The Three Of Them

I can’t believe I let them talk me into this, this of all things! Running around some forest at night because Harry had some vision of Voldemort! This was not how I wanted to spend my summer vacation! Hermione and Ron were happy to follow but I had been in the middle of a very pleasant dream about, well I’m really sure who it was but he was incredible!

“SHIT!!” I really should watch where I’m going, a tree root isn’t much to worry about but it could have been much worse.

“OI! Erika you alright? Watch where you’re going! We’re almost there!” Harry shouted over his shoulder as they reached a clearing with a large black lake, in the middle, its surface white and icy though it was summer and must have been nearly eight-five degrees. I shivered against my better judgment while Harry began to slowly creep across the ice.

“Harry do you think maybe a frozen lake in August is a bit odd? You don’t know how firm that ice is, come here we’ll walk around.” Hermione’s voice wavered as she tentatively followed Harry onto the ice to retrieve him. Ron was at Harry’s side, the unwavering loyal follower. The ice creaked and groaned under the weight of my friends, I stayed on the shore my wand at the ready to save them should they need it.

“Harry come back please we’ll walk around, we need to walk around to find it.” Hermione’s voice rang out again as she stepped back onto the bank next to me, her body trembling and her hands pulling her wand from the elastic of her shorts, her stance matching mine.

“HIM!! Hermione he took him! He took Cedric! I can see him, he’s so cold….he has him because of me because Cedric was there last year! ALL OF THIS IS BECAUSE OF ME!” Harry’s shouting startled the birds in nearby trees and reverberated through my body. This is why Harry was in such a panic when he woke up this is why we were running around the forest in our jammies and slippers. Harry and Ron were in flannel pants and no shirt and Hermione and myself were in tank tops and short shorts. The cold of the lake was seeping into my bones and I could only imagine how Harry and Ron felt.

“DEMENTOR’S!!” I spotted them first, creeping in through the trees, life fell out of the world and everything froze. Two of them on the far side of the lake seemed to be holding something, something limp with tanned skin and sandy brown hair.

“CEDRIC!!!” Harry ran across the lake and his movement drew them out further and they began to swarm.

“EXPECTO PATRONUM!” Harry yelled and his stag began charging through Dementor’s chasing them away.

“EXPECTO PATRONUM!” Hermione and I shouted at the same time, her Otter began swirling and swimming to corral several of the hooded figures and run them off. My lion cub tore through a dozen of them before I recast, fixating on my memory of my first Quiddich game. Hermione and I ran onto the ice behind the boys, trying hard not to slip and fall on the ever creaking frozen lake.

“EXPECTO PATRONUM!” Ron was last to set his Terrier on the Dementor’s, taking out all but the two who held Cedric. They took to the air as they saw that they were alone, dropping Cedric after Harry turned his patronus to the sky. Cedric fell, fast, directly above me; and I stupidly thought I could catch him with my bare hands, completely forgetting the wand in my hand as his body connected with mine and we crashed into the water. The ice was like falling into a pit of needles, and in shock I gasped, gulping murky lake water into my burning lungs. Cedric was moving next to me, his eyes wide with shock. He appeared to be in PJ’s as well, simple flannel pants and a black tank top, even in my panicked state I could appreciate his toned and lean body. The world began to tighten around me and I knew I had little time. I turned my wand to Cedric as he saw me and I sent him back through the hole in the ice as I slipped further into the abyss, water filling the rest of my strained lungs. My vision blurred and I was satisfied in my knowledge that I had saved Cedric before I closed my eyes for the last time.

“ERIKA!! ERIKA WAKE UP!!!! ERIKA!!” A strange voice was yelling at me shaking my frozen body, I was laying on something hard, much harder than the shore would have been. My body was trembling from the cold that still wracked my naked bo- NAKED?! I tried sitting up but found I was pinned to the floor with a blanket. At least I was covered, but why was someone still yelling? I moaned and shifted myself; coughing up water I didn’t know was still inside of me, ew….it was brown.

“ERIKA!!” The body above me pressed me to his chest, I could finally process that the voice was definitely male, but it wasn’t Harry or Ron, this voice was older and much more pleasant. I opened my eyes and immediately squinted against the light of a crackling fire. I took in my surroundings; I was in a simple hut, if you could even call it that. There was one window and a door and a very simple fire place, oh it also had a floor.

“ERIKA!!!!” The boy hugged me again, squeezing me to his very firm, but cold chest. My teeth began chattering from his cold body and my own frigid skin. My fuzzy vision came into focus and my emerald eyes locked with brown ones. Sandy brown hair clung to his features and dripped water onto the parts of me that were exposed.

