judith chided, though there was no real heat behind her words. He could feel his blush worsen at the feeling of her arms holding him so close. He could smell the same unfamiliar warm, sweet scent coming from her. It threatened to make him dizzy.

"S-sorry..." The two noticed just how close they were. Judith cleared her throat and pulled away a little.

"W-well maybe love is too strong of a word..." Talbott watched as the girl frowned mid-sentence, seemingly remembering something before shaking it off.

"I've read Muggle romance books that talk about similar feelings... you could just like me and care about me. I..." the girl trailed off again to look at Talbott.

"I... I know I like and care about you," she softly confessed. Red eyes went wide with shock at this revelation. She likes and cares about him...?

He let out a breathless laugh, holding her hand.

"I'm glad you feel the same too, little bird," he told her. The girl looked confused for a moment.

"I'm not the one who can transform into a bird, bird boy," she teased, which Talbott chuckled at.

"Consider it my pet name for you. Who knows maybe you can become like me and transform into a bird," Talbott mused as he nuzzled her cheek.

"Really? You'll teach me," the girl asked with a smile. Talbott held out his pinky to her. Her smile widened as she hooked her pinky finger with hers.

"I promise, little bird," he swore. Judith leaned in and gently pressed her lips to the young boy's cheek. When she pulled away, Talbott raised a shaky hand to the spot Judith kissed.

"Wh-what was that f-for?" The girl giggled shyly, eyes sparkling with warmth.

"A little way for me to say 'I care about you, bird boy'." Talbott blushed and leaned in to press a kiss to her cheek. Judith sighed through her nose.

"I care about you too, little bird," the boy whispered against her cheek. The two looked into each other's eyes with a soft smile playing on their lips as the sun set behind them...

"So Mama kissed you first? But she seems so shy," Bakari pondered aloud. Talbott chuckled.

"Oh, she definitely is. But I guess she really wanted to show how she felt about me," Talbott answered breezily. Kendrick let out a tentative hum.

"But didn't you love her? Why did you nearly fall out the tree when she suggested that's how you felt?" The older man blushed, coughing in his fist. Nothing gets by his youngest son, something he definitely gets from his mother.

"I was 8 and she 7, we were still kids. I wasn't mature enough to admit to such a serious emotion like love." Kendrick nodded and Bakari decided to ask his next question.

"So when was your next "first" kiss," he asked, playfully adding air quotations around the word "first". Gods, was he talking to his wife or their sons? They inherited a lot of her mannerisms at their young age...

"It was the night we had our first date. It was our 4th year at Hogwarts. I met her again in our 3rd year but I didn't recognize that she was the same girl from our childhood. But I was crushing her pretty bad. Your uncle Andre encouraged me to play secret admirer for a while until your godfather caught me leaving my latest love note to her. He gave me the right push to finally come clean and ask her out on a date. It was a first for both of us, so we were pretty much the exact picture of two awkward teenagers who obviously had feelings for each other. We were essentially okay for the first half until one of our old friends who came to spy on us broke some fine china, forcing the shop to close. I didn't want the night to end so I suggested we go stargazing. We were out in one of the Creature's Reserve for a few hours watching the stars, even your mom's Porlock joined us. Eventually, we had to sneak by to the castle before Mr. Filch caught us..."

"... I do hope we can do this again soon... I never said this before but... I really do like you...” Talbott gave her hand another squeeze.

“As do I. And thank you, Judith. Perhaps we could take another trip to Madame Puddifoot’s with no interference.” Judith giggled at this.

“I would like that, I never got my “unspillable” hibiscus tea tonight.” Talbott chuckled, deciding to play along.

“Very true, perhaps she’ll give us the recipe. I’d like to try it sometime.” A smirk tugged on the girl’s full lips.

“I think she would have to kill us first.” Talbott returned it with one of his own.

“Or swear a blood pact to never tell another soul lest we suffer a horrific death. Judith threw her head back and let out a warm laugh.

“That would sound about right. After all, everyone has their secrets.” Judith said this as they approached the Hufflepuff Common Room. Talbott waited for her to finish entering the secret passage to enter her Common Room before speaking again.

“I hope to find out yours, I had a wonderful time tonight...” His hand that held hers, slipped free before finding the little Hufflepuff’s waist. Judith squeaked when he pulled her flush against his body, nuzzling her temple. Judith gazed up at him with a flushed face.

“I-I... I-If you plan on sticking around, you just might...” Judith stood on her toes, pressing her lips against the Ravenclaw’s cheek. Talbott stared at her, slightly dazed as she pulled away and out of his grasp.

“G-Goodnight Talbott, s-sweet dreams.” With that parting, the girl hurried into her common room. Talbott stood there for a few seconds longer before a smile broke out on his face.

