#same al

"Are you okay?" James asks worriedly, holding a hand out to help Al off the floor. "Sorry if I scared you." He ducks his head slightly to meet Al's downcast eyes, trying to read his flustered state.

"I'm fine!" Al says, a bit too quickly. "Just- it's been a long day." He makes a face. "Scor woke me up very early and very enthusiastically. And it's been one thing after another with him." Smiling, he bumps his shoulder against James' arm, hoping his flush is starting to fade. "So I guess I was worried you were him with another 'birthday surprise' that ends with everyone gawking at me."

James nods in understanding but his smile starts to slip. Trying to sound nonchalant, he says, "Um, speaking of birthday surprises. Lils says you're having a party tonight? I, uh- that sounds- fun. Should I- I mean, is it cool if I- come?" 

Al stares at James in shock for a moment before shaking his head and muttering mutinously, "Scor." When he notices James watching him warily, he quickly elaborates. "It's- I'm not supposed to know about it! It's supposed to be a surprise. But Scor, he's- he's a shit liar when he's excited about something, so I've- I've known for awhile. And I just assumed he'd invite everyone I care about-" Al scowls, already planning out his diatribe against Scorpius later. "-but he- um, I- I guess he just... maybe he assumed you'd show anyway?" Al stops himself from saying Scorpius likely didn't invite James deliberately, not wanting James to feel worse. "But- Jamie, of course you can come! It's- I wouldn't want it any other way." He reaches out for James' hand, their fingers linking together. "I definitely want you there. If- you know, if you want to be."

James smiles, trying to keep the relief from his face. "Okay, yeah. I'd like to be there." He squeezes their fingers gently. "Would you want to hang out one afternoon this weekend? Sort of celebrate on our own? We could go flying or get the elves to make your favorite food or something."

"Yeah, that would be fun!" Al says excitedly, his smile widening. "That- that'll probably be more my speed than whatever Scor's planning anyway." He looks at James worriedly, feeling the need to add, "It's- Slytherins party a bit... differently from the other houses. Or that's what everyone says. We tend to go- all out. And um, there's usually a lot of... other stuff going on too." He crinkles his nose, hoping James will intuit what he means without making him elaborate. 

"Other stuff?" James frowns. "Do you just mean like, drinking games? Because we do that too."

"Um... not exactly?" Al tugs at his shirtsleeve, worrying the fabric between his fingertips. "I mean, there's drinking, of course, but it's often, um, enhanced and- and it's combined with other, uh.... activities." He gestures vaguely, his cheeks flaming. 

James' face heats in understanding and he coughs lightly. Ignoring the thought that Al might partake in those- things, James swallows. "Ah, um. Okay, got it. Thanks for the, er, heads up."

An anxious giggle bubbles up in Al's chest due to James' wording, and he can perfectly imagine Scorpius gloating, "Precisely." "Um, n-no problem. Just- uh, didn't want you to be shocked or anything. It can be a bit... much the first time you see it." 

"I can, uh, imagine." James clears his throat and shifts his bag on his shoulder. He remembers the clubs he's been to and finds it hard to imagine anything like that in their school. "Sh-should be fun." 

Al's eyes widen at the thought of James finding groups of people groping and writhing together fun. "Um! It- it can be, I guess. I, uh, usually find it a bit, um, much, b-but it's certainly… illuminating?"

"Y-yeah," James agrees, though not quite sure what he's agreeing to. Uncertain how to move on from the awkward turn this conversation has taken, he says, "So I should- let you get to class, probably. I'm excited to see you later, though."

"Me too!" Al exclaims. "You can stop by earlier, if you- if you want. Hang out with me in my room until they're done setting up the common room. Scor's decorating schemes tend to be pretty elaborate." Smiling wistfully, he adds, "Last year he once turned the whole room into an ice rink when I mentioned I was missing the snow." He shrugs, his smile lingering. "He doesn't do things by halves."

"That sounds awesome," James grins. "And I'd love to come early! I'll bring your gift then too, that'll work out well." Pulling Al in for a hug, he adds, "Okay, we really should get to class."

Wrapping his arms around James' neck and trying to covertly breathe in the delicious scent of him, Al sighs, "Yeah, probably." Forcibly reminding himself to step away, he lets go of James and teases, "Such a good Head Boy. Always looking out for my education and keeping me in line." 

James laughs, pushing Al's hair back. "Well, I figure I will need to be extra responsible today to make up for the fact that I'll be drinking with a bunch of students tonight."

Al nudges James' hip with his bag, grinning, "I love being a bad influence on you." 

"I love it too." James bites his lip through his smile. "See you tonight, Ally."

"See you, Jamie." With one last wave, Al sets down the hallway, smiling so brightly he doesn't notice for several moments that he's sat down in the wrong classroom and is the subject of many curious stares from the first year Hufflepuffs. Apologizing profusely, Al hurries out and scrambles to his Charms class, his heart racing with adrenaline and excitement about tonight, his traitorous mind unable to stop conjuring up the many and varied ways he'd love to corrupt James. But still, having James there with him, surrounded by his friends in his home away from home- that's more than enough. And Al can't wait.

James fidgets with the gift bag in his hand as he approaches the Slytherin dorm. He's a little bit nervous about Al's party mostly because he has no idea what to expect and wishes he could spend the time with only Al. When he enters through the archway, James stops suddenly, staring around him with wide eyes. Everything in the Slytherin common room has been transformed into shiny silver material save for a huge, red couch, and there are lights flickering all around him. It looks just like the pictures of Andy Warhol’s Factory that Al has shown him, and he’s suddenly sure that this is Scorpius’ influence. 

James isn't sure how long he stands there blinking at the decorations when he hears Scorpius' distracted voice inform him Al is upstairs. When he glances over at Scorpius, he nearly chokes. Strutting around in silver platform shoes while pinning up fragments of mirrors, Scorpius is nearly naked, clad only in minuscule silver shorts that James didn't even know could have existed, eyeliner framing his grey eyes and body glitter clinging to every lean inch of skin displayed. James mumbles his thanks and manages to tear his red face away from all that pale, pale skin to climb the stairs. Fuck, James is guaranteed to stand out in his much more regular outfit of black skinny jeans and a tight black button up. Nervous about fitting in, he cuffs his sleeves to his elbows and undoes one more button of his already open neckline, then musses up his hair. 

"Hey you," James smiles upon entering Al’s room, instantly more comfortable at the sight of Al reading on his bed.

Al's so absorbed in his book that it takes a moment for James' voice to pierce through the fog in his mind; when it registers that James is here, in his room, he startles a bit and sends his book crashing to the floor. "You're here!" he exclaims unnecessarily. He sits up straight, crossing his legs underneath himself to make room on his bed as he smiles at James. "It's good to see you. I've been banished up here for the past hour and a half and have been forbidden from talking to anyone." He smiles indulgently, wandlessly Summoning his book and setting it on his bedside table. "Scor's been busy." 

James snorts and climbs onto the bed facing Al, knocking their knees together when he settles down. "Scorpius is- er, he looks- interesting. I feel, um, slightly unprepared for this party," he admits, laughing nervously and pulling at a thread on his denims. 

