" Care to play pretend? "
y/n's pov____________
" Harry WAKE UP! " I exclaimed at Harry who was fast asleep on the couch in the common room. There wasn't much people in the common room, it is Saturday.
" I'm awake. I'm- " Harry said with a low voice. He got up and rubbed his eyes. " -awake " He continued with red eyes.
" Have you been staying up late? " I asked Harry in dissapointment.
" Er, no? " He replied trailing his voice. I raised by eyebrow at him. " Ok, fine. Yes, I did. " He sighed out.
I sighed too. " Okay, um, get dressed we need to go to the owlery. They are sending a list of items you need for the competition.
" Why so late? " He asked confused.
" I don't know, I suspect it is so you don't get a hint about the first task, that is, if they chose it a while ago. " I shrugged.
" Alright, but . . " Harry got up folding his arms togather and got closer to me. " . . we have got to take a walk togather first. " He smirked.
I giggled. " Deal. " I said returning the smirk and get closer. " Alright, go on get ready. We don't have time to waste. "
~
Harry got ready and came down from the boys' dorm wearing a black hoodie and a scarf sround his neck and he carried a white hoodie in his hand. I looked at him and smiled.
" Handsom. " I said smiling back at him and fixing his hoodie. He smiled his cheeks getting quite scarlet red. He took the hoodie in his hand and put it over my head. " Its snowing outside. "
I couldn't help but smile and blush a little. " You thoughtful head. " I said.
~
We climed out of the Portrait Hole and headed towards the black lake. Once we got there the lake was solid frozen. Students were skating on it, some falling hard, yet laughs filled the air. I clinged into Harry's arm and put my head on his shoulder as we walked along the side of it.
The cold breeze brushed through my hair as I watched the snow fall on my palm.
" I love winter. " I said. Harry smiled. " Do you have a favourite season? " I asked.
" Not really. " He shrugged. " I never really found any mind blowing memories in any season. Although, I'll love anything you are a part of. " He said smiling softly.
I hit his arm lightly as I giggled at his statement. " Right, sure thing Potter. " I mocked with a smug look. I looked down at the snow and I bent down to grab a hand full of snow and shaped it trying to hide it from Harry using my body.
" You know, Harry. I know that you just woke up, but - " I trailed my voice and quickly threw the snow ball at him.
" Yeah! " He exclaimed laughing. He bent down and took a huge chunck of snow. My eyes widened fearful.
" Bloody hell. " I said knowing what is yet to come. " No, no, no, no, no, no! " I started exclaiming as I slowly backed away from Harry and started running like i've never.
Harry ran after me. And I kept screaming and giggling at the same time. Harry threw the snow balls at me and I screamed of how cold it was. " You are going no where. " He stated laughing mockingly.
"Harry! I don't like this! " I said out of giggles and joy. I quickly grabed two hand fulls of snow as well. " Game on, Potter. Bring it on! "
He grinned bigger than ever. " I'm in danger, am i not? " I said under my breath.
" You guessed it. " Harry said snickering.
" Blimey- " He threw the snowballs one after another as I tried desperately to dodge them.
" Alright. I'm done. " Harry said laughing at me - who was covered in snow from head to toe - .
He walked towards where I was standing. He stopped and looked at me. He inched closer then ever our lips only one hair long appart.
I felt him breathing, my heart racing and I felt myself blushing hard as I held my breath. He smiled and kissed my forehead gently before tucking my hair behind my ear. I looked up at him and wrapped my arms around his neck. He gased at my me before I felt his hands on my waist.
We both pulled away as students ran passed us fast. I shivered as a cold breeze brushed through. " Are you blushing or freezing " Harry asked worriedly.
I paused. I don't know. In fact, I think I was both. But, of course, I'm not going to say I'm blushing. And if I say I'm freezing I wouldn't really be lying. " I'm just cold a little. " I replied.
Harry seemed upset I wasn't blushing, but he took off his scarf and handed it to me.
