Secrets I have held in my heart ¦ Shawn

[Alora Veda Astor]

Secrets I have held in my heart, are harder to hide than I first thought
Maybe I just wanna be yours

Alora’s summer had been a fairly decent one. Mostly uneventful. She’d spent time between her London townhouse, the south of France and at times the odd international research weekend. Spending time with her sister as well as some time alone. The latter of which she didn’t mind so much after the former. Downtime was always nice, especially as an introvert. Especially as an introvert with so much going on inside her head. The familial pressure had been growing at an overwhelming level recently. AMY ESMA ASTOR-SHAW just didn’t understand why meeting their parents and siblings, but particularly their parents, was such a big deal for Alora. No matter how much she explained it, Amy just didn’t get it. She had grown up with two loving parents doting on her and older brothers looking out for her. It had been difficult for Alora to come to terms with the fact that not only was her mother actually alive and had just abandoned her to the whims of her Grandmother, but she had actually stayed with her father, the man who was always a non-consequential shadowy mystery in Alora’s mind. The idea that they had stayed together, happily married for so many years, that they went on to have more kids; and yet had never come back for Alora or likely so much as given her a second thought was beyond painful to bear. She had gone through abandonment issues after her Grandmother had died when she’d truly been alone, but then to find all this out had been quite a bombshell. It wasn’t something she’d ever likely fully process, or something she’d ever feel ready to face.

Once she was back in the UK throwing herself into her work had helped. From as early as August she faffed, pretending she was working on her lesson plans for the new year. In reality she never changed her plans much year to year, unless there was a heap of new research out to change the way she did certain things, but that was rare. Being abc at school, surrounded by people, had made things a lot easier. Amy had started back in her alchemy studies as well, which she hated herself for thinking sometimes, but was a godsend. Sometimes she found having a sister overbearing. For so many years she’d been alone, and although she loved her to bits and was now so grateful she wasn’t alone in the world, sometimes she needed to retreat. They were due to meet for lunch next week for a catch up and that would be nice.

Settling back into the routine of classes had been great but it did mean one thing; she was back with all her colleagues too. There was one in particular she had avoided like the plague since he had left him alone and snoring in his office after a heated night last February. They’d seen each other in group settings and been perfectly fine, but she was terrified of being alone with him. To a degree it was a self control issue. It was bad enough that any time she was sure he wasn’t looking, she stared at him; sometimes just taking in every little feature. Sometimes letting her mind drift back to that night and immediately feeling her cheeks heat up and shutting herself down again. Leaving that morning had been such a huge regret. She stood by her decision still, it was better for the both of them to just pretend it hadn’t happened. But sometimes it still hurt to think of it, to dwell on the what-ifs.

When the school board had asked the current Professors to supervise each other's midterm exams, Alora had happily agreed. Another way to keep herself occupied and ignore what was going on outside the castle walls. This evening she’d been pulled in at the last minute to cover the first years practical Astronomy exam. Despite it now being dark by six pm, the exam itself wasn’t on till ten pm. The idea of the dark and cold for two hours didn’t exactly appeal to her, but she had already agreed. Apparently the third years exam would be on at the same time, just on the other edge of the tower, with one of the other teachers supervising them. It was one of the rare times she was happy to not be alone, she had been so glad she hadn’t even given a second thought to the ‘who’ that would be her partner in crime. She’d simply packed her bag with treats, and two flasks of hot chocolate and wrapped herself up in slightly more casual than she usually dressed, but warm clothes. Over her jeans and sweater she’d wrapped herself up in a duffle coat, wooly beanie and scarf. She’d even placed a warming charm on her, sadly now vintage, ugg boots.

At 9.45pm she stood on the Astronomy tower platform and looked skyward; thankfully it was a clear night she wouldn’t have too many students bawling that they didn’t see anything. Their actual teacher had set up their station with them earlier, so Alora had nothing to do for a few minutes but stand here and admire the pretty stars and huge moon.


shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

Being a professor had several perks. No longer bound to a curfew at night. There was unlimited access to the items confiscated from students. Shawn was always interested in whatever the Weasley or Zonko’s joke shops were putting out nowadays. The biggest perk was getting the summers off. Unless you happened to be one of those baffling people who found some type of role in teaching during the summer. Shawn was crazy, but not that crazy. He loved his summers away. At least he did now as an adult. As a student, summer had been his worst nightmare. Now it was a very extended vacation. Sadly, many of his friends didn’t exactly have such long vacations. All of them worked jobs that still required them to work during the summer. A fact he rubbed in their faces. It meant he spent much of his summer alone. Which caused his break to appear a hectic mess when viewed from the outside. Much of his time was spent on whatever whim crossed his mind.

It didn’t exactly help that Shawn gave in to whatever interesting idea floated in his head when he was avoiding thinking or feeling something. A terrible coping technique he learned as a child, at least that’s what some called it. A few years back, the break up from his girlfriend fueled his terrible decision-making. Completely blindsided when she insisted she’d rather focus on her career than be with him. Shawn spent a lot of time chasing distractions and when that didn’t work, alcohol certainly did.

Another heartache fueled this summer of impulse decisions. Although it wasn’t nearly as bad for the same reasons, it came with a whole new set of problems. Shawn really liked Alora as a friend and colleague. At least that’s how it started, but a few months before summer break, that all changed. A friendly night of banter and drinks evolved into something far more passionate. Now it was hard to see her in any other light. Sadly, it seemed she hadn’t felt the same way. Ever since she sneaked out the morning after, they had been avoiding each other. He figured she might have been ashamed and regretted what had happened between them, which was her reason for avoiding him. Shawn did his best to just stay out of her way if that was the case. Still, he couldn’t help but steal glances when they had to be in the same room with others. Flashes of the night they spent together in his mind. The memories reminded him of the sensation of her touch. Things that put a soft smile on his face for that moment. It was hard to forget such beauty.

He could have even accepted if she had explained it was an accident. They had been drinking heavily moments before. Yet, he was just avoided because of it. Not only did Shawn’s actions cause him to lose a friend who he worked with, but also caused feelings of regret in another person. It also caused a thought to creep up from the back of his mind. Something he had hoped he moved on from since his previous break up. “Maybe you’re just not good enough.”