Al tries for casual as he takes in James' outfit, yet finds himself unable to stop his gaze from lingering on the curl of James' collarbone and the corded lines of his forearms. "I- I think you look, um, really nice." Al tears his eyes away from James' chest (so broad so strong so hard) and smiles shyly. "I think you'll be fine." 

Hear flares on James' cheeks and he mumbles, "Oh- thanks. You always look really nice." Rolling his bottom lip between his teeth, he shoves his gift bag towards Al. "Happy birthday, Ally."

Beaming at him, Al takes the bag, rolling the green tissue paper between two fingers. "Jamie, you know you don't need to get me anything. I'm glad just to have you here with me, that's enou-"

A gentle rapping at the door causes Al to pause, and several seconds later, Joshua steps out behind it, smiling at Al slightly self consciously. He's wearing Al's black New York Dolls shirt, which is stretched tight across his chest and displays the ripples of his abs perfectly. He paired it with dark, faded denims and red Converse, and Al's busy wondering where he got them when Joshua tells him, "Scorpius sent me up here because I was 'in the way' and clashed with the decor in the corner he was working on." He nods at James as he approaches the bed. "Hey, James. Excited for tonight?" Al scoots over on his bed and Joshua perches on the side, eyeing Al's gift curiously. 

James' eyes narrow at Joshua and he straightens up, hesitantly answering, "Yeah," even though he's not so sure of that anymore. "Should be fun, I always love Al's birthday. Why are you wearing his clothes?"

Joshua's eyes widen and immediately seek out Al's, his anxiety written across his face. Al bites his lip and nods hesitantly, his confusion about James' reaction warring with his desire to put Joshua at ease. Joshua looks over at James, unconsciously picking at the hem of Al's shirt as he says, "Well, I, um- I don't have a lot of clothes like... that-" He glances back at Al, clearly worried about potentially spoiling the theme of the party for him, unaware that Al figured it out weeks ago. "So I- um- I know Al has a lot of band shirts and that he, uh, wouldn't mind if I borrowed one, so... yeah." 

Al elbows him gently, trying to pretend that James isn't currently glowering at them. "I like it on you." 

Joshua flushes brightly, nudging Al back and grinning at him goofily. "Thanks. I like it better on you though." 

James refrains from saying that he agrees, that it does look better on Al, and instead watches their interactions closely. He's been fairly certain that Al and Joshua are starting to date, as they seem to be gravitating closer to each other lately. Now he's pretty much positive and is not thrilled at the prospect, not to mention frustrated that Joshua interrupted his gift. "So, Ally, you excited?" 

"For the party?" Al asks, absently tearing a hole through the thin paper. "Yeah, although I'm a bit nervous too. Scor’s a big fan of drama, so the party should be... interesting."

"Interesting is one word for it," Joshua smiles. "Epilepsy inducing is another. And speaking of interesting-" He pokes Al in the side, right where he's most ticklish. "Scorpius wanted me to tell you that he's coming up to 'dress you properly' in a few minutes. He says he intends to have you look like dripping sex tonight. Which-" Joshua's cheeks flame and he quickly glances over at James, his words dying on his lips. Al flushes as well, giving James an apologetic smile in the hope of diffusing the awkward tension lingering between the three of them. 

Clearing his throat, James repeats dumbly, "The party should be fun." He watches Al's fingers poke and prod at the paper. "How long has he been planning it?"

"At least a few weeks," Al tells him. "Although I'd guess probably a month or two, because I think I know what prompted it." 

Joshua looks like he's about to ask about the catalyst when the door bursts open and Scorpius struts inside, making Al splutter. Scorpius' shorts are so tight that Al isn't quite sure how he managed to get them on; he almost suspects they're actually painted on, because surely they'd be cutting off circulation otherwise. In his towering platforms, Scorpius is just miles of glittery alabaster skin and lean striated muscle, and he looks so otherworldly that it takes Al a moment to find his voice. "Jesus, Scor. You look-"

"I know," Scorpius says smugly, striking a pose. "My beauty knows no bounds. Now!" He claps his hands together, bouncing a bit on his platforms and jiggling so much in his shorts that Joshua now resembles a Quaffle. "Let's get you up to my level! Clothes off, birthday boy." He strides over to the bed, giving James a stern look and plucking the gift from Al's hands and tossing it aside before climbing onto the bed, his arse wiggling in James' face as he starts to tug up the hem of Al's shirt. "Hurry, everyone's waiting on you. It's rude to be late to your own party, you know."

Slightly flustered at Scorpius' nearness, James pushes himself off the bed. "He can't really be late though, I'd always think that if it's your party, it starts whenever you get there." He ruffles his hair awkwardly as Scorpius wrenches off Al's shirt and throws it aside before moving to grab at Al's belt. "Should I-?" 

Scorpius cranes his neck to send a glare James' way, pausing in his attempt to disrobe Al and causing Al’s shirt to tangle in front of his eyes. "Should you what? Stand there and gawk at us while we get your brother naked? If that's your kink, by all means, go for it. Otherwise, kindly get the fuck out and leave those of us who are capable of dressing ourselves without looking like we just stepped out of a painstaking meeting with our financial advisor to do our thing." 

James tries to glare back at him but knows it's relatively ineffective due to the blush spreading down his neck. "I'll just- um, turn around." As James faces the corner of the room, he catches a glimpse of Al's embarrassed face and feels responsible, but there's no way he's giving Scorpius the satisfaction of leaving them alone now.

Scorpius harrumphs and stage whispers, "Think your brother doesn't trust us with you alone. Bet he thinks we're going to maul you the second he's away. Guess he doesn't want us to give you a proper birthday gift. So selfish."

Joshua stares at Scorpius in horrified fascination, seemingly stuck on the "us" part of Scorpius' statement. Al groans, mortified that James can hear and now has that image in his head (terrific), unconsciously lifting his hips up so Scorpius can tug down his denims as he hisses, "Scor! That's- stop that." 

"Stop what?" asks Scorpius sweetly, his finger skating over the waistband of Al's boxers before Al bats his hand away. "Reminiscing about all the other birthdays we've celebrated together? Such a loss, really- they're some of my fondest memories." 

Joshua makes a choking noise, and seems to be struggling not to shove Scorpius' hands away. Al helps him out by bracing his foot against Scorpius' chest and pushing backwards. However, Scorpius is having none of that; he grabs hold of Al's leg and slams it against the bed, then quickly climbs onto Al's lap, snapping the band of his boxers as he announces, "These have to come off too. They'll ruin the lines of your trousers. Never underestimate the aesthetic, Al."

Joshua finally speaks up. "It's- Scorpius, that's- you can't do that, it should be Al or m-me, not- you."

"Nothing we haven't all seen before," Scorpius tells him, winking at Al and seeming to draw power from Joshua's discomfort. "We can do it together, if you like." 

"I'll just do it myself!" Al says quickly, trying to shove Scorpius off him. "Just- where are the trousers? The ones you want me to wear?"

