A Private Affair

[Nathaniel Evens]

Nathaniel Evens studied his reflection in the mirror, smoothing down his hair and turning his face to the left Nate tugged at his suit and straightened his shoulders. Although preening was not something Nate condoned in men he was not the type to let his immaculate appearance slip. Looking like an Evens was something the Nate prided himself on and he never left the house unkempt.

Impatient to see what the ballroom looked like Nate jogged along the large passageway in the direction of the ballroom. His brother, Theodore had left the decorations to his mother and had forcefully refused anybody entrance to the ballroom until the big event. Nate was eager to see what beauties lay in store behind the large double doors.

His mother really did know how to put on a party.

Regarded as one of the most sort after families in the Wizarding world, Mrs. Evens was truly a hostess goddess. One of the leading ladies in society her parties started off the fashionable season and finished it. Nothing was ‘done’ that she didn’t do first and best.

Nate smiled proudly.

The room was decked out beautifully, the chandeliers had been polished and sparkled across the marble floors, candles burning softly. Fresh flowers where placed sporadically around the room and fairies were preening in the pretty crystal glasses, lighting the room in a soft glow. Delicate and intricately carved chairs were placed strategically around the room; baroque round-tables were laden with sweet meats and french pastries. Some had miniature charmed crystal balls which floated and formed a round sphere. Food was tastefully arranged on two large trestle like tables on opposite sides of the ball room. A champagne fountain was clearly charmed to flow with bubbly all night long; the fountain was the dominating feature of the room and would be the first thing people saw, since it was directly opposite the double doors.

Nate smiled smugly as he pretended to admire one of the fairies; the little thing blushed and kissed the glass, waving coquettishly at Nate as he walked over to the champagne fountain. He ran his finger through the soft yellow overflow and was pleasantly surprised at the gentle feelings of millions of cool bubbles bursting on his hand. Taking hold of one of the champagne flutes he noticed that a new champagne flute had immediately taken its place. Nate had decided that his ball was probably his mother’s finest.

Already people had begun to mill around. Many beautiful gowns and finely stitched suits were on display. Some older wizards had chosen to attire themselves in more traditional gowns yet still everyone looked their best and wore their finest. As the ball was a masquerade Nate was hard pressed to find anyone he could competently identify. He noticed some rather fresh looking girls giggling over the other side of the fountain and a few burly looking teenage boys who were obviously the Slytherin’s he associated with at school. They were huddled close and whispering, Nate could tell they were talking about the girls at the fountain and so decided to leave them to their tail chasing.

Glancing about he suddenly laid eyes on a particularly beautiful woman who had just passed through the double doors. She was pale as snow with blood red lips and a layered silk gown, her mask was made of pure gold and spun in an intricate pattern to frame her face. Her red hair tumbled down her back in tight ringlets. Nate stared for a few minutes before turning his back to her. She was beautiful it was true but some how desiring his Charms teacher was not what Nate had in mind.

Staring at the fountain he entertained himself the knowledge that his brother Theodore was going to be mightily uncomfortably tonight.

OOC: Permission from Scarlet Brice has been given to godmod her character, thanks Scar!

[Jaiden Edwards]

Jaiden was busy rushing about her room in her aunt's estate trying to put on the finishing touches to her gown and hair. Of course, in the background was said aunt telling Jai calmly that proper ladies do not rush even on their own, but it was going to take a lot more than a verbal instruction to break one of the many bad habits Jaiden still retained.

Tonight was the graduation masked ball that the Evens were hosting and according to auntie, these balls are ones never to be missed as they were exquisite and spectacular. In the past, Jai wouldn't have cared much about them, as she was more focused on her study, but since there was no more study left, well there wasn't anything left to do but focus on becoming the perfect society lady. Deep down though, Jaiden wasn't sure if this is what she wanted just yet, seeing as she'd avoided it all her life, however, the challenge of it all gave her the motivation to push on.

Putting on her mask and double checking that her dress was all in place, Jaiden went to her vanity to put on her mother's necklace, ring and tiara before proclaiming to her auntie that she was ready.

With a kiss on the forehead, Jaiden's auntie let her go forth to the ball, all the whilst praying to Merlin that she wouldn't make a fool of herself.

Upon arriving, Jaiden felt a bit self conscious and nervous of how she looked, but didn't dare show it. If there was one thing she learnt, a cool exterior meant it was less likely for any of her weaknesses to be discovered and exploited, so Jaiden pushed on and walked through the large double doors, only to be stopped in her tracks.

Auntie definitely wasn't lying when she said the ball would be mind blowing. The whole place looked like a fairytale and Jai momentarily lost her breath as she caught sight of the fountain. It was all so beautiful. Walking up to it, Jaiden stood on the edge of it and was enticed by the thousands of bubbles flowing through it. Gently, she placed a few of her fingers in it and swirled it about, loving the feel of the champagne flowing through her fingers. Giggling softly, Jaiden turned around to go get a glass but didn't realise a male figure standing close by until she bumped right into him.

"Oh, I am so sorry," Jai said as she turned her head up to see who she rudely crashed into, ready to apologise some more but her breath caught in her throat. She crashed into the one and only Nathaniel Evens, one of the sons of the hostess of this ball. "Oh.." she trailed off.

(Correct me if I'm wrong, but I assumed after reading through your post that Nate wasn't wearing a mask.. so that's how she recognised him .. but if he's wearing a mask then I can rewrite that she doesn't quite recognise him )

[Nathaniel Evens]

OOC I have an idea as to smooth over the mask issue. I'll post that he's slipped it off for a few minutes.

Nathaniel hadn’t been contemplating his brother’s soon-to-be uncomfortable position for more than a minute when a second beauty caught his eye. Her dazzling bright pink dress drew his eye and he slid his simple black mask from his eyes, resting it on his forehead. Nate expelled the champagne infused breath he didn’t know he’d been holding. He didn’t know whether it was the drink or her beauty that intoxicated him more. He’d never reacted to anyone so soon... and at such a distance.

He couldn’t even see her face.

Nate turned his face away from her and looked in to the champagne flute that was resting at his side, his long fingers tightening their grasp. His brows knit together as he noticed from the corner of his eye her honest fascination with the fountain. It seemed as though she had never seen so much beauty in one place before; however he knew that only the most well-to-do families had been invited and if anyone could slip through the defence system that he had personally installed for the evening he’d kiss them!

Before he’d had time to fully contemplate her youthful figure and how exactly he was going to introduce himself he heard a giggle, then the feel of soft, warm material. He blushed ever so slightly at the implication of warm material.

”Oh, I am so sorry” the young woman said as she finally turned her face towards him. Nate stared a little too long into her eyes than was polite. Realising that his mask was not on he quickly slid his hands over the mask and drew it downward.

Recovering himself, he bowed elegantly, reached for the young ladies hand and kissed it gently allowing his lips to take their time. Her skin tasted delectable, he thought absently. Allowing himself to release his empty flute he absently watched as it fell slowly, transforming into small dots of light that instantly few upward to the chandeliers. The dots of light illuminated the chandeliers for a mere second but the effect of the charm was magical.

“Nathaniel Evens,” he whispered, his lips finding her ear; still clasping her hand he drew his free hand into the fountain and took two flutes.

“I don’t believe that we’ve been introduced?” he began, “I know you know who I am but I haven’t the honor of knowing your name,” he paused sipping his drink. “Have you come with anyone,” Nate didn’t bother wasting his time getting to the point that was forefront in his mind. He was honorable enough not to pursue a woman who was already attached; although he was considering passing up on that rule just this once.

[Jaiden Edwards]

Jaiden's eyes followed the movement of Nathaniel's mask downward and wondered if she never knew the face behind the mask, if she would have, by chance, ended up talking to him again after she bumped into him.

Through all their years at Hogwarts, neither had said more than was necessary to the other in public. They were not friends, nor were they ever in the same school circle despite their being in the same high society circle. He was the playboy and she was the bookworm, who never sought out the parties that were thrown regularly in the Slytherin dorm.

And yet, here he was picking up her hand - the one with her beloved ring - and giving her a soft kiss on it. Blushing slightly, without meaning to, Jaiden did a little curtsy, whilst all the time trying not to think about his mouth on her hand.

If there was something she had never studied, it was the art of kissing, for Jaiden had never been kissed in her life, except for on her cheek. Clearing her throat, she watched as he dropped the flute, but instead of watching it fly away magically, her eyes found his face. Her eyes darted around his face as it came closer to hers and she couldn't help but think that he smelt, well, edible.