For the first time in his life, he hadn’t been looking forward to returning to school. A strange feeling, as he loved the school and teaching. Yet, he would be back to trying his best to give someone the space they appeared to have wanted. The only saving grace was he hadn’t gone to the greenhouses much before, so it was easy to avoid Alora’s classes. Everything else was just up to luck. which seemed to work. He kept himself busy with school and entertaining thoughts and the months kept going. Eventually, it was time for mid-terms. they asked professors to swap classes as they proctored their tests. Shawn wasn’t thrilled with the idea, he had been assigned to the astronomy class for the third years. Which meant walking all the way up the tower. That also had to happen at night. Still, it was something to keep his mind focused on teaching rather than other topics. Like strikingly beautiful red-headed professors.

Shawn made the climb up the Astronomy tower. He had his professor's robes on, which gave the appearance of being professional. Yet, just underneath was his casual muggle shirt and jeans. It wasn’t like anyone would notice or care; he assumed. Still, Shawn thought how didn’t miss this hike as he cleared another flight of stairs. He had dropped Astronomy the moment he could in his sixth year. He didn’t hate the subject; he was just awful about it. Partially because these classes had to happen at night and normally he had been up way too late the night before. He slept through several astronomy classes as a student. Staying out of trouble and passing each year just by the kindness of his fellow Hufflepuff. He reached the door of the classroom and with even the momentary glance, his heart stopped for a moment. There stood Alora, basking in the glow of the stars and moon above. Something that didn’t help with his heart's pacing. She hadn’t noticed him just yet, which allowed him to stare just a moment longer. “Just got, leave, go, go.” A voice in his mind whispered. He hadn’t thought he would share this exam with her. He had been lucky enough so far.

He almost gave in to the thought of escaping, at least til the sound of students coming up the stairs behind him grew louder. He knew it was loud enough that Alora would look over soon enough and notice him. He entered the room properly and spoke up. “Ms. Astor,” no, too formal Shawn thought, or maybe it was the right amount now. “Alora. I see you have the first years for the evening. Try not to be too hard on them.” Shawn weakly joked.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

Lost in her own little world, her head was still tilted skyward as Shawn approached. For a moment she squinted, trying to work out if she could see anything amongst the stars wit just her naked eyes. She couldn't of course, they were just a big jumble in the sky for now, but still, they were pretty enough to get lost in for the moment.

That was until Shawn addressed her. Her head snapped forward to where he stood and her breath caught on a sharp inhale, mouth hanging open just slightly. "Oh."

Frozen for a moment, but it was nothing to do with the weather. No, she stood watching him by the door in his Professor's robes, the height of Professionalism for most of the male teachers. Alora never liked them, she preferred pieces by a certain wixen designer that had a base in muggle fashion, with a twist of traditional wizard robes. Mostly though she chose muggle fashion. It was much more practical, especially on a night like tonight where she needed to keep the cold out and stay cosy. But then, she wasn't looking at his robes; her eyes had drifted to his face. With that, she felt her own face heat up, cheeks flushing deeply. With a bit of luck she could downplay it, blame it on the cold. A moment of silence passed with them just staring at each other. They were finally alone and now that she forced to face him, she didn't even know what to say. Her stomach dropped and she felt sick. During the summer, every time he crossed her mind (surprisingly often), she felt shit about what she had done and wished she had stayed that morning. Sometimes her mind wandered to how things would have played out if she had stayed with him; would he have come to London with her for the summer and stayed in her family town house, or ventured to the South of France, though AMY ESMA ASTOR-SHAW probably would have hated that. Maybe things would be good now, but then the creeping doubt and self sabotage would hit her. It would poison those happy little day dreams and remind her that she had probably done the best for them. It was better for Shawn not to be wrapped up in all the shit she was dealing with.

It was easier to convince herself she had given him a lucky escape. Though now he was here in front of her in the flesh, that idea was flattened. A small part of her heart wanted to re-enact all those cheesy rom-com movies she secretly loved watching and run, closing the distance between them. To throw herself into his arms and admit what a stupid mistake she had made. Call herself an idiot and maybe dare kiss him again.

Except this was real life, and she was acutely aware students were likely not far behind him. The fear of being caught, along with the fact she was not at all brave enough for a move like that instead froze her to the spot. Maybe the universe was giving her a second chance, but she was far too chicken to take it. All she could utter quietly was "Hi Shawny" If she could brush off the flushed cheeks as being cold, she'd get away with it; but the was no hiding the dreamy, almost shy smile that broke out on her face. His level of formality stung just slightly, feeling he was perhaps going to keep it too professional tonight, and make this torturous for her. In spite of that, he seemed to soften as he started to make his way out onto the tower top. She gave her own weak laugh, still watching him, it seemed impossible to tear her gaze away from him. "Quite the opposite actually, Professor Spillane had already visited me today to make sure I wasn't too nice and remind me I wasn't allowed help them, even if they are only baby first years" Her eyes rolled and she laughed quietly again. But still her gaze came back to him and she frowned, looking him over again. "You're going to be cold, we've to stay up here for like two hours of the exam and whatever it takes after to clear up." though her frown softened slightly as her self-control wall well and truly dismantled itself and she took a few steps forward to close the distance between him. She was probably slightly too close to count it as any way professional, when she tilted her head back to look up at him. "But if you're nice to me I'll share my hot chocolate" She wouldn't tell him she had brought two flasks specifically to share. That didn't matter. Another second passed with her standing far too close, a thought flit through her mind detailing how if she stretched up on her tippy toes just slightly she could kiss him, even just on the cheek.

Except right at that moment the heavy door from the stairs swung open and eager first years started to stream out in an anxious babble, followed by a group of less enthused third years. Alora's eyes flared and she came to her senses, stepping back like she had been burned by a hot object. She was sure none of the students had seen it, they'd been too wrapped up in their own problems but she didn't want to risk it. She didn't look back at Shawn as she stepped towards some of the overly excitable firsties to try and put some order on them. "Ok take places at your work stations please, we start at ten on the dot" she called, clapping her hands together to try and get their attention. The sooner she could get this over with the better. Although she wasn't suite sure what waited her after, but she didn't dare catch Shawn's eye again. She was sure now her cheeks were red hot, enough of a tell for him to know. taking a breath she tried to make herself think straight. Why did he do this to her? Scramble her brain like this. This was not good.

shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

“Hi Shawny,” Alora eventually replied after the momentary silence once she had noticed him. His lips made a faint smile as she still was calling him by Shawny. This was the first time they had talked privately since that night. They had barely talked in a public setting either since then. Alora explained that if anything she would have helped the first year if the Astrology professor hadn’t instructed her otherwise. “That’s a shame, I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t helped the poor student here and there when they were just genuinely stuck.” Shawn never just blatantly gave anyone an answer. If he had just been idling casting a spell here and there while they were taking a test. Who was to blame them for noticing? “That’s probably why they gave me the third years. The chances I’d be able to help them anyway are between slim and none,” he laughed once more. Poking fun at just how little he felt he remembered from Astrology.

