Everybody here wants you {Leo}

[Rachel Cohen R6]

The invitation was lying on her bed as Rachel crossed from one corner of her large bedroom to the other as she looked for essentials for her look tonight such as her pumps in that perfect shade of sea green the ones who matched her sea green Dior dress perfectly, and her earrings from her grandmother on her last birthday, and that lipstick she hadn’t seen in months. A muggle artist from the states was singing about being in love, but Rachel barely heard him. Instead she slipped her shoes on and applied the lipstick before going to her vanity mirror. She then looked at herself in the mirror as she put on her earrings. The girl in the mirror was wearing a dress that was strapless and it showed of her slightly pale skin, another bonus it hit right above the knee and folded under giving the dress more body and showing of her toned legs. Her brunette and wavy hair was up in a wispy bun, the reflection of Rachel smiled, it was perfection. She walked over to her bed and picked up the invitation. She had worked so hard on being a good girlfriend. Seriously on her best behaviour, but good behaviour was being tossed out the door with no plans of being let in. The logical side of her brain reminded her of the latest mess she made, but she told herself she was doing this for a friend. Rachel often lied to herself. Sometimes the truth was hard to hear. Before she was talked out of this she picked up her clutch, and turned off the light as she slipped out her bedroom with the last note of the song lingering in the now empty room.

She took the stairs slowly unsure of what her mother would say. These days Katherine was always surprising Rachel in ways she shouldn’t. Katherine was not the mother Rachel remembered from Christmas. She was secretive. Not at all like her daughter remembered her. Therefore Rachel wasn’t sure what her mother would say about the dress or the party. But it seemed she had nothing to worry about, her mother was on the phone with her business pad open, and a glass of wine beside her. She was speaking in rapid French probably about money. “Mom, I’m heading out.” Rachel called as she stepped out the door into the warm evening, her mother smiled at her daughter. Things were looking good. The car she had called for pulled up just as soon as Rachel met the street where her drive way ended. The door was opened for her by the driver and she stepped in gracefully. “To Noalan’s, and Oscar, we have one more stop after his house.” She pulled out the invitation and passed it to the man who had been driving her around since she could remember.

Oscar pulled up and Rachel stepped out of the car. She knocked on Noalan’s dad’s door. Bradley opened the door and he smiled glad to see Rachel. “Rachel, this is a pleasant surprise. You here to see Noalan?” He asked her. Rachel loved Mr. Bounds he was always kind to her, never questioned Nole’s plans or ideas. He was a supportive father. “Yes sir. Where is your son?” After Bradley told her that Nole was sitting in the den Rachel walked in and stepped in between Nole and the Television. He glanced up, his face slipped from a look of boredom to astonishment, finishing off with a smirk. “Awe, Rachel, You didn’t have to dress up for me.” He told her. Rachel laughed sarcastically. “Get off your butt and get dressed. We are attending a party.” Rachel told him. He raised an eyebrow. “Elaine will be there.” She played her final card and it work. He raced up the stairs. Love blinded people. Twenty minutes Noalan came down the stairs, He was hearing a black suit jacket over a white tee-shirt and dark jeans. He put covered his stunning green eyes with a pair of aviator glasses. “Ready?” He asked her. “I was born ready.” She responded taking the arm he offered her as they stepped outside into the night once more. “Good, we’ll be fashionably late.” Rachel said as they slid into the awaiting car. Oscar sped off taking them into another part off town.

Noalan held the door open for Rachel as they arrived. You first saw her heel then her leg, followed by her hand, finally the rest of her. It was a true Hollywood moment. Standing next to each other Noalan took a good look at the house they where about to walk into. Once glance and he looked over at Rachel. “This is-” He began. “I know, just remember Elaine will be there. He sighed. “I hate you.” He told her as they headed towards the front door, or towards the enemy in Noalan’s case. “You love me.” Rachel whispered as they walked in. They where meet with the expected scene. Some members of the party quite tipsy, others drunk, while others where heading in the direction Rachel guessed the bar as at. People where dancing, other’s where more intimate. Grin and bear, she knew Noalan was thinking this to himself. And she was absolutely right. But she was pleased with herself; she smirked as they bumped into a couple by accident. She watched as they guys eyes fell on her. “Eat your heart out Mister Keane.” She told him. And so the evening begins.

[Leo Keane G6]

Tonight was the night of Leo’s party. His father was out of town for the next couple of weeks, which meant that he would be left alone to do anything he pleased. It was typical of some teenagers to throw parties without their parent’s approval; serving alcohol, smashing things, and the loud music that disturbs neighbors. Well, Leo wouldn’t’ get caught since his father didn’t care what his son did. Scott Keane wasn’t the finest father, but he did care about his son. Some would say Leo is an exact copy of his father. They wore both stubborn, loved woman, and were hated by many people. These behaviors were the reason for Leo’s parents. Vanessa had enough of her husband’s habits leaving him. Well now she found another man whom Leo was to meet soon. That man too divorced his wife which made them a perfect match. There was also anther surprise to her new marriage. Leo was to have a step-brother someone his own age. His mother was nagging Leo into meeting the boy over lunch later on in the summer. That would be amusing. Even though Leo didn’t want to go, he was only doing it for his mother. Even though Kelsey was strict, trying to change her son into a better man, he still loved his mother. However, that wasn’t working so well. Leo’s mother actually wanted him to stay with her until his father came back from his business trip. He didn’t because he was old enough to stay at the mansion by himself. Leo was sixteen for Merlin’s sakes. Anyway the maids would be there too. Plus, how could Leo Keane turn down the opportunity to throw a party. After all, Leo was good at throwing wild parties.

The thoughts of his parents were causing Leo’s head to ache. Rubbing his temples Leo grabbed a glass of scotch on the counter by his bed, taking a long sip. Another craze that Leo Keane was good at was getting drunk. He was allowed a glass before the party anyway. It loosened him up. “Everything is set, Mr. Keane,” alleged the soft voice of the party planner at the other end of his room. Leo stared at the blonde woman nodding slowly as he grabbed his white jacket from the red suede chair by the mini bar in his room. “The lights are as you said, the dance floor cleared, and the mini bar open.” Smiling, Leo smoothed out the creases of his jacket fixing the color to his purple dress shirt. Most men wouldn’t be caught dead wearing a purple shirt, but that was what made Leo different. He wasn’t afraid of what other males said about him. They would just have to get over the fact that Leo was a superior dresser than they were. Smoothing out his hair, Leo turned on his heels striding slowly towards the young woman. His brown eyes looked over her until stopping on her blue eyes. She had to be in her late twenties but yet became this successful party planner. Leo came up with the ideas; she bought and set up the stuff. She was like a little assistant to him. Plus she was totally checking him out. Touching her cheek softly, Leo smiled, “I’ll make sure my father pays you. Thank you.” The woman smiled nodding as she left his bedroom, her heels clanking on the marble floor.