Taking the flute from his hand with her free one, she sipped a bit of the champagne before replying. "Yes," Jaiden said quietly, "We have met before and you are right, I do know who you are. But not because you are the son of the hostess." Finally letting go of his hand, she took another sip of the champagne and felt the liquid going straight to her stomach. She better take it easy or else she would make a fool of herself.

"My name is Jaiden O'Finnegan. You and I have been in the same classes for the past couple of years." She blinked up at him for a moment. "Therefore, that will answer your last question. No, I have not come with anyone. Just alone tonight."

[Sage Valdez]

While the smell of blood and death bothered some people, Sage revelled in it. She took in the body of man before her, cold and lifeless. She could still feel the accelaration of his heart beneath her hand as she had strategically cut his body, allowing him to bleed out slowly and painfully. A slow smirk made its way onto her face, this had been a challenging mission but she had completed it and would be well paid. She ran a hand through her blonde tressles, knowing they were coated in blood, she would definately have to clean herself up before the party.

She pulled out her wand and quickly set fire to the room and the corpse, leaving no evidence she'd been there. Of course the Auror's would find the burnt remains of the once esteemed Carl Jenkins, but they'd never know why he did died or who had put the knife in his heart. She watched the flames begin to lick the sides of the room and then envelop the body of the man whose life she had ended mere minutes ago. She turned on her heel and apparated into thin air, leaving the fire to burn.

------

She entered her apartment and immediately headed to the bathroom, she definately could not attend one of the most eagerly anticiapted social events of the season covered in blood from head to toe. After a scalding shower she felt much refreshed and set about the task of finding something suitable to wear.

She quickly chose a white, floor length gown. It was simple yet elegant in her opinion, as she had never been one for huge ballroom gowns with frills and flounces. She could never understand why some women would voluntarily choose to wear such items. Sage pulled out her wand and began to pull her hair up into a modern yet classy style. A touch of makeup and a pair of Jimmy Choo heels later, she was ready.

While she hadn't been formally invited to the party due to the connotations associated with her family, this didn't stop her. She apparated into the front gardens of the Evens estate and took in the grandeur of their home. It really was a marvelous sight, one which she had loved since childhood. She had spent time here as a child, playing with all the children from wealthy families, since her parents and the Evens had been in the same social circles. But when her father had left her mother, things had changed and the Valdez name had never been welcomed again.

She slipped on her mask and made her way around the side of the house, she wasn't just going to waltz through the frontdoor, though she was certain she'd get in. No, the thought of breaking in and crashing the party was a much better challenge and one she'd complete before the night was over.

She levitated herself to a third story window, it was clearly a bedroom but to whom it belonged, that she could not answer. She dissarmed the spell locking the window and entered the room. It smelt of fresh pine and tobacco, she smirked and quickly made her way to the door on the other side of the room. She listened for a moment, making sure there was no one on the other side, before carefully exiting the room.

She stood atop one of the grandest staircases she had ever seen. So much for not making an entrance. She was here to gather information, that was all. Having heads turn periodically to look at her was not part of her plan. She huffed and descended the staircase slowly but surely. Her eyes roamed the room, taking in the decor. Mrs Evens had lived up to her repuation, the ballroom looked magnificent.

Sage felt a presence behind her, she turned and was asked to dance by a man, or boy rather. He was only a little taller than her and had obviously not filled out yet, she doubted he was a day over fifteen. Her grey eyes bore into his, with a simple shake of her head he quickly departed. She was not in the mood for frivolities, no she was here to work.

A group of men a few metres away were staring at her, she clenched her jaw but knew better. Men were good for two things, paying her and pleasuring her. That was it. She had no desire for any emotional attachment to any man, as he could use it to manipulate her. Perhaps she could find some desperate clunk and take him home, then kick him out as soon as she was done with him. The thought was appealing, but then again so was the thought of having hot blood coursing though her hands.

If she found someone worth her interest she may consider them. But men were dogs who needed to be played with, then tossed aside like a piece of meat. She picked up a glass of champagne and headed towards the group of men oggling at her. She needed information, and with so many high profile guests here, she would surely find something out of use. "Gentlemen, which one of you should I dance with?" she said in a sultry tone which she knew would ignite more than hormones.

[Nathaniel Evens]

While sipping his champagne Nate thought about the Jaiden he remembered from school. He was having a hard time connecting that Jaiden with the Jaiden standing before him. The difference was remarkable. When Nate thought about the Jaiden he remembered at school her recalled a bookish girl with unkept hair and a slightly mousy look about her; this Jaiden before him was a radiant beauty with no hint of mousiness about her. She looked confident, dressed confident and was altogether a very nice package for someone like Na...

Nate stopped that thought in his tracks, talking about woman as though they were permanent beings was not a practice Nate employed. Taking a small step back he gave Jaiden some room to breath. His face showed no trace of his thoughts. He smiled provocatively as Jaiden before he placed his now empty flute on a near table.

“Would you care to dance?” he said, keeping his eyes fixed on hers he slowly reached for her glass, took it and placed it with his. Bowing slightly he held out his hand. From the corner of his eye he noticed a tall blonde dressed in a white floor length gown, she was flirting mercilessly with the young group of men, Nate’s ‘friends’. Nate frowned, he could see her intent and realised that although it was a masked ball there was no-one in his circle of aquaintance that had that blonde hair and that kind of height except a Valdez. Nate’s face took on a stony look and his emotions closed down, no longer was he holding Jaiden’s hand or even looking at her.

“If you’ll excuse me, I have some business to attend to,” softening his voice he continues, “don’t go away, I’ll be back in a few minutes,” he smiled gently at her before resuming his cold facade.

Walking purposefully over to the group of men, he stood about twenty feet from them and indicated with his hands for them to join him. They immediately complied.
“What do you think your doing?” Nate replied in a dangerously low voice. He did not intend to frighten the guests so he jerked his head towards the double door entrance and began to move towards it. The three men flanked Nate, their presence would have only been noticed by those people not dancing, and that particular group of people mostly consisted of old men and woman.

Once in the safety of the corridor, Nate voiced his suspicion. “Do you realise who you were just flirting with?” he asked. Bringing out his wand he quickly scribbled a note in the air, silver writing materialising and then disappearing. He’s just summoned two of the downstairs guards to collect Miss Valdez and deposit her in the downstairs formal sitting room, he would talk to her himself.

After hearing their protests and questions Nate replied that they’d been ‘playing’ with an uninvited guest. Many of the men frowned others looked disbelieving and protested that she had been invited. Nate grew impatient and warned them quickly against spur-of-the-moment ‘loose’ behaviour in public. Dismissing the men he waited a few minutes before rejoining the party.

His appearance was dark and uninviting as he walked through the double doors, a few women timidly approached him, only to receive a glowering look. For the most part his eyes stayed fixed on Jaiden, he ignored Miss Valdez entirely; he could hear the guards moving through the crowed, they would reach her soon and she would have no choice but to comply, unless she wanted to make a scene. After reaching Jaiden, he clasped her hand and gave Miss Valdez a heavy and loaded look, he was trying to convince her to leave silently with the guards. He had no intention of pressing charges but he intended to let her know she had no business being in his home. It was only her luck that Theodore had left early and knew none of this.

“I’m sorry for the inconvenience, I hope that you are still in favour of a dance?” actually Nate had no idea if Jaiden had said yes or no the last time he’d asked her but his countenance had softened and his smile was safely secured for the moment.

[Scarlet Brice]

Scarlet Brice felt more nervous than was reasonable. Mrs. Evens had kindly invited her to the Graduation Ball without knowing the pain that it would cause to more than just Scarlet. Grimacing slightly Scarlet slipped into her gown and mask. Styling her red hair to form tight ringlets down her back Scarlet set to work on making herself not look like the school professor she was.

Slowly glancing at her reflection in the mirror Scarlet was taken aback by the temptress peering back at her. With pale white skin, red lips and inviting eyes the picture all but screamed se.. Scarlet jumped at the sound of someone running down the passageway just outside her room. Living at Hogwarts had its perks but it also had the added bother of being less private and quiet than her actual home.

Beginning to shake, Scarlet reached for a glass of elf wine she had poured herself earlier. Swigging the wine quickly she stood up grabbed her black velvet dress coat and headed for the door.

Tyler would meet her at the ball. They had been dating for quite some time and Scarlet was still unsure as to her true feelings for him. She shuddered at the thought of Tyler meeting a certain individual.

Gathering her courage she apparated to the entrance of the Evens Estate, the sweeping driveway was just as she remembered.

It had been seven years since she had last stepped through the large ornate gates that stood before her, she was only eighteen then, it had been the year that everything had changed. Swallowing the lump that had formed in her throat Scarlet walked through the double gates and up the long winding drive.