James stares wide-eyed at design of the wall baseboard, attempting to focus on the carved patterns instead of the sounds of sliding fabric, small slaps, and all the flustered noises that hopefully only Scorpius' words are causing. "Um. So, Scorpius, what is Al going to wear? A band shirt like Joshua or, uh, something like you?"

Scorpius chuckles darkly, sliding back just enough so that Al can shimmy out of his boxers and handing Al the pair of ridiculously small leather trousers that he Summoned from his trunk. Al is positive they won't fit; they seem more proportioned for a doll, and the idea of wearing them in public makes him want to break out in hives. Joshua is having a very difficult time keeping his eyes on Al's face, his pupils blown wide and his body distinctly fidgety. Fueled primarily by the desire to cover himself up, Al shoves his legs through the trouser legs, shifting onto his knees and cringing as he tries to work them up his thighs. "Al will look smoking hot," Scorpius says proudly, leaning in to help Al tug them up higher. "Astronomically hot. So yes, just like me."

Joshua seems to agree, if his suddenly rapid breathing and wild eyes are anything to go by. Hesitantly, he reaches out to help as well, his hands gently gliding over the upper curve of Al's arse before he hooks his finger into a belt loop and starts to tug.

Joshua's now quiet besides his labored breathing, and James seriously wishes he'd start protesting again. Realizing he's just standing awkwardly while Al's sort-of boyfriend and best friend undress him, James is beginning to regret staying in the room. He's incredibly displeased at the knowledge that they've both apparently seen Al like this before, and shuffles in place, wondering how long Al has been seeing Joshua. The noises that reach his ears are driving him crazy with discomfort, but some, like the squelch of something that has to be leather against skin, pique James' curiosity. "Leather... trousers?"

Scorpius' smirk spreads across his face, making him look like some sort of diabolical angel of death who knows exactly how and when the world will end and has been gleefully counting down to this date for millennia, eager to watch the world burn around him. "Curious?" Scorpius coos, making Al groan and Joshua let out a surprised little huff of laughter. "No peeking now. That's terribly impolite." His voice high and mocking, he continues. "And surely our esteemed Head Boy, the paragon of goodness and virtue and heroically ripping off his jacket to place over mud puddles so gentle maidens shall not dirty their precious slippers and shall swoon at his overly large feet, would never do anything impolite. It would be a sign of the apocalypse. We'd have to start building some sort of underground bomb shelter and weeding out the weak." 

Grinning to himself, Scorpius gives Al's trousers one last tug, ignoring his yip of pain and managing to button them. The material is straining rather alarmingly, and Al doesn't feel remotely confident about the tensile strength of these trousers, half expecting them to burst at the seams the first time he stretches. But Joshua is goggling at him, his lips parted as his eyes rake over Al's hips, so he guesses it can't be that bad. 

Scorpius pulls his wand out from gods know where and starts twirling it in elaborate patterns around Al's bare torso, leaving behind heavy black lines in various shapes that resemble tattoos. Al knows Scorpius wouldn't permanently mark him, so he lets him do as he wishes, barely protesting the calligraphic 'cocksucker' that Scorpius etches between his navel and the waistband of his trousers. "Turn over," Scorpius commands, slapping the side of Al's arse. "Not the first time you'll hear that tonight, I imagine."

Al and Joshua flush almost identical shades of crimson, avoiding eye contact as Al moves so his back is facing Scorpius. Scorpius smooths his fingertips over Al's lower back before Al feels the hum of his magic enveloping him, tingling his skin and infusing him with laughter and exhilaration and stardust. Joshua shifts so he can watch Scorpius, asking indignantly, "Really, Scorpius? That's- that's necessary?"

"Absolutely," Scorpius says importantly. "Must remind everyone who he really belongs to, after all." 

James has to bite back a wry smile at Scorpius’ words. James is used to competing with Scorpius for Al's attention, but Joshua must still be learning the balance. He's pointedly trying to ignore the rage that surges in his stomach at Scorpius' insinuation that Al will be- gods, turning over for Joshua tonight. To distract himself, he blurts out, "Is Al dressed yet? Can I turn around?" 

"Sure," Scorpius says easily, putting the finishing touches on the pattern stretching across Al's lower back. "Look away."

James turns around and immediately lets out a strangled noise because Al is on all fours on his bed, flanked by Joshua with Scorpius kneeling behind him. Before he can comment on the position, the marks on Al's torso catch his attention. Coming up around Al's other side, James admires the swirling black patterns and runes decorating Al's form. He leans over to see what Scorpius is finishing and huffs in irritation at the words "Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy" scripted over Al's lower back, the letters dipping into his dimples. Forcing himself to not stare at the name, James' gaze wanders up Al's back. He reaches out to trace the rune on Al's shoulder blade. "These look amazing on you, Ally."

Al shivers under James' touch, a smile playing across his lips as he looks over his shoulder to meet James' eyes. "Thanks, Jamie."

"Yes, thank you, Potter," says Scorpius. "My work is impeccable, I know. I've turned your disheveled little brother into a living work of art." 

Joshua makes a small noise of disagreement, his fingers running across the swirling black lines around Al's hipbone. When Al glances over at him, he mouths, "Always like that."

Scorpius slaps Al's arse and tells him, "Okay, Al. Stop shoving your delicious arse in my face and get up."

Rolling his eyes, Al rises to his knees and flips over, smiling down at his ink appreciatively. "This is really cool, Scor. Thanks!" He turns too sharply to the side and winces when his trousers dig into his hips. "Am I, um- am I wearing a shirt, or...?"

"I feel like that's fairly unnecessary, don't you?" asks Scorpius. "Although if you really want one, yes, I have some options for you." He looks over at James disdainfully, adding, "Some superior options. As this isn't a fucking Ministry party."

James glares at him before returning his attention to Al, his gaze finding the word "cocksucker" inscribed on Al's hip. He flushes, averting his eyes and finding himself staring at the tight leather encasing Al's thighs and well this is all very… interesting and James has no idea where to look. He manages to focus on Al's face instead, and comments, "Won't a shirt cover up all the ink?" 

"Which is why it isn't ideal," Scorpius says snidely. "Although it won't be much of a problem for the one I have in mind." 

Al feels pretty conspicuous like this, especially with the three of them inspecting him so raptly, so he tells Scorpius, "I- I think I'd like the shirt. At least to start." 

Scorpius nods, summoning a minuscule white shirt from his bed and handing it to Al. "Good idea. Make Joshua take it off for you later. Much more fun." 

Joshua looks rather intrigued by this plan, and Al tries to hide his blush by yanking the shirt on over his head, grunting when it snags on his ears. "Scor, it isn't going to fit!" 

"Not with that attitude!" Scorpius rebukes. "Anything will fit if you work hard enough. Just put some muscle into it, there you go."

Al eventually manages to get the shirt on past his shoulders, tugging it down over his stomach and trying not to gasp at the sudden constriction around his lungs. It feels like he's being suffocated- the shirt is at least two sizes too small and translucent, displaying the dark ink perfectly. Scorpius smirks at Al proudly, seemingly pleased with his work. "Beautiful." He leans in closer, brushing his fingertips along Al's brows. "One more thing. Eyes closed." Al obliges, and feels Scorpius brushing something over his eyelids.