“Leo, there you are! Your guests are here,” Elaine breathlessly spoke gliding over towards him. Leo eyed the younger girl with a slow nod of approval. She was wearing a black sequin dress that hit to about her mid-thigh puffing out slightly at the bottom/ Leo was surprised at how she was dressed. She never wore anything like that before. Pushing those thoughts to the back of his mind, Leo took Elaine’s hand kissing it before heading down the stairs. “You look marvelous, Elaine,” he whispered in her ear feeling her turn her head away from him slightly. She always did that. Well, Leo didn’t care; he just hoped that his plan would work. Rachel would have to be jealous that he was dating her best friend. Plus the look on Noalan face would be priceless. Before they could greet the guests, they bumped into another couple, a familiar voice standing out. Leo stared at Rachel keeping his cool as he looked over her. She looked beautiful in her dress. Turning his attention onto the guy next to her, Leo turned back onto Rachel. What was Nole doing here? He didn’t invite him. “Well, Rachel. It’s nice to see you again. May I say you’re looking quite nice,” Leo greeted with a nod not even acknowledging Noalan next to her. “Hey guys,” Elaine chirped in taking her arm away from Leo’s elbow. He didn’t take his eyes off Rachel though. “Mind if I steal Rachel from you for a while, Nole? You can take Elaine.”

[Rachel Cohen R6]

Rachel felt the warmth of Noalan’s arm, the one that was escorting her into this night that was filled with much potential. It must have seemed odd for many people that Rachel arrived with this Gryffindor instead of her usual date. There had been rumors that something had happened between her and AJ, and that was why they had been very careful around each other the last few weeks of school. The rumors, as most usual do, got out of hand. Some claimed she had cheated. Others said he did. They said Rachel had been caught with Noalan, while others said they swore they saw her with some guy in the lounge. Being who she was she just laughed them off, as did AJ. But there was something dark and very unfunny about the whole ordeal. Her, and her date for the evening would only feed fuel to the fire. She was sure she would be the talk of the evening. She could deal with that. Besides what else was new? She lived in the spotlight, but it was very hard to make a mistake while everyone was watching you. You weren’t forgiven. Noalan tried to smile at his best friend as they entered the household of Leo Keane. Tried, but failed. It was true that Leo and Nole didn’t exactly like each other. This wasn’t his idea of comfort, he would have preferred to stay at home and watch TV. Rachel sent Noalan an extra warm smile, he would need it, it seemed to calm is nerves up until he was face to face with the Keane boy himself. As they causally bumped into the couple Rachel felt Noalan tense up. His eyes fell on Elaine, they didn’t leave her. Rachel sensed he was torn between being extremely happy and completely disgusted. There was longing in those green eyes of his, and the only girl he saw was the one on Leo Keane’s arm. Rachel too felt shocked that the two where there together. She figured that when Elaine would be there she would be with someone else, not him. She continued to smile sarcastically not letting Leo or anyone else see what she was thinking on the inside. She could almost feel Noalan’s heart beating wildly, as if it would jump out of his chest. He was head over heals that it was almost sad. Rachel’s own heart was beating a tad bit harder then usual as well. She watched Leo’s eyes fall on her, a familiar pleased feeling settled in her stomach.

Then he spoke. When she was trying to be a better girlfriend on the occasion that her thoughts would slip into those uncharted territories she would remember things from the day everything had changed. She remembered things vaguely, like she could almost remember how he smelt, or the slight touching, it was more of the way she felt that she remembered. The things that had been spoken between them. Her mind gave his slow, seductive voice no justice. On hearing his voice she felt all those feelings she had been suppressing come rushing back. It was overwhelming, almost too much to keep in. But her smile never faded. She was slightly annoyed at the effect he was having on her. “Well, I’d like to say it’s nice to see you as well Leo, but I’m trying to be as truthful as possible.” Rachel said smirking. No one was going to make her feel like he was, and get away with it. Noalan’s eyes may have been on someone rather then his date, but that was alright. She had Leo’s full attention, the way his eyes where still on her. Out of the blue her smirk turned kinder, more inviting, but she changed it back to being sly. Silently she convinced herself she was in love with AJ, that Leo had no effect on her. She could be so convincing when she needed to be. “You clean up good as well Keane, oh; I’m sure you’re quite familiar with my date, Noalan.” Rachel replied. At the mention of his name Noalan tore his eyes away from Elaine and then looked at Leo. He nodded briskly in acknowledgement. Rachel continued to smile.

Elaine then joined in. “Hey Elaine, I love your dress.” Rachel finally greeted her friend. Noalan smiled shyly. It crept silently on his face. “Hey Elaine, fancy meeting you here. Hello Keane.” Noalan’s tone to Elaine was sweet, and friendly, but was cold as ice to Leo. Some things never changed. Rachel was completely shocked when Leo used the nickname Nole, instead of Bounds. “Why don’t you ask Rachel whether she wants to dance with you?” Noalan responded. “I am not an object to be passed from one person to another.” Rachel said for herself, her eyes challenging anyone wanting to defy her. Noalan didn’t know how much Rachel wanted to go with Leo, but wouldn’t allow herself. Noalan didn’t know anything that happened between them. All Nole knew was he was taking Elaine’s hand and was leading her to the dance floor. “I know how much you hate to dance, but it won’t kill you.” He whispered to her. Leaving Rachel and Leo alone.

{I'm sorry. It's really short, not my best work. Longer response next time.}

[Leo Keane G6]

Leo couldn’t help but take pride in the stunned look Noalan was giving them. He was half tempted to say something to the Gryffindor to push him over the edge, but Leo kepr his mouth shut. He didn’t feel like creating a scene at his own party. How would that make the hostess look? Though, everyone that showed up knew that Leo loved to cause trouble. It was part of his charm. Scooting closer to Elaine, Leo touched her arm gently that was still connected to his elbow. Oh, how he loved playing this little mind trick. Glancing over at Rachel, Leo felt himself pull in her trance. It was the look of her sarcastic smile that baffled him; like she knew the game that he was playing. How could she? Rachel was the prize at the end, but Leo feared in the end he might become too attached. Well it seemed to be working on Noalan, but what about Rachel? Feeling Elaine take her arm back, Leo didn’t flinch as he returned the same coy smile Rachel was flashing at him. Was she going to be a good girlfriend today? “Ouch, Rachel that hurt. I thought you would be overjoyed to see me unlike Bounds next to you,” Leo began, his voice smooth, holding a tint of satisfaction in the low pitch. Leo watched Rachel lose her guard, her smile lightening to a flicker but returned to that same cold smirk before speaking again. Leo nodded slowly looking over at the boy next to her who finally was pulled out from his trance. “I think you out of all people know that Bounds and I are…what you call it? Maybe en-” Leo was continuing until he felt a sharp pain near his ribs. Elaine was glaring at him, her blue eyes challenging him to finish his words. “Thank you, Rachel. I love your dress too, is it Dior?” she asked causing Leo to roll his eyes lightly. Surprisingly, Leo knew what they were talking about. He was one of those stupid males that knew nothing of the female race.

When Noalan finally spoke, Leo turned his attention on the boy. His voice was soft towards the girl on Leo’s right, but cold towards him. Raising his eyebrow, Leo tried hard to control his mouth, but it all just came out. “Oh, Noalan, your greeting is all to kind almost as noticeable as the droll almost coming from your mouth looking at my date.” Offering a smirk, Leo turned his attention back on Rachel watching her eyes as Nole offered her to him. That was kind of him. Leo thought he would have to steal her from him during the course of the night. Not even caring when Noalan took Elaine’s hand to lead her away, Leo smiled slightly before reaching out to grab Rachel’s hand gently. His large hand led her toward the bar in the far corner of the room, where a middle-aged man worked behind the counter. “I prefer to drink before any kind of dancing,” he spoke in her ear as his arm helped her sit down in the swinging bar stools. Taking a seat himself, Leo propped his elbows on the counter noticing the bartender acknowledge him. “You’re usual Mr. Keane and what about your date?” Before Rachel could even order Leo chipped in. “Yes, James. Two scotches.” Watching as the man retreated, Leo glanced over toward Rachel with the same smooth smile. “I hope you don’t mind that I ordered for you. You seem like you can handle a little scotch, after all you were the one who told me you were a party girl.”