She was just about to reach the entrance was a hand gently grabbed her arm. Heart racing she turned, expecting to see the hosts son, and was met with a solid but kind kiss from... Tyler Atwood, her boyfriend.

“Tyler,” Scarlet gushed, a little too sweetly, “I’m glad you found the place alright. Shall be go in?” she asked. Not waiting for his reply, she walked straight through the front doors, only giving a quick glance at the guards who nodded her inside. Doffing her black velvet dress coat and checking her appearance in the cloak room mirror Scarlet walked through the entrance to the ballroom.

OOC Just replying quickly, will be out of the thread very soon, just waiting for Tyler and Theodore to reply.

[Theodore Evens]

OOC Sorry Tyler. I changed the plot just a bit. This plot will be continued in a sitting room thread. I wont start the thread until Tyler's replied in the this thread. I have permission from Scarlet Brice to godmod her character (this way we save some posts).

Theodore sighed, he’d played host long enough, if anyone important came this late to the party they were not worth his time. Kissing his mother’s cheek softly he departed quietly from the welcoming post that his mother was keeping. A nagging feeling suddenly tickled the back of his mind as he silently watched the entrance to the ballroom. He didn’t understand that as soon as he’d left the entrance to the ballroom that he felt compelled to stay near it. It was like his gut was telling him something important was going to happen.

And then it did.

A painful tightening crushed his chest at the sight of her, it was like stepping back in time, she was just as he remembered, if not more beautiful. She had matured into a tall, elegant woman.

He almost ran to her.

Turning his face away he deliberated how to handle the situation. Scarlet Brice had come back. A thought flashed through his mind: nothing and no-one was preventing him from taking her, claiming her as his own. For years he had made sure she was safe, posting his most trusted men to watch over her. And with all the precautions he had taken he had never once let himself see her, talk to her, touch her. Now he knew the reason; he would not be able to stop himself from speaking to her, hearing her voice once more and knowing the feel of her skin beneath his fingers once more.

Moving casually across the room he walked right up to her clasped her hand and took her from the room. Finding a small alcove not far from the entrance to the ballroom Theodore cupped Scarlet’s face and slammed his lips to hers crushing her body to his. Snaking his right hand around her waist he pulled her closer, his left hand was firmly anchored in her abundant red curls. His right hand slid down her back until it reached her buttocks he sighed in contentment. She pushed away. Crying.

Searching her face he could find no visible sign of her disgust or repugnance; he moved towards her preparing to kiss her once more. She waved him off and turned her face away. Theodore’s face darkened and he grabbed her wrist pulling her once again, this time he took her to the private sitting-room down a long corridor. She followed him blindly.

[Sage Valdez]

Her fascade was working; lull them into a false sense of security where they believe they're in control, then she pounces. Everything was going according to plan, she had all three men eating out of the palm of her hand. They seemed to inhale every word that she uttered from her lips, or perhaps it was just her lips they wanted....She was laughing softly and whispering into the one know as Jake's ear, when their attention was suddenly drawn elsewhere. Surprised and slightly annoyed she watched as they left her and made their way towards a brooding figure.

Her eyes bore into his and she knew he wasn't a fool to her fascade and what she was trying to do. He'd probably recognised her, though how he'd singled her out was a mystery since there were heaps of young women here that he could have looked and gawked at. The men she'd been flirting spoke in hushed tones with the man who'd given her a glare that almost brought her's to shame. They then quickly exited the room.

Sage ran a frustrated hand through her hair, she knew now that guards were probably on their way to collect her. These rich, pompous families were all so predictable. She went over to the champagne fountain and quickly downed another glass, she would need it before the night was out. She went to a mirror and touched up her makeup, she couldn't leave the ball not looking perfect. After a few moments she felt a presence behind her, a slow knowing smirk made it's way onto her face. "Hello Boys..." she said quietly, turning to face them.

Being a contract killer meant that men didn't faze her, no matter how tall and large they were. If she hit a few choice places, any one of them would be on the floor in a matter of seconds. But did she really want to make a scene and draw attention to herself? No. She had clients here who used her services, she had also slept with a few of the older men who had wives. Therefore drawing unwanted attention to herself was not a good or wise decision. She'd go quietly, then deal with the two huge hulks standing before her in private.

The guards took her in and at first did nothing but stand there. She let out a small husky laugh which she knew would put their hormones on high alert. "I'll go with you," she stated, "Just don't touch me, we wouldn't hands being where they shouldn't be now....do we? Or eyes for that matter..." She looked at one of the guards pointedly, he turned a distinct shade of pink. The other guard grabbed her arm rather roughly, "Ah Ah Ah," she chided softly, whilst turning so she was almost nose to nose with him. "I said I'd go, without having to manhandled," she snarled in his ear. He loosened his grip but didn't let go. She sighed and let them lead her from the room.

Once they were safely in one of the many corridors, she asked the guards, "Where are you taking me?" They didn't answer, she shook her head and composed herself. In one lithe movement she had turned out of the guards grip and had her wand raised, pointed at his heart. "If you don't want me to kill you right now, you'll tell me where you're taking me..." she said in a icy tone, her voice cutting the silence like a knife. "The Formal Sitting Room," he said in a controlled yet fearful voice.

"Thank-you," she stated simply before sending two stunning spells at each of the guards. They hit their mark and both men crumpled to the ground before she could say Merlin. She quickly levitated them to a small study off to the side before making her own way to the 'Formal Sitting Room', as they'd called it. Did that mean the Evens had an 'Un-Formal Sitting Room' as well? She shook her head, one sitting room was definately enough for her.

She entered the room and positioned herself on one of the couches. She quickly appraised the room noting the exits and what she could use if a wizard duel ensured. She was beyond angry. Rage coursed through her veins. That man who had ordered her here had no right to treat her this way. She would definately see to it that when he finally appeared, he knew who was boss.

[Tyler Atwood]

"Mother.....we must leave!" Tyler yelled from the top of the staircase. Harriet Atwood always had a knack for making their family late, no matter how important or prestigous the event may be. He sighed and glanced at his watch. Scarlet would be there soon or now even, he needed to be there to escort her in at least. That was something which he could not allow morally or for proprieties sake to miss.

Tyler had always been one for properness and knew that it was expected in most social circles for man to escort his woman to the ball. Just the words his woman in association with Scarlet made his head spin. Scarlet was his. He had first noticed the young Scarlet Brice eight years ago, he had eventually gotten up the courage and balls for that matter to ask her out. They had been dating officially for just over six years and in Tyler's opinion, it was almost time for him to 'take the next step'. But he just didn't know if Scarlet was ready for it. At times he felt she was so in tune with him but at other times he felt so distant from her that it physically hurt him.

He shook his head, tonight wasn't the night so he needn't brood on it. He took his cloak from the butler and gave a quick nod before disapparating to the marvelous grounds of the Evens estate. He was dressed in a simple yet elegant black suit. Tyler quickly slipped his mask over his eyes and looked for the beautiful red-head who was his.

She wasn't too hard to find. He quietly snuck up behind her and clasped her arm gently. She turned to meet him and he quickly but surely kissed her sweet suculent lips. She tasted of fine wine and smelt of ther perfect aroma that was Scarlet. "You look beautiful," he whispered in her ear. He took off his cloak and gave it to the waiting servant, before realising Scarlet had already entered the ballroom without him. He sighed and walked in behind her slipping a protective arm around her waist.

He noticed many males look up and appraise Scarlet, he smiled but tightened his grip on her. She was his and that was that. He quickly noted the champagne fountain, how he longed for a drink. "Would you care for a drink Scar?" he asked her, trailing his fingers down her neck to her collar bone. His mind briefly drifted back to one of their many love making sessions. He smirked and hoped she hadn't of noticed. She seemed to be preoccupied and deep in thought.

Not waiting for an answer he left and made his way towards the fountain. Before he got to far two of his father's business associates caught him and started talking in very annimated detail about one of their new cases. He sighed, he really had wanted to spend most of the night with Scarlet, he hoped she wouldn't be too bored without him.

Twenty minutes later he returned to the spot where Scarlet had last stood with two glasses of champagne. She was nowhere to be seen. Tyler began to search the room for her, she should be easy to find with her auburn curls, but alas he could not spy her anywhere. He put down the champagne and asked a passing waiter if he'd seen her, "She went through those doors with Master Evens," he said simply before leaving. Tyler furrowed his eyebrows and walked purposely towards the doors.

He pulled them open roughly and started down the corridor. He didn't know what was going on, but he definately intended to find out.