“Please, Shawn added quickly as Alora showed concern he might get cold being up on the tower for the next few hours. It was October after all but Shawn wasn’t concerned about the cold. He enjoyed it as long as it wasn’t too intense. If anything the comment about them being here together for the next few hours and more so for clean up. That was the part that caught his attention the most. “If I start to get cold I’ll just switch to my fur coat.” He teased, watching as she started to get closer. His heart raced a little more with every step she took. With every inch of distance that was closed between them. She was right up to him at this point, any closer and he felt like they might be touching. Something his body wanted almost desperately at this point. His face reddened as he tried to ignore these desires and tried to continue to listen to her words. He found himself more focused on the soft lips they came from. “Well, I’ll try and be on my best behavior then Ms. Astor.”

How easy it would have been with her this close, if she allowed, for Shawn to take her in his arms. Move toward one of the nearby desks and repeat how all of this had started. Imagery his mind refused to budge from. At least til he heard the doors to the Astronomy class open once more with a loud clang. Students loved to just swing doors open loudly. Something he had never noticed til he became a professor himself. Alora was the first to move away but it didn’t take Shawn long to do the same. They had snapped back to the reality of the situation. They had been heading dangerously close to where all the trouble began. Shawn avoided looking toward Alora besides the momentary glance as she spoke to her first-year class.

The third years also began to pour in. Albeit behind the first years. Obviously too cool to mix in with the students two years below them. “Take your seats as well third years. Take your time but keep in mind the sooner you’re done, the sooner you can wander the halls. Just say you got turned around or lost on the way back to your common room.” Shawn joked, ending with a quick laugh. Granted both were an excuse he had used as a student. He had probably used just about every excuse as to why he had been out past curfew. “As a professor, I’m required to say I was just joking about the last part.” He added that as more students found their seats and examined the test papers in front of them. Jokes helped distract him from the warmness in his cheeks and the images of Alora still in his thoughts. Shawn still couldn’t look over toward her for too long. Stealing momentary glances. Luckily she seemed to have not been looking each time he had.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

For the next while she tried to concentrate on the students the best she could. She has seen Shawn’s cheeks flush at how close she was. That wasn’t because he was cold, she knew that for a fact. She’d never seen that happen. The idea of him transforming just to stay warm made her smile. She still hadn’t seen him as a big shaggy dog, and she still hadn’t bought him that dog bed yet, but there was still time. Here and there she helped students, nothing too obvious or anything. Just here and there a slight swish of her wand to tilt their telescope to a slightly better angle. She wasn’t too familiar with the coordinates they were meant to be looking up, or the questions surrounding them on their work sheets; but either way she knew they’d get nowhere pointing towards the surface of the lake.

Thankfully it had been easy enough to not look at Shawn, but still easy enough to steal glances here and there when he wasn’t looking. He moved up and down the rows of students on the opposite side of the tower to her rows, without paying her much attention.

Mostly Alora hovered in the middle of the towers platform. Her fear of heights wasn’t so bad up here so long as she didn’t go to the edge and look directly down. Or once she did so staying stationary. Really she could be up high and admire the scenery but it was when it started moving on terms other than her own that she really when she was affected; nobody knew it but brooms were her deathly enemy. Eventually she settled at the teachers desk in the middle of the platform and leaned on its edge; still trying to seem interested on what was going on in front of her. Her back was to Shawn, she couldn’t then around and stare at him without being too obvious now, but it didn’t stop her wondering about him all the same.

She jumped on the spot just slightly as a shiver ran down her spine. It wasn’t even all that cold. But maybe it was time to crack out the hot chocolate. Reaching for her leather backpack thrown haphazardly on the table; she looked between the students and the down to the contents in her bag here and there as she fished the first flask out. A coy look over her shoulder confirmed Shawn was up the other end of the tower, she couldn’t exactly call him down without distracting at least a dozen of the students.

She watched his back for a moment, willing him to turn around before she eventually gave up and turned away. He’d notice her drinking eventually she supposed.

Momentarily her mind wandered, and now her cheeks flushed for an entirely different reason. Trying to brush off the thought she glanced skyward again and concentrated on her breathing, trying to calm her racing heart. She’d have to speak to him eventually, surely. Her mind was at war; should she try and explain why she had left him, or should she just say nothing and carry on, see how things went. Silently she cursed herself; she should be doing neither realistically. They should just stay professional of course. Crossing the line again would do neither of them good, and yet she knew by the way he watched her earlier that he wanted to be closer too.

With another breath she tried to push it out of her mind and just focused on counting the stars above.

shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

The rest of Shawn's Astrology third years finally arrived, and right at ten, the exam started for both classes. Besides the climb up the astrology tower, this was another reason Shawn hadn’t been a fan of proctoring another professor's midterms. All Shawn was doing was going up and down the rows of work tables that had been prepared. If it hadn’t been for the looks he kept stealing toward Alora, this night would have been pretty boring. Not that he had any plans to begin with. This just wasn’t much of a task that needed his full attention. Which meant his mind could wander pretty easily, something he hadn’t exactly wanted. All he had to do was keep an eye out for anyone who was attempting to cheat. For the most part, he hadn’t caught anyone making any shifty movements, chatting, or self-answering quills.

The school was large, but he could still pick out a few student faces that he remembered from his own classes. He wished he could remember everyone; when he first started, that had been a goal. The realization of just how many students he would be teaching caused reality to set in. It wasn’t something that was possible for him.

Shawn almost wished one of the third-year students would attempt something. No one was even passing a note. He knew he wasn’t missing anything happening, but to not see one student even attempt anything made him feel like he had to be missing some act of cheating happening. No one had pre-prepared answers or was even attempting to talk to one another. Looking over to Alora once more, she had made her way toward the professor’s desk, leaning on the edge for support. A flask in hand, having gone for the hot chocolate she had spoken of earlier. There was a chill in the air, but Shawn enjoyed the cold, as long as it wasn’t too extreme.