Leo’s fingers tapped on the clear glass of the bar table as his brown eyes scanned the room. There were at least dozens of teenagers making out while others danced. “Where is your boyfriend, Rachel? I would assume he would accompany you here tonight since it is my party.” The drinks were placed in front of the two and Leo gratefully took a hold of his crystal cup. “Unless he sent his best friend to come spy on you because he couldn’t make it,” Leo urged more swinging the liquid around in the glass. He looked from the liquor to stare at Leo and Elaine who were both dancing to the rap song that was playing. Leo loved the song, but that wasn’t the point. “Good thing he’s so smitten by Elaine to even keep a watchful eyes on us.” Smirking Leo took a long sip of his drink before staring into Rachel eyes again. “Unless you lied to him and he doesn’t know you’re here and if that were the case may I say you’re quite the trickster.”

[Rachel Cohen R6]

They say that two is company, but three’s a crowd. What does leave four as? I like to think it is the very definition of interesting. As in the case of Leo Keane’s party. The four people, including the host himself where standing together near the entrance of the party. Each person wanting to be there with some one other then their date, not that anyone really knew that. For teenagers they kept their secrets quite well. Then again it was almost required. You didn’t want your personal life to be tomorrow’s hottest gossip. But do we really always get what we want? Then again, sometimes we do. Rachel wasn’t surprised when Leo returned her smirk. It was usual behaviour between them. What continued to surprise her instead was actually seeing her friend and door mate as Leo’s date. This hardly made sense to Rachel. Elaine had told Rachel she was interested in someone. She figured that someone was Noalan after Valentine’s Day, but she would have never guessed it was Leo. Still she couldn’t blame her friend either. She could see the appeal; after all she had almost fallen for it herself, and she wanted to ask her friend why she didn’t tell her about these new developments. Yet, she kept her mouth shut and smiled instead noticing the subtle movements. The looks, Elaine removing her arm from Leo, Noalan’s nervousness. Rachel took it all in, she was sure she wouldn’t want to forget anything about this night. Her intuition was telling her something was going to happen, and Rachel had to agree with her gut this time. After all, as Noalan’s mom said; everything happened for a reason. Rachel laughed slightly. “It meant to hurt Leo. That’s what they mean by ‘cutting words.” Rachel told the Gryffindor boy her sarcastic smile playing on her pink lips. “Still, I’m sure Nole has his reasons to not be exactly thrilled to be in your presence as some.” It was the first time she acknowledged that Elaine was his date; she looked him in the eye. Her tone may have been teasing and the meaning of her words could have been taken in many ways, she was sure he would get the message, regardless of everything. Rachel couldn’t help but laugh. She couldn’t decide what was funnier, the casual way Leo brought up his and Nole’s problems, or the way Elaine made him shut up. “Ah, yes, I am well aware of your past.” Rachel told both Leo and her best friend who was once more looking at Elaine.

Rachel looked down at her dress as her best friend said something about it. “It is actually. You know, cuts like that look really flattering on you. You should where them more often.” Their conversation was sinking into something that would have taken place in their door room. Rachel smiled genuinely at that thought. Her door mates where like her family, like her sisters. They would have probably said more, but then it was Leo who spoke. His words where probably the very reason she knew her feelings, whatever they where, had no right to be there. She was Noalan’s best friend after all. The look in his eyes made Rachel want to step on Leo’s hand very hard with her heels. Nole was a big boy he could handle himself. “Well, if where going to play like that Keane, how about the way you’re looking at my date?” Nole said, he was wearing on of his winning smiles, he knew the subject would be dropped. Now Rachel wanted to hit Nole. What did he mean the way Leo was looking at her? He wasn’t looking at her differently, was he? As Nole exchanged her for Elaine, Rachel couldn’t help but feel a tad bit annoyed. She wasn’t sure how she wanted the evening to play out, but this was defiantly not it. Before she could object though Leo took a hold of her hand and led her away. She ignored the way her heart beat faster ‘all the excitement’ she told herself in her head. She ignored the fluttering in her stomach, “you’re just nervous about where this guy might be leading you’ she convinced herself. She didn’t even dare let herself think about how willing fully she went. She smiled at him. It was a real smile, no sign of a smirk. But it returned, as well as an eye roll. Of course he was leading her to the bar. Rachel was ready to let the words ‘Bloody Mary’ that where formed on the tip of her tongue to be spoken, but Leo ordered instead. A scotch, Rachel smiled slightly to herself.

“Don’t worry about me Leo. I can handle it.” Rachel told the boy with a smirk. Though she was having mixed feelings about it. She never really trusted herself with alcohol. If anything could bring the wall she built up, it was alcohol. Leo didn’t have to know that though. Looking out into the dancing space she thought about his previous comment. So they ended up spending the evening together. It was almost amusing how Rachel knew it would never occur to Nole that his Ravenclaw friend should not be left alone with Leo. He brought out the worst in her, after all. At his next question, Rachel was happy to see the arrival of the drinks. Keeping her eyes to her drink she picked up the glass and raised it to her lips letting some of the liquid slid down her throat, it put off answering. The taste of the alcohol made Rachel decide to change the subject. “My father used to say there is very little in this world better then a good glass of scotch. But I myself never favored it.” Rachel continued to stall. “I suppose AJ is at home.” Rachel told Leo with a smile. “You should never assume anything Leo, I’m sure I’ve told you this before.” She told him with a slight laugh. She met his eyes, her expression slightly annoyed. “Who would send their best friend into to spy? Plus, I’m sure he thinks he has nothing to worry about.” She told him, smiling cruelly at the last part. ‘But maybe he does.’ That part she thought to herself, and frowned at her thoughts, this was bad girlfriend behaviour. “You know, I think it’s cute that he likes her. I’ve never seen him fall for a girl like he’s fallen for Elaine, he’s even written her these lett- er, never mind.” Rachel almost had said letters; no one was supposed to know. She took another drink, glad to have a distraction. “I wouldn’t exactly call what I did was lie, he just … doesn’t know.” She told him simply.

[Leo Keane G6]

Inside, Leo was grinning. It was almost as if she were swimming in an ocean filled of his pride. Neither Rachel, nor Noalan knew about the Charity event that caused a ‘somewhat’ closeness between Elaine and himself. Well, it was all with the help of Bevin Banes, but the couple in front of him didn’t need to know that minor detail. He only had to show that he and this Ravenclaw was an item. Elaine wasn’t helping him much on that part. It was like something was holding her back. No, fret though. Leo could charm even the most stubborn girl. Who didn’t fall for Leo Keane? It would take a girl with a lot of security to resist his charm. However, Leo didn’t know that there were some girls that found him repulsive, but Leo didn’t care. Rachel and Leo were still smirking at each other appearing as if they were trying to have a contest of the coy. Neither side was backing down, or willing too. Leo would rather swallow his pride then to back down. Rachel would have to be first to put down her fronts. Hearing her laugh caused his eyes to roll just barely. It was barely noticeable unless you were right in front of his eyebrows. “Thank you, Rachel. Your words mean so much to me. Should I go lick my wounds?” he asked noticing that sarcastic smile slip across her soft lips. It made her brown eyes twinkle mischievously. Her words though caught him off guard as he tired to process each syllable in his head. Was she referring about Elaine’s distance to him? Maybe he should have chosen a girl who would be clingier. Someone who was either desperately seeking his attention, or Bevin just to make a point. Leo would just have to work on that. “And what about you, Rachel? Your words may be harsh, but are you somewhat delighted to be in my presence?” Leo smirked after this deciding it was best to not say anything more in front of the enemy. That was, if Noalan was actually paying attention to Rachel and his conversation. If so, then he would most definitely expect Rachel to deny her feelings of wanting to be in Leo’s presence. All he had to do was give Elaine off to Noalan and lord knows what would happen. But the sinners to be were the two battling with smirking smiles.