[Jaiden Edwards]

Sipping her drink slowly, Jaiden watched almost in disbelief as Nate asked her to dance. Allowing him to take her glass, she internally thanked him for making sure she didn't get tipsy tonight. The lack of partying meant that she was such a lightweight and a glass of champagne could ruin her attempt at being 'perfect', or whatever her aunt was trying to turn her into, ugh.

The only problem with his question was, why the sudden change from Nate? It wasn't as if they were the best of friends or even attracted to each other at all in Hogwarts.

Somebody is lying to herself, said a voice from the back of Jaiden's mind. Okay, so she wasn't entirely immune to his good looks and charms, but then which sane witch would be? Besides, all the lights surrounding them brought out a sparkle in his eyes that she could look at for an eternity, if one would allow her to be cheesy for just a moment. And upon looking over the last few minutes, Jaiden was sure that her aunt's attempts to make her look nice caught Nathaniel's attention, because he wouldn't have bothered with her otherwise. Clearing her throat, she was about to reply when he cut her off and excuse himself for a few minutes.

Blinking, the magic of the moment was broken and Jaiden was left standing by the magnificent fountain on her own. Her eyes narrowed as they followed Nate's back and she was almost tempted to ignore his request and leave the fountain there and then, but to where? This was his house and she was sure that if she tried to leave the ballroom, that she would get lost in his house, one that he obviously knew better than her. Sighing in annoyance, Jaiden let out a harrumph and sat just like her aunt instructed her to do a thousand times earlier that week, on the fountain.

She might as well watch Nathaniel and try to find out why he left her. Curious, Jaiden watched Nathaniel stride confidently to a group of men and then proceeded to bring them out of her view into a side room. As bright as was, Jaiden noticed those group of men were surrounding a young woman with blonde hair and wondered what it was about her that caught Nathaniel's attention.

Absentmindedly, she let her hand swirl about the champagne fountain, next to her seated form and went through the possibilities as she waited for her fellow Slytherin to appear. It all fell away to the back as her mind, though, as she saw Nate coming back through the doors. Her eyes never left his as she walked darkly towards her and she felt some what pleased that the dark, chilling looked was always directed at other women and not her. Letting him take her hand, she stood up and followed his gaze, once again, to the blonde woman. There must have been some history between those two, she was certain.

But she would think about that later. For now, she had to keep her attention on Nate and not appear too rude, or else her aunt would have her head if she found out Jaiden was not paying proper attention to the affections of a gentleman. He asked her to dance again and she answered with a simple yes.

As he lead her to the floor, Jaiden finally took notice of those around her and wondered if there was any other point to a ball, aside from mingling, building up contacts, drinking or dancing. She sighed in slight annoyance, not realising that it was louder than she intended.

[Nathaniel Evens]

Pleased at Jaiden’s simple yes he felt the burden of the day slowly slip from his mind. Gently he placed his right hand on her upper back and his left in her right; tenderly he drew her flush against his body, she fit tightly to his and he growled softly in pleasure at their perfect match. Physically they were designed for each other, the next thing would be to find it they were intellectually matched.

Nate felt freer than he had in a long time, almost at peace. He marveled at the woman in his arms that she could make him feel this way, she was almost like a drug, lulling him into a security he hadn’t felt since he was a child. Her sigh had put him off balance slightly and he was curious as to the reason behind it.

“I hope that you’ve enjoyed the evening so far?” his questions was more loaded than he intended. Jaiden seemed like a wild flower that grew best when left alone and needed careful handling; Nate unconsciously made up his mind that he wouldn’t let anyone ‘handle’ Jaiden tonight, not if he could help it.

Keeping his hands in a discrete position was proving harder for Nate than he earlier anticipated. His face was slowly bearing the marks of his control. He clenched his jaw, the muscle working overtime to keep it clamped shut. Nate didn’t say anything for several seconds.

Suddenly he moved his face closer to hers almost as if he was going to kiss her; instead he breathed in her scent. She smelt like wildflowers. His attentions were interrupted by a nervous servant.

“Master Nathaniel, sir, ah... you have a, ah... guest, that is waiting for you in the formal sitting room, sir,” the servant stuttered, “I apologise for the interruption sir but she’s been waiting for ten minutes.”

“Let her wait,” Nate growled as he flicked a dismissive hand at the servant. Irritated at the thought of having to leave Jaiden so soon, he tightened his grip on her waist and leaned in slowly. Her lips were small and delicate and Nate was imagining all the things that he could show her with his. At the last possible moment he laid a delicate kiss on cheek, dangerously close to her lips. He savored the moment. He expelled his breath on her lips allowing her to feel the intimacy of a kiss without actually kissing; a skill most men preferred not to learn.

Letting her go suddenly Nate moved quickly from the ballroom before he took advantage of the little wildflower.

[Jaiden Edwards]

The feeling of Nate's arms around her was nothing like she'd ever experience. He didn't seem to mind getting close to her whilst they were dancing and truthfully, she didn't mind either. Hearing the growl, Jai could feel her face grow slightly hot. She'd never elicited a response from any guy like that before. Suffice to say, the ball was a night of many firsts.

When he asked the question about her sigh, she bit her lips. Oops, she thought internally, if Auntie hears of this, she's going to kill me. Looking up at Nate, Jaiden found she could speak to him truthfully.

"Well, you know how I never appeared at any social gatherings in Hogwarts, if I could help it. I just never saw the point in getting dressed up and drinking until one was merry, or dancing until one's feet hurt." Jaiden started getting carried away, but found she had to let her frustrations get out or else she would've released it on some poor, unsuspecting person.

"No offence to your mother's work intended. She did a beautiful job with the ball and I think the fountain is magnificant. And everybody looks stunning and dashing, of course, but aside from dancing and drinking and sucking up to your superiors, I never felt like there was anything really special to do at a ball." Taking a deep breath, Jaiden felt happier than before, as she always did when she ranted.

Her eyes sought Nate's and she smiled sheepishly. "I do apologise. I'm afraid I just had to get that out before some poor unsuspecting soul ended up being at the end of my rant." She cleared her throat. "And I don't mind dancing, really, not if it's with someone wonderfu-" she stopped half way as Nate came closer to her.

Her mind went blank and all she could think of was .. was he going to kiss her? But then they got interrupted by a servant and Jaiden felt her senses nerves calm down a bit. But then he felt his hands on her waist tighten and she could only watch as he came closer.

Feeling his lips so close to hers, her eyes fluttered shut and she involuntarily put her hand on his chest. But then he was gone and Jaiden's eyes flew open and she watched as he left her in the middle of the dance floor. The first thing that she muttered was, "Why is it he always ditches me so suddenly." Frowning, Jaiden started to walk off the dance floor and towards an empty chair on the edge of the ballroom, growing slightly annoyed.

[Seth Martiff]

A soft giggle broke the silence of the courtyard. "Shhh...." Seth chided softly to the blonde bombshell he currently had pressed against the right hand side wall. "We can't be caught," he breathed against her lips before capturing them again with his own. He pushed his body against her's, revelling in the feeling. He ran his hands through her hair and then settled them nicely upon her buttocks. Snogging, ah what a pleasure it was, especially with someone with the form of Bridgette, his current conquest.

After another twenty minutes of uninterrupted facial contact, Seth felt he might need to actually make an appearance at the ball tonight. If it had been any other ball he would've scooped Bridgette up and carried her home to have his way with her, but no. He had promised Nate to be here and a promise was a promise, no matter how desirable his blonde companion looked. Her hair in disarray, his lips full and parted, her breath heavying....his gaze lingered at her chest for a few moments. How he hated having to leave this beautiful creature.

He stroked her cheek with his thumb and lay a gentle kiss on her swollen lips. "I have duties to attend to my love," he said huskily. His hands ran their way up her arms and around her back again. She quivered against him. "Will you.....will you come....come back?" she asked breathlessly. "I'm not sure," he said cocking his head to the side. "It depends if the insentive is big enough,"

Bridgette looked at him for a moment and smirked. "You'll have to come back and see then, won't you," He almost laughed but didn't, he doubted he'd come back to this particular conquest tonight, not with so many other gorgeous creatures around. He would really have to keep his hands to himself tonight.

He left the courtyard and took the back stairs up to Nate's room, he had to change and make himself presentable if he were to attend a Ball at the Evens Estate. He would never want to embaress his friend. He pulled on his suit and shoes with ease. With a quick toussle of his hair and a spray of aftershave, he was ready to mingle. He gazed at his appearance in the mirror, oh he was getting lucky tonight!

