Sitting in the hall ((Harmony))

[jess4ever]

Rachel wondered through the empty halls, admiring her shadow across the floor. She spun around, smiling, just thinking about things. She thought about Richard, Patrica, even Rayne. Stopping in the middle of the hall, Rachel leant against the wall. It had been such a surreal short space of time. She had come to grips with something awful, and even begun to have sympathy for her parents. It had been one mistake, and she had punished them for seven years. Of course, it had been a major mistake that had changed the entire course of her life, and she hadn't forgiven them, but she had realised that hating them had only harmed herself.

Humming, she sat down on the cold floor. Following CP's lead, she took out a notebook and began to write down everything she felt. It was strangely liberating, and she felt warm. Suddenly, she heard a pair of footsteps in the distance. Getting to her feet clumsily, her book fell to the floor. As she bent to pick it up, she saw a pair of feet coming towards her.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony was bored. Finished homework lay neatly in piles on the floor. It was much too dark to go outside, or fly around on her broomstick. Every single book had been read. And the boredom was beginning to annoy her as she sat on her bed alone, with only Dori, her little black cat, to accompany her. But she was sleeping contentedly on Harmony’s pillow, without a care in the world. Sighing, Harmony slowly got to her feet, gave a final glance round at the dormitory, and turned to leave. She decided she’d go on a walk around the castle, perhaps see if anyone else was around. As she strolled slowly, humming softly to herself, a thought suddenly occurred to her. She had been meaning to exercise her ballet steps for a while now. Goodness, she was out of practice. Glancing around in case other people were around, and seeing nobody within range, Harmony began to do the odd move and step as she continued to sidle down the dark corridors, glad to be able to stretch her legs, though slightly annoyed she hadn’t brought her ballet shoes. They were a lot easier to move in than her black leather school ones.

Suddenly, as Harmony made her way gradually down the corridor, humming a catchy tune as she danced, wondering if she was doing her footwork correctly, she heard a scuffling of feet coming from round the corner, and heard a dull thud as an object dropped to the stone floor. It appeared to be a notebook, as the said item fell only a couple of feet away from Harmony. Ceasing her ballet at once, she jogged to the notebook lying sprawled on the floor, and picked it up, turning it over to see who it belonged to. The name “Rachel Mason, S3” was scrawled neatly on the front, and with a jolt, Harmony blinked repeatedly as the name held a familiar ring to it. Suddenly, she noticed a presence in front of her, and looking up, saw a rather familiar girl bearing down, dark hair framing her face. Stammering with fright, Harmony quickly stuck out her hand with the book, casting her eyes low as she apologised quietly, “I-I’m sorry… This is yours, right?”

[jess4ever]

Just as Rachel's fingers were about to graze the cover when another girl picked it up for her. Looking up, she thought she recognised the girl from somewhere, but couldn't recall her name or from where. However, from the ballet steps she had just been doing, Rachel could tell she was good. Maybe she had met her at a competition?
"Um...yeah, thanks," she said, still trying to place the girl. Was it Rebecca Clifford from that performance last year? She looked a bit like her, except for the nose. Rebecca's nose filled up her entire face. Then it clicked.
"Hey, you're the girl I met in the hall a little while ago, aren't you?" Rachel asked, pointing absentmindedly at her. She was a younger student, but looked friendly, albeit a bit scared. Rachel flashed a friendly grin, as she took the book from her hands. Passing it from one hand to the other, an awkward moment passed.

"So I take you do ballet? Sorry, I just noticed you doing some steps before. I dance too," she said, with a smile. Rachel hoped she wasn't scaring the poor girl, but she didn't know what to do or say.
"Um...how long have you been dancing for?" She asked quickly, searching for something to say.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony felt the book relieved off her hand, and timidly raised her head slightly to look at the older girl once more. She didn’t seem so mad, thankfully, and Harmony hoped she could leave immediately. However, she found her legs which had been practising such quick ballet steps seemed rooted to the ground, possibly in fright. She nodded sporadically as though her neck was stiff in answer to the girl’s question of their meeting the other night, and awkward silence passed between them. Harmony felt her thoughts running amok as she tried to place this familiar girl in her thoughts… Yes, she had met a Slytherin who looked very much like this girl with Richard one night a while ago, and Richard had called her Rachel. Harmony also remembered clearly how Richard had mentioned her during a chat they had had, and had stated her as his best friend.