Rachel then moved on to once again compliment Elaine’s dress. It was nice, and the other girl was right, she needed to wear more cuts like she was. Shrugging, Leo kept to himself, but his eyes were still looking over Rachel. She really did look radiant in her dress. Normally Leo would forget about a girl’s beauty knowing that someone better would come along, but he was holding onto this one thought. He was taken back from his thoughts when he heard Noalan’s voice coming next to Rachel. Leo rolled his head moving his head at the same moment. It was his annoyance move, and certainly Bounds was getting on his nerve. “Playing with the big boys now, Bounds? Yes, I am looking at Rachel, but I’m at least appreciating your date when you haven’t even given her a glance. Though, I’m sure almost every guy in this room is looking at both of our dates.” Nodding, Leo gave Noalan a questioning look, his brown eyes glaring into his green defying a challenge. Before things could get out of hand Elaine stepped forward glaring at both of the boys. “Rachel and I shouldn’t even consider being with you two tonight. In fact we should leave, or as Leo put it, find some other guys who won’t fight the rest of the night because Merlin knows you two will,” she stated clearly looking back and forth between Leo and Noalan. Leo smirked turning his attention back on Rachel noticing she seemed somewhat taken back. Normally it was Rachel breaking up the bashing between the three, and it looked liked Elaine was going to take charge tonight. “Please, Leo. Just show one ounce of respect.” Leo smirked shrugging before noticing Noalan had already gone off with his date. He wasn’t fazed by Elaine’s words, but secretly, Leo knew she was only trying to protect Noalan. She still had that pathetic crush on him for sure.

Taking sip of his scotch, Leo stared down into the white marble bare top, noticing the lights reflecting off from the surface. Rachel didn’t mind the scotch but looked hesitant out of the corner of his eye to drink. Did she think he would take advantage of her? Well, Leo did that to girls, but he wasn’t a creep type of guy. She stated a quote from her father about scotch that made a small smile flicker on Leo’s fine lips. “Your father is right. It’s a shame you don’t love such a wonderful drink. What do you prefer? A Martini?” he asked looking over his shoulder with a sly look. She was putting off answering her questions. That only meant she was hiding something. Leo laughed at her next words. It was a rich laughter coming from his stomach and out his throat. “Who ever said I was assuming? Maybe I was right.” Grinning, Leo took another sip of his drink enjoying the burn that slide down his throat. He remembered taking a sip of his first scotch. Leo didn’t like it at first, but as the rounds came, the more he loved it. He wasn’t an alcoholic, just loved drinking during any special occasion. It was his party though. Leo was allowed to do as he wished. “Nothing to worry about? Does that mean you have some sort of fear being with me?” he asked coolly his brown eyes piercing hers softly. They held that softness for a while until hardening just slightly at the mention of Nole and Elaine. “I think it’s sick. If he likes her so much, why hold back?” he asked staring at the two in the distance. Leo wasn’t about to tell Rachel about the morning charity event instance between him and Elaine. That was top secret. “It’s a lie, Rachel. Good thing he won’t figure out, right?” he asked nodding toward the bar tender, his smirk challenging her. “I would like another scotch…and whatever the lady chooses.”

[Rachel Cohen R6]

Rachel wasn’t sure if it was possible to be attracted and disgusted by someone at the same time. But the odds where leaning towards the positive. She looked Leo Keane over. She wanted to given into his gaze, but on the other hand she wanted to reach over and just hit him. In Cartoons you see the angel version of your self appear on your right shoulder, and then your devil shows up on your left ready to debate your current situation and give you a headache. Rachel could almost imagine them arriving at that moment. Her good girl was probably dressed in a white eyelet dress, and her bad girl wearing something that would make her mother blush and that took a lot. ‘Just smile, greet him, and move one. You’re here to be a good friend for Noalan.’ Her angel told her. ‘Nole isn’t looking at you the way Leo is. It wouldn’t hurt to just give in once in awhile. Isn’t Noalan the guy who tells you to act out of character anyway?’ Her devil responded. Her mind continued to play the tennis match in her head. Slowly, but surely the devil won. ‘You don’t like him remember?’ That was the last thing she thought to herself before making everything just stop in her head. It was too much. “Please Leo, have some dignity.” She told him her smirk more present then ever. All these words where just a cover for what they really wanted to say. No matter how much she told herself she felt nothing for him, there was a sick feeling in her stomach seeing him with Elaine. ‘Jealous much?’ Her devil asked her. Her eyes grew slightly wider at the idea, but she returned to her look of feigned coyness. Could she actually be jealous seeing him with another girl? Why and how was that possible? Some how she knew that she could tease, and make small talk, but there was a bigger issue on her hands. Like the fact the words, ‘I almost kissed you, why are you here with her.’ Where dangerously close from slipping from her mouth. But if Rachel knew anything it was control. All it took was a small lie. Her new mantra, ‘You are not attracted to him.’ She was almost glad for his next comment; it was a test for her. She greeted it with a laugh. “Why would I be delighted to see you?” She asked him. It might have been a bit cruel, but she wasn’t the one there with Elaine, now was she?

The longer the four where together, the meaner the got to each other. What they needed was a one on one over drinks, or maybe a dance, but they would all figure that out later. Rachel let Leo and Nole bicker a bit longer, at least what they where saying held so merit, and it gave her time to sort her thoughts, and push all thought of Leo aside. Yet somehow the found their way back to the player in her head, and played over and over again. “Let me ask you something Keane, why is that my date has you captivated in a way it seems yours is to not be able to.” Nole asked innocently. Rachel looked at her best friend, what was he even thinking? She had never seen him act this way towards any other company. Before Rachel got a chance to step and do what she did, and that was make peace, Elaine was already there. Rachel was slightly shocked, and mildly impressed, her friend had handled the situation beautifully. “I agree with Elaine.” Rachel said gaining her voice back. “In fact, a see a couple standing at the bar from here, and Leo was so kind to mention that everybody here wants us, I’d like to go test that theory.” Directing the last part at Leo himself, Rachel arched her brows challenging him to make a move. Still, Rachel watched as Noalan led Elaine away from the group whispering in her ear, and making her laugh. She smiled sadly realizing she how much she wanted to be in a situation as such. “So I guess it’s just you and me Ace.” Rachel told Leo, taking a step forward. This was just seconds before he swept her away to the bar. She had a thought about what she almost said to him, and almost laughed at the immaturity of it. He was a big boy. Why did she even care what he did, and who he did it with? It was none of her business; she planned on keeping it that way.