He turned to leave the basements to his common room, touching his cheek in the meanwhile.

‘I think I may have found my mate for life...’

"Mom is 2-0 as far as first kisses go," Bakari said with a giggle. Talbott couldn't help but give his son the evil eye (he didn't mean it though).

"This isn't a game Bakari," he said with an exasperated sigh. Bakari simply shrugged with a playful grin. Kendrick shook his head at his brother.

"Well, when was the first time you guys kissed on the lips? You two seem pretty shy with each other to stick to the cheek," Kendrick pointed out. The two boys watched as a frown found its way on their father's face.

"Dad? What's wrong? Was it bad," Bakari asked quietly. Talbott shook his head.

"No, no... that kiss was magical... Everything about that night was magical. It's just that... well, you know your mother has her scar?" Bakari and Kendrick nodded, It didn't escape Talbott's attention that Kendrick touched the birthmark over his left eye. It was almost the same shape as the burn scar that was on his mother's face.

"Well, she always felt like it made her ugly, a monster even... It was Valentine's Day and Madam Pince was supposed to be the one hosting the Ball. Everyone at the school knew she would make it a dreary affair so naturally David and your mother helped. I wanted to do something special for her. I wasn't the only one thinking about doing something special for their person. Your godmother and I fought over who would get to use the library. I ended up winning that battle and turned the library into something out of a storybook romance. That was the first time I saw her so awestruck. Even though we spent the entire night as each other's dates, I couldn't stop admiring her..."

They were slow dancing together, lost in their storybook fairytale world. The soft glow coming from the fairies he invited into the library illuminated his little bird's face. It made her eyes seem like glowing embers of a flame. Those long sunbleached locs were in a high ponytail, showing off her angelic face. Her red-to-black floor-length gown highlighted the curves of her body as her black heels brought her closer to his height.

She was gorgeous...

...but Talbott could see that her mind was elsewhere.

“Judith?” The dark-skinned girl mentally shook her head, looking up to meet his gaze. 

“Y-Yes,” she quietly asked.

“Is everything alright? You seemed lost in thought,” Talbott said softly. Even with faint lighting, he could tell that the girl was blushing.

“Y-Yes, I'm fine. I just zoned out for a bit,” she said. Talbott knew her well known to know when she was lying, but he didn't look to push. He couldn't help to take in her features again. From her lovely eyes down to those soft lips. Judith seemed unnerved by his staring because it was her turn to break the silence that befell them.

“W-What?" Talbott blinked slowly as if he was waking up from a daze.

“I’m sorry, Judith. It’s just that...” Talbott trailed off for a moment, his heart hammering against his ribcage as he met those eyes again. The eyes of the person that he was falling in love with.

“You’re so beautiful, little bird,” he whispered, almost breathlessly. He watched as the girl ducked her head so the Ravenclaw wizard couldn’t see her face.

“T-There’s no need to l-lie to me just because it’s V-Valentine’s Day,” she mumbled. Talbott frowned upon hearing this. The pair stopped dancing.

“I’m serious, Judith. You’re really beautiful, no matter the day...” Judith shoved him away. Pale gold eyes looked up, glaring at avian Animagus. A small shiver ran down his spine as the scar covering her left eye intensified the effect of her glare.

“Have you lost your bloody mind?! Talbott, LOOK AT ME! This burn scar is hideous! It makes me look like a monster! No wizard in his right mind would think I’m...” Judith trailed off as if she couldn't bring herself to say the word. Red eyes narrowed as the young wizard stepped closer.

“That you’re what, Judith? That you’re beautiful? Gorgeous? Breathtaking? A literal angel on Earth?” Judith floundered to find a response as if Talbott stunned her with a spell. Taking the opportunity, Talbott grabbed Judith by the waist. Judith ducked her head.

“T-Talbott... d-don’t-”

“Don’t tell me how to feel, Judith. I refuse to hear you talk down about yourself when you’re so much more than your physical looks,” Talbott said firmly. A firm but gentle hand cupped the girl’s cheek, forcing her to meet her date’s eyes. The two stood in silence as Talbott’s thumb slowly swiped across Judith’s bottom lip.

“T-Talbott,” Judith whispered.

“Mmm... yes, little bird,” Talbott answered in kind. A sharp canine peaked from behind plump, glossy lips, biting down on the soft flesh of the lower lip. Talbott silently observed the small motion, feeling warmth blossom on his cheeks and inside his chest.

“K-Kiss me... p-please...”

That was all the wizard needed. Talbott didn't even remember closing the gap between them. All he remembered was suddenly feeling those sweet lips shyly moving against his. The tentative caresses of their lips coming together, hands pulling their bodies closer, the faint sound of hearts beating as one...