He headed down the main staircase and into the ballroom, grabbing and dowing a glass of champagne on the way. He'd had two Firewhisky's earlier, so he was already more over-confident than usual. He saw Nate dancing with an amazing creature, she was beautiful. The fall of her gown and the make of mask screamed 'money' and from the way she held herself he knew she had to have a formal upbringing to some extent. She wasn't just another one of his many conquests who would lay down and let him have his way with her, no this girl....sorry woman, had class.

He clenched his jaw and grinded his teeth together. Why wasn't he here earlier? He could've picked her up before Nate had even entered the room. At this thought he grabbed another glass of champagne and scoffed it down. After the dance had ended, he saw Nate give her a quick kiss and depart the room. He almost double looked, how could Nate leave a woman this gorgeous standing alone? He waited ten minutes, wondering if his friend would come back. It soon became clear he had business elsewhere to attend to. Maybe it had something to do with that blonde he'd seen escorted from the ballroom? He made a mental note to ask Nate about that later.

Seth gazed at the girl, not knowing what to do. Go to her? Stay away? Let her come to him? So many options, but he opted for the most direct. He grabbed two glasses of champagne and headed towards her, a distinct jump in his stride. "Good Evening Miss," he said in a sincere and formal tone. From the looks of this girl, this could be the best option of pursuing her, making her think he's a gentlemen. "Could I offer you some champagne?" he asked and held the glass out to her.

He then proceeded to make nonchalent conversation for no reason whatsoever. It wasn't as if he cared what this girl actually had to say, it gave him time to appraise her, work out if she was worth the chase and if he had a chance. "I see my dear friend Nathaniel has left you stranded here. That just will not do," he said giving her his most charming smile. "My name is Seth and I can barely understand how Nate could leave a woman as beautiful as you without an escort....perhaps you would do me the honour of a dance?"

No time for nonsense, it was a simple question. If she danced with him, he would proceed to pursue her throughout the rest of the night. If she denied him, well he might still pursue anyway....due to the effect she was beginning to have over him. And that was without even uttering a word. Oh Merlin! he thought to himself.

[Jaiden Edwards]

Feeling confused, Jaiden sat in the chair for what felt like a long time. Ever since she got here, she's been on such a strange journey that she didn't even know if she could write it all down in her diary tonight. The mask on her face was starting to get irritating, her feet were starting to ache, despite the charm placed on them to stop from hurting, and her dress was feeling like it was about to cut off her air supply. Of course, everything she was wearing was so lovely, there was no denying it, but she always hated the saying 'No Pain, No Gain'. And right now, it seemed all her pain had gotten her was confusion.

However, as Jaiden thought about it more and more, she felt that it might be worth it. Whether it was the jewelery she was wearing making her feel beautiful, or whether it was part of her emotionally growing up, Jaiden felt she'd gain more insight into life in one night than she had her whole life. No amount of studying could have given her enough insight into the wonderful feelings produced when she was appreciated like she was a beauty.

Sighing contentedly, Jaiden kept her inner thoughts going and didn't realise a figure heading towards her until she heard his voice. And his offering of champagne. Bewildered that another man wanted to talk to her, but not wanting to show it on her face, she took the champagne and took a sip whilst he started chattering away. The fact that his name was Seth and that it didn't register with Jaiden, showed that she was overwhelmed by the amount of attention she had been receiving that night. She did notice, however, the mention of Nate, but found she couldn't get a word in.

It was only at his question for a dance, that Jaiden could finally respond. Whilst placing the flute down on the chair next to her, she studied his face, then his outfit and came to the conclusion that he was quite sexy. Maybe a sexy man might know what he was doing and Jaiden felt a bit less overwhelmed. Smiling up at him, she stayed seated, determined to make him wait just a bit longer.

"A dance, you say? And tell me, why should I dance with you?" Jaiden said coyly, "You never even asked my name. But, uh-ah, don't worry, we'll get to that later." Although inexperienced around guys, she was a Slytherin at heart and knew how to make people wait. Suddenly standing up, she straightened out her dress and ignored the ache in her feet. Smirking at him, she held out her hand and said "Well, come on then. I can't wait for you all day to lead me to the dance floor."

Breathing in and out evenly, Jaiden felt the pounding of her heart beating faster by the minute. The adrenaline she got every time she played games gave her a boost in confidence and in this case, enough to make her appear as if she knew what she was doing around this gorgeous guy, even though internally she was going by her instinct.

[Seth Martiff]

His gaze lingered on her face for a moment too long, before his eyes flickered away. He didn't want to show how gorgeous he thought she was just yet. He'd found in the past the girls sometimes used this information to their advantage. At her question his eyes flickered back to her face and a grin surfaced. Beauty and brains, "Now that is an easy question..." he began, "From seeing those glorious legs from a distance, I need to know how well they move, especially in competition with mine," he said giving her a wink. "That is why you should dance with me, too prove that you can move better than me."

He gazed around for any sign of Nate and he as he suspected he was no-where to be found. Seth breathed a sigh of relief, at least his friend for the time being wouldn't think he had walked on 'his turf'. He took her hand confidently and spun her before joining the many other couples on the dancefloor.

He placed his hand on her back and took the stance to begin a waltz. His eyes met her's, he had to unmask this beauty before the night was over. He had to know her identity or it would literally kill him. The music began and he took the lead, but not too strongly that she felt inadequate. He moved lithely to the music, never missing a beat or a step. Her legs were wonderful, as he assumed they would be. He loved the feeling of moving as one to the music with her. "You are a wonderful dancer," he whispered in her hair, he lingered there for a moment too long, before straightening up to his previous stance.

As the music came to a close, he drew her in closer, so that his hand now rested on the small of her back. He couldn't talk to her here, it was too public and if Nate came back he was sure he would be displeased. His thoughts drifted towards the balcony, it was a warm night so she wouldn't be cold....he stopped himself there. Why should he be considering how she might feel? Wouldn't he want her too be cold so he could offer her his jacket or a protective arm around her shoulder? He shook his head just slightly, not enough for her notice.

When the band had stopped playing, he drew her perfect hand to his lips and gave her a kiss. "Thank-you," he mumured softly. Not letting go of her hand, he gave a gentle tug and began to lead her in the direction of the balcony. He opened the door and the cool breeze was a welcome change to the ballroom which had become rather stuffy.

He let go of her hand and went and leaned over the railing. "So would it be fair now since we've danced that I'm allowed to know your name? Oh mystery girl," He sent her his well reknowned smirk and then ran a hand through his hair. He sauntered towards her slowly, when he was close enough to reach her he tucked a stray curl behind her ear. "How is it that I've never come across you before?" he said staring at her. She looked somewhat familiar, he just couldn't place her. She wasn't in his social circle of friends and he was sure he wasn't a close family friend's daughter either. So who the hell was she?

[Jaiden Edwards]

(Sorry, Jaiden got a bit carried away )

Seriously? Those legs of hers? What legs!? She never thought her legs were glorious, but it appears he did and Jaiden felt her cheeks warm up a little. "Well then, I think this is one challenge I can accept." Not that I'm any good at dancing she thought internally.

Letting him lead the way, she followed his prompts and found that he was a much better dancer than she ever could be. Well, thank merlin for that, because the guys were the ones supposed to do all the leading around - all she had to do was follow... if she wanted. She noticed that this mysterious man was good at giving her some room to dance and she smiled up at him. It seemed that he was quite the gentleman.

They caught each other's eye and Jaiden couldn't look away from those intense eyes of his. She was sure she'd seen them around before, but she couldn't place where. Nevertheless, she would find out soon enough she supposed. For now, she would embrace the glorious feeling of staring into his eyes, whilst moving at one with this mysterious man; and enjoy being perhaps one of, if not the best dance couple on the floor. There was no doubt, she thought, that they made a striking couple. She with her blonde hair and pink dress, he with his dark hair and suit.

Jai closed her eyes when she felt him whisper into her hair and pull her closer and for just one moment she could feel herself being swept off her feet and into the sunset, to live happily ever after. She whispered a "Thank you, so are you" back and allowed him to pull her closer as the continued their dance. The warmth from his body was surrounding her and she found she enjoyed the smell of his aftershave.

All too soon the dance ended and Jaiden sighed at the loss of his hand from her back. She could have danced with him all night, her feet be damned. However, at the thought that a certain blonde might not have liked her dancing with someone else all night, Jaiden couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret at forgetting him so easily. After all, he was the first gentleman to show any affection towards her aside from that silly Seth from Hogwarts, who only asked her out multiple times most likely to make her another notch on his bedpost. She was so glad she hadn't run into him at all that night, for she knew they would have been bickering at each other and it would most likely have ruined her mood for the night.