They where sitting at the bar, drinks in their hands. It could have been anyone’s bar story. She had been stalling, and it was working so far. His comment left her temped to say ‘My father is always right.’ But she didn’t want to make the evening about him. She did however roll her eyes at the cliché of his guess on what she would have preferred. “Martini?” She asked him, giving a sarcastic laugh. “No, I prefer a vodka tonic, heavy on the vodka; a Bloody Mary isn’t all too bad either.” She told him knowing only people who lived like they did would discuss alcohol preferences this freely. “Well, you assumed he would be here with me tonight. Yet, he is not. Are you ever going to learn your lesson Leo?” She asked him, sharing a smile with him that was a rare for them. When did she ever smile something real at him? She had to laugh at what he said next. “Every girl should fear being with you.” She told him like it was something they where taught since they where children, and as far as she was concerned, maybe it should have been. She took another drink from her glass as she listened to him talk bitterly about Nole and Elaine. “If he likes her so much, why hold back?’ She repeated with a smile. “Ever considered taking your own advice?” She asked him devilishly, she wasn’t sure where that even came from. It wasn’t the alcohol, since she hadn’t had all that much to drink yet. She looked him directly in the eyes, but broke the stare and returned her attention to her drink. She noticed it was empty. “I didn’t lie; he never asked me what I was doing tonight, nor did I say I was coming here.” She told Leo. She wasn’t going to let him call her a liar. The bar tender arrived at Leo’s beckoning. “You know … I think I’ll have another.” She told him shooting him a brilliant smile.

[Leo Keane G6]

Leo was an expert at hiding his feelings and that was what he was doing; pulling a mask on over his face so no one would see his emotions. Leo hated being vulnerable. It showed weakness. People took advantage of that. Plus, Leo didn’t want anyone to fix him. He was who he was: a womanizing, partying drunk who liked to play mind games. Deep down though, Leo was wounded by Rachel’s words. How could she say that she wasn’t delighted to see him? Rachel was the one who came onto him in the Student Lounge. They had almost kissed if it wasn’t for her boyfriend intruding on their intimate state. She was probably talking herself out of liking Leo. Most girls who tried to stay loyal to their significant other always did that. Though, Rachel was different. Her past of cheating will come into play with her relationship. It would end like it always did: Rachel cheating on AJ with Leo. He wanted it that way. Leo didn’t mind hiding what they had, but it still hurt him inside when she pretended like she didn’t care. Because deep inside, Leo knew she did, and very deep in the depth of Leo Keane, he did too, but he wasn’t going to admit it. Not even to his closet friends. Not even to Rachel. They would have to pry it out of him to be able to know how he felt.

Instead, Leo just smirked at Rachel fixing his jacket so it laid flat across his body. “Then I wonder what made you accept that invitation I sent you to come here,” he asked, his brown eyes staring into hers, challenging her to speak the truth. Leo didn’t know how Rachel would respond, and he was quite eager to know. His thoughts soon seized when Noalan’s spoke. So, this Gryffindor knew how to strike back. Noalan would usually ignore Leo’s comments, or try to act civil, but he wasn’t tonight. Leo grinned to himself glancing over his shoulder at Elaine. She tore her eyes off of seventh year, staring blindly into his face. Noalan most obvious did care about this Ravenclaw and for what reasons Leo didn’t understand. He could use this to his full advantage. Smirking back over at the old boy, Leo opened his mouth, but Elaine’s words stopped him from continuing the banter. She was finally speaking up for herself. Rachel seemed surprised by this, but followed along with her friend’s threat.

Rolling his eyes at her smirk, Leo glanced over in the direction which she had pointed. Those guys? They probably couldn’t handle Rachel, or Elaine. They were two girls who required a lot of attention. Jealously would probably start to kick in Leo Keane. It made him sick to watch Rachel around with AJ, but she with a random guy would cause him to throw up in disgust. Noalan then finally took Elaine away whispering in her ear. He ignored the girl’s soft laughter, turning his attention on Rachel. There was that look of longing in her eyes watching them. Somehow, someway, Leo was moved by it. If AJ were here would that pain go away? Or, could Leo help her. Either way, she was jolted from her trance following closely behind him as they made their way to the bar.

Holding the glass in his hands, Leo swished the liquid around continuously, his brown eyes never leaving Rachel’s face. She appeared shock at his guess of her favorite drink, but Rachel did look like a Martini sipping kind of girl. When she told him her favorite drinks, Leo grinned staring down into his cup of scotch. “I wouldn’t expect you to be a hardcore drinker, Rachel,” he stated bringing his lips to the rim of the crystal, feeling the drink slowly wash into his mouth. Swallowing, Leo set the cup down on the table turning his gaze back on the girl. “Should we test your drinking skills? Yours against mine? It would be a fun game.” Smirking at the thought, he sat comfortably in the stool, resting his elbows on the black counter top. It was still as clean as a whistle, reflecting people’s images on the marble surface. Rachel’s next words however caused Leo to laugh. She was certainly getting quite protective over the fact that she didn’t invite AJ with her. She didn’t have to be prissy about it though. “Rachel, you really don’t know me at all do you?” he began, a small smirk playing on the corners of his lips. “I’m not the lessons learned kind of guy. When a person does such a thing, they change. I don’t want to change who I am.” Nodding slowly, Leo pick the glass back up, holding it securely in the palm of his hands. “You don’t have to be defensive. Just thought you would have invited your boyfriend. I have been wrong before.” Bringing the glass back to his mouth again, Leo watched a smile tug on Rachel’s lips. It wasn’t a fake, forced one she usually gave him, but a genuinely, real grin. What had caused her to smile in such a way? Baffled slightly, Leo chuckled lightly at her remark on girls being afraid of him.

“Now don’t you remember what I said in the Student Lounge? Girls know my reputation, yet they threw themselves at me. You can’t resist a bad boy.” Chugging the rest of his drink down, Leo pushed the crystal back, indicating for the bar tender to refill. He wasn’t feeling the affects of the alcohol, but after a couple more glasses, he would become loose. “Is that why you couldn’t resist trying to kiss me in the Student Lounge? And don’t lie this time Cohen. Your boy friend’s best friend isn’t around to hear.” Turning around in his stool, Leo’s eyes watched the dancing couple, keeping an ear open to listen to Rachel speak. “What makes you think I like anyone?” he asked her hearing the sounds of bottles clanking in the background. “Maybe you should take that advice as well. Or, are you trying to play the good girlfriend card once more?” Leo looked away from Rachel turning his attention back on the scotch. Drinking was so much easier than prying useless information from Rachel. “You still are technically lying. How would he feel with you being here with me tonight?”

There was a moment of silence, the song changing into a slow rhythmic hum. The guitar was gentle, the voice not the usual soft spoken voices in love songs. It was the only one that Leo liked. “I like this song,” he spoke softly, smiling gently over toward the girl next to him. He really hoped she wouldn’t be angry at his slight annoyance before. Why was he being so sympathetic toward her? What was so special about Rachel Cohen that made him vulnerable? Feeling slightly annoyed, Leo grabbed his glass, sliding slowly off from the stool. Taking her hand tenderly, Leo smiled quietly Rachel’s direction. “Afraid?” he whispered softly, tugging on her arm for her to follow. Leo led the Ravenclaw to the foyer and up the winding, white marble staircase. The music was slowly dying down as they reached the top, Leo continuing to lead Rachel around the corner to two large white doors. Pulling them open, he put his hand gently on Rachel’s back, letting her out before closing the wooden doors behind him. They were on the balcony of the large two story mansion. The pavement was the usually gray color, with flowers in the corner. The Keane mansion stood on top of the hill which over looked the city. Walking forward, Leo set his glass on the table before resting his hands comfortably on the railing. “Now, I want you to answer truthfully. Are you really delighted to be here tonight?”