When they finally pulled away after what felt like forever, Talbott found himself looking at his little bird's eyes for what was the umpteenth time that night with a single thought on his mind.

'So this is love...'

"I can't believe Mama could ever believe that she was a monster. Monsters aren't lovable like her and she's plenty beautiful! That man at Flourish and Blotts last week wouldn't have been flirting with her if he thought she was ugly," Kendrick retorted, upset on his mother's behalf. Though Talbott could've gone without the memory of the man trying to hit on his wife. When he was less than three feet away. With their boys, one with her facial features and another with her eyes, sitting right next to engrossed in a book.

For God's sake, he was positive that the man didn't even bother to look at her left hand to find the gold diamond ring nestled on her ring finger.

If it wasn't for the fact that he was in his mother-in-law's place of work, he would've made a scene. Talbott has always been an overprotective and territorial man when it comes to his wife. He knew what kind of treasure he held for years. Any man would be blessed to have her and Talbott always felt blessed to be able to hold her fancy, becoming her boyfriend, later fiance, and now husband.

While he didn't deck the man, he did make a point to walk over to greet his wife with a lingering kiss on the lips before addressing the suddenly flustered man.

When the man scurried off, Judith lightly scolded her husband who didn't even look the slightest bit ashamed of what he had done. Bakari rolled his eyes at his dad's antics while Kendrick giggled endearingly. Even Madam Villanelle fondly shook her head with a small smile.

Before Talbott could reply, the blessed sound of the front door opening and closing signaled the arrival of his wife and her parents.

"Talbott, boys, I'm home," Judith called. Bakari and Kendrick tripped over themselves to rush to greet their mama. Just as Judith entered their study, two beings latched themselves onto her legs.

"Mama!" Judith laughed at the joyful cry her boys made, kneeling down to hug them.

"Hello, my little princes," she cooed lovingly, kissing their foreheads. Each boy was branded with the same lipstick that adorned the calendar.

"Happy anniversary, Mama," Bakari said with a grin. Judith raised a brow and looked at her husband. Talbott simply raised the old photo album as an answer. The 33-year-old year witch let out a laugh, squeezing her oldest.

"Thank you, my love. Why don't you two go see your grandparents in the living room? I'm sure your old grandpa would love to see you and your grandma brought a new book for you to look at."

"I may be 68, but I still heard that baby girl!" The Winger family laughed at the indignation heard in Kendrick Senior's voice. The two boys ran off to greet their grandparents as Judith walked over to her husband, gracefully making herself comfortable in his lap.

"Let me guess, Bakari went snooping in the storage room with no one there to watch him?' A nod.

"And Kendrick did nothing to stop him, not wanting to get caught up in his shenanigans?" Another nod.

"And he found the picture of us on our wedding day?" One last nod.

Judith let out a fond sigh.

"I've birthed a nosey fiend," she groaned, resting on Talbott's chest. Talbott chuckled, kissing her forehead.

"It's only going to get worse since he has you as a mother and David as a godfather." Now Talbott was laughing at the offended pout on Judith's face.

"I admit, it did lead to an interesting conversation. About our first kiss." Judith raised a brow.

"Which one," she asked, causing her husband to grin.

"Oh, just the one from when we were kids, our first date, and the night of the Valentine's Day Ball." Judith laughed.

"That's it? I'm surprised you didn't tell them about the others. They love it whenever you tell them stories about us growing up," she teased. Talbott only shrugged, picking up his wife like when she was a bride on their wedding day.

"We would've been here all night and if I remember correctly, we have a date tonight," he drawled as he walked out of the study to head to their bedroom. Judith giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"You're definitely right. It's always nice to have time with each other whenever our anniversary comes around," she sighed blissfully. Judith looked up at her husband, who was already looking back at her with that same lovesick smile from when they were students at Hogwarts. Talbott leaned in to kiss her lips.

"Happy Anniversary, little bird," he whispered against her mouth. Judith returned the kiss with a small smile.

"Happy Anniversary, bird boy..." The two stared at each other for a few moments longer before the sound of something dropping broke the trance they were in. Kendrick and Villanelle were quietly laughing as their boys stared at them with gobsmacked expressions.

"DID WE JUST WITNESS THE FIRST KISS ON YOUR 11TH ANNIVERSARY?!" The two couples laughed at the boys' enthusiasm for witnessing their parents' love on their special day.

    It's your final year as the infamous Hogwarts Curse-breaker, and it's simply not the same. After everything that's happened in its halls, the whole castle feels cold and vaguely threatening. You yourself feel different. Your injuries from the past years still plague you, but it's more than that. You ache to be touched. It's a craving that eats at you. You drop your wand for the hundredth time in Charms, and your body screams. Professor Flitwick says something consoling, and you wince. It’s worse when the teachers are sympathetic. You wishe they would yell. You think the adrenaline rush would help you focus. You leave the class feeling desperate and keyed. This simply will not do.

