Prosapia Aenigmatis - The Family Riddle

"Quinn," Aislinn said nervously as she approached her best friend. "I need to talk to you for a minute." The girls walked to the corner of the large unused classroom. The room was full of blue and green decorations. Marianne and Malcolm Baddock, Nathanial's little brother, had decorated it with the colors of the two birthday girls' houses. They had done an excellent job, but Marianne had always been wonderful at Charms so it was really no surprise to Aislinn. Everyone seemed to be getting along fairly well for now, but Aislinn was secretly dreading the time when Draco showed up and saw Terry Boot. Nathanial and Marcus had put up a Silencing Charm around the room the week before and the two boys had spent the better part of the morning setting up the wards, blocking anyone uninvited from entering the room, teachers included. Aislinn and Quinn made their way to the far corner of the room and Aislinn took a deep breath. How would she tell Quinn about Christmas Holiday?

Quinn eyed Aislinn suspiciously and Aislinn began to get even more nervous. "Quinn, I found out last night that . . . Well, it seems that my family has been invited to spend the holiday at Malfoy Manor." Aislinn looked down at the ground quickly, not wanting to see Quinn's expression.

Quinn was floored. She had been looking forward to spending time alone with Aislinn during the holidays. They had never been apart for Christmas as far as Quinn could remember. Not to mention Quinn had absolutely no desire to join her parents in France. She looked up at Aislinn's expression. Aislinn was obviously feeling guilty but genuine excitement was creeping onto her face. Quinn realized that complaining about the situation would only make Aislinn feel worse and wouldn't help Quinn in the least.

"That's great Aislinn," Quinn said, hugging her best friend.

Aislinn narrowed her eyes at Quinn, she couldn't tell if Quinn was being honest or just didn't want to make her feel bad. "Do you really mean it Quinn? I mean, what are you going to do? Will you go with your parents?" Aislinn knew that Quinn would rather snog Terry Boot for a week than go with her parents to France; Aislinn began to feel really bad for her friend.

"Quinn, I could ask my parents not to go, they would understand." Aislinn desperately hoped Quinn would refuse Aislinn's attempt to make her feel better; she wanted to be with Draco terribly. Then Aislinn got an idea.

"Why don't you come with us, I am sure the Malfoy's won't mind, and they are bound to have plenty of room."

Quinn gave Aislinn her most revolted look. "I'm not sure how many people would survive that holiday. Certainly Draco wouldn't be one of them. I'll be fine Aislinn. No holiday can be worse than the prospect of two weeks with that arrogant gi-" Quinn realized suddenly that she was speaking aloud and stopped. "erm...I mean, I'm sure you'll have fun. I don't want to intrude."

Aislinn decided to ignore her friend's comments about Draco. "I'm glad you aren't mad Quinn. Come on, let's go and enjoy our party." The two girls turned to head back to the middle of the room.

"Do you think Ginny will bring Fred?" Quinn asked anxiously, resisting the urge to chew her hair. Aislinn seemed to be lost in her own thoughts.

"If Draco does come, Pansy will swoop down on him the minute he arrives," Aislinn said. Quinn wasn't paying attention.

"I mean, Fred loves parties. He would probably come even if he wasn't invited, right?" Quinn asked, losing confidence by the minute.

"What?" Aislinn said with a dazed look.

"Huh?" Quinn replied, turning toward her best friend.

Aislinn felt her heart stop. Draco, Crabbe and Goyle entered the room. Aislinn wasn't sure if he would come. Aislinn grabbed Quinn's arm to steady herself. She sighed loudly and adopted a dreamy gaze. Aislinn could feel Quinn looking at her but she didn't care. Aislinn regained control of her legs and willed them to walk forward.

Draco looked around the room at the guests, who were standing in groups, talking loudly. "Should have known I would be the best looking person in the room," Draco commented to Goyle who nodded. Quinn rolled her eyes. Quinn turned to talk to her friend, but she realized that Aislinn was lost to her now that Draco was there. Quinn pulled Aislinn's hand off her arm and walked across the room to where Alyssa Davies was standing.

* * * * * *

Aislinn was brought out of her Draco induced stupor as Quinn pulled her hand away. She saw Quinn headed to Alyssa across the room and shrugged to herself. She didn't understand why Quinn disliked Draco so much. He was wonderful in Aislinn's eyes. She turned around to see Draco standing in front of her and she felt like she would fall to the ground. He looked spectacular. Aislinn noticed that he had somehow managed to get rid of his crew and they were standing there all alone. Well alone if you didn't count the 30 something others in the room. But to Aislinn, they were the only two in the room. Aislinn imagined that she had a goofy look on her face, so she composed herself and Draco began to speak.