“Cedric?” My voice was rough and it stung my chest to speak, I huddled into the blanket further and tried to sit up again, only to be stopped by Cedric.

“Where is everyone? Where are we? Why am I naked?” Questions tumbled out of my mouth, great, perfect time to get verbal diarrhea. Cedric was fully clothed, his PJ’s now dry, the only indication I had that he had ever been in the water with me was his wet hair. He smirked at me, but it was nothing like Draco’s signature sneer, it was warm and soft and made you smile to. So there we were, a stupid grin on my face that I’m sure made me appear a little nuts, while he looked a god among men.

“They are just outside, planning their next move, Ron, Hermione, and Harry went back to fetch the tent. You’ve been out for a while.” Cedric rocked back on his heels, finally allowing me to sit up properly, wrapping the blanket around my body better, blushing at the thought that Cedric had removed my wet cloths.

“Erika!” Hermione must have heard us talking because before I could babble on she was rushing to my side. I was so grateful that she saved me from myself, but not so happy that her presence had pushed Cedric to the fall wall of the hut.

“The boys will come in once you’ve dried off; I brought some new cloths for you. We’re trying to limit the use of magic less we be tracked by it.” She handed me my favorite pair of jeans along with a plain white t shirt, I noticed she gave me my ‘sexy’ matching underwear. I rolled my eyes and stood, clinging to the blanket and turned to face Cedric, he didn’t say a word but simply slipped out the door, a blush creeping across his face. I made him blush! Me, Erika Harper made Perfect Prefect Cedric Freaking Diggory blush!

“So, what happened? He sent us out after I had gotten you situated under the blanket, saying something about getting the gear and meeting you two back here. We just arrived when you woke up. Did it just make you melt when he told you? I almost did, right there on the ice, he’s gotten much taller and god that body! AND he was all over you! Well you were out of it of course but gosh!” Hermione seemed lost in her own thought but I couldn’t be more confused, why on earth would I melt simply because he told me where they were?

“I’m sorry? Why should I have melted?” Hermione stared at me like I was insane, her mouth hung open and then shut it, smirking at me.

“Of course he didn’t tell you, that damn modesty” she shook her head and I stared at her with a glare in my eyes, if she didn’t tell me I was going to throttle her! “He pulled you out of the lake, I suppose you were out by the time he got to you, thought you were dead actually, you should have seen him he was a mess until you started coughing up water. We all breathed a sigh of relief but Cedric was incredible, he carried you here and made sure you were taken care of. Insisted he look after you despite his near drowning. It was rather sweet actually, made Harry rather uncomfortable as you can imagine.” She smiled widely at me as I dressed quickly, happy to be in clothes finally. How did he pull me out of the lake, I know I pushed him out I heard the thunk on the ice myself! Besides that why was he so worried about someone he doesn’t even know? Sure I saved him but he’s never said more than ‘good game’ to me and when that happens he not usually in the best mood.

“How did he?” My question was cut short as the three boys entered the hut, Harry and Ron both looking worse for wear. Both still in PJ’s but looking pale and drained, Harry worst of all, I knew what he had heard tonight and my heart pained for him. Despite it all they still smiled at me, goofy grins from ear to ear. I tried standing and managed to lean against the wall, but my night’s activities were quickly catching up to me.

“You may have sent me to the surface, but that didn’t stop me from diving back into the water after you.” Cedric smiled at me, and this time I really did melt, right into his waiting arms as the blood rushed to my head and my knees gave out, darkness surrounding me once again.

I woke up in darkness, tucked tightly under a blanket on the mattress I had become so familiar with over the course of the summer. I was back in PJ’s, I really need to stop passing out if only so I might changed my own clothes for once. Sunlight was streaming in through the open flap at the front of the tent, I could smell breakfast outside and sighed contently as I snuggled into the body…..behind….me. Body? I rolled slowly so I wouldn’t risk waking them, and my eyes were soon locked with a strong tanned chest, I could see the muscles ripple under his skin and tentatively reached out and brushed my fingers along the valley between his pectorals, I sent a shiver down his body and he hugged me closer. My eyes refused to look up, worried it might be Harry. His attitude toward me had taken a drastic turn this summer and I was constantly confused by The-Boy-Who-Lived. I was snapped back to the present when the man in front of me sighed. His hands were gently placed on my hips and I shivered as he had, my eyes drifted up to his face, and I lost focus. Cedric Diggory was the one intimately wrapped around my body, holding me like we were lovers. I blushed and moved to escapes before I could wake the sleeping angel beside me, but the groan from behind me told me I was too late.