Alora was looking up toward the sky once more, like she had been when he first entered the top of the astronomy tower. Since she couldn’t see herself, the sky was probably the best sight here, so it made sense. Taking another survey of his third year, they seemed to be fine with their exams. Walking closer, Alora hadn't noticed him yet. Gently, he grabbed the flask from her hand, a finger touching hers. It wasn’t much, but it was their first moment of physical touch since that night. Shawn did his best to ignore it. "Wow, you're trying to hog it all for yourself.” Shawn teased, taking a quick sip. It was good and still very hot. Remaining hot wasn’t hard with magic or just good old muggle insulation. “It’s good; my only suggestion is that next time, maybe not in flasks. If they weren’t too busy with their exams to notice us, they might assume we had alcohol in this.”

“Soo…” Shawn trailed off for a moment; he needed to keep an eye on his class, but they seemed to be fine still. "Are any of your students trying to cheat yet?” Shawn asked almost jokingly, as he didn’t expect any first-year students to try and be that crafty. Shawn moved toward the opposite corner from Alora on the professor’s desk. His free hand was on the edge.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

When Shawn’s fingers brushed against hers, the electricity that sparked there pulled her away from the stars, and back down to earth. Her lips parted just slightly in surprise as her eyes landed on him instead now. ”I was waiting for you to come get some. I tried catching your attention but I couldn’t shout at you and distract everyone. We have to be quiet..” her cheeks flushed again at the double entendre even if she didn’t comment on it and she glanced around to make sure none of the students were eyeballing their low exchange. Didn’t stop the demure smile spreading on her face. She let him take the hot chocolate though, and smiled when he complimented it. Even more quietly she added ”You think it’s a good idea to start drinking right now?” then she realised what she said and how it linked back to the last time they had spent time together ”I mean, not while we’re supervising students, probably not a good idea” she added in a rush. Lest he get the wrong idea. Her cheeks flared even darker. Every part of every conversation with him seemed like danger territory regardless of the subject. The undercurrent was always there. Fuck, maybe they would have to be adults and talk it out.

They passed the thermos flask back and forth between them a few more times. Every time Alora carefully taking it from him so she didn’t touch him again, that way she wouldn’t let her mind spiral out to all sorts of things. Admittedly when he moved to sit on the opposite corner she had been disappointed. It was ridiculous, but some part of her wanted him to sit closer; maybe even huddled together under the guise of trying to stay warm. It wasn’t like she could ask him to come back either. The whole idea was laughable, and yet she still couldn’t ignore the longing in her gut.

Instead she focused on what he had been saying to him ”No, they’re too innocent really. None have bothered” her tone was low, she was sure none of them could hear her, but she was careful anyway ”Don’t tell Spillane but I helped a few. Nothing major, but they’ll see more if their telescopes are pointing at the sky and not the surface of the Black Lake” a sheepish smile crossed her features as she glanced in his direction again. She gingerly reached for the flask again, this time their fingers brushed again. It caused her eyes to snap down and look at them. She didn’t snatch her hand back straight away like she had last time. It would only take a twitch to hook her pinky around his. The thought alone was absurd. What good would that do, other than throw the teeniest bit of water on the fire in her belly. If even. Honestly it would probably just add fuel to it and push them into more dangerous territory again. Instead she cleared her throat and made herself look away from him, taking her hand with the flask. She felt like a fifth year all over again. She’d never had experience with the male species in school, but she imagined this was probably what it was like to be a love sick teenager. However, being mature enough to recognise the idiocy of it only infuriated Alora. She was an adult, not some lovesick teenage girl. And yet she was doing any little thing to make herself feel better in his company. Holding on to any little thing to do with him. Amelia Astor would be spinning in her grave from the same of her Granddaughter going so heart-eyed over any man, never mind a Muggleborn. Not that Alora cared about blood status of course, but she definitely felt ridiculous that he could make her melt so badly with just one little peek of a smile. She had sworn that after Sam she’d never go doe-eyed over a member of the male species again, and here she was, falling even worse. Even if she would never admit it to herself, because that would be true lunacy.

Searching the nooks and crannies of her her brain for just about anything to fill the silence, she settled on something else to talk about, something she had actually wondered about ”I had been wondering Shawny…” she began even more quietly now, she didn’t need to draw the attention of any of the students to the fact they were sitting fairly cozy on the teachers desk. Even cozier when she shifted her weight to face him, turning away from the students who at that minute could be doing god knows what.

”What made a brat like you want to come back to be a teacher?” a smirk played on her lips. Her tone playful ”I hope you don’t mind me saying, you just don’t seem the type really. From what you were telling me, you weren’t a rule follower or anything. Just seems weird I guess…” a half frown of confusion crossed her face, her cheeks flushed again, but now for a different reason. She was anxious he’d be offended by her words, even if she didn’t mean anything horrible about it. It was just genuine curiosity. She didn’t think he was the teacher type at all, but then she wasn’t sure where else she could see him working otherwise. ”Though you are obviously good at Transfiguration, so maybe it’s like me with Herbology, it just comes easy….” her eyes danced over him, looking everywhere but his face


shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

Shawn did his best to ignore the sensation he felt from just the briefness of their fingers touching. It was barely even a touch, and something he shouldn’t have even have thought twice about. That was if he wasn’t trying to ignore the pounding in his chest. Alora claimed she was indeed waiting for him so she could share the drink. Even saying she had tried to get his attention but wasn’t allowed to actually shout in such a situation. After all, they were watching over students taking an exam. “Please, you don’t need to shout to get my attention.” Shawn spoke absentmindedly. Trying to ignore the pounding of his heart and the small twist in his stomach didn’t leave much room to keep watch over his mouth. "You can wave or something like that." Nice save, Shawn, idiot. He thought to himself after Shawn had tried to save himself from the previous comment. His face down another few shades of red; thankfully, he could look away for a moment toward the students.

She asked if he thought it was a good idea to start drinking now. After his comment on what the students might have assumed they were drinking, He offered up a stifled laugh, as he didn’t want to risk distracting either class during their exams. “No, what kind of professors would we be then? Besides, totally cool.” Shawn joked, choosing to ignore the part about when they had drank together that had played on repeat in his mind. It would be nice to at the very least just talk to Alora rather than her avoid him. “Maybe some other time when we don’t have to run exams for someone else.”