Jaiden was drawn out of her inner thinking by the feel of soft lips on her hand and she sharply brought her gaze to her mysterious man in front of her. "Ohh," she gasped out. It felt so good. Then, as he tugged her away, Jaiden followed without hesitation. She wished for the life of her, that she was listening properly when he introduced himself, for she didn't want to ask him again what his name was; she felt it would be too rude. Hopefully, she would recognise his face if they pulled off their masks later in the night.

The cool air of the night hit her softly and she shivered at the change of temperature. It was really, quite beautiful outside with the clear sky and moonlight shining over the gardens.

Looking back at mystery man, she smirked at him when he asked her what her name was. "Yes, it would be fair to ask my name after that magnificent waltz," she said softly, whilst trying to ignore the strong pumping of her heart against her rib cage. His hand in her hair was driving her crazy and only brought back memories of the dance earlier. "But I am not feeling so giving at the moment and I am determined to tease you by making you wait a bit longer for it," she said with a smile on her face.

She boldly brought her hand up to his hand and stopped him from taking it away from her face. Growing shy, she looked away but let herself rest her cheek lightly into his hand. They were so soft and warm and Jaiden felt they were some of the best hands she ever had the pleasure to know.

At his last question, she brought her gaze up to his. "I don't know. Why is it I've never met you before," she said repeating his question back to him. "Surely, we must have met somewhere before. Our High Society circles are very small that everyone should know everyone else by now," she continued, not wanting to tell him that her circle was in fact not a circle at all but more like two person line.

[Seth Martiff]

The setting was perfect; the moonlit sky, the smell of honeysuckle and roses from the surrounding gardens and the beautiful woman standing before him. If this didn't win her over then he didn't know what would. At her teasing a low chuckle escaped his lips, she was entertaining. Combining that with her beauty made her even more irresistable. Perhaps he could add another notch to his bedpost before the night was over, this one would be a conquest he would remember for a long time. "I am not a patient man," he shot back at her, a wicked grin creeping onto his face.

As he began to withdraw his hand from her face, she surprised him by bringing hers to meet his. Such a bold movement, he was impressed. He cradled her cheek in his palm, savouring the feeling of her porcelain skin beneath his fingertips. He moved closer towards her, bringing his other hand up to cup her other cheek ever so gently. He felt his body against hers, all his senses were alive. His thumb gently stroked her lip as she answered his question. The words she spoke hardly registered in his head as he watched her lips. Oh how he wanted to feel those lips all over his body. "For now, it is not a question of how we met. We should be thankful that we just did," he mumured quietly. His face leaning down towards her.

He stared at her for a long moment before lowering his lips to hers. He started off softly, he did not want to scare her off. But before long he found it hard to control himself. He smoothly positioned her that her back was against a wall, the same position his previous conquest had been in earlier in the night. He encased her in his arms, one hand snaking around her waist, the other digging into her blonde curls, forcing their faces closer together. His withdrew his lips from hers and focused on her neck, he worked in a steady rhythm designed to make her lose control. But the truth of the matter was, he was already loosing control.

Her mask was in the way, he needed to see her face truly for who she was without the fascade. He withdrew his lips from her neck and gently pryed the mask from her face, his arm still wrapped tightly around her waist drawing her too him. As he looked at the face of the girl in his arms, his jaw dropped along with his dignity. His mask still hid his identity, but when she discovered who he was, that was it. She'd be out the door before he could say 'Merlin'. But the question at the forefront of his mind now, was what was he to do? Keep kissing her as nothing was wrong, even though he was kissing the girl he'd been a living hell too for the past four years? The idea definately sounded appealing.

He gawked at her for a moment, taking in the beauty that was Jaiden Edwards, bookworm extrordinare of Slytherin. He couldn't believe it was the same girl standing before him that he'd been pissing off for the last four years. She was a beauty, there was no other word for it. How long could he go on with the fascade of trying to convince her he was anyone other than Seth, the biggest prat of the school?

Not for long anyway, she would soon discover his true identity. He could have some fun with this. He closed his jaw, narrowed his eyes playfully and drew her into his arms once more. "Your even more beautiful without the mask...," her whispered into her ear as he nuzzled her neck. "Jaidy Jaidy..." he added at the last moment (his affectionate term for her that drove her up the wall). He then planted his lips firmly on hers. Oh she would be pissed, but it would be worth it!

[Jaiden Edwards]

Seeing that wicked grin on his face only made Jaiden's smile widen. "If you are not a patient man, then you have decided to tempt a patient woman." Which wasn't quite true; there were times when Jaiden wanted things her way immediately, but when it mattered she could be patient.

Feeling his other hand touch her face, Jaiden sucked in a deep breath. There was no denying what was going to happen and it was playing out like one of her many fantasies of how her first kiss would be like. His thumb was so soft against her lip and she almost couldn't finish what she was saying. Except for the beating of her heart, Jaiden's whole body went still as he started to lean in slowly. She stared at him and it felt like an eternity before he finally kissed her.

It was slow at first and was nothing like she had ever imagined. As he pushed her against the wall, her hands wrapped around his body and she pulled him closer. She loved the roughness of his suit against her bare arms and shoulders. Her mind was going haywire at the electricity of his kisses and they grew even crazier as he kissed his way down his neck. As far as first kisses go, she probably had the best one ever.

There was no denying, in Jai's mind that this mysterious guy was making her lose all the control she ever had, in a way she never thought possible. Her eyes shut and she got lost in the pleasure of his lips and the wall and the roughness of his suit against her skin, not realising that he pried her mask off.

But when he stopped, she opened her eyes and found him gawking at her. Was she doing something wrong? Was there something on her face? But before she could ask him if anything was wrong, his expression changed and he leaned in once again. Oh, thank Merlin, she thought. His kisses were divine and she didn't want them to stop. He calmed all her fears by telling her she was beautiful without her mask on and upon touching her face, she realised that she had been so far lost in the passion that her mask had indeed been pulled off.

But with his last two words, Jaiden froze.

Jaidy, Jaidy? There was only one person who ever called her that. As if the whole world was moving in slow motion, Jaiden reached for the man's mask and pulled it off as fast as she could, to find that her suspicions were right. It was Seth Martiff, the one guy who had been tormenting her for the past four years all because she denied him a kiss and a shag. Mind you, she wasn't that nice to him either but that was besides the point.

As Seth's lips landed on hers again, she grew pissed. Without thinking, she slapped his face and pushed him away as hard as she could so she could run to the other side of the balcony to get some air.

"Oh dear merlin, what just happened," Jaiden muttered to herself whilst trying to get some air. But she still wasn't calming down. Turning on Seth, still really quite pissed, she started a tirade against him. "What in Merlin's name do you think you're doing!? Stealing my first kiss like that. And second for the matter," she almost shouted at him. "And I can't believe I enjoyed it either," she muttered to herself. Putting her hand on her temple and rubbing it furiously, she paced back and forth on the balcony. She suddenly turned on Seth again and started poking him in the chest. "And why did you kiss me a second time, when you clearly knew who I was?!"

She breathed in and out trying to calm down. The one thing that was bothering her was that she enjoyed the kiss. Immensely. And she knew that had the potential to turn her world upside down and inside out.

[Seth Martiff]

Her whole body went rigid against his after he had uttered those two unforgiving words. He knew what was coming; a whole lot of yelling, possibly a slap and then more moaning as he kissed her again. He didn't try to stop her as she pulled his mask from his face, it was bound to happen sooner or later. He smirked at the shock that covered her face, it actually turned him on even more if that was possible. As soon as he'd captured her lips again, he knew he had a slap or punch coming his way. His suspicions were soon confirmed when her palm collided with his face. With a shove, which really didn't put distance between them whatsoever, she ran to the other side of the balcony. Well at least she didn't run away completely! he thought to himself.

The rant was coming. He could see the anger rising up from within her. She was so pissed, but probably as confused as he was too. One second they were snogging til death do them part, the next she's slapping him. A very quick turn of events in Seth's opinion, which he was still trying to wrap his mind around. He had actually kissed Jaidy Jaidy and enjoyed every minute of it. His mind drifted back to the early days of their so called 'relationship', where he had actually dreamed about what those lips would feel like on his. What it would feel like to run his hands through her hair? Too touch her perfect skin.....he stopped himself there. He hadn't had thoughts like this about Jaiden Edwards of all people for a very, very long time, and he wasn't about to let them resurface now. No, he was going to forget about them and never speak a word of them to anyone. ((Pupperteer....yeh right!))