" Harry, no. You will get sick. It isn't time for it and you know so. " I said refusing to take it as I looked at his hoodie's neckline. It was wide, enough to get him cold.
" No, no. Take it, I insest. " He whispered my name. " I'll buy another when we get to Hogsmeade. " He informed as he wrapped it around my neck.
" Thank you. " I said. It felt warm. Breezes kept brushing through and Harry's essence scented my clothes. He gave me his arm to clinge on, and I did.
Comfortable silance.
. . .
" Have you ever tried ice skating? " Harry asked breaking the silance as he looked at the students skating togather.
I paused to think. " Yes, I have, but it has been over 8 years. " I said. " It isn't really common of me to go out to the lake in our backyard, let alone to skate. " I stated.
Harry seemed shocked. " Wait seriously? " He asked. I nodded.
" Although my mum did skate often. She was elegant. My dad always told me I used to skate just like she did. " I stated. " Did you try it? " I asked back.
" Many times. I claim myself an expert. " He stated with a smirk. " There was this park you know. One that Dudley loved so much. Well, not the park exactly. He likes a restaurant that opens only in winter. That restaurant is located in the park. Beside it, there is a somewhat huge lake. " he started before pausing.
" The restaurant gives free skates to wear and skate with, with a custom meal. Usually, Dudley orders his favourite custom meal. Aunt and Uncle don't really care nor ask me to use them. "
" I just take them as they don't say a thing in public places, nor do they think that skating is 'safe' enough for their beloved son. Atleast it gives me peace. "
I smiled as I saw him smiling. He looked joyfully peaceful. Harry turned to face me.
" And i'd like you to try it, with me. " He took me by my wrist and dragged me to the side of the lake with had two pairs of ice skates.
" Harry! " I said giggling. " Is this why you asked us to walk? "
Harry shrugged. " Maybe? . . " He trailed his voice. Taking my hand then going down to get the skates. He unfolded a blanket that was laying beside the skates and put it on the snow as to not get our clothes wet when we put the skates on.
I felt a rush of joy and just wanted to feel the moment with him. We both sat on it and started putting the skates on. Harry finished and got up first as I struggled to keep them tight. He noticed and laughed at me.
" Shut up, Potter! " I exclaimed hopelessly. " I swear I'll your arse! "
Harry took a gasp of hair and tried to contain his laugh. I frowned at him. He just snickered and got down to help me lace them up - the correct way this time - . Once he was done he finally let out all the laughters he contained momentarily.
I got up and my skates started sinking in snow and it made it harder to move. Lucky Harry he made it out of my hands reach before I hit him. I started slowly making my way to the lake. Harry waited patiently and stuck out a hand for me to hold on to.
I took it and step on the ice and slipped not knowing it would be this slippery. Harry quickly grabed my waist and got my body closer to his.
I stared at him. I cleared my throught and pulled back. " Take it easy, alright? " Harry instructed. I nodded taking both of his arms as he skated backwards. " This is your second time falling for me. " He smirked.
I rolled my eyes playfully. " Tsk, who's counting? "
" Yeah, right. Who's counting? " Harry mimicked me mockingly. I just laughed at his impression of me.
" Just so you know, I'm a quick learner. "
" We'll see. " He smiled as he let my hands go and skated backwards not breaking eye contact. " Come on. Easy moves don't push through. "
I needed to prove to this dumb head taht I can do it. I copied the movements I saw others do. I couldn't help but laugh. " You know, this looks like you are teaching me how to walk. " I laughed as I made my way to him.
I finally made it. " I did it! " I chimed joyfully as Harry held me up. He laughed as I panicked and laughed at the same time.
" Alright. Now .. " He started by taking my hand. " Skate beside me. " I nodded excitedly and tried to give it my best.
We took off and skated between students. Harry would make few moves every now and then that send me. " Can you dip? " Harry asked through his breath as we skated faster.
" What!? " I exclaimed fearfully.
" Trust me just do it. " He said as wind ruffled his hair.