Before Harmony’s contemplations could continue however, Rachel interrupted the drifting silence with a smile, asking her about ballet. Harmony recalled Richard telling her that his friend Rachel was a very good dancer, and her wonderment grew, though for the time being she clamped her mouth shut. Feeling slightly more comfortable in the girl’s presence because she was smiling, Harmony also gave a small smile and nodded in answer, “Yes, I do ballet… I like it very much. I’ve been doing it for eight years or so, since I was four.” Harmony almost grinned, the numbers popping automatically into her head, as she recollected her conversation with Richard on a very similar topic not so long ago. “Um… what about you?” Harmony gave a braver smile, knowing Rachel seemed to making an effort to be friendly, and thought she should do also. Remembering Richard, she decided to bring him up, seeing as asking couldn’t hurt; after all, she was pretty sure this was the same Rachel. “Um… I’m sorry, but do you know Patrica Dawsinson and Richard? I don’t know his surname, but he’s in Ravenclaw. He mentioned he had a friend called Rachel, who liked dancing, and said she was very good at it. I think Patrica’s in Slytherin, like you.”

((Rachel, if you like, you can try teach Harmony some steps; I doubt she’s as advanced as you, and it’ll be quite um… fun! A good topic to write about I guess! ))

[jess4ever]

Rachel felt her eyes widen as the girl spoke, unable to believe what she was saying.
"Are you kidding? I've been dancing since I was about that age too! Well, I was a bit younger, about three and a half, but still, that's amazing. Ballet and contemporary are my favourites; I love chereography. It's just so powerful," Rachel said enthusiastically. She had never met someone at Hogwarts who shared her love of dance yet, and couldn't believe her luck at meeting another ballet dancer, or all kinds. Rachel grinned. Maybe she and this girl could do some dance sometime. Although Rachel didn't know how skilled the Hufflepuff was, the steps she had been doing proved she was accomplished. And the fact that she had just said she'd been dancing since she was four was certainly a good indication of her ability.

Lost in thought, Rachel suddenly snapped back into reality when she heard Richard's name.
"Richard Dermont? Yeah, of course I know him. He's my best friend. Patrica too," Rachel said smiling, slightly confused. How did this girl know them? Rachel tried to think if CP or Trish had mentioned a younger Hufflepuff, and had a fuzzy memory of Patrica talking about meeting a young girl. She also remembered CP talking about meeting the same girl, but however hard she tried, she couldn't place the name. Rachel remembered it had something to do with music, but nothing more.
"Yeah, Trish is in Slytherin with me, and CP, I mean, Richard, sorry, is in Ravenclaw. Um...you're Trish's and Richard's friend, aren't you? The one Trish met a little while ago? Was it...Harmony?" Rachel asked slowly, hoping she had the right name.

((Yeah, that sounds good :-) ))

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony nodded along with the enthusiasm of the girl before her with a glad smile, rather surprised she'd found somebody who did ballet dancing too. "Well, ballet's my favourite. I'm not so good at contemporary, but I do enjoy it. I can't do any really fast dancing though, you know, hip hop, or whatever." Harmony laughed at her abilities, suddenly standing on tiptoe like she would have done in ballet, though she dropped to her feet again as her shoes just weren't right for doing ballet in, "I don't choreograph much..." Harmony cast her mind back to some "moves" she had made up with a wry grin, "Heh... I think if I worked with someone, I might be able to come up with something slightly interesting..."

A doubtful expression crossed over her face at the thought, and wondered whether Rachel would, well... dance with her. Having a dance buddy would be nice. It would give her more incentive to practice! Plus if they ever did end up doing it together, they could perhaps perform for Richard and Patrica, though the thought made Harmony want to hide in a hole and never show her face. There was a reason she had barely performed in front of people in shows and competitions. She was just too shy, much to the frustration of her sister, who always wanted the best for her.

So this was the same Rachel. Skipping over how she kept calling Richard "CP" with a happy smile, Harmony felt slightly less shy as she had promised Richard she'd talk to Rachel sometime if she ever met her, especially about dancing. "Yeah, I know Patrica and Richard. I told Richard I'd try and talk to you if I ever met you. This sure is a coincidence." Harmony laughed at how she'd manage to accidentally meet Patrica, Richard and Rachel in a row in just a few days, and smiled to herself. She didn't have many other friends (or acquaintainces, for that matter) outside of her house or year, and she was rather proud of being able to communicate with people older than her, who weren't even in her house, two of which were in Slytherin! Harmony never thought she'd become close to any of the Slytherins, not because she didn't like them, but mainly since they didn't like her.