They passed the hot chocolate back and forth; it did help him stay warm. Even if he didn’t mind the cold, he could still feel it. It was nice that Alora thought to bring this. Whether she had planned to share with whoever her partner for this was or not, he couldn’t be sure. Still, Shawn figured she would have shared no matter what. She was just the kind of person he felt. Which was further added to as she claimed to have helped a few students even when she wasn’t supposed to. Moving their telescopes from the lake back toward the actual sky. Shawn faked a momentary gasp, his hand moving toward his chest for dramatic effect. “Are you asking me not to tell the astronomy professor that you went against their rules for their own class? Ms. Astor, what kind of professor do you take me  for?" The act didn’t hold as, half way through, Shawn was already smirking slightly, "Of course I wouldn’t say anything.”

He did shake his head momentarily. “I will say they might have been looking toward the lake for a reason, though. Back when I was a student, we loved to tell the first years that the Merpeople did their version of skinny dipping at night coming on land.” Shawn laughed once more, still trying to stifle it but failing just a little. He could notice a few heads looking up from their telescopes and papers, but they quickly went back to work. “First years were the only ones who would fall for it; by the second year, most knew they looked more like fish than humans. There's not much to see. Oh, and they never came onto land; that was also a big part of it.”

As Alora took her flask back once more, their fingers brushed against each other. She continued to act like it was nothing from what Shawn could tell, but she also looked away from him. It really was nothing; he was making more of it than anyone really would have. Just with the months of avoidance and the thoughts he had tried to keep buried anything brought them back to the surface. Their silence was broken by Alora as she explained that she had been wondering about something. There was a pause, and his stomach didn’t handle it very well. What was she actually going to ask about? Eventually, he was relieved, and his body could finally relax. She was curious as to why he was a professor, even calling him a brat. Still, she had a point; he didn’t expect to be a professor growing up.

“Brat? Wow, I went from being too cool to a brat in a matter of months. How the times have changed.” Shawn attempted to sound disheartened, but truthfully, he was just joking. “I fell into it mostly. I had spent a number of years just roaming around the world. After school, I wanted to see just about everything.” Those had been some interesting times for him, as he took the briefest moments to reflect. “It wasn’t glamorous by any means. I spent most nights in an old, magical tent. I did odd jobs when I needed money and traveled by foot or broom. Unless I really had a large distance to travel, then I apperated.” Shawn always felt he had to make sure he explained it in detail. It really was like he was just a vagabond. It wasn’t some great world trip with hotel rooms and great meals. Shawn barely got by most days, but that was part of the adventure for him. He grew up just getting by outside of school. Shawn had the practice for it.

“When I eventually came back, I didn’t have much; I was sleeping on my best friend's couch. That was until his wife got sick of it. I needed a real job, and like you said, transformation came naturally. So here I am and they haven't gotten rid of me yet.” There was a whole other element to his becoming a professor. When he started, the purifiers were still a thing, terrorizing the school and even killing students. Shawn hated seeing such things happen in a place he loved so much. Yes, he needed a full-time adult job, but he also felt he had applied to help Hogwarts anyway he could. “How about you? You just love the joys of sharing the shrieks of mandrakes with children so much you just had to start teaching?”

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

“Please, you don’t need to shout to get my attention.”

That made her falter just a little. It squeezed her heart just a little tighter. Shawn was entirely unaware that her heart was thumping just as hard. Her chest was tight with anxiety every time she looked at him and tried to give herself firm reminders to stop being such an idiot. It was maddening, and yet, it wrapped her in a weirdly comforting warmth that was altogether foreign to her but she wasn't mad about it. She didn't notice his cheeks flush, she was busying herself by glancing at her own group of students. It was probably for the best, that would have sent him over the edge. She gave him a sideward glance and an almost shy smile. She still wanted to curl closer to him, and blame it on the cold of course, but she was acutely aware there was still students nearby for the next half hour or so. Some had already left but there was still a good number. And besides, there was still the professional line that she definitely shouldn't cross no matter how much she wanted to. "Maybe another time yeah.." she half mumbled, just loud enough for him to hear. Was it a good idea? Probably not, and yet it sounded pretty good right now.

Her eyes widened when he gasped and repeated what she had done. "Sssh!" her head whipped around making sure none of the students had heard. Her tone dropped even quieter now "Don't rat me out where they can hear Shawny. No they were definitely thinking they wee looking at the sky, I heard them ask the person next to them where the stars had gone." that in itself was cheating, but Alora was too soft to call them out on it. "Everyone needs help now and then.." but then she trailed off, her face crumpling in confusion at his talk of the Mermish coming on land to skinny dip. Her mouth fell open at the ridiculousness of the idea and she couldn't help but let a quiet giggle escape. "That's so stupid, and yet I still laugh" Her cheeks reddened slightly and she had to bite on her lip to stifle more laughs when Students shot around to see what their two supervisors were at. Maybe someone more mature and Professional should have been asked. When she had seen Shawn cross the threshold to the tower her stomach had dropped at the unease, but this end of the evening she was glad. It was just like old times, if a little bit bawdier. And as self conscious as she had always been, as much as she had denied herself that in the past; something inside her had snapped and told her to just go with it with Shawn.

Taking a breath she rolled her eyes in his direction and tried to glare at him, except she was still smiling. And that counted for something.

They slipped into a silence for a moment before Shawn gave an answer, almost like he was thinking on it. Her lips twitched as he defended himself as a brat, Alora would still fight him on it. "I never said it was a bad thing to be.." She got her remark in quietly, just as he was taking a breath to tell the rest of his tale. He was a brat, even if it was an overgrown brat. Even then, there was something she found alluring about it. Something she didn't see enough in herself, that was probably why she was drawn to it. though she went quiet as he recounted his history. Here and there she nodded quietly, letting him tell his story without interruption. There was something captivating about it, so far removed from her own life, and yet she could see it; she could imagine him in the tent, bumbling around from here to there. Though then the whys of his doings struck her and it sent a shiver down her spine. She didn't say anything, but it made her hurt for him. Even if he did frame it as some great adventure; she knew it was likely just to get away from his parents. She forced out a small laugh anyway, to try to lighten the mood. "Shawn the couch crawler, cute"