He shifts to my front and skated backwards again, yet keeping our hand joined togather making enough space between us.
I felt safe in his arm and I'm up for any challenge. I gave him full control as he swirled me around and made me land safely in his arms. I started remembering the times I used to skate.
He kept skating backwards as our bodies are still close to each other. The back of my shoulders on his chest. His face was near my neck. So close I felt the warmth of his breath take over my neck as he panted. Students awe everytime we pass by and some just stopped skating to watch us.
I pulled myself out of his arms. He closed it back and held my waist gently. He wrapped his arm on my whole waist and I dipped backwards trusting my body with his strength. We both stopped and looked at each other smiling. I was still in his arms. Same position.
I wanted the time to freeze right there as I just stared into his charming gaze. We both panted heavily and quickly broke into laughter.
The Hogwarts bells rung as it turned 9 Am. " As much as I'd like to stay like this for longer, we've got to go. " Harry said as he brushed his cold fingers against my cheek. He pulled me up and kissed my hands softly.
Sun light shone against his hair which made him even more breath taking. We both skated back to the same edge of the lake and changed into out shoes again. Harry took both the skates and blanket.
" Where are you going to put them? " I asked. Harry looked around and focused his eyes on something.
" There. " He said pointing his finger at a clear spot between two trees.
I started to run towards it. " Last one is a dumb head! " I said as I made it half way there.
" Hey! That is cheating! " Harry exclaimed as he laughed running after me.
" Too bad, Potter! " I mocked. I made there first as excpected. Such an athlete I am. I snickered to myself.
Harry rolled his eyes and laid out the blanket and put the skates in its center then wrapped them up. I excpected him to put them under the snow so I helped him dig a small spot before stopping to let him continue.
" Hang on. " I said getting up. I started looking for rocks and gathered a good amount. Harry already put the skates in and covered them back up.
I kneeled down and started putting the rocks around that spot in a circle shape. Harry looked at the rocks. " You are doing it wrong. " He stated.
" There is no correct way to do it. " I rolled my eyes.
" There is, actually. "
" Alright then, since you are ever so smart, go on. Do it yourself. "
Harry smiled and started shifting few rocks making a heart instead. I raised my eyebrows. " Some one is bold this year. " I mocked hitting his arm trying ruthlessly not to show any signs of me turning scarlet red.
" I know. And I intend to do so. " He retorted. Ok, I have to get out of here before I blow my cover.
" Oh, look 9:15. We better get going. " I said as I started fast walking burring my face in my scarf. I've lost all control of my heartbeat now. I'm now got caught up in romance wiht him. But, does he feel the same way ?
. . .
Does he ?
~
Harry's pov____________
--> y/n and I finally got to Hogsmeade and she rolled open the list of stuff. I read through the list;
1) Plain Swim suit(s?) . - Number shall be given at Hogwarts.
2) Wand check. ( No cracks + works well ) .
3) Plain
3) Broom.
4) Towels.
5) Sport wear. ( Comfortable for hunting and running - long sleeves ) . - Number shall be given at Hogwarts.
--> and a note at the end that read;
PS: these items are all required for the whole tournament and not only for a specific task.
" Well, we better get started. " y/n said as she sighed.
I looked down at the list and so did y/n.
1) Plain swim suit(s?) .
" Okay, um. Where would we find such here? " y/n asked confused.
" Well, this answers our quiestion. " I said looking at the huge sign. ( in a tournament? come here! ) . y/n shifted her focus from the list and at it.
" When and how did this sign show up. " She questioned.
I shrugged. " Don't ask me as I have no clue. "
We both walked in the store and an old lady smiled at us. " Need anything for your siblings you joined the tournament? "
I looked at y/n and she just sighed. " No, erm, actually, I need them for.. me. " I hesitated as I requested.
" Please help us? I know it is odd, but we don't know how and why his name was entered in. " y/n explained.
" Well, aren't you two the cutest. I truly wish I could help do something about the tournament, but I can offer smaller sizes of stuff you need? " She smiled softly. She thinks me and y/n are dating?