James' brow furrows as he waits to see what Scorpius is putting on Al, and he gasps when Scorpius pulls back, revealing the thick silver kohl lining Al's eyes. The silver compliments Al's bronze skin and thick lashes, and when Al’s eyes flutter open on Scorpius' command, his green irises are an intense contrast. "Wow," James breathes.

Scorpius' smirk grows more pronounced as he crows, "See? What'd I tell you? Astronomically hot." 

"It looks okay?" Al asks James, ignoring the mirror that Scorpius thrusts in front of him in favor of watching his brother.

"Of course it does," Scorpius assures him. "You're gorgeous, and I'm amazing at this. It's the ideal combination." 

"It looks really good, Al," says Joshua, his voice slightly awed. "It's- it makes your eyes look even more amazing." He leans against Al's side, his fingers brushing Al's. "You look perfect."

Al always looks perfect," James corrects, his tone quiet but sure as he holds Al's gaze. He offers Al a small smile, knowing the three of them are giving him much more attention than he prefers.

Al's chest constricts, his heart hammering fitfully. He never knows what to say when James tells him things like this; he knows it means something different to James, but gods, it means everything to him.

Al’s pulled out of his thoughts by Joshua's flustered, "Oh! Um, of- of course, yeah, he- he does. He just looks, you know, even more so. More perfect." 

Scorpius watches them impassively, his brows pulled together just the slightest bit. "Yes, yes, Al's perfect. I'm perfect. Potter’s imperfect. We're all in agreement. Now!" He sits back on his heels, beaming excitedly. "Ready for your party?"

"Ready," Al promises, reaching past Joshua to bend over the side of his bed, searching for his black combat boots. "I know whatever you have planned will be awesome."

"You know me well." Scorpius rises sinuously from the bed and makes a production out of arching his back and raising his arms in a lazy stretch. Al pulls on his boots, watching in amusement as Joshua's hectic flush reappears. As soon as his laces are tied, Scorpius suddenly lunges at him, dragging him to his feet and attempting to hoist him onto his back. "Scor, there is no possible way your shorts will stay up if we do this," laughs Al, although he still wraps his arms around Scorpius' neck.

"And I'm sure you'll receive a dozen thank you cards in the morning for your efforts to free my cock," Scorpius shoots back. "Really, you'd be doing everyone a favor. It's basically charity work."

James rolls his eyes and follows Scorpius and Al, mumbling an awkward apology to Joshua as they bump shoulders, both trying to be the next one out of the door. Falling in step behind Joshua, James shoves his hands in his pockets, already planning to get his hands on a drink at the first available opportunity. When they arrive at the base of the stairs, there's music blaring and lights flashing and people everywhere, and the few in the immediate vicinity wish Al a happy birthday. "Fuck, this is- intense."

Al takes in everything in fragments- the silver wrapped around every available surface, the shards of mirrors artistically arranged across the walls, the stained red upholstered couch, the half finished canvases propped up in the corner of the room. His mind is in overdrive, and Scorpius can probably feel his heart hammering against his back as Al shouts, "It's the Factory! Scor, it's- this- it's perfect!"

"Of course it is," Scorpius replies, but his smile holds a hint of relief. He waves his wand at Al's record player, and Transformer drops onto it, ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ blaring through the speakers and making Al break into giddy laughter. "Only the best for my Factory Boy."

"Not quite sure that's how the song goes," Al smiles, sliding off Scorpius' back and taking in his surroundings in awe. He wanders over to a silver stool, upon which several glowing silver vials are arranged in a spiral. He takes one, inspecting it curiously while Scorpius plucks one up and downs it easily.

"Shoulda been. Let's face it, it's always more enjoyable to be waiting for a factory boy."

"Agreed," smiles Al. He clinks his drink with Scorpius' before taking a sip, the burning flavor of vodka spiked with something exotic and wild that prickles at his senses, making his tongue explode with flavor and his vision flare white. "Factory boys are definitely, definitely better."

Joshua joins them, smiling self-consciously and picking up a vial for himself, twirling it through his fingers. "Think we're all in agreement there."

"Not all of us," sighs Scorpius, noticing that James has joined them. "Ah, yes, our token heterosexual, here to regale us with antics of Gryffindor spirit and the joys of keg stands." Scorpius cocks his hip, watching James critically over his drink. "Think you can handle this party, Potter? Or are you planning on just sulking in the corner the entire time, scowling at us in disapproval?"

"He can handle it," Al says quietly, leaning closer to James. "Gryffindors can have fun too." 

"Yes, but their definition of fun is severely lacking, due to their less than fully functional frontal lobes."

"I can handle it," James scowls at Scorpius, feeling secretly amused at the jibe at his sexuality. "I'm not as boring as you believe." He grabs his own vial and tosses it back, shivering lightly at the tingle it sends down his spine. "What is this stuff?"

"Why, going to report us to McGonagall?" Scorpius asks. "Tell her all about the wicked, wicked Slytherins and how we tried to corrupt the pious Head Boy into a life of sin?” 

"Are we really that sinful?" asks Al in amusement. "Not like we do stuff like this a lot."

Scorpius claps his hand over Al's mouth, warning him, "Stop spilling House secrets to the intruder. You're ruining our image."

"I will not be reporting you, relax," James snorts. "You guys are not that mysterious. I just want to know what I'm drinking."

"What, not used to just swallowing whatever goes into your mouth?" Scorpius asks cheekily. "Pity. Figured it was a family trait."

Al chokes on his drink, spluttering and coughing so much that he attracts the attention of a particularly amorous couple in the corner of the room, who scowl at him most menacingly before returning to their prior activities. A red faced Joshua claps Al on the back, asking quietly, "You okay?" 

"He's fine," says Scorpius carelessly, waving his hand in the air. "You should know that by now. If there's one thing Al loves more than anything else, it's gag-"

"So!" Al interrupts loudly, beads of nervous sweat beginning to prickle along his hairline. "Did you, um- is someone going to be Andy?"

"I suppose I could be Andy," Scorpius muses, effectively distracted, much to Al's relief. "After all, I am pale, brilliant, elusive, and prone to mockery."

James' face burns at Scorpius' easy comment, and he grabs himself another drink so he won't have to respond. Thankfully, Lily arrives then and presses a quick kiss to Al's cheek. "Happy birthday," she tells him.

Glancing at his sister, James frowns at her short, striped shift dress paired with tights and flats. "That's a little short, isn't it, Lils?" James asks her under his breath.

Lily shoots him an amused, exasperated smile and then turns to tell Scorpius, "Great party! Jake and I are really enjoying it." 

"Glad to hear it," Scorpius tells her. "It's always nice to hear that invited guests are enjoying themselves. Now party-crashers, on the other hand-"

Al gives him a warning look before turning back to Lily. "Thanks, Lils. And I like your dress. Very Edie."

"Thanks!" Lily smooths her dress down with a pleased smile. "It's very fun and easy, I'll definitely be getting more of these next time I go shopping with Mum. I better get back to Jake, see you around." She snags a vial from the stand and James gives the drink a warning glare before Lily waves him off and heads back towards the corner where her boyfriend is sitting.