Though the liveliness died a little as he turned the question back on her. With a slight frown she looked down and thought about it for a second, before eventually meeting his gaze with an almost sheepish smile on her face. "Do you want the short version, or do you want the long version that might win me tonight's round of the 'who has the worst life competition'?" Either wasn't great. Really she didn't like telling anyone the whole story, AMY ESMA ASTOR-SHAW didn't even know the full extent of it. But still, talking about things like this with Shawn came easier. It almost made it comfortable, or as comfortable as one could be up on top of the Astronomy tower at 11.30pm on a cold October night. He had volunteered his sad past, and she had told him some of hers, but now she supposed she should tell him what had brought her to Hogwarts, why it had become the anchor in her life. ”I’ll tell you the full story if you want. You’ve opened up and told me stuff, I suppose it’s only fair. But I’ll warn you it’s not something that’s exactly a happy memory for me, so if you see me deflating a little, don't be surprised.” she spoke at a tone almost imperceptible to a human set of ears. This was definitely not something she wanted the students to hear. When she finally met his gaze again, her smile was still there, but it had changed now; understanding, but sad. She watched him, waiting for his response on whether she was going to well and truly let him in.


shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

Alora attempted to hush him up as he repeated what she had done to help a few of the students on her side of the room. He highly doubted any of them heard him, if they had there wasn’t much reason to rat out a professor who had helped them out. “It’s fine, I’m sure you might have just become one of their favorite professors if they knew you helped them,” Shawn suggested and he hadn’t seen a problem with helping out a struggling student when they truly needed the help. Shawn had a lot of stories of him messing with first years like that. Ever since he had been tricked as a first year with some ridiculous story. It felt only right to keep the tradition alive with each new first-year class. Alora let him know the idea was stupid but she still laughed, “That’s what my specialty is. Doing stupid things just for people to laugh.” Something others might have found shameful but Shawn was proud of such a feat. “Sold a few private pool passes in my student life to unsuspecting first years. It’s somewhere in the dungeons I believe I told them.”

“Oh yes, I can’t remember all the times I was complimentary called a brat.” Shawn teased at Alora’s reply. It was nice to be having a friendly conversation with her again. He missed it, he missed her also during all this awkward mess. As much as he was physically an adult this situation felt like something out of a student drama. It’s always said that grown-ups would talk about their issues. Really, all grown-ups are,are just big children at times. Avoiding a situation just because it felt awkward. “At least someone found it cute, maybe I’ll crash on your couch and we’ll see how long it takes for you to get sick of me too.” Shawn teased, their friendly conversation leaving him absent-minded to just what he had said. He tried to backtrack quickly. I mean… it only took his wife a few weeks for it to get old. I don’t blame her. Once again, good job Shawn. He thought to himself.

Talking with Alora was so easy, it had been before as well. It was just now he had to watch for any comments that could be taken another way. Something he wasn’t so much on his toes with before. He could frame some comment as just a joke or he hadn’t meant to sound a particular way. Now he could do the same but with the awkwardness that was still in the air, the words had more weight to them. The memories of that night didn’t help nor did the racing of his heart when the conversations turned to such a moment or their briefest of touches.

As he turned the question back to Alora on why they were a professor, she offered up an option for a short or long version. Even giving him a warning on the long version. Explaining since she had opened up to him she was willing to do the same. “I’m fine with whichever version you’re comfortable with telling me. I do want to add I can be very competitive, you won’t win the worst of anything competition that easily.” He smiled back at Alora before continuing to speak. “I have no plans after this so I’m here for the long version if that’s the case. Can’t promise I won’t try to hug you again if it gets too rough for you.” Shawn attempted to sound comforting, ignoring any awkwardness about offering to hug her. This was more about being there for someone than anything else. They did still have a few students finishing up their exams but that number was dwindling as the night went on. All that would left after this was collecting exams and cleaning up.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

Playfully she held a finger up to her lips and let her eyes flare in his direction again "I know but I'm not being called out for favouritism of the stupid" After her finger fell away, her smile was wicked, glancing between him and her group of students. There was only a few left now. She'd glanced at some of the leftover sheets after the test had started and they didn't seem the most difficult coordinates to plot. Maybe she should have helped them more. The ones that were left seemed stressed, but perhaps they were beyond help at this point. Glancing over her shoulder to see if Shawn had many left at this stage, causing her hair to move and fall at a different angle. No he only had about three left. This was only midterms, and the third years cared less than the first years. It was unsurprising, but nice in a way. There'd be less to have to clear out at the end, it would make it a little easier on them. Catching the end of what Shawn was saying, she pouted just slightly. Someone had definitely tried to sell her one of those before, but she had been sure her Grandmother would never allow it, so she hadn't availed. This was before she had started to rebel over the control Amelia had over her, of course. If she had been proffered a ticket in her later years she would have gladly taken it. One corner of her mouth pulled up at the thought of it. She liked the way Shawn did things to make others laugh and smile. It certainly had worked with her anyway.

A playful glare was shot his way as he refuted his title of Brat. Maybe the idea of him being a couch crawler wasn't so much cute then, but still the idea of his bigger frame shoved up on any of the smaller chairs in her living room made her laugh quietly. "Hmmm, I suppose it could get tiresome. Especially if they only had one couch. Though I'm not sure you'd fit on mine, not in my flat down in Hogsmeade anyway. It's meant to be a pull out but I don't think I'd trust it. The living room is pretty small it doesn't really have room to pull out.."" her ponderings reminded her somewhat of the kind she uttered when she was drunk; one babbling thought just running on from another. "Also, I have some plants that sort of hang down from the shelf above, they don't bother me but they'd probably drape over your head" another low rumble of a laugh at the thought it escaped her.

Her eyes locked with his for a moment, and that grip on her heart just tightened some more. Merlin that easy smile did things to her.

As Shawn countered with how competitive he was, she rolled her eyes, half frowning "No Shawny, this is something out of a soap opera, promise" As a pair of third years crossed behind them towards the tower door, they sniggered and repeated 'Shawny' under their breath. With that her cheeks began to flame and her mouth clamped up. Great. That wasn't something her self confidence needed. She didn't have enough reserves for this. Now she had to watch herself around students she didn't give a shit about because they'd overheard her. The ease that she sat with only a few moments ago, the ease Shawn brought out in her, had retreated right back in and now she was quite clearly too hesitant to speak up here. Even more so if he had promised mentioned the possibility of a hug. As inviting as that sounded, she had turned back in on herself somewhat.