"Oh!" Harmony gave an embarrassed apologetic cringe and spoke with a smile, "I'm sorry, how rude of me. I'm Harmony Chan, yes. I'm in Hufflepuff... obviously! Second year." She beamed as friendlily as she could, and did a little side step with a pleased grin, "My, it's been a long time since I danced properly."

[jess4ever]

"Hi Harmony, it's really great to finally put a face to the name," Rachel said, flashing a friendly grin as she stuck out her hand. Maybe she and Harmony could do some dancing sometime...it would certainly help her if she had someone who could comment on her peformance. That was the problem she found with all of her other friends. Since they knew nothing about the technical side of dancing, especially ballet, they usually thought her performances were great. But Rachel knew that if she was going to improve, especially now since she hadn't gone home this Christmas like she usually did to perform, and take some extra lessons, she would have to practice a lot with someone who knew what they were doing.

"Hey, and if you ever need a dance partner, I'm available anytime. It would be great to have someone to criticise my performance...and maybe we could even chereograph something together. That would be fun," Rachel said with an encouraging smile. Harmony and she had a lot in common, and Harmony seemed keen on the idea, but Rachel didn't want to assume anything. Especially since Harmony seemed so shy.
"But, of course, if you're too busy I understand completely," she said. Then, Rachel rolled her eyes.
"Ugh, with the amount of homework we've been getting, I doubt I'll have time to do anything," she said, giggling. Then, deciding that talking about dancing was a lot more interesting than talking about schoolwork, she quickly changed the subject back.

"So, what other types of dancing do you do? Personally, I love the fast dances, like tap and contemporary. I tried hip hop but it wasn't really me..." Rachel said, making a face. Although she hadn't been terrible, she definately wasn't as good at it as she was at the other dances. She just hadn't put the effort into it, like she did with ballet.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony returned the grin with her own as she shook Rachel's hand jovially. She sure was polite and nice, Harmony thought, glad she hadn't been bullied or teased yet, which had happened a few times. Thankfully Ari always seemed to know when there was trouble, and where too, and she kept Harmony on her feet, telling to be cautious of anyone and everyone. Harmony almost rolled her eyes at the thought of her paranoid and protective sister, and gave Rachel another smile and nodded enthusiastically at her mention of dancing together, "Sure, I'd love to dance with you. Plus I need someone to help me imrprove. Choreographing together sounds good too!" A beam lit up Harmony's face, thinking how lucky she was, and felt her feet tingle in response to her excitement. "Haha, I want to dance right now! I really do need to practice..."

"No, no, I'm not too busy. Homework is usually done in time." Harmony waved aside Rachel's comment, wanting her to understand she would definitely love to dance. She grinned with understanding as Rachel groaned about amounts of homework, and nodded sympathetically, "Yeah. Well, Professor Snape is really loading us, and recently Transfiguration has loads of work too..." Harmony made an unhappy face at the thought of the piles of finished homework by her bed, but she was glad she had finally finished everything for today. Spying the book still resting in Rachel's arms, she pointed at it curiously, "So, were you doing homework before?"

Hearing Rachel's question, Harmony's thoughts took a turn back to dance, and answered, pondering, "Well... this may sound strange, but I like ballroom dancing, like waltz and stuff. Although I'm much better at ballet and have been doing that longer, it's nice for a change now and again. I like tap and contemporary, but rarely do those in comparison to ballet." Harmony laughed good naturedly, "Well, ballet is pretty much my dance life's passion. I do others, but ballet will always come first."

[jess4ever]

"Ooh, I know what you mean. I'm sure my body feels like I've been neglecting it terribly lately," Rachel replied to Harmony's comment about wanting to dance now. She listened in silence as Harmony talked, amazed at how much they seemed to have in common. She nodded at the mention of ballroom.
"I can't say I've done much ballroom, but I have done the odd lesson here. Maybe you can show me some moves sometime. But as you say, ballet is definately top of the list. It's liberating...it's exciting...it's...probably boring you," she said, laughing.
"And I think chereographing together would be a really good idea; get the creative juices flowing. I haven't done a piece of my own for too long. You can help me get back into it." With a definite nod, Rachel did an impromptu twirl and smiled at Harmony.