She turned and faced him, he leaned lazily against the balcony railing as she ranted at him. When she said 'first kiss', he felt a twinge of guilt run through him. He hadn't known it was her first kiss and if he had, he wouldn't have taken it. Merlin, he couldn't even remember his first shag let alone kiss for that matter. Maybe he really was a man-whore....anyway. After her little tyraid, she muttured something about enjoying it. He couldn't believe his ears, she'd actually admitted it! Oh he could hold this against her for years.

After she had finished her questioning and yelling he yawned slowly. He had all the time in the world. Plus he was trying to gather his thoughts, not that she should know that. She had enjoyed kissing him. He had immensely enjoyed kissing her. So far he couldn't see what the problem was, until he remember the history they shared. It was his job, no role to make this girls life a near living hell! He was suppose to torment her, put butterbeer in her bag so it leaked all over her books, change her shampoo so it turned her hair purple, put a toad in her bed, ask her out a dozen times a day...that was his job description. It did not include dancing the waltz with her, thinking she's one of the most divine creatures he's ever seen and snogging her senseless on a balcony! No, that definately was not in his job desciption. But he was beginning to consider putting it in there.

When she poked him he grabbed her hand and held it to him and his smirk only widened. Oh she was a raving lunatic who had just kissed the one person who was her worst nightmare. He'd probably be the same if he hadn't realised who she was first. "First of all, how was I meant to know it was your first kiss?" he said to her, entwining his fingers through hers. "I didn't even know it was you until five minutes ago," he said soflty and brought her fingers to his kips, kissing each of them.

His plan was too tease her until she lost it and he was pretty sure he was getting close to that point. He was just as confused as she was but he just wasn't thinking about it. He would face his feelings later when he had time to sort through the events of tonight, but for now, he was going play with her.

"You enjoyed kissing me....don't even try to deny it Jaidy Jaidy," he mumured, his face mere inches from hers. "You're just going to have to face the fact that you just kissed the boy you've been denying for four years and loved evey....." he kissed her softly, "....minute" he kissed her again, "....of it" he finished kissing those succulent lips once more.

He didn't really want to answer her question as to why he continued to kiss her when he knew who she was, but he knew her too well to know she wouldn't let it slide. "I continued to kiss you because you're a good snogger suprisingly," he said chuckling, "For a first timer I must say I'm impressed....with a little more practice with me, you'll be amazing," he laughed and winked at her.

Before he could stop himself, he'd wrapped his arm around her waist again. "Up for round three?" he whispered against her lips as kissed her pulse point.

[Jaiden Edwards]

It was infuriating to Jaiden to see Seth stand there so lazily. It was always like this. Every time he did something to piss her off, he knew exactly which buttons to press of hers to make her go off like a cracker. And he was the only one who could do it too. With everyone else, she always managed to maintain her calm demeanour that a Slytherin was supposed to show. But with him, he could set her off so easily, such as yawning at her. Huffing, she continued with her tirade.

But when he grabbed her fingers, she stopped halfway. Wha-at?, Jaiden thought suddenly. Her whole mind was becoming a mess of confusing thoughts over what just happened and his holding of her hand was making it crazier. At his question, she glared at him, whilst trying to ignore the feeling of her hand back in his. “You weren’t meant to know and I wasn’t about to go telling some stranger they would be my first. I thought it would ruin the moment,” Jaiden said. “And that, is beside the point,” she said in references to his answer about not knowing it was her. But she wasn’t really thinking straight, nor trying to be smart at that moment. His kisses on her fingers were really distracting her.

As he called her Jaidy Jaidy again, she could only half-heartedly glare at him only because his face was so close to hers. His kisses made her lightheaded and even more confused about the whole situation. As soon as he stopped, she pulled slightly away from him, but kept her hand in his. She didn’t want to face the fact that she enjoyed the kiss. She wasn’t even supposed to have any fact that she kissed a boy she’d been denying for four years. But alas, there was that fact and all she could do at that moment was deal with it as best as she could.

“Yes, I guess you could say that,” she said in reply. “You kissed me and there’s no denying it. You know me well enough to know that if I didn’t enjoy it you would have been on the receiving end of my hex. I guess I’m no longer any different to any other girl you know then, now that you’ve successfully conquered these lips.”

She felt a twinge of sadness at that thought. She always enjoyed denying Seth because it meant she was different to the other girls she knew at Hogwarts. Pretty much most, if not all had snogged Seth or vice versa and done more, whilst she was one of the few if not the only one Seth knew that had denied him of either of that. And she had always prided herself on being different to the other girls Seth knew, although now that she thought about it, she never knew why. She guessed it was because, aside from some of the more horrid pranks, that she enjoyed bantering with Seth and having a relationship with him that was different to what he was used to.

Sighing at those thoughts, she looked up at Seth when he said she was a good snogger and she could only snort. As pleased as she was that she kissed well for a first time kisser, said by none other than the playboy of Slytherin himself, she couldn’t help but roll her eyes at his egotistical comment.

Her anger had somewhat diminished and although she was still confused, she thought that it was just time to live in the moment for now. “You? Improving my skill? You wish Martiff,” she said but with a smile on her face, “I think it will be my superior natural skills that will be able to teach you a thing or two.” A glint was in her eye and she could feel a bit of normality coming back.

As his hands wrapped themselves around her waist, Jaiden knew she couldn’t deny herself of his drugging kisses. Even though they were supposed to be banter enemies or something like that, she could work it out all later. Instead of replying, she only grabbed his head and pulled his glorious lips to hers, away from what she was discovering to be her weak point on her neck that drove her wild. Her lips may have been pure at the start of the night but they most definitely wouldn't end up pure by the end.

[Seth Martiff]

He did not miss the mischievious glint in her eye and he was rather glad their bantering would be kept to a minimum tonight. His lips had much better things to do than throw harmful words at Jaidy Jaidy. No tonight his only concern was that he never wanted his lips to be parted from hers. Tonight she was not the bookworm who roamed around Hogwarts in her own little world half the time, no tonight she was a woman whose beauty was beyond compare. He loved the way she got worked up over things, he really could push her buttons. She was sexy when she was yelling at him, all he wanted to do was cover her mouth with his and keep it there forever.

At the mention of her being no different from every other girl he'd snogged, he pulled back slightly. How he wanted to tell her how untrue that statement was, but he didn't correct her. He didn't even know what to say. He merely shrugged the comment off as if he hadn't heard it, when in fact it affected him more than she would ever know. Jaiden had always been one of the only few girls who'd ever denied him, whilst this had annoyed him to no end, it had also given them a certain level of respect in his books.

Seth knew he was a bit of a man-whore, who had a reputation for shagging girls and dropping them faster than a case of bricks. He had a new girl almsot weekly, which he had loved. He lived for the attention and the status it gave him, but at the back of his mind there had always been something missing. The truth of the matter was, Seth had had very few fully functioning relationships. Most of the 'relationships' he had had with girls consisted of shagging in numerous broom closets, lots of tears on her part at seeing him with other women and definately a few slaps at the end. He'd had probably two real girlfriends who he'd more than just a physical relationship with.

When he thought about his life like this, it did seem rather depressing. Whilst Seth was living every guys dream, he had become a lot of girls nightmares. He hadn't ever looked at it this way before and quickly dissolved the thoughts as quickly as they had come. His mind focused on being here right now with Jaiden. How sweet her name sounded, it was only then he realised he'd never said her name out loud to her. He always referred to her as Jaidy Jaidy, Bookworm, Librarian and other various names he'd created for her. But he'd never called her Jaiden, it wasn't something he thought he'd do tonight though, but then again he'd done a lot of things tonight he hadn't planned on.

At her comment about her superior skills he chuckled quietly. "Well then we'd better get a move on. I need all the teaching you can give me," he whispered, his lips almost touching hers but not yet, no there would be time for that later. As he wrapped his arms around her, he didn't know whether she'd pull away or not. He hoped she would stay encased in his arms, but he wouldn't stop her if she chose too. Instead of pulling away she shocked him by pulling his head down to hers, her lips to his. She was getting bolder, he'd give her that. For a first time snogger, she was uncomparable.

His lips didn't leave hers for what felt like an eternity, before he returned to the pulse point on her neck once more. His hands roamed her body freely, propriety had been shoved down the toilet long ago. He roughly pushed her up against the wall again, he needed to feel her skin on his, he shifted so he could remove his suit jacket, it was in the way. His lips roamed her bare shoulder blades, not an inch of skin was left untouched by his kisses.

He shoved his hand further into her hair, crushing her face to his even harder, his hands ran down her spin, coming to rest snuggly upon her buttocks. He groaned, how had not tasted this woman before? How could he have waited so long and not realised what was right in front of him? He threw these thoughts away, totally engrossed in Jaiden.