[Rachel Cohen R6]

It is hard to say exactly when Rachel gave up trying to remember a time when AJ made her heart misbehave, the way it was misbehaving right now. The fifth year had always been good at games, she was a natural actress. It was easy for her to hide the way she was beyond attracted to Leo. Her eyes had the mischievous twinkle as she searched his brown eyes for some kind of reaction to her words. All she received was his cold smirk. She returned it, her lips curving slightly hoping to God that it wouldn’t betray her as her heart continued to race. She was holding on to life as she knew it. She knew that if she gave in to these temptations she couldn’t just pretend anymore. She could lie, and charm, but she couldn’t imagine being able to look into AJ’s eyes and telling him nothing had happened if she would allow herself to do the things she wanted to do. She wasn’t a stranger to temptation. She had felt it a lot; any relationship she had ever been in the temptation was always present. But never this much that she was ready to give in, just to get it to go away, to stop torturing her. Then there was the shock from the way she felt. She was hoping to find some guilt in her feelings somewhere, but it was completely absent. She couldn’t identify her feelings exactly either. But she wore her mask with pride, not even Leo could get her to reveal any of this. She might admit it to herself, but not to the world. This ‘world’ seemed to only contain one other person at the moment.

She watched this very person straighten his jacket before he spoke; she couldn’t help but roll her eyes. She wasn’t used to a boy who just kept prodding and prodding until she would admit to what they wanted. To be honest, she was annoyed, well not today Mr.Keane. She thought to herself, she didn’t surrender to anyone. “Oh Mr.Keane, you should know it was the intrigue. Plus I believe we had somewhat of a deal.” She told him her voice even, not revealing much of any type of emotion. She thought at first she gave away too much, but glancing at Nole he didn’t seem to catch anything. He was stuck in his own world. She did love listening to Leo and Noalan exchange words. Of course she felt like she was missing something, but it was quite funny. They just knew how to bug each other, the others limits, what buttons to push, it was as if they had had this conversation before. With them she wouldn’t have been surprised. She was thankful Elaine stepped in when she did. She didn’t want anything else to start. If Noalan and Leo had gotten worse, she was sure the conversation would have been repeated to AJ, and she did not want that happening. Things where already rocky between the two since that day at the lounge.

Her heart was literally in his hand as he led her towards the bar, she felt it beating even more wildly, and then stopping at intervals. Only that, just stopping, nothing else and she was beginning to see her feelings take some form. She cast them aside as she so often did. She could not, and would not feel this way. Now at the bar, scotch in hand she closed her eyes trying to not think of the damage she was causing herself as she drank. Alcohol consumed by Rachel was when she really needed a drink, and needed it bad. Tonight felt like the perfect night for it, perhaps if she wasn’t herself she could blame the alcohol, then again, she knew she would monitor herself she wouldn’t lie more then she needed to. She didn’t want to be taken advantage of. She laughed a quiet laugh at his reply. Of course he didn’t. “I only drink when I need a drink. The harder the alcohol, the faster the job is done.” She told him matter of factly. Closing her eyes once again thinking back to the nights when she needed a drink, it wasn’t her best moments. She reopened her eyes once more, and then turned her head in his direction. “No, not tonight thanks. We’ll save your game for another night.” She told him her voice dripping with sarcasm. She wasn’t in the mood to play. They had been playing games with each other too long; she wanted to just be honest for awhile. But that was the attitude that would get her in trouble shortly.

She almost laughed at his next statement. “No Leo, I really don’t know you.” She told him her voice empty. Knowing all that was changing though; she was beginning to know him more and more every time the happened to encounter. “Change is inevitable. Everyday you’re changing, maybe not dramatically. But something is different.” She told him, taking another drink from her glass. Again thinking about the alcohol. She shook her head is disgust. Sometimes she wondered why she even did the things she did. She considered his next statement, remembering she that she wanted to be honest with Leo, she slowly sighed before answering. “I didn’t want him to come with me tonight.” She said simply. Not looking at anything but her drink, watching the liquid in her hands as it shone it the parts the lights hit it. He wouldn’t have to ask her why she didn’t want AJ here. He had to know. But maybe they where still playing games, even now. It was silent for a moment, or as silent it could get in a room full of teenagers, most of them screaming their heads off. Yay, to them, Rachel thought sarcastically to herself, wondering why her life was more complicated then it needed to be. She allowed herself to look at Leo, her eyes searching his face. Oh yeah, that was why.

He brought up the lounge, the very thing in her thoughts she had been avoiding. She listened to the few things he said at first, not bothering to answer. He already knew what she thought on that subject. But then he brought up the very thing that caused this mess. She closed her eyes, breathing slowly she opened them turning to Leo. “If my memory serves me well, I wasn’t the only one filled with lust that day. But points are taken away from you, I was in a vulnerable state, I thought I had just lost my boyfriend.” She told him looking in his eyes, she was lying, but he would just have to buy it this time. “Whom I love.” She added. That last sentence was not needed, and hit below the belt. She was lying even more, and it almost pained her. Where had her honesty ran away too? “Besides, you’re here with Elaine. I’m sure we both have learned our lesson.” She told him, the jealousy was burning inside her, but she ignored it as she turned away from him, afraid that he would see past her words. Because she was sure he would anyhow. Hoping he would drop the subject she decided to change it just in case. She thought about the question, she wasn’t entirely sure that he liked someone but it was worth a try. “It’s written in your eyes.” She told him, finally looking back at him. “Lucky girl.” She said sarcastically, then again she was using that as a cover to the truth behind those two words. “I don’t have to play. I am a good gir- Why do I have to justify myself to you anyway?” She asked him, then again he hit home, he said all the right things at all the right times, and she hated him for it at that moment. She sighed once more at his next question, deciding to return to being honest with him. Her voice was soft; she hated how exposed she sounded. “Let’s just say, the only condition we had on staying together is if I stayed away from you, completely and forever.” She told him, letting him in on a secret the rest of the school was dying to know.

She was breathing in the quiet of the moment her eyes closed, praying the last few minutes hadn’t happened. The music changed, as did his tone. She felt terrible for her earlier remarks. Oh, what effect was Leo having on her? He took her hand gently, causing her eyes to open and see his smile, which she returned her heart skipping beats once more. There was a weird feeling in her stomach but she ignored it, she focused on the softness in his eyes. He whispered his question, and she smiled sweetly. “Terrified.” She whispered back. She had no other choice but to follow. He was taking her htrough the house, but if asked she wouldn’t have been able to tell an encounter of anything she saw. She remembered the music had been fading until it was gone completely. Then they arrived at a pair of doors; his hand on her back led her through. The view from the balcony had caused her to catch her breath. Her eyes widened as she took a step closer to see it better. Tearing her eyes away from the view she turned her attention towards this boy. She smiled at his question. But she had a better way to answer it then with a few phrases. Wordlessly she placed her hand on his cheek, eyes still on his face; she leaned in and kissed him gently, testing the water. She was not thinking about AJ anymore, in fact she would not think of him for the rest of the night. All she could think was it felt like coming home and how she felt intoxicated. Not by the alcohol, but by Leo's presence. Delicately she pulled back to judge his reaction, her hand gently sliding from his face, eyes still never leaving his. Why had she resisted so long. Smiling devilishly. “No, I’m not delighted to be here at all.” She told him laughing.

[Leo Keane G6]

“I only drink when I need a drink. The harder the alcohol, the faster the job is done.”