Pulling her notebook closer to her, it wasn't until Harmony pointed to it that Rachel realised what she meant.
"Before? Oh no, I was actually following CP's lead - writing down everything. It's a good idea, it's a bit like dancing, actually. By now you're probably wondering if I can say anything without bringing up dancing," Rachel said, amused at her chattiness. She was definately trying to be more friendly, and nicer, but she usually reserved her extremely talkative self to CP or Trish, not virtual strangers. It must be a sign, Rachel thought, feeling really positive about the idea of finally having a partner.
"Do you write? Or are you strictly a dancer?" She asked, genuinely interested.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony nodded with consideration, hoping she and Rachel could, during perhaps on a weekend evening with nothing better to do, get together and do some dancing. It really was a good idea, as Harmony now felt she wanted to dance, and it was an excuse to get to know Rachel better too. At least now, when she was bored out of her wits and wanted to relax, she could find someone who would keep her company with her dancing. Harmony grinned with amusement at Rachel’s perfect twirl, admiring how she could do it even without her ballet shoes. She secretly missed the pale pink satin feel against her feet, the sensation of standing upright on tiptoes, the calming tones of the music floating around her as she danced.

Harmony laughed at Rachel’s words, “Don’t worry about it. You must really love dancing to always refer back to it. I’m not as avid a dancer as you, I guess… But I really, really do love to do it. I can’t say I’m amazing, but that doesn’t stop me from loving it.” Hearing Richard’s name, Harmony perked at the thought of him telling her about writing, and realised Rachel was doing the same thing Richard had been the day she had met him in the student lounge, “Me? Oh, like I said, I’m not strictly a dancer, but it’s my number one passion. I do like to write too, mainly because my cousin influenced me. She loves to read and write, and since I also like reading, she sort of… got me into it.” Harmony laughed as she remembered Aurora constantly pestering her to write some more of her stuff after discovering a short poem Harmony had left lying around by accident. Harmony didn’t write frequently, but after Aurora’s encouragement, she had realised it was very liberating and relaxing, and unlike her ballet, she could do it whenever, wherever, so she had started writing the odd poems and songs, sometimes even stories, when she was bored or tired. Recently she had even started keeping a diary, which Harmony felt she could write anything she wanted to without worrying what people thought of her, as the book itself had no of sense judgement!

“I remember Richard saying he likes to write too. You guys must be really good friends; he thinks very highly of you.” Harmony flashed a smile, “He’s very enthusiastic about writing, isn’t he? I’m afraid my writing isn’t so good though. I just do it now and again, maybe before I go to bed, or during lazy afternoons. Hey, if we do choreograph sometime, perhaps we can do it to one of my cousin’s songs? Aurora’s really musically talented, and she writes her own stuff. She’d love to do a song for us if you want. We can help compose the lyrics.” Harmony suggested earnestly, excitement arising within her at the idea.

[jess4ever]

Rachel nodded thoughtfully.
"That would be a really good idea, actually, to choreograph to your cousin's song. It would make it more ours, you know? Especially if we write the lyrics," she said, smiling broadly. It sounded like a fantastic idea. Instead of having to dance to the usual ballet song, where nothing felt new, they could do something completely fresh.
"And I'm sure you're better than you give yourself credit for," Rachel said, gesturing to Harmony. She didn't believe for a second that Harmony wasn't as good as she was, or was at least great at it. The steps she had been doing before weren't easy, but Rachel respected her modesty.

At Harmony's mention of Richard, Rachel smiled, thinking about him.
"Yeah, CP's the best," she said fondly. She thought about his passion for writing, and bit her lip.
"He definitely is passionate about writing, and is fantastic at it! Has he shown you any of his work? It's absolutely amazing," Rachel raved. CP had only shown her a few pieces, because he was so shy and self-conscious, but everything he had shown her was brilliant. The way he wrote gave you goosebumps, and Rachel couldn't get enough.
"Did you hear about Trish and Richard? They finally got their act together," she said, trying to smile. Why was she acting so weird about it?
"Yeah, it took me a while to get him convinced to ask her," she laughed raucously, knowing she sounded like an idiot.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony was extremely pleased Rachel was all for writing the lyrics of the song, and showed it with a wide grin, "Yeah, I know. We don't have to limit everything to dance, because we can widen into areas like writing... Even designing... like, um... our own costumes!" Harmony laughed at this, art reminding her of Ari, "Though I can't design or draw very well." she gave a lopsided smile, making her feet do a little wriggle as if indicating them, "I'm more of a dance person with a bit of writing thrown in... though my stuff isn't very good."