The redness in her cheeks had semi-subsided by the time she met his eye and clamped her mouth shut again. After a minute of struggling to find the words, a war waged in her head. She wanted to tell him, but now she thought about it what would he think of her? Another minute passed and Shawn didn't rush her; despite the chewing her bottom lip to pieces, and obvious heavy deliberation. Part of her still felt she owed it to him, some weird balance of things. She might not be able to make up for running out on him in February but he had given her his back story once upon a time, he deserved hers in return. The alarm on the watch on her wrist buzzed, her reminder that there wasn't long left. It pulled her away from Shawn and her decisions. Pushing herself up to stand she called between the few remaining students on either side of the ramparts. "This is your ten minute warning, you have TEN MINUTES left before I'll be collecting up your papers.."

This time though, she settled herself a little closer to Shawn. Emboldened by the want to level the playing field. "Have you eaten? I haven't. How about this, we get take out from the kitchens and go back to my flat in Hogsmeade and I tell you my woeful tale there? The walls have ears up here." the frown as she dipped her head away from him was softer now, as if worried he'd rejected her offer. "I'll behave. Two glasses of wine max..." she added on as if that should sweeten the deal. "I just....don't feel comfortable up here anymore..." eventually she looked back to him, her unease obvious. Those students were only the catalyst to pull her back down to earth from her little bubble with Shawn, but they were enough. "Let's go warm up instead"

shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

A quiet laugh escaped Shawn as she talked about favoritism for the stupid. “Well there goes my chance at being the favorite then I suppose.” Shawn teased for a moment, slowly growing more confident as they spoke like they had before that night. He didn’t want to forget it, which would be hard with how much the moments were relived in his mind. Still, he could hope they could at least go back to be friends. Even if he wanted more. He’d accept whatever he could get. Anything was better than awkwardness and avoidance. Shawn still wondered why she had snuck out and started avoiding him but at least with how they could speak now, it seemed she didn’t hate him.

Alora went on to explain her flat and how he wouldn't even fit there. Between the couch that couldn’t really pull out and the hanging plants, he would hit his head on. “You forget I don’t take up that much room when I need to. Curl up on one end of the couch and you might not even notice I’m there.” Shawn joked and let out a small laugh. Still, he would probably be noticeable as he would hear there as a dog. He did become one of the large breeds of dogs as an animagi. Learning animagi was a big deal for Shawn. Another form of escape he figured when he looked back. Yet at the moment it just seemed like something amazing. It took plenty of time and training but now he mostly used it for laughs. Probably why so many people choose to focus on more useful types of magic. There weren’t too many Animagi’s around and even then they made you register with the ministry. “Besides all the dog hair.”

She claimed that her drama was something right out of a soap opera. If that was the case she might just beat him in some regards. Their conversations were turning rather deep when some of his third-year students walked behind them and finished their exams. They muttered under their breath about Alora’s pet name for him. Something he hadn’t thought much about and hardly noticed anymore. Yet, it seemed to snap Alora back into the reality of where they were. The awkward air between them returned as Alora got quiet. Shawn avoided saying anything, and he didn’t want to make the matter worse. He didn’t mind the name, if anything he enjoyed it but she might be changing her mind about it. The silence was broken as the alarm from her wristwatch went off. Alora stood up properly and announced they only had ten minutes left for the students to finish. The alarm was a smart idea. She would be the one with smart ideas, Shawn on the other hand had hardly been watching the time. They might have gotten an extra ten to twenty minutes if he was the one running all this. Granted, the company he was with certainly helped him not care about how much time went by. There weren’t enough people that warranted him repeating it for his class. Shawn was sure they heard.

Returning back to the desk, Alora was closer to him than before. In any other case, he probably wouldn’t have noticed. This was different though. Any amount of closeness to this woman sent his heart racing a few more beats. Asking if he had eaten she had offered they could get some food and go back to her place. The realization that students were listening had been enough to cause her some concern. Which was understandable. His mind raced as she mentioned going back to her place. Granted, they were going there to discuss the drama in their lives. Still, he couldn’t help the thoughts of Alora and her her place. It didn’t help when she brought up limiting herself on her wine to just two glasses, stating she would behave. Continuing to remind himself of that night. “Sounds like a plan to me, I can finally see how you live and confirm that I’m still the messy one here. I can also see this couch and judge the room for myself.” Shawn joked trying to lighten the mood, he could tell the student's comments still made her uneasy. “You don’t need to limit yourself on my account,” Shawn said almost muttering it, unsure if he should be pushing that topic but couldn’t help the words that escaped him.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

"Your chance to be favourite is never gone don't worry.." Her smile grew slightly wistful as she looked out at the lake. He was never not her favourite to be honest. Even if it was a very small pool of people to pick from. AMY ESMA ASTOR-SHAW was her favourite in a different way, but she'd forgotten how at ease Shawn made her feel. This is what she needed. Even if her chest had tightened some more at third year mimicking her. The last thing she needed was rumours to start flying, and yet, as she looked at Shawn she realised maybe she didn't care all that much anymore. She looked back to him finally now as he reminded her again of his Animagi powers, making her jealous. She laughed just slightly, and tipped her head back to glance up at him. "I forget you doggie powers sometimes. I couldn't deal with dogs hairs around my flat though, you better not shed. You might fit a bit better all curled up but I'll have to put a blanket down over the couch maybe to deal with the hairs..." Pursing her lips together she playfully pondered, deciding to go along with his joke. Though she was still speaking in a low tone, still conscious of the remaining students. At least it wasn't long until they'd be cleared out.

Sitting a little closer to him, she felt a bit better about...well everything. Her chest slightly slacker now, definitely better.

Her offer was quiet, definitely an undertone so no other nosey students heard. Even that was, if she wasn't entirely sure what she was offering; dinner and company for the most part. But mostly, she just didn't want the night to end. Keeping Shawn around was the goal, even if she wasn't sure where that would lead. Now the time was counting down to not only the end of the exam, but to being alone with Shawn again. At just the thought of it, her cheeks flared again and she took a breath in, trying to steady herself.

“You don’t need to limit yourself on my account,”

Looking to him now she pointedly narrowed her eyes, and pursed her lips. Though it was a look she was only able to hold for a few seconds before she gave another low rumble of a giggle. Her tone dropped again as she looked away from him, pretending to survey what students were left "Shawn Ashcroft, are you trying to get me drunk?" Her gaze flitted back to his and held it for just a beat before rolling her eyes and glancing away, pretending to do some actual work. "I think it's better if I behave. Lets just have one night where I can stand by the end of it okay?" The last of the students started to drift away down the stairs now. With approximately three minutes left, Alora looked around and realised they actually were now alone. Dangerous. Biting down on her bottom lip she stood and attempted to busy herself, turning her back to Shawn purposely to hide her now bright red cheeks. With a flick of her wand, the remaining papers flew off the work stations either side of them and sorted themselves into two waiting envelopes. Each student had tidied away their own workstation and taken their telescopes with them. By the time she turned back to Shawn she had taken a few steps away to intentionally put some distance between them; she needed to force some modicum of self control.