"I just wanted to congratulate you on succeeding in living at the appropriate time so that you could share the earth with me." A huge smirk covered his face and Aislinn began to feel weak again. She stopped herself however because she was completely confused by what he had just said.

"Come again?" Aislinn couldn't understand what on earth he was talking about and Draco laughed at her expression.

"Happy Birthday, Aislinn." Draco smiled and touched her arm. Oh My God, he is touching me. Aislinn felt as if she would die right then and there. This had been by far the best birthday she had ever had, and the party had just started. Aislinn hoped that he would come, and he did. Not only did Draco come to her party, he was touching her. Her arm burned where his hand was and she tried to smile normally.

"Uh," Aislinn took a deep breath. "Thanks Draco, thanks for coming." Aislinn looked up into his eyes and she felt her heart turn to mush. She was rudely interrupted when Pansy came shrieking across the room.

"There you are my darling!" Pansy said, her voice dripping with sap. Draco rolled his eyes and let go of her arm. Aislinn wanted to ring Pansy's ugly neck. Pansy shot Aislinn a murderous look and whisked Draco off into the crowd.

* * * * * *

Halfway across the room Terry Boot stepped in front of Quinn, blocking her path to Alyssa. Quinn resisted the urge to run for it as he gave her the smirk.

"Ready for the fun to commence?" Terry said happily. Quinn sighed.

"Sure I am. I always have fun at these parties," Quinn answered, trying to signal Alyssa to come over and join the conversation. Alyssa was busy flirting with Kevin, a slightly nerdy fifth year who Quinn guessed must be very good at Ancient Runes. Perhaps Alyssa should have been in Slytherin. She certainly was ruthless in her efforts to receive top marks.

"Just remember to be nice to everyone. They might react strangely but they're just jealous of us," Terry said with a hollow laugh. Quinn gave him a blank look. What was he on about? She nodded and turned to make her escape.

Terry reached out and grabbed her hand, lacing it with his own. Quinn felt like a layer of slime had coated her entire arm. She pulled it away.

"Terry what are you doing?" Quinn asked furiously. She didn't want to make a scene at her own party but she would kill Terry if he tried to touch her again.

"Maybe you're right. We're too much of an imposing force when we're right next to one another. People won't like it," Terry said with a worried expression. "I'll be over there." Quinn had no idea what Terry was on about but she nodded at the idea of him leaving. Relieved, she joined Alyssa who had abandoned her flirting. Apparently it didn't take much work to get someone like Kevin agree to help her with Runes.

"Having fun?" Alyssa asked with a smirk.

"Oh my god, between Aislinn drooling over uh..." Quinn shut herself up a minute too late and decided she had to change the subject. "Well Terry is being very strange today, I don't know what he is talking about. For once the topic isn't his hair." Alyssa shot her a very strange look.

"Quinn, he is-" Quinn gasped, not giving Alyssa the chance to finish her thought. Ginny had just walked in with - Quinn's heart plummeted into her shoes - Colin Creevey. Quinn tried not to frown too much.

"Uh oh," Alyssa said, breaking Quinn from her thoughts. Quinn looked at the other corner of the room where everyone was stone still. Draco Malfoy was giving Colin the most evil glare Quinn had ever seen.

* * * * *

Aislinn watched Pansy and Draco move across the room to meet Crabbe and Goyle, and she suddenly felt empty. Aislinn looked around the room and saw Quinn talking to Alyssa Davies. All of a sudden, a hush fell over the room. Aislinn glanced at the door. Oh No, she could not believe what she was seeing. Ginny Weasley stood in the door way with a very nervous looking Colin Creevey. Why on earth was Colin Creevey at her birthday party? Another thought passed through her mind. Draco! Aislinn whirled around to see him walking swiftly across the room. Draco looked even more furious then he had after the Quidditch match. This was not going to be pretty. Aislinn quickly followed him to the door. This was her party after all, and she would not have any fighting. Draco, or anyone else.

"Well, well. If it isn't little Weasley and her," Draco sneered dangerously, "photographer. If I were you Mudblood, I would leave now. Unless you are up for a little duel?" Draco's eyes flashed and Colin cowered under his stare. Aislinn was about to say something when she heard a familiar voice.