" Thanks. But, we aren't dating. " I said. Well, atleast we aren't dating, just yet.
" Oh, I'm sorry. Is there anything you need? " she apologized before asking.
" Do you have suim suits? " I asked.
" Oh yes! many have been asking me for them. " she said. " Come with me. "
I looked abck at y/n. " I'll wait for you outside. " She said smiling. I saw her sitting down at the step of the store and resting her face on her arms seeming rather puzzled.
The old lady took me to a section of which had many suits. " Choose any and i'll fix the sizes for you. " I nodded.
~
y/n's pov____________
I sat on the store's step and put my elbows on my knees as I put my under my chin to rest my head on my hands. I couldn't but help get mixed signals from Harry. Is he doing this because he has something for me, or are we just far too close?
How can I confront him without making things awkward between us.
" Is Harry in this store? " I heard Pavarti tell her sister.
" I saw him enter here? " She replied.
Why are they following Harry. I felt paranoid as I over heard them talking about him.
Pavarti looked down at me. " Oh, yes. Sorry. " I apologised as I got up to make way for them to enter the store. I scoffed and sat back down. Maddness, or jealousy?
I'm finding it hopeless to confront him safely without ruining our friendship.
Or..
Maybe..
No. Of course not. Am I really thinking about fake dating him to conform. But, what would I tell him? How would I ask him to do so. ' Hey Harry, I'm getting mixed signals and shallow feelings in my stomach when I see other girls obsses over you. Let's fake date! Fun! '
I cover my face with my hands.
" Hey, are you okay? " a voice said from above me. I looked up.
" Draco? " I asked.
" Yes, your favourite of all time. " He snickered. I elbowed him smiling. " Mind if I sit? "
I shook my head ' no ' and scooted over. " Careful, you'll ruin your suit. " I mocked.
" Very funny. " Draco retorted sarcasticly. " Anyways, what is bothering you? " He asked.
I stayed silant not looking at him. " nothing much. I'm fine. "
" You say you're fine, but I know you better than that. " He said. " Is it Harry? " He asked again. My eyes widened.
" No, no, no. Draco don't you make a big deal of anything. " I said stopping him from getting up.
" Then, tell me. What is wrong. " He demanded.
I sighed. " Well, it has to do with Harry. But it isn't his fault. " I confessed.
" Let me guess. It is about some other girl who has something for him.? " He guessed.
" Partially. " I replied with a slight smile. " Honestly, he's got no business being this handsom. "
Draco raised his eyebrows. " I beg your pardon? "
Bloody hell. " Erm, I mean he was born that way. He can't help it. " I defending myself quickly.
" Right.. " Draco trailed his voice. " Okay, then. You don't mind Pavarti or any other girl? "
I scoffed. " Of course not. Why would I. Its not like I'm crazy for him. "
" Stop trying. " Draco said coldly. I just burried my face in my hands. I mean is it really that evident. " Just ask him and don't make a fool out of yourself. " Draco instructed standing up.
I stood up too. " How come? " I asked.
" I'm not really sure about how much I like Harry. But, I know you're the one who likes him. Not me. Its you who is supposed to ask him. Not me. " He said fixing his suit.
" Right. Uh, I'll try to figure something out. " I said. He smiled and opened his arms to hug me. I came closer and hugged him as he rubbed my back in comfort.
" Don't act foolish, eh? " Draco said. I hit him and laughed.
" Teach yourself then teach me. " I mocked.
" Oh yeah? " He asked inching closer.
" Yeah. " I retorted. Just as I said so I noticed Harry staring at us from inside the store. " See you, Malfoy. " I said with a grin as I sat back down.
" Right. I get it. See you. " He said turning the other way to walk away. I looked back at the glass door to look where Harry is at. He was almost done from what I was able to see. Though Pavarti and her sister kept watching him from afar which made my blood boil.