“Morning love, sleep well? Are you warmer?” His hands wandered up to my waist, bunching up my tank top and exposing my tummy to his wandering eyes. I wiggled out of his grasp and stood, stunned.

“Why are we? What? Why…” I couldn’t grasp why he was in my bed……in boxer briefs……Calvin Klein boxer briefs…..black ones that hugged his thighs and that very large bul-STOP STARING!! I was screaming at my eyes but they were moving over his body of their own accord until they were met with that smirking smile from yesterday.

“We put you to bed but you were still shivering last night, so I came to warm you up. Now I believe breakfast is ready if you’re hungry.” His voice was like chocolate to me and I was eating it up, he pulled on yellow and black flannel pants (Of course!) and walked to the tent flap. I followed and stepped into the bright morning sun, Ron and Hermione were seated next to one another she looked dazed and Ron looked down right uncomfortable. Harry was on the other side of the fire and looked as though he had swallowed something nasty.

“Good morning!” I bounced out of the tent and tried to ignore the odd stares I was getting, I settled next to Harry who scooted away from me as if I would explode any minute. Cedric came striding out into the sunlight, his bare chest gleaming and rippling with his movement. Harry was shirtless as well but he instantly looked as if he wished he wasn’t, even though Harry was just as fit as Cedric the older boy carried himself differently. Ron looked as if he would sink into the sweatshirt he was wearing, his face going red.

“Everyone sleep well?” Cedric took a seat next to me and I scooted closer the Harry. I didn’t even know that before yesterday Cedric even knew my name and yet here he was, taking every opportunity to be near me or touch me or sleep with me.

“Fine” Hermione didn’t look up from her oatmeal as she said this; Ron scoffed before mumbling something everyone heard.

“Bet you didn’t get much sleep.” His arms were crossed and his head down, staring into the fir, an empty bowl next to him. Harry laughed but quickly turned it into a cough; I can’t believe my friends though I was so easy! HOW DARE THEY!!! I stood at once, fists clenched and marched right up to Ron, he looked up at me for a moment before he was flying backwards over the log he was sitting on my fist having connected hard with his nose which I could see was bleeding.

“What are you doing?!” Harry jumped to his feet as did Hermione, I turned to face Harry and Cedric, they both looked stunned.

“I cannot believe my friends would think so little of me to assume that because of the interesting sleeping arrangement last night Cedric and I shagged. We didn’t for your information, though if we did you would have no right in knowing!! I am sick of this little camping adventure! We have a week until school starts and right now I would like nothing more than to go back to the burrow until the start of term.” I stomped back into the tent leaving my friends to sort out Ron.

I began throwing clothes and books into my open trunk, which made for messy packing but it felt good to throw things. I was just retrieving one of my sweatshirts from under the couch in the living room when I heard quiet laughing behind me. I knew it was Cedric and I had no desire to turn around and face the cause of my bad mood. If he hadn’t been all over me I wouldn’t be mad at Ron, they wouldn’t think I was a rampant slut. I shouldn’t have punched Ron I should have punched Cedric! I threw my sweatshirt at my trunk and turned on the tall Hufflepuff, his smirk was still in place.

“How dare you!! You stand there like what you’re doing isn’t causing me trouble!! What’s wrong with you?! I’m fairly certain that before yesterday we have never had any sort of interaction to speak of, so it really is beyond me why you are suddenly showing such an interest! Because last I knew you and Chang we’re fairly seri-“

“You know throwing things into your trunk is going to make it very difficult to close when you’ve finished.” He interrupted me?!?! Who does he think he is?! I’m mad……at…….when did he get so close? I could feel his breath on my neck and his body merely inches from my own.

“You didn’t answer my question, and you really have a problem with personal space.” I stepped around him to start sorting though my trunk, he might have been aggravating me but he was right about my trunk. I was finished removing all my books when he spoke again.

“You don’t feel it?” It was almost a whisper, but a whisper that tickled my ear; I stood up quickly and was pressed against his half naked body. My heart began pounding in my chest as his arms encircled my waist,

“F-fe-feel what?” I was stuttering like an idiot!! Since when do I get nervous around guys? Since the one behind you is gorgeous and all over you. His hands were like fire to me, lighting my skin wherever he touched me. His fingers danced over my exposed stomach, my butt was pressed to his crotch, and his breath came quicker until I could feel what I was doing to him. I jumped away from him and turned to look into his hazy lidded eyes.