* * * * *

"Malfoy if you can't leave my friends alone I suggest that you leave. I invited Ginny and Colin and if you want to duel someone, it'll have to be me," Quinn said, feeling anger well up inside her. She was angry with Draco for being arrogant and obnoxious to everyone but even more than that was how Draco had changed her best friend. Quinn had held back lots of words about him for Aislinn's benefit but it all boiled over at this point. Quinn began to reach for wand, staring angrily into Draco's surprised eyes.

"Hey Malfoy get away from my girl!" Terry Boot yelled suddenly, crossing the room in a few strides. Quinn's jaw dropped wide open and her anger faded away. She stared at Terry in disbelief. He took advantage of her state of shock and put his arm around her. Quinn surveyed the people around her, convinced that she was dreaming this horrible scenario. Ginny and Colin both looked shocked and Draco was smirking again. Aislinn was giving Quinn an absolutely appalled look but Quinn held her head high, refusing to be ashamed of her actions. Someone needed to set Draco in his place. Aislinn was definitely not going to be that person. "You okay babe?" Terry said now and, as if in slow motion, he leaned in to kiss her. Quinn twirled sharply, escaping his grasp and faced him with her wand out. Now that her temper had taken control, Quinn had no patience for this.

"Calvitio!" she shouted, pointing her wand at Terry's head. Blue sparks flashed around Terry's head and a second later, he was standing in a pile of golden locks. The room was deadly silent as Quinn lowered her wand. Terry's shaking hands traveled up to his head, feeling the bald white dome. He let out a mangled scream and Quinn felt a bit of remorse. She doubted anyone would ever try to kiss her again. Aislinn seemed to be trying not to laugh but Draco was regarding Quinn with defiance in his eyes.

"My beautiful hair!" Terry cried out in a high-pitched whine before running out of the door.

* * * * *

Aislinn watched her best friend in utter disbelief. Was Quinn really saying this to Draco? How could Quinn tell him to leave? Aislinn was crushed and beyond angry at the same time. Aislinn watched Terry Boot approaching and groaned inwardly, this could only get worse. Draco and Terry had always hated one another.

"Hey Malfoy get away from my girl!" Terry Boot yelled to Draco. His girl? Aislinn looked at Quinn who looked equally shocked at his outburst. Draco looked as if he wanted to blast Terry into a million pieces. Aislinn heard Terry mumble something to Quinn as he put his arm around her. Aislinn looked back to Draco and she could see that he was smirking at Terry's apparent advances toward a girl who wanted nothing to do with him. Aislinn had once again become lost in Draco's eyes as she heard a loud scream.

Aislinn turned her head and saw Quinn holding her wand out pointing at a very bald Terry Boot. Quinn looked quite pleased with herself and Draco looked livid. Aislinn imagined that Draco was quite put out at not having the pleasure of cursing Terry himself. Ginny and Colin were looking at Quinn with amazement. Quinn turned back to Draco and she seemed to be daring him to open his mouth.

"Wow Quinn, that was amazing. I bet Harry Potter himself couldn't have done a better job. And you know how talented he is! Why, I imagine that he must be the most talented wizard in all of Hogwarts," Colin Creevey said to Quinn. Aislinn wanted to leave right now. She new better then to ever mention Potter around Draco, and to say that Potter was the most talented in the school, well Colin might as well have kicked Draco in the crotch and told him he had an ugly mother. It just wasn't done.

Everyone fell silent again and stared at Colin. Colin looked horrified, apparently realizing what he had said and who he had said it in front of. Draco was trembling with anger and a low growl emitted from his throat. Colin's eyes grew wide and he moved behind Quinn, trying to hide from Draco's wrath. Quinn merely stood her ground and crossed her arms, an uncharacteristically evil smirk covering her usually happy face. Aislinn was shocked at Quinn's new found courage.

Draco didn't seem to care. He pulled out his wand and aimed it right at Quinn. Draco acted as if he would blast through Quinn to get to Colin. Aislinn panicked; she knew that Draco would do anything to get Creevey now. "Ardoris Imaginario." Just as the spell escaped Draco's lips, Aislinn stepped forward and grabbed Quinn, pulling her out of the way. Draco knew spells and curses that no one else did. Aislinn didn't want her best friend to be punished for Creevey's stupid mistake. Aislinn had gotten Quinn out of the way right in time as Colin dove to miss the blast. The spell bounced off the far wall and hit Crabbe.