Rachel’s words left an annoying ring in Leo’s ears as he tore his gaze from her face. Leo couldn’t help but think over the countless times he had gotten a girl intoxicated. He wasn’t one of those people who slipped pills into drinks, but he did encourage a girl to drink to her hearts content. Actually, Leo disgusted people who did that to women. No one knew that because Leo didn’t want people to know he had a soft spot. People took advantage of that; pried on it until they consumed him from the inside out. Leo wasn’t about to let anybody do that too him. Though, Rachel was the only exception. She knew what to say to cause Leo to change his mood instantly; like his heart was a violin and she knew the exact strings to make beautiful melodies with. She wouldn’t know that though. Smirking at the thought, Leo took another long sip of his drink, placing the cup gently back down on the counter. Rachel denied his offer to play the drinking game. It was simple game really. The person who drank the most won. It wasn’t the chugging type, but rather counting the number of glass you had consumed. Leo did like to chug down a good glass of cold beer. That was another drink he liked. Smiling at the memory, Leo just shrugged spinning his glass of scotch around between his palms. “Tired of playing games, Ms. Cohen? Should I try harder to think of something new so you don’t get bored too easily?” Leo asked coolly his voice holding just the same amount of sarcasm her did. Leo was the mast of playing games with women. They always seemed to reel them in. Rachel was the biggest fish though, next to Bevin of course. But the other Gryffindor didn’t affect Leo like Rachel did and that scared him.

When she put the blame on him for the incident in the lounge, Leo narrowed his eyes at the girl. It was typical for the girl to blame the boy in instances like this, but he wasn’t going to let her have this one. “Yes, you might have been vulnerable but you knew that it was just a fight between you and AJ. Most couples make up afterward, so don’t put all the blame on me, Rachel.” Leo tried to hold the bitterness from his voice as he thought of AJ. Leo hated that boy. Finally, Leo admitted to himself that he was jealous of the Gryffindor for having something Leo couldn’t have. Looking away from Rachel, Leo took another long sip of his drink wondering what was going through her mind. Did she suspect that he was jealous? She probably knew. How couldn’t she? “If you love AJ then you would be here with him tonight,” Leo mentioned bitterly not buying Rachel’s act. He knew deep inside of her that she didn’t care as much for the Gryffindor with her new feelings for him. When she brought up Elaine, Leo smirked as he swung his head over his shoulder, his brown eyes gazing into hers. Was that a hint of jealousy? It had to be. Not saying a word, Leo just shrugged thinking it best not to say anything. He didn’t want to encourage Rachel. Her next words almost caused him to jump from his seat. How could she know he liked someone by the look in his eyes? Well, at least she didn’t know it was her that he was starting to fall for. “Yes, lucky girl. Everyone wants me. They should be jealous of you though since you can tell what I’m feeling. That’s a special talent to understand Leo Keane.” Nodding, Leo sent her a soft smile before staring back down into his drink. No one was able to read him like that.

Leo was now staring into Rachel’s sparkling eyes as they stood alone in the balcony area. She seemed taken back by either the view, or Leo’s sudden change in mood. Stepping forward, Leo turned the ON button of the radio, tuning the station until music blasted through the speakers. Leaning his hand against the railing, Leo closed his eyes as the night breeze blew by them. He could smell Rachel’s scent in the air causing him to smile barely at it. Feeling a hand on his cheek, Leo opened his ears, turning his body in Rachel’s direction. What was she doing? Watching as she leaned up to his height, Leo closed his eyes, their lips meeting in a soft kiss. His pushed his gently against hers, his head swimming in her scent and how close she was too him. Leo wanted this ever since that day in the lounge, and now that he got it made him fill with pure bliss. Resting his hand gently on the small of her back, Leo opened his eyes as she pulled away slowly from him. He watched a devilish smile slip across her lips, making him smile with the same energy. Her words caused him to laugh softly as his hand gently brushed across her cheek softly. The tips of his fingers outlined the lines of her stunning face as his eyes softly gazed into her. “Well, I’m glad you’re here with me even if you don’t think its right….I do…” he whispered leaning forward to kiss her forehead, running his fingers through her chestnut colored hair.

Taking hold of her hands, Leo spun Rachel around so her back was facing him. There was a soft song playing from the radio and as it began his arms wound around her small frame. He rested his chin on her shoulder, his brown eyes staring out beyond the balcony. Why was he acting like this? When had Leo ever meant to be this vulnerable with a girl? Rachel couldn’t use it against him. No she wouldn’t. She was probably trying to convince herself that she was still in love with AJ Murphy. There was a soft rumble in his throat at the thought as he closed his eyes leaning forward to kiss her cheek softly. “You won’t go off blabbing to your friends that you made Leo Keane helpless will you?”

[Rachel Cohen R6]

“Tired of playing games, Ms. Cohen? Should I try harder to think of something new so you don’t get bored too easily?” His voice was as sarcastic as hers. They were bitter, bitter people. But she was surprised he knew her thoughts. That was dangerous. She eyed him to see if he really knew what she was thinking. Figuring no, or else his smile would be a whole lot different. She sighed once more. Answering and behaving were getting harder, now that she wanted to be honest and not behave. “Yes, I am tired of games Leo. I don’t think any of your other little ideas will be needed.” She told him as if waving off some bothersome guest, or maid. She eyed him again, green on brown. He seemed to have as much on his mind as hers. She felt a pang in her heart. Looking at her drink she let it run its course. Her self control was the only thing keeping her from saying everything she was thinking. She snuck another look from the corner of her eye. Still wearing that small, bitter, she shook her head. His matched hers.

When they began to talk about the lounge she watched as he narrowed his eyes. He was not going to drop the subject. She tightened her jaw. He should have just dropped it, or not brought it up at all. “You’ll find that in any state of vulnerability a person may do something out of character.” She told him. His voice was bitter, and hers was too. The questions and answers where complex. Cold, distant, bitter, and … there was something to his voice that she couldn’t pin point. If she didn’t know him better she would have said he was jealous. But then again, wasn’t he the one that said she didn’t know him. “I do love him.” She whispered, more to herself then the Leo. It was her feeble attempt to try to convenience herself she was telling the truth. But she couldn’t lie to herself, so instead she took yet another drink. When he didn’t say anything about lessons learned. Why wasn’t he saying anything? Had he not learned his lesson? Was he not with her friend? Or where those only assumptions on her part? His answers where already mind-boggling as it was. Him not responding was worse, much worse. She laughed meekly at his next statement “More like a special talent at figuring out men.” She told him, he wasn’t the only person she could read.

Now at the balcony her heart has beating uncontrollably as she let herself let her thoughts take physical form. She wasn’t lying anymore. She defiantly felt something for him, and it wasn’t hatred. It was more along the lines of like, really, really like. More then what she felt for AJ, and supposedly she loved her boyfriend. There was music playing suddenly. If someone knew how to make a moment it was defiantly Leo. She smiled shyly. Admitting that she felt something for Leo was easier then she had imagined it would be, and admitting it let her admit other things. Like the fact he looked down right sexy as the wind ruffled his hair. She smiled again, watching him in the evening breeze. This is when she began their first kiss. She knew in her mind that it should have happened a long time ago. Because if something felt that right it couldn’t be wrong, could it? And as he kissed her back she melted. She felt his hands on the small of her back. She still had that one hand on his cheek, but her other one had found its way to his neck. And as she pulled back slowly, and not to much she watched his eyes open. She searched for a reaction. She didn’t know what he would think, say, or do. She didn’t know what to with her new feelings. She was just going with the flow. She took his smile as a good sign. His soft laughter was an even better one. And he said everything he needed to as his hand was on her cheek. Did he even know what he was doing to her? How she was almost not breathing. She didn’t answer at first. Because for the first time, Rachel Cohen was speechless. His lips where soft on her forehead, but she finally got her voice back when his hands ran through her hair, she hadn’t even realized her bun had fallen, and her naturally wavy hair was sitting on her naked shoulders.