    You turn to Barnaby first. You know it’s a weak and pathetic thing to do, but the need for something physical is overwhelming. He's always had his eye on you. You thinks he’s your best shot. You aren't disappointed.

    You meet in the Artefact Room on some vague pretense, ("I want to talk to you about something, B.") but there’s only the briefest exchange before your arms are around his neck and Barnaby is tugging at your waist to pull you against him. You have to stretch onto tiptoes to reach his lips, but once your tongues meet you don't notice the protests from your calf muscles. You part only briefly for you to strip first yourself, then Barnaby, whose fumbling fingers can't manage to undo his own buttons. You trail your fingers down Barnaby's bare chest, impossibly firm, before returning to his lips. 

    Barnaby sighs sweetly into your mouth. He croons your name too slowly, fingers sliding up your hips. And his eyes. God, his eyes. They say so much, they scream at you with adoration. You bury your face in Barnaby's neck as he lifts you like you weigh nothing and settles you onto him. You can’t stop yourself from crying out. 

    The fit of Barnaby inside you is exquisite and immense. He rocks into you, oh, so gently; afraid to hit his hips too hard, or use his full length. But you're so sick of being handled delicately.

    You grunt in a mixture of pleasure and frustration. You try to buck your hips against Barnaby; force him to speed up, to go deeper, to hit harder. You want to be overwhelmed by sensation. But Barnaby is stronger. He props you back against the wall, leaning forward to kiss you sweetly. His insufferably slow rhythm begins to drive you wild. You surrender to it, letting it build your satisfaction slowly, tantalizingly. You're surprised at how long Barnaby can last. You had pictured him fast and hard, using all his strength to take what he needs from your body as quick as he can get it. But his hands on you are so light. He cradles you against him as if you were one of his small creatures. 

    You don't know how long you've been there before you feel yourself reach a precipice of pleasure. You just need just a little more to fall over. One hand strokes Barnaby's cheek, the other grabs at his hip as you plead, “B. go faster. Please, please go faster.” 

    Barnaby groans and turns his face fully into your hand, gracing your palm with a sloppy, heated kiss. Clutching you closer to him, he spins away from the wall and kneels awkwardly to the floor. He pushes you back against the ground and hovers over you, bracing his weight onto his arms as he eases into you completely. You gasp, because that's exactly where you needs him. 

    Barnaby speeds up, just a fraction, the strain of holding himself back evident on his face. But it’s enough.

    The friction of his pelvis rubbing against you, and the new, deeper fullness pushes you over the edge. You stiffen, arching your back and running your hands through your own hair as a litany of moans erupt from your mouth, loud enough to make even Barnaby nervous. He kisses you, harder than he has before, muffling your sounds. You shudder and clench around him. Barnaby's own orgasm rips through him and his hips smack against yours forcefully for the first time. It makes stars light up behind your tightly closed eyes. If he would just do that again you could come for the second time in minutes. 

    But Barnaby slows, and falls on top of you, carefully, resting his head beside yours. You can feel his heart beating against your chest. You let yourself rest, enjoying being slightly crushed by his gorgeous body, and feeling entirely relaxed for the first time since term began.

    As soon as Barnaby can think again, he props himself up and asks, "I’m sorry. Did I hurt you?" 

    His voice is so full of concern, you can't help but smile.

"Talbott, what are you doing?" The young wizard jumped at Andre's voice, immediately hiding the journal he was writing in behind his back. The Style Wizard raised a brow, noting the nervous look on Talbott's usual impeccable poker face.

"Andre, I didn't hear you come in," Talbott said, slowly inching closer to the entryway that led to the dorms. The loner Ravenclaw fought the urge to fidget under Andre's narrowed gaze.

"...whatcha got back there, Winger," Andre finally asked after a few beats of silence.

"Nothing, just some class notes," Talbott replied, though Andre could hear the slight tremor in his voice. Andre smirked.

"Class notes don't make you nervous, Winger. Let me see. It's only me..." Andre and Talbott stood in the middle of their common room, staring at each other in silence. Before they both broke into a run--Andre chasing after a red-faced Talbott.

"MIND YOUR DAMN BUSINESS, EGWU!"

"NEVER! JUST LET ME SEE, YOU STUBBORN GIT!" Talbott faltered for a moment, a fond memory of a particular dark-skinned Hufflepuff calling her fellow Housemate the same thing for her "little." Of course, that distraction cost him greatly. The next thing the avian Animagus knew, he was on his stomach with his best mate on his back, crowing his victory as he held Talbott's journal in the air.

Talbott wriggled, trying to get Andre off of him.