Harmony blushed, flustered, at Rachel's compliment, and gave a small, shy smile, "Well... I don't really know how good I am. I've never participated in competitions, nor did I perform on stage. I've always been quite a shy person... My teacher got really frustrated with me, but all the same, she was great, and was very patient with my shyness. She taught me a lot, and made me love ballet." Harmony gave a fond grin, thinking of the woman who she barely saw anymore, a sad feeling rising in her chest, "She always said I had talent, and it was lovely, but I never really took it in. I do dancing for fun, so never bothered with how good I am at it."

Harmony shook her head in response about Richard, "Nope... Richard has never shown me his work before, as we've only actually met once. Our conversation was cut short too, because Patrica wandered in, and I had to go due to classes." she recalled the incident with a smile, wondering if she'd get the chance to talk to Richard again. "I'm sure he's very good though." Harmony believed Rachel utterly. Usually when someone as committed and enthusiastic in something as Richard was with writing, they were very good at it, because of all the effort and hard work they put in. Harmony believed that love of something drives people on to do it.

A bright smile broke onto Harmony's face at the mention of the coupling of Richard and Patrica. "Oh yeah, Richard told me that day. I'm happy for them. I'm glad he finally found the guts. I'd never be able to do that!" Harmony laughed good naturedly, knowing full well if she was to ever be with someone, they'd definitely have to make the first move! However, her grin withdrew slightly as she watched Rachel looking strained, and a frown began to crease in worry upon Harmony's forehead. "Is... something wrong, Rachel?"

[jess4ever]

Rachel listened to Harmony, smiling occassionally, her mind somewhere else. When Harmony finished, Rachel jerked her head up and widened her eyes.
"Oh, nothing. I was just...oh, you know thinking. Just how great it is about Patrica and Richard. I'm really happy for them" she said, smiling brightly. Then she frowned. Had she already said that?

Glancing up at Harmony, she sighed, deflated. This was awful. Rachel always knew herself to be a bad friend, simply because in the past she didn't really care. However, now she was really trying and she still couldn't get it right. CP and Patrica were her closest friends, and she felt like she was betraying them. Her hair falling into her eyes, Rachel pushed it back impatiently. She wondered briefly if she should confide in Harmony. If she talked about it, maybe it would go away. Harmony could convince her it was just petty jealousy or possessiveness, and Rachel could deal with it. Harmony seemed like a good friend, and looked like she could definately keep what Rachel said to herself. That was important, Rachel thought wryly. If Patrica knew, she wouldn't forgive her.

After pausing for a few minutes, Rachel sighed again, and looked up at Harmony in defeat.
"Harmony, can you keep a secret?"

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony's frown deepened as she watched Rachel's expressions and emotional eyes, wondering worriedly if she'd hurt her feelings somehow. Although Harmony was a smart, attentive girl mostly, she was pretty dense and naive about some things, and had no idea what Rachel was thinking of. Harmony felt Rachel's sadness obviously emanating from her tense body, although about what, Harmony was clueless. Wanting Rachel to confide in her so she could try to help her, Harmony stopped herself to let Rachel take her time and think it out. She couldn't be nosy, nor should she rush Rachel. After all, they had only just met, and she couldn't expect Rachel to just trust her like that. Waiting patiently, she longed for an answer with a comforting smile.

Gazing curiously up at the older girl, Harmony slowly nodded her head reassuringly as Rachel asked her whether or not she could keep a secret, and with wonderment, pondered on what Rachel could possibly want to tell her. Maybe it was something to do with Patrica and Richard...? Perhaps there was a problem with their relationship? That would be terrible... Harmony thought it would be a shame if they were going through tough times. Or maybe Rachel was involved with something else somehow? Head spinning with possiblities, Harmony swiftly snuffed them out of her mind with disgust. Well, whatever it was, however shocking the news may be, Harmony would try and keep the secret as best she could. Harmony was good at keeping things to herself; she wasn't a blabbermouth, and knew gossiping would only lead to someone else finding out and getting hurt. Harmony wasn't secretive, just careful and quiet, and pretty non-judgemental of others, and that suited her just fine. She just hoped Rachel believed, or knew that enough to tell her what was on her mind.

[jess4ever]

Rachel felt tears well in her eyes, and a lump forming in her throat. For some reason she trusted Harmony, and she wanted to just get rid of this guilt. Clearing her throat, she lowered her eyes and sighed again.
"I feel awful. This wasn't meant to happen," she began, inhaling deeply to stop her from crying. Rachel didn't mean to be so pathetic, but she couldn't help it. Pausing, she licked her lips nervously.