I turned back to looked at the shops and a guy kneeled done infront of me. " Erm, hi. Can I help you with something? " I asked hoping i'd be done with him quickly.
" Not really, just my friends and I were playing a game and they told me to come and talk to you. Heard you were quite well known around here. Aren't you also Levi Arons' sister? " He replied.
The door opened behind me and I looked back to see Harry done. " I'm done - " He started before stopping to look at the guy narrowing his eyes. I got up and stood next to him as he made his way down the store's steps.
" Aren't you Potter? " The guy asked as he stood up aswell.
" Yes, hello. " Harry said with an unpleasant tone. " Need something or are you here to bash me with your unwanted opinions and thoughts? "
The guys crossed his arms. " I didn't know you were here anyways. But, I really would like to take the second option since you are here. " He spit.
The audacity this human has. I'm so done with people acting like this around Harry. They don't even try to hide it from him. They always shove it in his face acting it was alright.
" I don't have time for you. " Harry said as he shoved him a side away from his path. " Come on, y/n. "
" More than glad to come. " I replied as I shot at the guy.
He laughed. " So, you're just going to follow him? Aren't you embarrased. " He snapped at me. Harry looked back at him and took out his wand pointing it at his throat.
" The only embarrasing thing here is your foolish and childish mindset. Do better. " Harry spat back.
" You know. Never mind, if it wasn't for y/n you would have been dragged in the dirt you are. " He laughed. Harry pressed the wand harder against the guy's throat.
" Harry, stop it. Let's just go. " I said grabbing Harry's hand which had his wand in it.
He just shot a dirty look at him and turned the other way.
" You better thank Merlin you are still alive. " I spat one last time to boil his blood before flipping my hair and walking away to catch up with Harry.
~
Harry's pov____________
Walking and thinking. Dangerous combonation. Quite brutal. Is it really that anyone who looks at y/n has got to love her? Does she feel the same to any of them?
These thoughts echo many times in my head making me dizzy. Jealousy, is a horrible feeling that can't be cured unless you lose all feelings the connect you with someone. I just feel shallow and annoyed.
Not to mention how confused I'm when it comes to what type of feelings y/n and I have. Regardless, I know that what ever is between us, can't be found elsewhere nor with anyone else. Perhaps I can test her feelings to define them between friends and
. . .
lovers.
" Harry! " y/n exclaimed out of her breath. " I've really got to tell you something. " She said as she caught up.
" Alright, go on. " I becond her to tell me.
She paused. " Care to play pretend? " She asked. I looked at her confused.
" Well, I was saying that, how about we - " She started. " - erm fake date? " she suggested. I stoped walking. Okay, but what? Is she thinking the way I was thinking? I have been depaited if I wanted to suggest so to figure stuff out.
I still want to ask why though? " Why? " I asked.
" Erm, because- " She started trying to figure something to say. " Okay, hear me out. I'm truly worried about your status. I have my reason too. But, yes. "
" Alright. " I replied. " But we only fake date? " I questioned hoping to see where this is going.
y/n clearly didn't know either because she paused before she hestitated. " Er, yes? " She replied.
I felt heart - broken, but this is what I wanted, wasn't it?
~
We finished buying the stuff we needed and we both parted to get to our dorms. I changed my clothes and laid on my bed trying to sleep. Hoping not to wake up.
y/n's pov__________
I threw myself on my bed as I stared at the ceiling then at the window and again at the ceiling. I kept tosing and turning. I knew Harry didn't enjoy the idea as much. But, I truly am hopless. Besides, my heart keeps burning as I see girls want him.
While some don't, they are harming him mentally. I shouldn't be judging how he feels, but it is clear. And I don't want guys coming up to me every now and then.
I shifted in my place many times. I hope this year goes by without any problems.
I'm sorry, Harry. Its for your sake. I'd do anything for you. Hope one day you'll understand how this will effect you.
________________________________________
( Written on : 1 / 9 / 2023 - Word count : 4375 words )
I'm crying. I don't like this chapter or atleast the ending of it. Help.