Things were getting pretty heated, he knew for both their sakes it would be no good for them to be found in this position, in this kind of embrace. All their limbs were entwined, they couldn't be closer to each other physically if they tried. He released her lips and took a deep breath, "I could do this all night...." he said smiling. It was a genuine smile, not a smirk or grin, a smile. He hoped she understood how much it meant for him to give her one.

He was about to continue where he had left off when he heard the door to balcony open. He stiffened for a moment, he didn't want Jaiden to be seen like this, in this position. Her against a wall, hair ruffled and his suit jacket cast aside on the ground behind them. He knew it wasn't a good sight. He didn't turn around immediately, he was just gathering his thoughts, trying to find something that didn't begin with. "We were just talking...."

He began to turn around and then he heard his name gasped, "Seth," Before him stood Bridgette, his latest conquest. She was a pretty girl in a way, her long blonde hair fell to her tiny waist in cascading curls. But compared to Jaiden, she held no power over him. He sent her a smirk. "Bridgette...." he began. He'd been in this position before, it wasn't a new thing for girls to discover him kissing other girls. He wasn't one for being subtle at all.

Bridgette placed her hands on her hips and strutted up to him, he heels clacking on the cobblestones. Oh this was bad, she was pissed. But Seth was more concerned about Jaiden than anything. She knew his reputation, but she hadn't ever experience being in the middle of it. She'd never had to deal with the ridicule that comes from being one of Seth's conquests and the truth was he didn't really want her to have to deal with it.

"Who the hell is she?" Bridgette snapped at him. "Bridgette...Jaiden..." he said simply. loving the way her name rolled off his tongue. "Get away from him," she almost screamed at Jaiden, grabbing Seth's arm. She tried in vain to pull him away from her but Seth stayed put. "I'm not going anywhere with you," he stated, roughly pushing Bridgette's hand from his arm. "I've lost interest in you Bridgette, can't you see that? You weren't good enough for me, get it through your head!" He knew he was being harsh, but he had to to get her off his back.

"But I thought we had something," she said tears pouring down her face. "You and every other girl," he muttured. "Bridgette, I'm occupied. So just piss off," he spat at her before returning his attention to Jaiden. "Sorry about that," he smirked, "Where were we..." he trailed off nuzzling her neck again.

[Nathaniel Evens]

Nate’s elation was still at the forefront of his mind. He’d met a beautiful creature, danced with her and then promptly reconnected with his childhood friend. He didn’t think the night could get any better. No, Nate thought, it could get better. He could have the opportunity to steal a kiss or two from Jaiden. The thought propelled him through the dimly light corridors of his home in ardent search of her.

Keeping to the outskirts of the ball Nate was attempting to avoid people’s attention, he was not formally attired at this time, with his dinner jacket disregarded, his tie loosened and his hair ruffled he looked positively devilish. Many of the young witches were eying him appreciatively, his lack of dress far from garnering disapproval only seemed to gain him more admirers. His plan to stay unnoticed was failing miserably.

After several minutes had passed Nate’s elation was wearing down, he had yet to spy the pretty little wildflower named Jaiden. Taking a glass of champagne from the fountain he decided to take a stroll outside on the large castle veranda. One hand casually resting in his pocket the other around his flute he strolled outside and gazed up at the stars. After a few minutes of silence he heard muffled voices, and what sounded like... moaning.

Nate frowned, some crazed teenage couple was clearly having snogging session; he generally disapproved of public affection, it was degrading and crass. He nearly laughed at the thought of his best friend Seth, who was probably at this moment shacked up with some trashy witch snapping her panties off before you could say ‘fuck Merlin’.

Nate swigged his champagne, finishing it off and began to head back to the ball. While passing one of the other veranda exits he suddenly found himself crashing into something bright and pink. 

“Oh, I do beg your pardon,” he said not recognising at first who the individual was; clearly it was a woman, he could hear her heavy breathing and fell the soft pressure of her skin against his. Gently righting her he gazed into the face of the exact person he’d been looking for.

[Jaiden Edwards]

As Seth started ravishing her body, Jaiden lost more, if not all of her mind to the wild passion she felt. She could feel his hands roaming all over her body and she let out a little whimper at how good it felt. If she knew how this felt earlier in her life, then maybe she should have given into Seth’s demands. Who cares about her pride? But alas, as it was she could do nothing more than give into Seth’s hungry mouth.

As he took his jacket off, Jaiden felt she had to do something with her hands, so she placed one in his hair and one on his waist and pulled him closer. She felt like her body needed him to continue what she was doing or she would explode. Seventeen years of never being touched and all of a sudden, this. It really could drive one crazy.

At the back of her mind, Jaiden hoped she wasn’t doing anything wrong, but by the actions of Seth, she had a feeling that what she was doing was good enough for Mr. Play Boy. The fact that she was snogging like crazy with the Slytherin Playboy bothered her but she pushed the thought away. She’d sort those facts out later. Her leg had the urge to wrap itself around Seth and she did so not caring that her dress might get ruined. Her whole body was going up in flames and she could feel herself getting lightheaded from all the kissing. Thankfully, he pulled away and let her breath for a bit.

At his comment and his genuine smile – one that she’d only seen once before – she stroked his face and smiled back. She knew his smiles were rarely given and she felt like the only girl he ever had in his life at that moment. Of course, that was all the fairytales talking but Jaiden was too far out of her mind to think straight. “Well, there’s nothing stopping us from doing this all night.” As she felt him coming in closer again, Jaiden’s grin turned into a mischievous smile, however the moment was interrupted by someone coming outside.

Oh dear Merlin, Jaiden thought, If they’re not out here for a genuine reason, I’ll hex their arse to the moon and back. Feeling Seth block her sight from whoever was coming out, she couldn’t help but feel he was hiding her identity and possibly reputation. But before she could fully compute that thought, a high pitched voice said ‘Seth’ and Jaiden’s attention went straight to that voice.

She let go of Seth and moved her head around so she could see who it was and almost wished that she hadn’t. It was a leggy blonde who looked gorgeous. Before she could register anything else, said blonde – apparently called Bridgette – walked closer and closer to them and she could feel a cold dread wash over her. Now that they had stopped attacking each other with their mouths for more than a minute, Jaiden was slowly coming back to her senses. She knew that Seth was a play boy and that he had many, many conquests but she didn’t want to acknowledge that fact tonight.

But it seemed the more Bridgette talked, the less Jaiden could do to avoid that fact. Jaiden watched in growing detachment as Bridgette screamed at her to get away from Seth, with Seth replying he wasn’t. As she saw the tears pouring down Bridgette’s face, a slow realisation came over Jaiden. Who was she kidding, to think that she was someone special to Seth? She would just be another conquest and she would curse herself for it forever. And she was right, when he muttered You and every other girl. She was the every other girl. There was no denying that any girl to Seth would always be the every other girl. As Seth tried to kiss her again, Jaiden thought of the tears from Bridgette and realised she didn’t want to be hurt in the same way.

Pissed off, she kicked Seth in the abdomen and slapped him in the face. “You bastard,” she said in a cold voice. Jaiden bent down to pick her mask up and straighten out her clothes. “I should have known better. I should have realised that I would be nothing more than another conquest to you. Just like Bridgette was to you, even though she was a right bitch to me,” she said, glaring coldly at the crying form of the leggy blonde. “Goodbye Seth. I hope you rot in Azkaban.”

Growing more angry with herself and, she couldn’t believe it, upset, Jaiden threw in one final slap for good measure and ran away as fast as she could. She didn’t care where she was going; she just had to get out of this stuffy place. Oh how she wish Signe was there to comfort her. She might have even stopped this whole disaster from happening.

Not noticing where she was going, Jaiden ran smack bang into another form and found herself ready to glare at the person; only to find it was Nathanial she had run into. Her face grew horrified that he found her like this. For merlin’s sake, she hoped that Seth didn’t come running after her only to find her in his best friends arm’s. It would only make her night worse.

“Oh, Na – Nathaniel. I’m so sorry I didn’t see you there,” she said as calmly as she could despite the fact that she was angry and wanted to cry. “I’m sorry, but I have to go. I hope you had a wonderful night and I’ll see you at my Summer Garden Party I’m sure. Uhm, bye,” Jaiden said quickly, hoping that her goodbye was good enough for his societal standards. And with that, Jaiden ran outside the ballroom to get her coat and apparate back into the warmth of her bedroom, wishing that Signe was not away on holidays with her family at the moment. She really needed her best friend there to comfort her. Or what’s even better, she wished her mother or father or both were there. Sobbing into her pillow, Jaiden fell asleep still fully dressed, all the while clutching her mother’s ring and necklace.

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