"Please, promise me you won't judge me on this. I don't know what I'm meant to do and it'll killing me, Harmony," she paused briefly again, and then hurridly continued in one breath, "Even though Richard's Patrica's, I really like him. I really, really do. And every time we're hanging out together, I just want him to forget everything about her, and just want to be with me too. I feel so terrible, and I know I'm hurting them both, but I can't help it. What do I do, Harmony? I know I can't tell them, obviously, but how can I stop? It's meant to be Richard and Patrica, not Richard and Rachel," she finished sadly.
"Ugh, what do I do, Harmony? Am I just overreacting? Is this normal?" She asked, biting her lip. Maybe this wasn't the worst thing in the world. Perhaps other friends, perfectly good friends, faced this as well. Rachel looked at Harmony desperately.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony stood in muted silence as she carefully watched Rachel slowly break down and tell her what was worrying her so much. A part of her was surprised, as she hadn't been expecting such a revelation, but she could completely understand Rachel's dilemma, and where she was coming from. This was a situation no one wanted to be in, for sure. Who could help who they fell for in life? In Rachel's case, she liked her best friend's boyfriend, who is also one of her best friends. What to do? Harmony could feel Rachel's turmoil genuinely, and sent an extremely sympathetic smile towards her, knowing the situation was difficult.

"Well..." Harmony began softly after Rachel's confession had tumbled out rather messily, gathering her thoughts to try and help her new friend. She genuinely wanted to aid Rachel any way she could, but she didn't want to give her the wrong advice! "Firstly... I would never judge anyone. Believe me. Anyway... There's nothing you can do now that you do like Richard." Harmony spoke gently, looking Rachel straight in the eye, wanting to be honest and straightforward with her, "And it's not your fault you fell for him in the first place. That's just how love works. Have you ever heard that song by Kelly Clarkson? You probably don't like her music... But it was the theme song of the film "Love Actually", and it's called "The Trouble With Love Is". There's this one line in it... What is it again...?"

Taking a short breath and thinking about whether or not she could sing this in tune or not, Harmony murmured one significant line of the song to Rachel, trying to make her understand that she wasn't the only one in the world who'd felt like this before; she wasn't the only one who had fallen for somebody else's guy.

"The trouble with love is... It doesn't care how fast you fall. And you can't refuse the call... See, you got no say at all..."

Harmony trailed off with a slight flush, rather embarrassed of her not-so-good singing skills. Anyhow, she'd done it, and hopefully had gotten her point across. "You can't blame yourself, Rachel, for liking Richard. It's perfectly normal. You are NOT a bad person, so please don't tell yourself that. At the end of the day, you were just unlucky to have fallen for someone else's guy." Pausing one moment for much needed breath and time to think, Harmony continued with a straight face, trying to convey her emotions and thoughts in easily-understood words. "I understand you feel really bad... I probably would too. But you're a good friend, Rachel. You feel terrible about it, and that shows how much you care, how much you didn't want this to happen. If Patrica was a good friend to you, she would understand and forgive you.

"At the end of the day, Rach... You can't turn back. The more you try and stay away from Richard and perhaps Patrica, the more you'll hurt yourself, and the more you'll hurt him because he wouldn't understand what he did to deserve your avoiding him. From the sounds of it, you have it pretty bad for him, and I know he values you so much as a friend. I'm not trying to give you false hope, but... there's also a possibility that he likes you too." Harmony gave a helpless shrug with a lopsided smile, "What I'm trying to say is, things aren't set in stone. You continue fancying him and don't beret yourself about it! It's obvious you've tried to stop already, but can't. Maybe one day things will change. Maybe one day you'll meet someone else. Who knows, perhaps even Richard will have broken up with Patrica by then. Maybe, you never know. You're still young... well, so am I, actually! Harmony laughed good naturedly, scratching her head.

"I can't say don't worry about it, because I'm sure you'll keep worrying about it unless the situation is finally resolved. But you're not going to tell either of them, so... That means you're going to be stuck in one place. If you're going to stay still, then... you're going to have to live day by day liking him but doing nothing about it. But if so, don't keep on worrying about it. Just don't, because it's not illegal for people to fancy other people's boyfriends. To be selfish about it and want him for a while to themselves. That's perfectly normal, as long as you don't do anything about it.