Al nudges James' hip with his own, telling him softly, "She'll be okay, Jamie. She can hold her own here." His smile teasing, he adds, "You don't have to worry about us all the time, you know."

Scorpius drapes an arm around Al's shoulders, pulling him closer. "I couldn't agree more. In fact, you should go practice worrying about Al less right now. Go on, get." 

Ignoring Scorpius completely, James shrugs at Al. "Can't really help it," he smiles sheepishly. When he sips his second vial, he feels a fizzing in his head like champagne bubbling over. Blinking in surprise at the drink, he licks his lips and looks up at them. "What is this?" 

"Gods, are you always like this?" complains Scorpius. "The fuck does it matter? Don't like it, don't drink it." 

"It's a Slytherin invented drink," Joshua pipes up, tipping his vial back and running his tongue along his bottom lip to capture a stubborn bead of liquid clinging to it. "It's different for every person. It sort of customizes itself to you." 

"Oh," James examines the vial again, then downs it. "Thanks," he tells Joshua. "That's a really cool idea, customizing it." 

"Yeah, although it makes it pretty unpredictable," says Joshua. "It's almost always impossible to anticipate how someone will respond to it, and some people tend to have better trips than others."

"I always have good trips," boasts Scorpius. "It's because my mind is such a fascinating place- the potion can't help but rise to the occasion and give me the best high imaginable. Plus Al and I have had joint trips. Since our minds are so in sync." 

"I love those," Al says dreamily. "That's my favorite way to do it. I love being in your mind with you."

"Of course you do. It's beyond the furthest reaches of most people's imaginations." Scorpius nips the side of Al's neck, murmuring, "There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy."

Al giggles, the bubbles from his drink sparking down his limbs and making his skin flare with heat. "There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so."

Scorpius' loud burst of laughter fills the room. Gathering Al close, he whispers, "I love my sneaky little Shakespearean Slytherin." He looks up at James and Joshua, frowning slightly. "Excuse you, I'm going to borrow him for a bit." He promptly leads Al away, snagging four vials on his way and tipping one up to Al's lips, cooing, "Drink up, snake tongue."

Joshua watches them leave in slight disbelief, shaking his head as he shoves his hands into his pockets. "Those two are something, huh?"

James stares after them and shakes his head almost fondly. "I will never be able to comprehend Scorpius. They're very- interesting, together." There's the familiar flare of jealousy at their friendship, this part of Al he will never be allowed to understand. "Though I suppose you know that from sharing a dorm with them." He shifts in place and peers at Joshua. "So- you and Al?"

Joshua shifts his weight from side to side, looking vaguely uncomfortable. "Um, yeah. Me and Al." After a deep breath, he pulls himself up straight, his eyes bright with determination. "I- I like him a lot. He's not like anyone else I know."

"He's not," James agrees, watching Joshua steadily. "He's very- special." His gaze wanders to wear Al and Scorpius are huddled together in the corner, and his expression softens as he watches his brother ruffle his hair. "He's the most important person in my life," he says matter-of-factly, the bubbles surging through his body dancing happily in agreement.

Joshua hesitates, his brow puckered. "Um, that's- that's cool, that you're so close. Not a lot of siblings are. And he- he seems to feel the same. He talks about you a lot." 

A pleased smile lights up James' face. "Yeah? That's- yeah, we've always been really close." He tugs on his shirt and downs another vial of the fuzzy liquid, beaming at the empty glass. "This is very, very good, isn't it?"

"It is," Joshua agrees, sipping his own more slowly. "What's it taste like to you?"

James hums, considering this. "Tastes like- like thick, velvety honey and earth and- fireworks and sunshine." He scrunches his nose. "That sounds weird."

"I think it sounds nice," Joshua tells him. "All of that- it's all good." He takes a deliberate sip, licking his lips as he ponders it. "Mine's more like- mint and smoke and- and flying on a really clear day." 

"Huh. That sounds nice too." James traces the rim of his glass. "Makes me feel really- bubbly. Like a high."

"That's sort of the point," Joshua smiles. "It does get you high." He stares down at his glass, his finger tracing the rim. "Do you think Al and Scorpius are doing that joint high thing right now?" 

James looks at him closely, not sure how to comfort Joshua or if he even wants to. "Er, I'm not- they, um, might be. They sort of- do their own thing a lot. Didn't you, uh, know that going into this?" 

"I guess so," Joshua replies, frowning slightly. "I guess I just thought things might be- different now. That he'd- we'd- I don't know." He sighs, scanning the room and smiling when he meets his best friend Gideon's eye. "So I should- um, I'll just- head over there, unless... did you want to- come?"

"Oh, uh. Sure, thanks." James snags one more drink and follows Joshua over to Gideon. He considers saying something to try and make Joshua feel better, but decides he doesn't want to apologize for Al and Scorpius.

"Hey, how's it going so far?" Gideon asks Joshua as they approach. He frowns in confusion at James, clearly having expected Al to be with Joshua instead. "Having fun?" 

"Yeah," Joshua says, although with a distinct lack of enthusiasm. "Scorpius definitely pulled out all the stops for this.” 

"Yeah, he always does." Gideon nods at James. "James."

"Hey." James shoves his hands in his pockets. "Rough game last week, huh?"

Gideon makes a face. "Ugh, don't remind me. We had our arses handed to us.” 

They stand in awkward silence for a long moment, looking around the room almost randomly in the hopes that something will catch their attention and give them something to discuss.

Joshua is rocking on his heels and just opening his mouth to speak when Al and Scorpius stumble their way over to them, giggling and flushed and breathless. Al's shirtless and is draped across Scorpius' back once again, his sweaty fringe clinging to his forehead. The waistband of Scorpius' shorts has somehow slunk even lower, and he looks supremely pleased with himself as he glances around the circle, observing wryly, "Hope you three crazy kids didn't have too much fun without us." 

Another fit of giggles overtakes Al, and he slides down Scorpius' back easily, swaying on his feet before a strong arm wraps around his waist and pulls him close. He beams at the dark haired, light eyed boy, although he's confused when the face comes into focus and it's- oh, it's Joshua. Right. His sort of boyfriend. "Hi!" Al chirps, leaning against Joshua’s chest- he's very warm, after all, and Al suddenly finds it highly important to warm himself up. "Watcha doin’?" 

"Waiting for you," Joshua tells him, gently coaxing Al’s fringe out of his face. "Having fun?" 

"Uh huh! Scor and I had lots and lotsa shots and I danced with him and Kaia! S'good."

"It was indeed," says Kaia, who appears so suddenly that it almost seems like she Apparated. She's magicked her normally curly black hair pin straight and blonde, contrasting her dark skin beautifully. She's wearing an impeccably tailored white suit with a deeply plunging jacket that shows the swells of her breasts, and her haughty nonchalance is so perfectly in character that Al can't help but point out, "She's Nico! She's Nico and I'm Lou and Scor's Andy." 

Fighting the urge to rip Al away from Joshua and pull him into his own embrace, James forces himself to meet Al’s eyes instead, smiling, "You make a really good Lou, Ally. He suits you."