Everyone watched quietly as the large boy began screaming wildly. Aislinn had heard of this spell. It makes the victim of it believe that they are on fire. Mind spells were definitely not taught at Hogwarts so Aislinn could only imagine where Draco had learned it. Crabbe then began yelping and running around the room, trying to put himself out. Colin slowly got to his feet, staring at Crabbe wide eyed. Colin's eyes met Draco's and Colin tore out of the room, not waiting to see what Draco now had in store for him.

Draco watched Colin leave and went over to Crabbe. "Finite Incantatum." Crabbe was now free of the imaginary flames and was breathing heavily. Aislinn had never seen him move so fast and she wasn't surprised that he was out of breath. Aislinn looked at Draco in shock. Had he really wanted to hurt Colin that badly? Draco still looked menacing and everyone backed away from him. Aislinn stood frozen staring at him; she had always thought he was magnificent when he was angry. She stopped herself in mid-thought. What was she thinking, he had just put mental torture on someone and she was thinking about his sex appeal? Aislinn thought that she needed serious help.

* * * * *

Quinn looked wide eyed at Draco, forgetting her own anger and her own pride. He looked cold and remorseless, fury seemed to radiate from him. This sight scared Quinn into backing away slowly. All around people were mumbling to each other, trying to get the gist of what had happened.

Aislinn was looking at Draco with unmistakable desire. Quinn stared at her best friend for a moment in shock. Draco had just been prepared to blast Quinn in order to get to Colin, and this didn't seem to concern Aislinn in the slightest. Quinn was starting to really wonder why Aislinn seemed to like these twisted and sadistic men. For the first time in her entire life, Quinn felt that she didn't understand her best friend at all. She removed her arm from Aislinn's and strode away; she couldn't handle the way Aislinn was looking at him.

Quinn walked over to the table lined with pumpkin juice and bit her lip. She wanted to turn over the table, she wanted to curse Draco Malfoy to bits. Quinn had never been this angry before. She was disgusted with Terry for trying to kiss her but that was the least of her worries at the moment.

Quinn couldn't believe how stupid Colin Creevey was and how cruel Draco had been. She had disliked him before but now Quinn was absolutely repulsed. She never wanted Draco to come near Aislinn again. Quinn realized now that Draco would, quite literally, be perfectly willing to hurt anyone who stood in his way. Quinn's own father had a temper just like Draco's. When she had looked up into Draco's satisfied smirk, Quinn was sharply reminded of home. All Quinn could think of now was not wanting to return there.

"Quinn?" a soft voice said in her ear. Quinn expected it to be Aislinn. She wanted to hug Aislinn and make her friend promise to stay away from Draco. Quinn turned and saw that it wasn't Aislinn but Ginny Weasley, looking very uncomfortable. "I'm really sorry Quinn. I didn't mean to..." Quinn put up her hand to silence Ginny's apology.

"Don't blame yourself for him Ginny." Quinn refused to look over at Draco but she could see that Aislinn was still standing near him. Quinn didn't look at her friend's face, instead she concentrated on Ginny.

"Well I was going to ask you . . . I'm not sure this is the right time but I was going to ask if you wanted to come home with me for the Christmas holidays." Ginny turned a light shade of pink as she continued. "Our house isn't very big, and most of my brothers will be home, but it's always fun. Mum loves having guests so she has an excuse to cook big dinners. I just thought you might enjoy it." Quinn stared open mouthed at Ginny who looked quite embarrassed now. Quinn wanted to hug Ginny; this was the perfect situation to her problems.

"Ginny that sounds fabulous. I can't wait!" Quinn said, grinning happily now. Quinn didn't even consider the possibility that Fred might be at the Weasleys for Christmas. All she thought of was two weeks in a family that was happy and fun and where nobody liked Draco Malfoy.

* * * *

Aislinn felt Quinn remove her arm and turned to see Quinn walking quickly away from her. She knew Quinn was angry, and Aislinn thought that she had every right to be so. Aislinn pulled herself away from Draco's side and walked slowly to Quinn. She had to talk to Quinn about Draco. Aislinn had no idea what had come over her lately and she needed someone to talk to about it. Aislinn had almost reached Quinn when Ginny Weasley walked over to her friend and the two began talking. Aislinn noticed Quinn's expression changed dramatically when she turned to face Ginny and Aislinn felt a pang in her heart. Quinn seemed extremely pleased to see Ginny. Aislinn felt as if she were losing her best friend. Quinn had been looking at her with disgust when she left and now she was talking and laughing at Ginny like they were old friends. I will not let that Gryffindor steal my best friend, Aislinn told herself and marched over to where the two girls were standing.