"Maybe you should tell Patrica about it though." Harmony didn't want Rachel to look absolutely horrified at her piece of advice, and so continued swiftly, "Because you never know what might be happening on her side of things. Like I said, if she's a good friend, she'll tell you it's okay for you to like Richard as long as you don't make a move on him! It's quite obvious even if Patrica told you not to see him, Richard would insist why without a doubt. I'm sure you two are best friends. Although it would be awkward, perhaps you'll have a laugh about it even... You never know. Maybe telling Richard would be an idea too... You've probably thought this through already yourself. But if you're scared of him not being friends with you anymore because you like him, then don't worry. He'd never do that. I don't know the guy well, but I'm sure he would never do that." Harmony gave a reassuring smile, "He's a nice guy. It may be awkward if he knows, but nothing more. If you don't tell him, well... nothing happens and you're both still good friends. I know it's difficult to love someone and they talk to you a lot and only have eyes for someone else. It's... painful..."

Harmony trailed off again, mind gone blank at what to say. "Whoops..." She cringed inwardly, finally realising she had totally gone off topic, had completely rambled on about the whole entire situation like she was a counsellor. Goodness, Harmony barely knew if she was making any sense to Rachel, and stared at the other girl in case she had made her angry or even more worried and upset. Hoping this wasn't the case, Harmony fidgeted nervously with a lock of short hair, biting her lip softly as she smiled with a mumble, "I'm sorry... I totally went off track there... I'm sorry if I talked too much, but... I really hope I made sense to you and that my advice helps. I can't say I have any experience in these matters... But... that's the best I can do." Harmony flashed an apologetic grin through her anxiety. "I hope I helped... And I promise you on my... um... grave, that I will not tell anyone without your permission... Especially Patrica and Richard." Harmony laughed softly, glancing down at her toes with some anxiety. How had a conversation about dance gone to this? A small ironic smile almost made it to Harmony's lips, but she squashed it down to hear Rachel's reply to her long winded speech.

((I know I stuffed so much into one post, but... reply individually to each and every point if you want!!))

[jess4ever]

Rachel listened as Harmony finished her speech, and then grinned. Squealing, she lept forward and gave Harmony a bear hug that almost toppled her over, and laughed.
"Oh, Harmony, you have no idea how much better you made me feel. Thankyou," she said, sighing happily. Rachel felt the tension ease from her shoulders, and another grin crossed her face. She didn't feel so awful anymore; maybe it would be OK.

Pausing briefly, she bit her lip. Should she tell Patrica? Rachel thought about it. What Harmony said made sense, that Patrica would more than likely forgive her. It may even be a funny story sometime soon. But she knew without a doubt she wouldn't tell Richard. Even though she knew her best friend wouldn't hold it against her, or care, and would still love her anyway, she didnt' want to make things awkward between him and his girlfriend.
"I think I might tell Trish," she began slowly, thinking carefully, "but I won't tell Richard. I don't want to make it harder for him," she continued, before smiling again.
"I feel so, so much better," Rachel said in relief, glancing at Harmony in gratitude.
"Thankyou, Harmony. I think I would've collapsed if it wasn't for you," she said honestly, smiling gratefully.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Expecting Rachel to disagree with her randomly long speech, Harmony scuffled her toes nervously whilst awaiting with a little dread for a response. However, the second year almost let out a loud yelp of surprise as Rachel encased her in a tight grateful hug, Harmony almost falling over from the sudden weight on her. Laughing happily, Harmony smiled widely, glad to be able to be of assistance, and hugged the older girl in return. She felt relieved really that she hadn’t upset Rachel more, and that her words had had the desired effect. She had been worried she had given the wrong advice, but knew she had tried her best. Letting out a breath she didn’t know she had been holding for a while now, Harmony grinned at the sight of a less tense Rachel. “No problem. Just happy I could say something worthwhile.” She listened intently as Rachel thoughtfully told her about her plans to confess to Patrica about her secret, but definitely not Richard. Harmony nodded understandingly during her talk with a reassuring smile, “Yeah… telling Patrica is probably a good idea. Good luck with that.” Encouraging Rachel, Harmony’s thoughts strayed to Richard, the main man of the discussion, knowing how hard it would be for the two of them if he knew Rachel liked him, but though he liked her as a friend and didn’t want to hurt her feelings, since Harmony guessed Richard was a caring person, he was ultimately going out with her best friend.