Al lolls his head on Joshua's shoulder, breaking into a wide smile as he meets James' eyes. "Thanks, Jamie! I hope so, at least a little- I love Lou so much. You make a good-" He waves at James' outfit, brows puckering as he tries to think of the right word. "-a good party person."

Scorpius snorts, slinging his arm around Kaia's shoulders, his knuckles brushing against Al's forearm. "Does he, though? I feel like he makes a better taxidermist in that outfit."

Kaia giggles, tucking her hair behind her ear as she eyes James critically. "Have to disagree with you there, Scor. Taxidermists have an edge. He's more... like a lower level Ministry employee. One with no power, no status, no hope." 

Huffing, James tugs anxiously at the hemline of his shirt and wishing he had another drink. "Well I didn't know there was a theme, so I couldn't very well dress for it."

"Ah, ignorance," sighs Kaia. "The go to excuse of Gryffindor. It's their motto, is it not?" 

Scorpius cocks his head, smirking. "I do believe it is. And how odd about the miscommunication- I was certain that all invited guests knew about the theme. You must be the exception. Peculiar, that.” 

"I like that you're the exception," Al tells him. "I'm glad that you don't look like anyone else. You just look like you."

Smiling gratefully at Al, James murmurs, "Thanks."

"Not all of us dressed the part that much anyways," Gideon points out, shrugging and gesturing down at his leather jacket and dark denims. 

"Not all of us insist on following the guest of honor around like a lost puppy," snipes Scorpius. "Those of us who are essential to the party are obligated to look the part." He gestures to himself and Kaia. "We're more crucial than people like you."

James brow crinkles and he shoves his hands in his pockets. "Guess I'll just have to continue ruining the aesthetic appeal." 

Al's mind resoundingly rejects the concept of James ever doing anything other than making everything around him more beautiful, and he finds himself blurting out, "Jamie, you're not though! You add to it. Told you before, you look really nice. You've got lotsa aesthetic appeal."

Joshua smiles down at Al, pressing his lips briefly against Al's forehead. He looks up at James and adds, "I like it too, by the way." 

Scorpius harrumphs, clearly disgruntled by this turn of events. "Fine. If you're all going to gang up on me, guess I just have to make this-" He waves his hand in James' direction, his nose wrinkled. "-work." And with that, he takes a step forward, eyes James carefully, and then deftly unbuttons his shirt with one swipe of his hand. "There. That's a moderate improvement." 

James blinks at Scorpius and then down at his exposed skin in surprise. "Er- okay, then," he says nervously, rolling his shoulders to adjust to the air. He no longer feels bubbly, and instead is starting to spin. Chewing on his lip, he Summons a drink from the nearby stand, which is continuously refilling itself.

It doesn't feel safe looking at James anymore- the hard, sculpted planes of his chest are starting to make Al dizzy- so Al turns his head to bury it against Joshua's shoulder, closing his eyes as he tries to calm his breathing. Joshua rubs his back encouragingly, asking him, "You okay? Want to sit down, or...?"

"He's fine," Scorpius says decisively. "He just needs another drink. Now be a proper boyfriend and get one for him." 

Joshua cocks an eyebrow at Scorpius before tipping Al's chin up. "That work for you?"

"Yes, please," Al replies, flushing under the intensity of Joshua's gaze. "More's always good."

"Okay then. I'll go get you some." Joshua's eyes flicker over to Scorpius before he sets his jaw and leans down, capturing Al's lips in a surprisingly hard kiss. Al gasps, opening his lips to allow Joshua's tongue to slide against his own. Joshua threads his fingers through Al's hair, holding him close as his kiss becomes even more possessive. When Al's gasping and pushing up on his toes to get closer, Joshua pulls back, his own breathing heavy. "Be right back." He slips away, leaving Al reeling.

James stares at Al's swollen, parted lips and the world starts to spin faster as if it's turning against him. In an attempt to right himself, he takes a long swig of the vial and shivers as it travels through him. He's jolted from trying to realign himself when Gideon snorts.

"Having a good time then, Al?" Gideon teases.

"Yeah," Al says dazedly, his body swaying back and forth like the stalk of a sunflower in the wind. "S'very good." 

Scorpius snorts and raises his vial, mumbling, "Here's to liberal definitions of good."

"Is good," Al insists, blinking in surprise when a vial suddenly appears in his hand (how did it get there?). He makes eye contact with James, and it smolders him, searing deep into his soul and making him feel stripped raw. "Very good," he whispers, his eyes locked on James.

Sucking in a breath, James watches as Al's pupils seem to blacken, causing the pit of his stomach to swell with an unnamed emotion. Suddenly starved for- for something, James tosses back the rest of his drink, never looking away from Al even as he tips his head back. Al looks so- different, like this. James isn't sure if it's the makeup or the high or something else, but he can't seem to look away from Al. Licking a lingering drop off the rim of the vial, James hums in satisfaction- an almost silent noise under the pulsing strum of the music.

James' contented little hum wracks through Al's body, making him shiver and swallow down the moan that's trying to escape. He tries to tear his eyes away from the flush spreading across James' cheeks, from the way his throat works as he swallows the drink, from his pink, pink tongue darting out to drag along his lips and the glass of the vial- but he may as well try to fight gravity. It feels that impossible, that inevitable. If anything, it would be easier to float away into the ether than distance himself from James; James is true epicenter of his world, the very center of his heart, the foundation upon which everything else is built. 

And now, when they're looking at each other like this, Al could almost swear that James feels this- this pull too. The pull to be closer, to eradicate all the space between them until there's nothing but them, just them, together in the way they're meant to be.

Hand shaking as a fresh wave of lust crashes over him, Al quickly tips his vial back, drinking noisily and letting his eyelashes flutter shut for a fraction of a second, breaking the eye contact that's ripping him apart piece by piece. 

James stares as Al drinks, the bubbling, explosive sensation filling him once again. There's conversation going on around him, but the voices could be a planet away for all he's paying attention to them. Al's closed eyes allow James to observe the way the silver liner curls with the shape of Al's eyes, smeared artfully with clear intent. When they flutter open again, the sudden green nearly startles James, and his lips part on a gasp under their intensity. He wonders how this drink can make him feel so- so geared and drawn towards Al, like it would be physically painful to walk away. It's confusing but right in a way he can't explain, so James simply surrenders to the pull, smiling at Al as he steps closer to brush aside the fringe falling over Al's face.

The drink seems to gnaw away all of Al's doubts, leaving him feeling warm and fizzy and alive. He tilts his head against James' palm, lips curving in a smile as the warmth radiating from James seeps into him, simmering in the pit of his stomach. He mouths, "Hi," nuzzling closer when James' fingers brush against the upper curve of his ear.

James' smile turns lopsided as it widens, and he mouths back, "Hey," tracing the shape of Al's ear. He feels hesitant to withdraw his hand. "Wanna go sit somewhere?" 

"Yeah!" Al says eagerly, ignoring Scorpius' disgruntled huff. "Let's go." He grabs hold of James' hand and starts leading him away, weaving past the red couch and trying not to notice the three people entangled upon it in various states of undress until he finds two silver stools in the corner. He tugs James down, smiling at him as little sparks of sunshine flare from every point of contact between them. "I'm really glad you came tonight, Jamie. It wouldn't be right without you here with me." 