"Hi, am I interrupting?" Aislinn gave Quinn a pleading look and she noticed Ginny adopt a horrified expression.

"Don't worry Aislinn, I was just leaving. I, er, have to go and check on Colin." Ginny waved to Quinn and quickly left the room, taking the long path around Draco.

Aislinn looked back to Quinn who seemed to be quite angry with her. "Quinn, I am sorry. I don't know what is going on with me. I can't seem to think about anything but Draco. I know it sounds like an excuse, but I really think I . . ."

"I am going to the Burrow with Ginny for Christmas, so you will be able to have your precious Malfoy all to yourself and not have to worry with feeling guilty about me." Quinn had a disgusted sneer on her face after mentioning Draco. Aislinn wanted to cry. Quinn wasn't even listening to her.

"Why aren't you listening, Quinn? I am trying to explain to you and all you can talk about is Ginny. Well, I hope you have fun with her, and don't think I don't know why you are really going. You only want to be with Fred. Are you ever going to tell that girl that you are just using her to get to her brother?" Aislinn whirled around and stalked off. If Quinn was going to be that way, then so was she. Aislinn walked over to where her fellow Slytherins were sitting and plopped down on the couch next to Marcus.

"Are you all right Aislinn?" he asked with a voice full of concern. Aislinn had always liked Marcus. He had always been like an older brother to her. Aislinn leaned her head on Marcus' shoulder and looked across the room to her best friend. Quinn was still standing in the same position with a hurt look on her face, as if Aislinn had slapped her. Aislinn didn't know what to do. She turned her head and buried her face into Marcus' neck and she began to cry. This was most unlike her, Aislinn rarely cried and she certainly never did so in front of anyone with the exception of Quinn. She felt Marcus put his arm around her.

"It is ok Aislinn, let me take you back to the dorm. You should get some sleep." Marcus was really a nice guy, no matter what everyone thought of him. Aislinn nodded and stood up with him to leave. Marianne grabbed her hand and gave it a squeeze.

"You'll be all right. I will be in there soon if you want to talk about it." Marianne gave Aislinn a weak smile. Marcus put his arm around her again and led her out of the room. Aislinn didn't look at Quinn as they passed her, she couldn't bear to see the look on her friend's face. Aislinn didn't look at Draco either, she didn't want him to see her crying.

As they walked down the hall, Aislinn let everything spill out of her. She told Marcus everything, about Draco and about Quinn. Aislinn knew that she could trust Marcus and talking really did make her feel better. She knew that she had to apologize to Quinn but she didn't know how. Maybe Quinn would be in the library later. The two reached the Slytherin Dorms and Marcus led her into the fourth year girls' room. He helped her onto her bed and then went to leave.

"Should I lock the door? I know a good charm that not many would be able to break." He gave her a smile and Aislinn shook her head.

"No Marcus, that is all right. I might go to the library soon anyhow. I need to talk to Quinn." Aislinn smiled back at him and he nodded.

"Well, if you need anything I will be in the common room studying. We both know that I could use a bit of that." He laughed and left Aislinn to her thoughts.

* * * * *

Quinn watched her friend leave in the arms of that weird Slytherin and didn't know how to feel. She and Aislinn rarely fought. Even during the previous year when the Snapey bear fiasco had taken place, it wasn't this bad. When Aislinn said Quinn was using Ginny, only wanting to go to the Weasleys to see Fred, Quinn felt physically assaulted. Quinn rarely talked about her parents with anyone, but Aislinn was the one person that knew what her father could be like sometimes. Aislinn had to know Quinn would do anything to avoid spending the holidays with him.

Still, Quinn had never meant to make Aislinn cry. She felt immediate remorse for this. If she continued to act this way Quinn knew her temper wouldn't be much better than her father's. All she wanted to do was apologize. What a miserable birthday.