"We can drop these to Prof Spillane on the way to the kitchens, then Floo to the village? My flats above Madam Puddifoots..." She eyed him, floating the idea as she wondered if this was all a mad idea to even entertain. Really she shouldn't be getting into this again but as the thought crossed her mind of shutting him down now, another pang hit her in the chest telling her that she didn't want the night to end. Her brow furrowed for a moment as she eyed his robes "Do you want to go change into comfier clothes or something-" she cut herself off and her mouth hung open "I don't know that sounds weird but those work robes just don't scream 'curling up on the couch', and like I'm probably going to put leggings and my slippers on when I get in if that makes sense....I don't know..." she trailed off awkwardly. They were in a weird place. Getting cosy like this on a Friday night with a takeaway was something that couples did. The idea that she even considered his comfort like that had been a bit weird, but now it hung out there in the air and she just stood there feeling a little odd now.

shawn lesley ashcroft

[shawn lesley ashcroft]

As Alora claimed his chance to be her favorite remained, Shawn only tried to smile. Sadly he could also feel the redness of his cheeks as he blushed. Thankfully she hadn’t been looking at him for that moment so he figured he was safe. They were in a weird spot and he wasn’t exactly sure where anything was going but he was here for it, wherever it went. As long as it was good and he kept a friend at the very least. Even if his mind and body had lingering hopes for more than that. He could ignore those feelings the best he could, not letting them get in the way of a friendship if that’s just what she wanted. “I promise to shed as little as possible, or I’ll just stay a human for the night. I’ll save my dog activities for outside.” Shawn teased finally looking back to Alora as she looked him. He had previously been surveying what was left of the students testing. There weren’t many thankfully.

Shawn couldn’t help but laugh as Alora looked back at him like she was almost staring him down. Shawn was good enough at reading people to tell her narrowed eye gaze was in good humor. She giggled cutely shortly after a few second before looking away. Asking if he was trying to get her drunk. “No, but it would be very out of character if I tried to hold someone back from having fun. What would everyone think if I willing accepted being ‘responsible’ for a change.” Shawn jested for a moment, he was responsible when he needed to be but that was when it was actually required. “I suppose a night without a mild hangover in the morning would be fun too.” He replied in agreement to her explaining why she wanted to limit her drinks. Obviously avoiding what else had happened that night, something we was doing equally as much. Noticing they were finally alone the last student left without them even noticing. It certainly changed the air, Alora quickly with her wand gathered up both classes papers and put the into separated piles. “Showing off?” Shawn jokingly said before laughing, “thanks.”

She explained the plan asking if it was good with him. “Sounds like a plan to me.” They needed to drop these off anyway but thankfully the students had picked up after themselves. Saved both of them any effort on cleaning the class room. A nice change of pace, his students always left a mess. Something which probably told the differences between him and astrology professor. He was fine with the mess as long as the classes remained fun. Alora eyes him up and down for a second before asking if he wanted to change out his robes. She quickly realized what she was saying and attempted to explain what she meant. “Ms. Astor? Are you asking me to slip into something more comfortable? In a class room?” Shawn joking gasped louder as there were no students around to ease-drop on them. “Well I never.” He added before finally giving up the act and laughing. “I have regular clothes on under this, I just put the robes on to cover them.” Shawn explained, Shawn couldn’t be bothered to dress fully professional for someone else’s exams. He pulled the robes over him, without much care that it appeared he was getting undressed. Once they were off Shawn fixed the clothes underneath as his shirt had tried to follow the robes. “See, magic. I went from a professional professor to some random muggle.” He joked, now in his everyday clothes of choice.

Alora Veda Astor

[Alora Veda Astor]

Alora gave a quiet snort "To be honest my couch still might be pretty small for a German Shepard, so that's probably good.." continuing to tease him, she stayed where she was just a few steps out of reach and watched him a little more closely. The more he explained himself, the more she started to relax "I suppose it wouldn't be like you, no, that's true. I wouldn't like that very much actually. But we could have a drink free night altogether if you wanted, I don't mind" She seemed to have this habit when she was around him of foregoing her filter and just sort of letting her words fly. It might trip her up later, but for now it was actually quite freeing. They floated by her without having to stop and snatch them back, to analyse them before she let them go again.

"No" she countered, still continuing the honesty "Sometimes you'll notice my practical magic isn't actually very good. I guess it's why I was such a nerd in school. I worked hard on the theoretical side, and sure charms I use often are fine, but spells I don't know or haven't used in a while, well I'm not very good at them. I'm just lazy sometimes so keep some handy ones sharp" her cheeks flushed as she surprised herself with the truth. Another thing a lot of people never realised about her. Another thing she hid away.

She had started to walk towards the door of the tower to make the descent to Professor Spillane's office, and let her mind wander to what sort of food she'd ask the house elves for when Shawn countered again. He was joking. Right? Though se did have to admit, now they were alone she was a lot less self conscious if they were going to openly flirt. Turning on the spot she decided to face him again and stare him down. Two could play at that game. Even if he cheeks were starting to glow. She hoped the cloud that was conveniently covering the moon now had shrouded them in just enough darkness that Shawn might not notice. Eyes narrowed again, this time slightly more obviously playful, she pouted her red painted lip together. Apparently she didn't need to be drunk to feel brave enough to be just a little flirty "I meant we could stop at your office if you needed to. From here it is on the way to the Kitchens, but I mean we are alone. You wouldn't be scarring any students I suppose, and it's nothing I've not seen before..." raising an eyebrow she turned around towards the stairs again as he started to pull the robes off over his head, a small smirk tugging at her lips. Though she did glance over her shoulder just to peek as he settled his shirt back down over his abdomen. "Perfect, I mean except for the fact your tail's hanging out." another quiet laugh she waited for him to follow her towards the stairs before she randomly asked.

"What food are you gonna get from the house elves? What's your favourite food Shawny?" her eyebrow raised out of curiosity now, genuinely interested in the answer. He seemed like a steak and chips sort of guy, but he could surprise her all the same. Plus, it felt like a safer territory for now.

shawn lesley ashcroft