He spun her around, now her back was towards him. She laughed this all new and strange for her. But she felt content, as if she really had everything she needed. The cool breeze, a stunning view, soft music, and his closeness. She closed her eyes, a smile on her lips as he kissed her cheek. “As long as you don’t tell yours how easily I fell for you.” She told him. She turned around her arms snaking around his neck, she looked into his eyes. For a moment not remembering what she was going to say. “Are you going to ask me to dance? Or did you have something else planned?” She asked him. She wondered if he could feel heart beat, realizing she wanted him to feel it. She looked at him again. “You’ve never been this careless and real with a girl before, have you?” She asked him. But she didn’t need an answer she already knew. It was once more written in his eyes. She was sure the moment she would go, or he would, the doubts would start eating at her. She didn’t know if she would be able to stand meaning less to him then he did to her at this moment. Because this moment had decided her fate with AJ.

[Leo Keane G6]

Everything changed.

In that moment the kiss happened, all the barriers had been completely demolished leaving only little remains left of what was. Some how Leo couldn’t help but think of how maybe those walls could be placed back up. He worked harder than he had before in any other girl to knock them down. Deep inside, Leo knew that Rachel would rebuild them by convincing herself she loved AJ. What was up with woman and always second guessing their mistakes? Men forgave easily, but it wasn’t like that with the opposite gender. It took years to be forgiven by the female population. Yet they could forgive just like that. Well, Leo did, but he didn’t want Rachel back with AJ. He wanted her for himself. He wanted the softness of her lips against his. He desired the soft caress oh her skin against his own. Leo wanted all of Rachel. He wasn’t about to let anyone else have what he craved for a long time. The only thing that made him feel. That breathed him so full of life. Maybe it was Leo’s testosterone talking, but he desperately wanted this girl. The only thing that was able to wash all the bitterness that consumed Leo Keane. Those feelings vanished when her lips pressed against him. It just left that free floating feeling in the pit of his stomach.

He enjoyed it.

He liked it.

This was who he truly was.

Smiling slightly at those thoughts, Leo wrapped his arms protectively around Rachel’s slender waist. This was only feeding to that feeling. Yet somehow he felt content. There was something soothing about holding Rachel against him. He rested his chin on her bare shoulder, his eyelids slowly, his nostrils filling in with her scent. It was enticing…almost to the point where he could taste it in his mouth. When she spoke, Leo couldn’t help but chuckle. It was a deep chuckle. Forming from the bottom of his stomach. Rachel probably felt it from under her. “Now you admit for falling for me? Am I really that irresistible?” Leo spoke softly, not being able to hold that loving chuckle deep in his throat. Leo had never felt like this before. It was all new to him. Some how it was beginning to scare him. Maybe cause he thought Rachel would leave him? That in the morning she would deny all this had ever happened. That he didn’t exist. Not even in her dreams, maybe even fantasies.

Suppressing those feelings Leo opened his eyes lifting his head so the side of his rested against Rachel’s. Leo wasn’t the tallest person. Only a couple inches taller than Rachel, but she was wearing heels. That added more to a woman’s height. When she asked about his plan, Leo pursed his lips slightly, his mind wondering at dangerous speeds. He did have a plan, but wasn’t ready to push Rachel into it. Wow. Leo Keane actually caring about a girl. Smirking slightly at the thought, Leo just shook his head so his cheek brushed gently across hers. The motion mostly gestured to Rachel’s second statement. He hadn’t ever been this way with a girl. They were just merely an object to Leo. They still were actually. Leo wasn’t thinking about the future. Just in the moment where he still held Rachel closely in his arms. Feeling her heart beat. His own beginning to match. “How could you tell? Was it something I did wrong? Or just everything?” Leo couldn’t help but smirk for a moment. Before he could even think about it, Leo twirled Rachel around his own hands reaching for hers. Fingers laced and he pulled her closer to him, leading her away from the balcony……

[Rachel Cohen R6]

Something was off. The sun was streaming in from the window in a way it didn’t normally in her room. But Rachel didn’t open her eyes, not yet. The sunlight wasn’t enough of a reason to wake from her slumber completely. But then again her shoulders felt chilled and exposed, she scrunched up her face, her eyes still closed wondering what she had worn to bed. Then there was something defiantly wrong with her pillow. It was soft, and warm, and the fabric didn’t feel like her pillow. Confused she began to get up slowly, pulling the sheet up with her. She squinted at her soundings. Well, this defiantly was not her room; in fact it was a room she had never been in before. Her heart began to sink as she looked around. Her heels where on the floor, and a man’s white suit jacket was lying by her dress, along with pants, and a shirt. Her hand flew to her mouth. She was in complete shock. Then the pillow wasn’t a pillow at all it was … “Oh no.” She whispered to herself as she looked upon the handsome face of Leo Keane lying beside her. Her mind was filled with so much, but she just stayed there looking at him. Still asleep, his breathing was smooth, he was still asleep. She smiled sadly.

The events of last night ran through her head. The drinking, the bitter exchange of words, being lead to the balcony, the kiss that changed everything, and then after. As she climbed out of bed she began to make up a story, one the she would have to tell her boyfriend if worse came to worse. ‘I was drunk, really, really drunk.’ She thought to herself her trying to sound convincing. But glancing over at Leo she felt guilty. “You alright?” He had asked her. She had told him she was great and then had kissed him not at all gently like her first kiss. She had been feeling fine. No, better then fine. She picked her dress up from the floor. The fabric was cold and silky; it reminded her of the evening before as she decided to wear it, looking at herself in the mirror knowing whose attention she wanted. If only she had worn something else. She picked up the dress and the rest of her belongings and began to put them on. But it felt wrong to wear the dress now, she felt wrong, that was her dress she had purchased intending to wear to Nole’s dad’s wedding. AJ would be there. She wouldn’t be able to wear it now. She slowly picked up his shirt from the floor as well and buttoned it over her dress. It was too big on her, and it looked differently on its owner. Whom she glanced at yet again.

She sat down on the edge of his bed. Her shoes where in her hands. She wondered if he was going to awake. She knew should already be out the door, but she couldn’t bring herself to leave just yet. “I’m sorry.” She whispered to him softly. She moved his hair from his eyes gently, and kissed him softly on the lips and made her way to the door. Pausing at the door as if she considered waking him up. But she decided against it. She took the stairs down. Her walk of shame beginning. At the worries and doubts she had suppressed last night flooded in. She was going to be just another conquest to him. Perhaps if she hadn’t admitted to falling for him last night she might have left with more grace. She took out her small muggle phone she almost forgot was there. “Oscar, please pick me up from the location you dropped me off at last night. Oh Oscar? Please hurry.” She hung up after the ‘Yes mademoiselle’ breathing deeply; she released all the air in her lungs. The tears where pricking her eyelids. Because she had to close them again as she passed the bar. It hurt not meaning anything to him. How could she have made the mistake to fall for him when she had A.J … oh and A.J.? What was she going to do about that?

Oscar was so good. He was already waiting for her as she stepped outside. Oddly the morning air felt chilly, she hugged his shirt to her stepping into the car. “Where to Miss Rachel?” Oscar asked in his usual warm and polite voice. She closed her eyes. She couldn’t go home now. “Nole’s please. I … Just please.” She told him, her voice strained. “It will all be alright.” He told her as he began to drive. She rested her head against the window. “I hope so.” She whispered.