Quinn had to think quickly. Aislinn had a tendency to brood on these things and hold grudges for ten years or so. Quinn looked around the room. Most everyone was talking quietly and awkwardly glancing around. Draco Malfoy was perched in the corner like a king on a throne, flanked by Pansy Parkinson and Millicent Bulstrode. Quinn avoided his gaze and surveyed the rest of the room. She saw the solution to her problem. He was hunched over the pudding tray eating most everything in sight. If Aislinn ever doubted Quinn's devotion to their friendship, she wouldn't after this.

Quinn put on a shy smile and walked over to her prey. Feeling nauseous, she tapped him on the shoulder. Crabbe looked up with a fistful of cupcake halfway jammed into his mouth. Quinn tried not to look horrified. Quinn mustered all her strength. Think of Aislinn, she told herself. Quinn put her hand on Crabbe's lumpy shoulder and leaned in to whisper in his ear. She almost gagged as she realized he smelled like sour milk.

"I need you to get Aislinn out of the common room for me Vincent," Quinn pulled back now so that she could breathe and gave him a wide eyed smile and added, "please?" Crabbe looked like he'd been hit by a train. Quinn wondered if anyone had ever called him Vincent before, even his own parents. Quinn herself had taken a few minutes before she could remember his first name.

Crabbe still wasn't moving. Quinn needed action quickly. The longer Aislinn thought about this, the less likely she would ever forget it. Quinn swallowed every ounce of pride she had ever contained and forced herself to move. She took Crabbe's beefy palm in her own and led him out of the room. Everyone stopped and stared and Quinn thought she heard a flushing sound as her reputation went down the tubes.

Quinn released his hand as soon as they left the room and walked briskly toward the common room. Crabbe still had a bit of frosting on his face. Quinn's only thought was of showering as soon as she had made peace with Aislinn.

Crabbe followed her right to the common room door and said the password right in front of her. He seemed to be looking expectantly at her and Quinn gave him a horrified look. He hung his head and went inside. Quinn paced the hall nervously.

* * * * *

Marcus closed the door to the girls' dorm and headed into the common room. It was strange to see Aislinn this upset. She usually hid her emotions fairly well. He walked into the room and took his customary position by the fire and opened his Transfigurations notes. He had to pass this year, Marcus thought to himself. He would not be able to handle another year of this humiliation. Marcus was desperate and had even considered enlisting a Ravenclaw for tutorials. His pride had gotten the better of him however, and he resolved to study during every free moment he had.

Marcus was immersed in his notes when he noticed a very forlorn looking Crabbe enter the common room. He looked as if Draco just turned him down for the Valentine's Day ball. The ball: that was another thing Marcus didn't want to think about. He didn't want to go alone, but all the girls were so much younger than him. He would be more in the age group of taking one of his professors. Marcus shuddered as he pictured himself walking into the Great Hall with McGonagall in a short dress. You are a sick man Flint, he told himself.

Marcus continued watching Crabbe shuffle across the floor, and Marcus realized that he was headed straight for the girls' dorm. Marcus assumed that Crabbe was going to tell Aislinn something for Draco and he jumped up to head the massive boy off. Marcus would not allow Draco to upset Aislinn anymore.

"Where do you think you are going, Crabbe?" Marcus puffed out his chest and Crabbe cowered slightly.

"Um, I am going to get Aislinn, for her friend." Crabbe motioned to the exit of the common room.

"I will go and get her, I don't think she could handle the sight of you bursting into her room." Marcus walked past Crabbe and knocked on the door to the girl's dorm. "Aislinn, it's Marcus. Someone wants to talk to you."

* * * * * *

Aislinn had been thinking about Quinn and her hurt expression after Aislinn had terribly accused her of only wanting to go to the Weasleys to get Fred's attention. Aislinn knew that Quinn probably hadn't even thought of Fred when she accepted Ginny's invitation. Quinn had probably been relieved that she didn't have to spend the holiday with her father. Quinn's father was a shrewd business-wizard, but he held no regard for emotion. Aislinn had also seen first hand the temper that Mr. Finnigan carried around with him. She was glad that her father was such a loving man. Aislinn then heard a knock at the door and a voice calling.

"Aislinn, it's Marcus. Someone wants to talk to you," he called through her door. She knew that Marcus wouldn't have let just anyone come in to get her, and she was glad. Sometimes Aislinn wished that Marcus were a few years younger. Aislinn really thought of him more as a brother and pushed the thought from her mind. She got up from the bed and opened the door.

"Who is it that wants to see me?" Aislinn looked around the common room and noticed that Crabbe was looking expectantly at her. "You are the one who wanted to talk to me?" Aislinn was confused. She had never heard the boy speak in her life.