"M'glad I'm here too," James tells him, curling his fingers over Al's. "Thanks for inviting me, I know I wasn't- well, thanks. I like celebrating with you." Being away from the others helps James to relax so his high can take over, as if all his drinks are now hitting at once. Al's familiar intertwined grasp makes his skin fizz with warmth, and James leans closer to him. "Have to- to open your present after- later." 

"We can do it now, if you want," Al tells him. "They'll be okay without me for a little." He inclines his head towards the staircase in the corner of the room, his thumb idly tracing the back of James' hand. "Want to?"

James beams, nodding earnestly. "Yeah, sounds- s'good." He pulls them off the stools and leads Al upstairs, grinning wide when Al giggles as they hurriedly weave their way through people. When they get to Al's dorm, James tugs Al forward, laughing breathlessly as he collapses across the foot of Al's bed in the same manner he did when they were younger. "I think your bed's comfier than mine," he declares. 

Al's heart turns over in his chest, his eyes irrevocably drawn to the skin that's now visible above the waistband of James' denims. Gods, there's so much skin on display that it makes Al's mouth water, his fingers twitching at his sides as he fights the urge to leap on top of James and wrench his shirt all the way off, sucking his way down those taut muscles until-

Al rubs his eyes with the heels of his palms, praying his body will relax. He can't get hard, not in these trousers- they show everything, so there is no possible way James wouldn’t notice. Hoping for casual, he replies, "As they should be. We'd be the ones who’d complain the most if they weren’t." He gingerly climbs across his mattress, trying to cross his legs and yelping when the leather immediately slices into the sides of his hips. He settles for lying on his side, retrieving the gift bag from his beside table and setting it in between them. "Scor would probably initiate a formal protest if he found out we had anything other than the best."

James rolls his eyes at that, but smiles gently at Al. "Don't care about him, but you definitely deserve the best." Gaze falling to his gift, his nerves rise and he starts worrying his lip. "Um, it's- s'not much, but it's- thought you might appreciate it."

Al reaches out for James' hand, telling him earnestly, "It's- whatever it is, I'm sure I'll love it. It's impossible not to." He fights down his blush, staring intently at their hands. "Anything you give me will always be my favorite, because it's from you, and you're- you're my favorite too."

The bubbling sensation trickling through James' veins quickens and he feels as though the two of them are floating together. "I- you're mine too. Always been my favorite. That's sorta- that's what the gift says, really." James props himself up on his elbows, and nods at the bag encouragingly, excited now for Al to understand. 

It's hopeless now; Al's face is completely red. Beyond curious to see how James could have conveyed that with a present, he carefully picks up the package and places it on his lap, parting the tissue paper until he finds a wrapped square parcel inside. His grin spreading across his face, he lifts it out of the bag, the familiar weight and shape of the package making his brain tingle in recognition. He glances up at James and smiles before turning the package over and carefully running his fingers across the tape, peeling it off and spreading the wrapping paper apart easily. As he expected, it's a record, but the track list on the back isn't from any album he's seen before; instead, it's a mix of songs from various albums of his, and something about seeing them all together like this makes his stomach clench and his eyes burn. He flips the album over to see the cover, his breath catching in his throat when he sees a picture of their wood, memories of weaving between those branches while flying with James flooding his mind. "You- you made me an album?" Al asks, disbelief and awe coloring his voice and making it sound higher than usual.

"Um, y-yeah." James can't quite tell if Al's reaction is positive or negative, so he tries to explain, "I mean I didn't really make it, I custom ordered it from that guy Derek who works at the shop that sells Muggle and Wizarding music. I started working on it over summer so I'd have access to all of your albums. S'all songs from them that remind me of you or sometimes of a specific memory of when we listened to it." He sits up to look at the song list with Al, his thumb brushing over ‘You're My Best Friend.’ Worriedly, he adds, "It's- I know it's sort of silly, because you already have all of those songs, but it's supposed to be like- er, like a vinyl playlist."

"Jamie!" Al exclaims, wielding the record around a bit wildly before he remembers to be gentle with it. "This- this is amazing. It- seeing it together, all the songs that remind you of me and of- of us, and how much thought you put into it, it's- Jamie, it's perfect!" After placing the record carefully on his bed, he throws himself at James, draping himself across James' chest as he clings tightly to his neck. "Thank you, thank you, thank you!" 

James lets out a relieved laugh, wrapping his arms around Al's torso and burying his face in Al's hair. Inhaling the scent of sunshine and magic, he murmurs, "I'm so glad you like it. I dunno if I'll get to see you for your birthday next year, so I wanted something really special. Yours is the only birthday I really get excited about. I like giving you things."

"I love your presents so much," Al whispers, his face nuzzled against the crux of James' throat. "They're always so- so you. Thoughtful and sweet and- and right. Like they belong with me." He pushes thoughts of his next birthday aside, unable to bear the idea of celebrating alone while James is gods know where. He tilts his head to the side, pressing a quick kiss against James' throat as he whispers, "They're always incredible. Just like you."

James tightens his hold on Al, feeling light and free for the first time tonight. He knows Al has other friends, but he never feels very comfortable around them. Stealing moments like this at school is rare for them, so he's taking as much time as he can. Brushing his fingers over Al's bare spine, he murmurs, "Well they- they're for you, and you're even more- you're the most incredible." 

"M'not," Al mumbles, melting further into James' embrace. "I'm nothing special. I'm just- me." He wants to say that he only ever feels incredible like this, when they're wrapped around each other so tightly he's not sure where he ends and James begins. This is the only time he feels like he's found his purpose in life, the only time he feels whole.

But since he can't say this, Al settles for, "Not like you. You have the best heart of anyone I know. It's- it's so wonderful, Jamie, and you- I wish you knew how special it is." James' fingers are spreading warmth across his back, and he lets out a breathy sigh when they skim over his uppermost vertebrae. "And I really, really love the record. Thank you." Al rests his chin in the center of James' chest, smiling up at him shyly. "Want to listen to it now?"

James breathes out a contented sound, nodding as he bites his lip. "Yeah, I'd like to, that'd be- are you sure, though? You don't, um, mind staying up here with me?"

"Of course not," Al replies, resting one elbow on James' chest and reaching out for the record with his free hand. "There's nowhere else I'd rather be." He wandlessly opens Scorpius’ record player (since his is currently being used downstairs) and sends James' record flying towards it. Once it's in place, the needle falls down and the opening tracks of ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ fill the room. Al beams down at James, his knuckles brushing along James' cheek. "This is my new favorite album."

Flushing, James smiles up at Al shyly. Trying not to show how touched he is by the compliment, he mumbles, "This is all your music already, you know." He shifts under Al, feeling both embarrassed and pleased as he presses his cheek firmly against Al's fingertips.