Why did life have to be so unfair? Why was love so complicated? Harmony desperately hoped she would never be in Rachel’s position, or Richard’s and Patrica’s, for that matter. It would be terribly complicated, and Harmony didn’t like the thought of it at all. Love just sounded exhausted, and Harmony pondered naively about whether or not the effort was worth it at the end of the day. Thank goodness she wasn’t involved in such teenage affairs yet; for now, she would be content to be a bystander, giving (or trying to give) some advice to those who needed it… Though Harmony would prefer to just comfort someone; after all, she barely had any experience when it came to love, and this funny thought brought a smile to her face. Why had Rachel confided in her again? Why had she even bothered giving advice she barely knew the meaning to? “Don’t tell Richard if you don’t want to.” Harmony began again, coming back into the conversation after a little short deliberation, “Maybe you’ll tell him one day.”

Waving Rachel’s thanks off with a fulfilled smile, Harmony merely said, “It was my pleasure. I just wish you good luck with everything else that happens. I’m so glad you feel better!” She did a little victory-like dance on the spot, grinning from ear to ear, genuinely pleased and feeling a satisfied, a warm feeling rising in her heart. Helping others, being able to give them a little something, a little light through all the misery and darkness, made everything seem worthwhile at the end of the day. She, Harmony Chan, had managed to make a difference to someone’s life. And that thought stuck in her mind, and would do so for the rest of that day. “Reach for something when there’s nothing left.” Harmony thought with a bright grin, the same statement echoing repeatedly in her mind. Nope, nothing could beat her. Not if she believed she could beat her problems first. And she was sure Rachel would be okay. She was strong, wilful… Yup, no problem there whatsoever.

“So…” Harmony began, now wondering shyly what would happen next, “Um… what do you want to do now?” she cracked a sorry grin, as if to say she had no idea, and wanted Rachel to just… say something. Harmony’s happy mind had gone blank with satisfaction, and this caused her to let out a joyous peal of laughter, shaking her hair out of her eyes in the process, “I’m sorry, I don’t know how to follow up that little conversation! I just don’t know what to talk about now we’ve have such a deep heart to heart!”

[jess4ever]

Rachel listened to Harmony, nodded occassionally, grinning contentedly. At least she had a plan now, she felt like she was in control again. The most unnerving part of having feelings for her best friend was that she had no control over it, and felt helpless, and that was the one thing that Rachel hated. She needed to feel control over the situation. And that control had been restored, and she felt so much better.

She laughed when Harmony finished speaking, and tried to think of a new topic of conversation.
"Yes, I'm sorry for pouring that all out to you! You probably didn't wake up this morning and say, 'ooh, I hope Rachel Mason comes up to me and tells me all her personal problems'", she joked, grateful that Harmony had taken her little outburst in good humour.
"Well, we could always go back to the dancing," she said, smiling. Shaking her long hair out of her eyes, she thought back to what they were saying originally.
"Oh, right! So, when are you free to do a bit of chereography? We could write some lyrics or music first, if you want. I'm free whenever, so it's up to you," she said, smiling.

[Harmony Chan H6]

Harmony laughed off Rachel's comment about waking up, and nodded with a grin, "Don't worry about it. I enjoyed being able to listen and help, even though I barely knew what I was talking about!" Moving swiftly onto the choreography, Harmony mused for a short silence with a pondering expression, her eyes set on the ceiling, deep in thought. Her mind wandered to her amount of free time... which truthfully wasn't a lot. Frowning as Harmony remembered the tons of homework she had been receiving recently, she almost groaned aloud with irritation, despising having so many lessons. Well, hopefully her work load would lighten up sooner or later, and Harmony deserved a rest, didn't she? Nodding in affirmation, she decided firmly that she could sacrifice some time for dancing; after all, life did not merely contain just work, and more work. No, Harmony had to divide some of that time to her other hobbies, like Quidditch, which she had just signed up for Chaser, and dancing now. Sighing, Harmony plastered a smile on her face, though it was not forced. She was genuinely glad she was able to have a chance to practise her dance again. Yep, those toes were seriously inching to move once again.

Turning back to Rachel and resurfacing into reality out of her short reverie, Harmony cast a wider smile, and nodded enthusiastically, "Of course, I'd love to. How about next Sunday evening? Is that a good time for you? I don't have much to do anyway. Just homework... and more homework!" Harmony joked with a laugh and a roll of her eyes. "You'll be able to keep my worked up mind off that for a while! I'm sure I can bring Aurora along. We'll have to do the song first... And then we can choreograph the song first. Later we can choreograph the dance itself, and then practise it. Is that going to be okay with you?"