"Now, let's see what's got you so flustered that you're too afraid to tell your best mate about it," Andre drawled. Talbott growled, thrashing harder.

"Andre, don't you dare-!" But it was too late; Talbott could hear Andre flipping through the pages.

What Andre saw was something he didn't expect.

"I remember hearing about her when I first came to Hogwarts, but today was my first time officially meeting her. I heard about her fight in our first year. I heard about her famous dad. I heard how she and her best friend defeated the first Cursed Vault. Heck, she was well-known about just two months after the school year started. I always heard whispers about her scar and never understood why everyone made such a big fuss until I saw her for the first time. The scar was impossible to miss, covering almost half of the left side of her face. It went as far back as her ear, forcing her eye into a permanent glare. The nickname "Scarface" made a lot more sense than before. But the one thing about the rumors I could never agree with was her being scary or ugly. Something about those pale gold eyes said a lot more than she would ever say. The shyness, wariness, and hidden warmth... and I never thought I would say this about anyone before, but... she had to be the most beautiful person I've ever seen..."

"...how can someone like her, someone who seemed to have experienced so much pain, still show kindness? Even to those who reject her? ...even to me?"

"It's been years since my parents died. The only thing I had left of them was my mum's feather necklace. Losing that nearly made me lose my mind. The anxiety of losing my last connection to my parents threatened to pull me under. I would have never thought that two insistent Hufflepuffs would be hellbent on helping me find it. I still remember taking the necklace from her small hands. The brief contact rattled me more than the miracle that my necklace was with me again. Her hands were soft, save the light calluses on her fingertips and a bit on her palm. They felt a bit cold, but not in an unpleasant way. I remember hearing once that people with cold hands have warm hearts. Normally I wouldn't believe stuff like that, but for her, it seems fitting..."

"Why did I have to open my big mouth and tell her to make her secret interesting? I've been trying to get her to tell me that secret for what feels like forever, to no avail. I know that defeats the purpose of the Memory Charm, but it's been some time since then... surely it should be okay now that we know each other better? Clearly she begs to differ. She's hellbent on keeping her secret from me. She's always so evasive, asking why I want to know. I always found it difficult to answer that question... how was I going to tell her that I wanted to know the reason why I remember the sweet flush on her cheeks, the cute shuffle she does on occasion, and her endearing habit of playing with her rings before those soft lips told me a secret she was too nervous to tell me without that spell ensuring my ignorance? Why would Professor Flitwick and David look at the two of us with a knowing smirk if we were in each other's space? I feel like I will go insane just trying to figure it out..."

"This can't be healthy. The girl is all I could ever think about. Her brown-black sunbleached locs that sway down to her hips. The sweet scent that clung to her dark skin. Her adorable height of 5'6 (and a half, as she would stress, heh.) The breathtaking smile where that sweet dimple would appear on her right cheek. Those otherworldly pale gold eyes that outshine a treasure trove of galleons whenever she lets her guard down. She's so beautiful... what are you doing to me, Judith Harris?"

Andre's shell-shocked state was the perfect opportunity for Talbott to throw him off and grab his journal back. Talbott had a thunderous glare on his face, holding the little book close to his chest. Andre stood up, reaching out to touch his friend's shoulder.

"Talbott-" The Quidditch player cringed at the sight of angry red eyes.

"Damn it, Egwu! You couldn't leave it alone, could you?!" Talbott felt an embarrassed blush working up his neck and turned away before it could show on his face. The Ravenclaw loner has been trying to work out his feelings for the Hufflepuff witch since he met her. Whenever he's with her, he feels like he's both flying and falling at the same time. There was something there, something familiar, but for the life of him, he couldn't figure out what it was.

He hoped to keep his feelings a secret until he felt ready to talk to someone about it.

'So much for that. And it had to be Judith's date to the Celestial Ball out of all people?!'

"...oltt... Tal... TALBOTT!" The young boy jumped, shaking himself out of the panic he nearly fell under.

"What?" The Seeker let out a weary sigh, turning his friend around so he could face him.

"Hey, it's okay, Talbott. There's no need to be embarrassed because of how you feel for her," Andre said softly. Talbott narrowed his eyes at him.

"How can you say that? I like your crush, and you're telling me it's okay?" Andre stared at Talbott for a few moments before chuckling. Talbott bristled.

"I'm sorry, did I say something funny," he hissed. Andre shook his head fondly.

"Talbott, mate. I don't like Judith that way. At least not anymore. It was only temporary," Andre said. Now, it was Talbott's turn to stare.

"How?" Andre rolled his eyes.

"It's called a "crush" for a reason, mate. Temporary feelings of infatuation. Plus, her father may or may not have talked with me before I could consider asking Judith to the Celestial Ball," Andre said, his voice softer towards the end. He could still remember the sight of those cold, pale gold eyes in his mind's eye.