Crabbe looked even more confused and replied. "Not me, erm, Quinn. She is in the hall, waiting."

Aislinn's eyes lit up. "Quinn?" Aislinn was torn between excitement and dread. She walked swiftly to the door and opened it. Quinn was leaning against the wall with her eyes closed.

"What are you doing here? Why aren't you with Ginny?" Aislinn could hear the disdain in her own voice but she couldn't help it. She had been hurt, and she wanted Quinn to know it.

"I'm here because you're my best friend Aislinn," Quinn said in a strained voice. She leaned closer to Aislinn and whispered, "That's the reason I had Crabbe come and get you. I know that friend of yours Marianne has a temper, she wouldn't let me talk to you. I held his hand for Merlin's sake." Quinn sighed now, obviously tired. "Why are we even fighting? What happened back there?"

Aislinn widened her eyes at what Quinn told her. Quinn held Crabbe's hand? She knew immediately that her friend was sorry. Quinn despised Crabbe with every bone in her body. Aislinn smiled. "I'm not sure. The whole thing happened so fast. I just remember you looking at me with disgust as you headed over to Ginny. I felt as if I had lost you. I am so confused Quinn, what is wrong with me lately? I feel like Pansy and I hate it . . . but I can't stop myself." Aislinn shifted her gaze to the floor. She was ashamed at how she had been behaving. This had to stop. "And, I am sorry for saying that you were just using Ginny. I know why you accepted and that it had nothing to do with Fred."

"Aislinn," Quinn looked her friend in the eyes, "if you were acting like Pansy I wouldn't be here." Both girls shuddered at the idea. "But you might try to be a little more...objective about him. He's not perfect you know," Quinn said this and closed her eyes, waiting for the bomb to fall and Aislinn's rage to brew back up.

Aislinn was sure that her friend expected a verbal lashing for saying that about Draco, but Aislinn laughed instead. "I know Quinn, I just can't explain it. I have told you before that I felt like I was under a love curse, but it has gotten worse. When he is around, I can't even look at anyone else. I am pathetic. But I am glad that you aren't mad at me. I was really worried about it . . .Quinn," Aislinn looked up at her friend with a regretful expression. "I kind of told Marcus about it, all of it. I was so upset and he was there, he won't tell anyone, I trust him completely. I just thought I would tell you." Aislinn looked down at the ground again, unsure of how Quinn would react.

"What did you tell him?" Quinn asked with a hint of anger in her eyes.

"Well, I told him what was said at the party, all of what was said." Aislinn watched Quinn's eyes widen.

"You told him that the only reason I was going to the Weasleys is because I like Fred? Aislinn how could you?" Quinn's voice sounded desperate.

"I am sorry, I wasn't thinking. And I was really upset. Please don't be mad!" Aislinn noticed that her friend's expression had changed dramatically from only seconds before. She now looked like she felt sort of bad.

"Aislinn, I have a confession to make. I, um, sort of told Ginny about you and Draco. She was fuming last week when she came into the library and I told her that you liked him. Don't be mad, she understood and, well, I guess we are sort of even now. I don't think Ginny will tell anyone." Quinn looked hopefully at Aislinn.

Aislinn looked at Quinn with disbelief for a moment. Quinn told Ginny about Draco. How could she? The knew so little about Ginny, she could very well be another Lisa Turpin. Aislinn had to let this go however, she had told Marcus about Quinn. "Okay Quinn, I guess we are even. Friends?"

Quinn smiled brightly. "Friends." Quinn nodded and both girls began to laugh. They hugged briefly and Quinn stepped back. "I guess I should get back to the party. Alyssa was eyeing Nathanial Baddock when I left and Marianne didn't look too pleased. I just hope there isn't a replay of Zonko's going on in there."

Aislinn laughed. "Yeah, you go ahead. I don't really feel like going back and watching Pansy trying to snog Draco." Quinn nodded again and rolled her eyes. Quinn gave Aislinn a small wave as she headed back to the party.

* * * *

Aislinn was glad that Quinn wasn't one to hold a grudge. Aislinn sauntered back into the common room with a goofy grin on her face. She hated fighting with Quinn. As Aislinn skipped merrily to her dorm, she heard Marcus laughing across the room. Aislinn changed course and headed over to the fire. "Marcus Flint, are you laughing at me?" she asked him playfully.