"Yeah, but it's- this is different. Knowing how you see it, what it makes you think about- that makes it infinitely more special." Al's fingers glide further down James' cheek, stroking the skin along the curve of his jaw. "It makes it our music." The song changes, and Al laughs freely when he hears the chords of ‘Perfect Day.’ "Hey, some Lou! See, you followed the theme after all." He tries to lift his hips slightly off of James', not trusting his body to behave when they're so breathlessly close. "Which one is your favorite?" 

"Oh." James frowns slightly as he thinks. He hums lightly at Al's touch, unconsciously arching up towards him. "Um, it's hard to pick. They're all my favorite, s'why they're on here. But- I guess, maybe 'Two of Us' or 'All I Want Is You.' They just- I like their lyrics," he explains, his cheeks heating inexplicably.

Al bites down a groan as their hips push together once again, closing his eyes and trying to remember the lyrics to ‘The Gift’ to keep himself in check. "Y-yeah, those- I like them too. They- they've always r-reminded me of you." He sucks in a rasping breath, his clenched fingers biting into his palm. "The Beatles and U2- they're both good song writers. And their singing is c-clear, so you can really, um, appreciate it, which- a lot of other bands I like are h-harder to understand. That's why I like covers of their songs, sometimes. Like, I never knew the actual lyrics of ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ until I heard Patti's cover. Because she's, uh- she enunciates very well." 

"Yeah, I- I like clear lyrics," James agrees. He swipes his thumb over Al's wrist, watching him steadily and wondering why he's suddenly flustered. "M'glad the album sounds good. It- I wasn't sure it would flow very well with them all together."

"That doesn't matter to me," Al tells him, goosebumps demarcating every place James touches him. "It's- you putting them together like this- it makes them cohesive. It- it gives them a common theme, something to unite them." Al shifts to the side the slightest bit, allowing a bit of distance between their hips and still trying to force his cock into submission. "Now they'll all remind me of you and th-this. This moment." 

James smiles softly, lighting up at Al's words and melting against him. "That- that makes me really happy, that they work that way. And that you like them all as much as I hoped you would. I- I wanted this to be really special." 

Al laughs, his tone gentle as he says, "But Jamie, it's always special with you. And this- having you make me something so- so me, so us, it's-"

The sound of the dormitory door creaking open jolts Al, interrupting his train of thought and sending him scurrying across the bed, a guilty flush coloring his cheeks. Joshua slips into the room, holding a bottle of fairy made champagne by the neck and smiling widely. "Hey, Al. I brought you some- oh." He pauses awkwardly, his eyes lingering on James as his brows furrows. "Oh, um, sorry, I- Scorpius mentioned you were up here but I didn't- is- is this okay?" 

"It's fine!" Al says quickly, mentally cringing at the squeakiness of his voice. "Um, so- how- how's everything downstairs?"

After a short pause, Joshua answers, his voice retaining a hesitant quality. "Good. Scorpius is entertaining a flock of suitors and Gideon snuck off with McGill." He approaches the bed, foot scuffing the floor near the lowermost bedpost. "So how's everything going up here?"

"Really good," Al replies, hoping he doesn't sound as wild as he feels. "Jamie was just giving me his present."

"Oh, that's nice." Joshua offers James a quick smile, then asks, "What'd he get you?" 

"He made me an album of songs that- of songs I like," Al tells him, gesturing proudly to the album that's currently playing ‘Love You Madly.’ "It's amazing."

"That's such a cool idea!" Joshua says, perching on the side of the bed and setting the champagne aside. "That's perfect for you."

"Yeah, I thought so," James says, his expression wary. He sits up and his eyes dart between Joshua and the champagne bottle as if attempting to solve a puzzle that he doesn't want to know the outcome to. "Um, so. Should we- were you coming to get us to rejoin the party, then?" 

"Oh, uh-" Joshua turns a flaming shade of puce, suddenly becoming very interested in the stitching along Al's duvet. "S-Scorpius mentioned Al was, um, up here, so I just- uh, I thought I'd come. Find him! And- y-yeah." 

Al's eyes widen in understanding, and he sends a mental rebuke Scorpius' way for failing to mention that James was with him. "Oh, that's- that's good. Um, so should we get back then, you think?"

James looks between them suspiciously, but slowly nods at Al's question. "Um, probably? It’s your party though, s'up to you." 

"Yeah, let's get back. Otherwise Scor will come up to get me himself, which could get messy." Al wandlessly spells the needle back into its resting position, Summoning the record and carefully sliding it back into its jacket. Joshua watches him in wonderment, his voice husky when he says, "I love when you do that.”

Scowling at Joshua, James intercedes, "Yeah, Ally's magic is amazing. He does that all the time, it's always incredible to see and feel." 

Joshua blinks at James, seeming to just remember that he's there. "Oh, uh, yeah, I- I know, it's- it's always really- beautiful. You're- it must be cool to have gotten to see that all the time growing up. And watch it change." Joshua nudges Al's side, grinning at him. "He's really powerful."

"I'm not," Al protests, desperately wishing this conversation could be over. "I can do, you know, little things, but it's mostly just- showy. Scor's probably more powerful than me, even without wandless magic. It's not- it's really not a big deal."

James shakes his head fondly at Al's usual humbleness towards his magic. "You know that's not true," James tells him, beaming with pride. "You've always been able to do anything you tried. S'just sometimes need to be reminded how capable you are."

"Yeah, definitely," agrees Joshua, seemingly emboldened by James' approval. "Your magic's like nothing else I've ever seen. It's always been cool, but lately, getting to see how far you can push it- it's mind-blowing."

"It's so unique and beautiful," James agrees, though his jaw is set in irritation at Joshua's response. "A lot of the time, when I get him to try something new, I can feel the spell or charm inside my core." He grins wide at Al, the fluttery feeling returning as their eyes meet again. "So powerful." 

The rest of the world fades away as Al stares back at James, his pride and unwavering belief in Al's abilities making him feel infinitely powerful. In this moment, with James staring at him like this, he doesn't doubt his magic, doesn't doubt himself. He just places his trust in James completely, knowing he'll allow him to fly.

"Wow," Joshua breathes, his fingers inching upwards to trace Al's knee. "That sounds incredible. Maybe we could try that, sometime?"

Al startles a bit, glancing back at James guiltily before hedging, "Oh, uh, yeah, maybe. We could- try." 

James feels secretly pleased at Al's apparent hesitancy to share his magic with Joshua, but he ducks his head so neither of them will see his smile. "So are we going down now?" he asks, ruffling his hair as he straightens up.

"Sure," Al says quickly, shifting so his legs hang over the side of the bed. "Let's go."

"Um, well..." Joshua shoots a meaningful look at Al before turning to James, looking distinctly flustered. "I just wanted to, um, ask Al something, so can we just... meet you down there?"

Furrowing his brow, James looks between them. He has a very distinct feeling that he would not like whatever it is Joshua wants from Al. "Uh, I- you can't just- ask him downstairs?" 

Joshua pales in alarm, his leg start to jiggle as he splutters, "Well, I- it would be, um, better here, and it's- I'd rather ask him when we're, uh, alone, so this is- it seems like the... best idea.” 

Al slides closer to Joshua, resting his hand on Joshua's bouncing knee as he says gently, "Jamie, it's- um, it's okay, we'll be... right down."