'If you like my daughter more than a friend, Andre, I'm telling you now; you better be prepared to properly court her and give her the love she deserves. If I ever find out you broke my little princess's heart, I'll break your bones in a way that they'll never properly heal for you to play Quidditch another day in your life. Do you understand me, son?'

Andre may find Judith to be a sweet and beautiful girl, and he admired her father, one of his Quidditch role models, but he was nowhere near ready to consider a serious relationship. He also would like to play Quidditch professionally. Andre wasn't looking to test the older man to see if he'd be true to his word.

If his daughter is capable of putting people in the Hospital Wing, he doesn't want to know whether the man will use his knowledge as a Healer for its opposite purpose.

"...if you're sure, mate," Talbott said slowly. Andre mentally shook his head, shaking himself out of the memory. He gave his friend an encouraging smile.

"Of course I am, Tal. Besides, what you're feeling is more than a crush." Talbott blushed, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.

"I'm not entirely sure what to call my feelings towards her. I only experienced this funny feeling only once before. The person who suggested what it could be nearly had me falling out of a tree..."

"Sounds like love to me..."

Talbott could remember only a few details of the girl he spent the day with when he was eight, but her shy smile will forever be etched in his memory. He never saw her again after that day.

"Still, you can't just pine after her. Do something about it," Andre insisted. Talbott's lips formed into a worried frown.

"Like what? I'm not exactly the "romantic" type," he sassed. Andre had got to know the loner long enough to know he was using sarcasm to hide his nerves. Andre regarded him with a gentle smile.

"Give yourself more credit, mate. You may seem cold to others, but you have your charms. Besides, you could use your strengths to your advantage." Talbott cocked a brow at the style wizard.

"What strengths are you talking about," Talbott asked slowly. Andre grinned.

"You like to play the background character a lot, making you mysterious. What's more romantic than a romantic note from a mysterious secret admirer?" The Animagus let out a soft hum.

"Go on..."

"I'm sure you can add an extra little something. You seem interested in botany, so maybe a flower with the note? You could leave it before one of her classes starts so she would have something to look forward to," Andre continued, pleased to see that Talbott was considering his advice. Red eyes stared into brown ones for a few silent moments.

"I'll think about it... thanks, Egwu." The boy smiled.

"Anytime, Winger..."

--------------------------------------

Judith let out a soft yawn as she headed for her Charms class. It was early morning; the girl was known to be an early riser. She inherited the philosophy from her father that an early start is a peaceful start. Hardly anyone would be up around when she awoke, giving her the alone time she always loved. She made her breakfast in the Kitchens, under the watchful eye of Pitts, and wanted a quiet place to study. She didn't have Charms for at least another hour, and Professor Flitwick didn't mind if she was in the room alone to study.

What she didn't expect that early morning was to find a lone folded piece of paper and a flower at the spot where she would sit during class. The girl was positive she didn't see anyone in the halls on the way to the classroom or hear anyone lingering...

She slowly approached her seat. On the top layer, read 'To Judith' in impeccable cursive with a love heart at the end of her name.

"Well, there's no question on who it's for," she mumbled with a blush. Unfolding the paper, she began to read,

"Excuse me, miss... I don't wish to take up too much of your time,

For I simply wish to express to you a few things that have captivated both my heart and mind; I'm...

I'm not one who wears his heart on his sleeve,

But even without it being out in the open, it was my heart you managed to thieve...

Stolen by an angel in disguise,

...at least that's what I secretly tell myself when I think about your beautiful eyes.

No amount of galleons could outshine such eyes colored gold,

For they hold such a priceless, precious story that has yet to be told.

I often think to myself, "How can one who experienced so much pain, hurt, and rejection... remain to have a heart so kind?"

For you are an undeserving gift to all of mankind...

To those who only see your scar, I consider to be fools who are blind,

For they're unwilling to see the true you beyond the exterior, in which you hide behind...

Darling... when I see you,

I see a mystery with hidden clues.

When I see you,

I see one who's known by many but understood by few.

When I see you,

I see a girl who makes me feel as if... I'm see-through...

Such a revelation would normally make me turn and flee,

But there's something about you that makes me wonder, "What could we be...?"

Oftentimes, I would find myself caught up in a daydream,

With the idea of you and me as the main theme...

To have the privilege to play with such long, beautiful locs,

With your pretty little head on my chest as we lose ourselves in one of our idle talks...

To be constantly graced with the sight of your breathtaking smile,

That radiates such a warmth that makes me want to bask in it for a while...

To be able to breathe you in, taking in your signature scent,

Something that I find both unfamiliar and comforting, warm and sweet, matching perfectly with your accent...