Marcus gave her an innocent look. "Not me, I would never be so rude." He began to laugh again. "I see the two of you made up then?"

Aislinn grinned. "Yep, we did." Aislinn was beyond happy. She leaned over and gave Marcus a kiss on the cheek. Marcus looked puzzled.

"What was that for?" He narrowed his eyes at Aislinn, apparently trying to figure her out.

"That was for talking to me when I was upset. It was also for telling me that Quinn was here." Aislinn smiled at Marcus' confused expression. Aislinn then heard a noise that sounded like someone clearing their throat. She looked over to the person who made the sound.

Crabbe was sitting in a chair not far from Aislinn and Marcus. He was looking at Aislinn with a sly grin. Oh great, Aislinn thought, I really hope he doesn't think I am going to kiss him as well. Aislinn looked at Marcus, who looked repulsed, and then back to Crabbe. He had actually been the messenger, Aislinn had to at least thank him. She forced herself out of her seat and over to Crabbe. He looked extremely excited.

"Thanks for bringing Quinn here to talk to me, Crabbe." Aislinn smiled. Crabbe looked up hopefully and Aislinn fought down the nausea and gave him a light pat on the head. Marcus laughed and Crabbe scowled. That was the most he was getting out of her. Aislinn turned around and gave Marcus a smile and a wave before skipping happily to her dorm.

* * * * * *

On her way back to the party, Quinn wondered if anyone had missed the two birthday girls. When she arrived at the door, Quinn watched in amazement. Complete chaos had overtaken the room. A group of Slytherins that Quinn didn't know were dancing to a Wizarding Wireless in the corner. Goyle appeared to have eaten the entire contents of the snack table, taking advantage of Crabbe's absence no doubt. The bulk of the problem seemed to be an argument between Aislinn's friend, Marianne, and Alyssa Davies. Roger and Nathanial stood next to them in total bewilderment. Quinn approached slowly, wondering if anyone besides George would feel the wrath of Marianne's tiny fist.

"What makes you think that he would like you anyhow? You are a Ravenclaw." The word rolled off Marianne's tongue like a dreaded disease. "Boys want a girl who can do more than read books, they usually like someone with a bit of personality. Which, I am sorry to say, is something Ravenclaws aren't known to be blessed with in abundance. Go on back to the library, maybe you could find a nice geek there who would appreciate your, intelligence." Marianne raised her eyebrows and smirked at Alyssa. Quinn wanted to tell Alyssa to ignore Marianne but thought it might sound hypocritical coming from someone who had blasted away Terry Boot's hair half an hour earlier. Nathanial put his hand on Marianne's arm, and turned to her tentatively.

"Uh, Marianne..." he started quietly. Alyssa interrupted him, pulling out her wand and casually twirling it in her hands. Her voice was cold and calculated.

"You know the reason you're jealous is because you're afraid you'll lose your guy to me. Otherwise you wouldn't care. Also before you insult me for being a Ravenclaw I think you should take a good look at your own House. Even when you cheat, you can't beat Gryffindor at Quidditch or in the House Cup." Alyssa smiled at the flushed look on Marianne's face, still twirling her wand in her hand.

"Okay Alyssa, let's go," Roger said, lightly pulling on his sister's arm. Marianne and Alyssa were staring daggers at each other. Quinn looked over at Draco Malfoy. He seemed to be irritated that the two girls were not arguing over him.

Quinn gritted her teeth and turned to leave. She stalked back to her room, wondering if she had ever had a worse birthday. Quinn settled in her bed and took out Vixens and Vendettas.

Lady Gesebelle sighed into his mouth, put her hands against his chest, not to push, to touch, and it seemed it was a sign he'd been waiting for, because he then gathered her fully into his arms, fitting her curves to his hollows. Roderigo's hands roamed her back and hips, pressing her closer to his hardened manhood, closer to his heat, then finally lifting her, carrying her, laying her down on the bed. She knew what he was going to do. She was bedazzled by the pleasure he'd created and continued to lavish on her, the heat of his large body surrounding her now, the gentle caresses of his hands upon each bit of skin he uncovered as he slowly undressed her. She knew...and there was no part of her willing to stop him.

The book fell lightly on her chest as Quinn's eyes began to close sleepily. Quinn was imagining herself as Lady Gesebelle and that she was passionately kissing a very red-haired Roderigo with a mischievous grin as she drifted off.