To be able to feel your soft dark skin,

Even if it's just to hold your hand, I would still consider it as a win...

To no longer have to wonder what it's like to feel those perfect lips,

Quietly yearning for more as I pull you closer by the curves of your hips...

What I feel for you... it's like I'm both flying and falling,

There's just something about you that is just so bewitching... enchanting... enthralling...

There are times I like to believe that... you were made just for me,

The one I would ask to spend my life with while down on bended knee...

Heh. My apologies... I'm getting ahead of myself, seeing how we're both still so young,

But I hope you can understand that I could no longer hold my tongue.

I can't reveal myself just yet... but I will in time,

So, until then, I will appear to you in the form of poetry and rhyme.

Maybe by then, I could finally say the name of this feeling that, in the past, had me reeling,

But for now, my dearly beloved, what I feel for you, I'll call a "funny, funny feeling..."

Signed,

Your Secret Admirer

A single blink. Followed by another.

Slender fingers shook slightly as the person's sign-off whirred around in her mind.

"I-I... I have a..." The last two words died on her tongue as Judith stared at the sign off with baffled astonishment. Ever since her mother scarred her, Judith could never see herself as someone desirable. She almost didn't go to the Celestial Ball; most of her friends had dates, and being in a fancy dress with an eye sore on her face made her uncomfortable.

The idea that someone could like her was impossible.

'Well, not anymore, so it seems...'

Judith set the paper down to rub her temples when the back of her hand brushed against something soft. Amid her flustered confusion, the young witch almost forgot the flower left alongside the note.

It was a dark pink and deep red carnation. In quiet awe, the young girl picked up the flower, feeling its soft petals. Bringing the flower to her nose, she inhaled quietly before sighing blissfully at its natural perfume.

"Oh wow, this is so sweet, but why..." Her voice trailed off, noticing an extra little note towards the bottom of the page.

"Carnations symbolize many things: fascination, distinction, devotion, gratitude, and love. Depending on the color. I chose this flower in those particular colors, so you know that... I find you interesting and unique... and to symbolize my budding feelings for you. I hope you accept my token of longing, dear Judith."

'Why is the room spinning right now...'

Judith can feel all the blood rushing from her heart to her suddenly hot cheeks. She had never had someone do something like this...

To think that this person is falling for her?

She shyly twirled the flower between her fingers before tucking it behind her scarred ear. A slow smile appeared on her lips for the first time that morning.

'I hope to meet you soon, my secret admirer...'

---------------------------------------------

Charms class seemed to have flown by because the next thing the young witch knew, it was time for lunch. While Judith did pay attention to Professor Flitwick's review, she couldn't help but take a few peeks at her note. The warm fuzzy feeling in her chest only grew as she reread the romantic poem.

The girl wore a dopey smile as she left the classroom and headed into the Great Hall.

"Who's got you smiling like that, Little Tigress?" Judith nearly jumped out of her skin as her best mate, David, appeared beside her. She gave him a brief glare for the "little" comment before a blush blossomed on her face.

"I don't know what you're talking about," she retorted, walking over to the Hufflepuff table. David raised a brow at her.

"Uh-huh... I saw you in Charms class peeking at something in your pocket with that same smile. I'm guessing who gave you that note gave you the flower, too," he sassed. He quickly evaded a punch from his embarrassed House mate with a laugh. He poked her side, smirking as the girl let out a high-pitched squeak.

"C'mon.... tell your best mate who it is," he teased. Judith let out a long-suffering sigh.

"Stubborn git... and I don't know who it's from. They signed themselves as "Your Secret Admirer," she admitted, fiddling with her rings. David's grin softened.

"Any idea who it could be?" Judith gave a small shrug.

"Your guess is as good as mine... but I hope to meet them one day..." Unknown to the two Hufflepuffs, a Ravenclaw was watching from their assigned table. Those red eyes were trained on the female witch, catching sight of the flower tucked behind a scarred ear.

Talbott let out a secret smile behind his book.

Granted if this was happening after she helped him find his feather necklace, she would’ve been cheesing like an idiot.

Having the aloof Ravenclaw admit that she was his friend would’ve felt like Christmas came early.

But this isn’t around that time.

They went on their first date together.

Talbott set up a romantic Valentines’ evening after the Lockhart disaster.

He even yelled that she was his date at the festival for crying out loud!

All those secret smiles. Warm, protective hugs. Hushed, soothing whispers. Sweet, stolen kisses.

Did all of that mean nothing to him? Did he just see her as a friend this entire time?

But Judith didn’t voice any of this. Instead, she weakly said,

“Yeah, friends...”

Talbott frowned at her tone, but Judith was no longer paying him no mind as she spoke with her House Head.

He’ll ask her when they were alone.

-------------------

Judith was in one corner of the greenhouse deep in thought. Neatly grouped and bundled herbs were stacked not too far from her.

She was studying the different herbs there were, trying to decide what plant would make the best gift for when she goes to the Centaur Camp. She was mentally debating between the Sage and Dittany when a pair of arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her into a firm chest.

“Hello, little bird,” Talbott whispered into her hair, nuzzling the soft curls and coils.

“Hey, Talbott.” was Judith’s dry response. She knew she was being petty right now, but she didn’t care.

She was already emotionally taxed and just being called Talbott’s “friend” bothered her more than she’s willing to admit.

She squeaked as she was swiftly turned around to face him.

“Excuse you,” she exclaimed. Talbott looked down her, red eyes expressing his worry and unamusement.

“What’s the matter, darling,” he mumbled softly, caressing her soft cheek. 

“Hey, your fingers are dirty,” Judith whined, trying to evade his touch. The Animagus rolled his eyes before firmly pinching her chin so she could look at him.

“Changing the subject will get you nowhere. Something is bothering you. What is it, little bird?” The Hufflepuff cursed her boyfriend for knowing her so well. But seeing how she’s effectively trapped between him and the table behind her, she relented with a reluctant sigh.

“Am... am I really just a friend to you, Talbott,” she asked. Talbott’s browed furrowed in confusion.

“No, you’re my girlfriend...” Gold eyes narrowed at him.

“That’s not what you told Professor Sprout...” Realization dawned on him.

“You felt insecure,” he said quietly. Judith scowled, deciding that his tie was far more appealing than his questioning red eyes.

“Of course I did... I felt like I didn’t mean much to you. Like our relationship was casual and nothing more. Not like you proclaimed me as your date at the festival last year or anything. Or that you asked me to be your girlfriend,” Judith grumbled. 

Lips claimed her’s in a kiss, causing her to gasp in confusion. With a hand cupping her cheek, Talbott allowed its twin to find the curve of her waist and pull her flush against him.

Judith felt like her entire face was on fire but she didn’t hesitate to kiss him back, grasping at the sleeves of his robes to anchor herself. She whimpered softly when Talbott pulled away.

“Wha... what was that for,” she asked, slightly dazed. Talbott chuckled at the adorably cute lost look on his little bird’s face.

“You mean more to me just to be considered a friend, love. You’re my best friend, my girlfriend, my little bird. My happiness, my peace, my safe haven. The queen of my heart...” Talbott watched on with slight amusement as Judith face grew steadily redder with each title. 

He leaned in close to he could whispered the last one in her ear.

“And hopefully soon, my wife...”

‘Since when Talbott became such a smooth talker...’ Judith faintly wondered as she buried her heated face against his chest.

“Please don’t take what I said to heart, little bird. Of course you mean me more to me than just a simple friend. I wouldn’t give my heart to someone I consider as just a friend,” Talbott said softly, rubbing her back.

“Sorry for overreacting...” came the muffled response. Talbott pulled her away from his chest a little to study her.

He knew the slight redness in the whites of her eyes wasn’t part of his imagination. There was more than she’s letting on right now. 

This was just her first small outburst.

“No need to apologize, Judith. It seems like you’re going through a lot already.” An unladylike snort came from the girl.

“That’s one way of putting it,” she mumbled. Talbott planted a kiss on her hairline.

“When you have to time, you can tell me about it,” he quietly offered. Judith blushed and let out a small smile.

“Thank you, Talbott...” The young man returned her smile with one of his own.

“Anything for you, darling...” The sound of someone clearing their throat sounded off behind them. The pair turned to find Professor Sprout smiling knowingly at them.

“I take you two are done harvesting?” Judith felt her face melting and Talbott stared at her like a deer caught in the headlights before chuckling.

“Yes, we are, Professor. I believe my girlfriend would like to pick a herb now that we’re done...” Judith smiled shyly at Talbott when he called her his girlfriend.

Professor Sprout giggled and nodded.

Judith took a few sprigs of Sage.

She thanked her Head of House for the herbs.

“Professor Sprout, do you mind if I walk Judith out,” Talbott asked. The older witch nodded with a smile.

“Something, you want to tell me, Talbott,” Judith asked as she stood outside. Silently taking her hand, Talbott brushed his lips against her knuckles.

“Just know I’m always here if you wish to talk, darling,” he said with a small smile. Judith knew she was blushing, but that wouldn’t stop her from denying it.

“I’ll be sure to take you up on your offer, my love,” Judith finally said. Talbott squeezed her hand.

“Glad to her that, little bird. I hope you’re successful in winning those friends over. I love you...” Despite the fatigue humming in her bones, Judith beamed at her boyfriend.