“What are you doing?” He advanced on me, his hands finding my hips once again and pressing our bodies together, his lips inches from mine.

“Don’t you feel it? The fire that you start in me? I’ve never met anyone who could do that to me and suddenly there you are, in the water saving my life. Even then your touch did this to me, your voice, your very presence still does.” He ground into me and I whimpered, his face was so close to mine and the words he spoke caused me to shiver. I couldn’t believe what he claimed I did to him, though right now I could feel that it was more than a claim. It was a hard truth (ME SO PUNNY!) that was highly inappropriate, how could I be thinking that?! He was still staring at me, I think he expected me to answer; I have to say something, ANSWER HIM!! SAY SOMETHING!

“I…this……what…” Great time to have an empty brain, it didn’t seem to really matter what I said to him because his lips were slowly moving toward mine, I could barely feel them, the soft warm silk of his mouth on mine and then it was gone and I was blinking at him staring at something across the room. I hadn’t even realized I closed my eyes; I stood up straighter to take in the room once again.

Harry and Ron were frozen under the tent flap, their mouths hung open and their eyes wide. I could only imagine what this looked like to them and I blushed furiously before pushing Cedric away, turning back to my trunk.

“Whoa, sorry mate….didn’t know. We uh….well Hermione told us to come in and pack our things so..” Ron shuffled nervously toward the bunk beds him and Harry shared, Harry in tow. I couldn’t help but wonder what had gotten into Harry; he had done nothing but yammer on about Ginny all summer and yet now when Cedric is all over me he’s down in the dumps and mopey.

“Pack! Pack! Pack! Pack!” Cedric pointed his wand at each trunk in turn. The tent became a whirl of books and cloths but soon enough everything was packed and the boys began hauling their trunks out into the campsite. Cedric grabbed mine and Hermione’s at the same time, stupid show off. Stupid me because I was impressed and then when he smiled at me I blushed! How could I be so smitten with someone I sorta just met? Sorta meaning that I knew who he was, who didn’t? Him and Harry had won the Tri-Wizard Tournament three months ago, he was also the Seeker for Hufflepuff’s house team, a prefect though now I think it’s Head Boy, a great student, an excellent dueler, and dreamy and nice and apparently still a virgin if you believe the girls in Hufflepuff (Which if you’re smart you will). Cedric Diggory wasn’t someone new to me, but I am sure I am new to him. The ‘third wheel’ to the Golden Trio I met them when I was in my second year, I met Harry first at Quiddich practice. He was so nervous his first time up with the team, though being seeker he had little interaction with any of us but I knew what he felt like, I was new to the team as well, Chaser, so I talked to him after that first practice and it progressed from there.

“Hermione, how are we going to get back? It took us three days to get here from Hogsmade and from there we have to take a train into London so we can get back out of the city and to the burrow. It’ll take a week just to get home! Let alone do our shopping for the new term and maybe catch up on some well earned sleep before venturing back to Hogwarts.” Harry was going on as Cedric and I stepped toward the group.

“Well I was originally thinking about sending an owl to your parents so they could come and fetch us, but with Cedric here we can easily get back to the burrow in just a few minutes.” She bounced happily around the tent as she tore the entire thing down and stuffed the whole thing into an impossibly small backpack, though when she handed it to Ron his arm nearly flew off as the bag hit the ground with a heavy thud.

“I’m sorry, how exactly does us getting home have anything to do with Cedric?” I guess everyone was thinking the same thing as the boys nodded along with me and started at Hermione expectantly.

“He can apperate us home! He’s 18 as we all know and from what I heard your father telling Arthur last year you were set to take the test just two days before school. Assuming you passed, which I am pretty sure you have we should make quick work of getting back. You know where the burrow is and I suggest you take Harry first.” As Hermione spoke she began packing the trunks into her small backpack, having magically expanded it, she was the only one carrying anything once she was finished in her explanation.

“I figure from there Cedric can get home as he lives just on the other side of town and then maybe we could do our shopping tomorrow.” Hermione really liked planning things, though I was thankful for it because it meant I had little to think about when she was around, I could just do and not really think.

“Well I’ve only done a side-by-side once, during the test but there were no problems then. Come here Harry let’s get on with it.” Harry looked ill when Cedric grabbed his arm and pulled him into a sort of hug. He waved his hand and turned them both around and with a small pop they disappeared.

“Harry likes you!” Ron exclaimed looking directly at me, it was like word vomit and took me a second to figure out what he had said, he must have know I was confused because he went on.

“Harry likes you, he says spending this much time with you has really opened his eyes and he’s had this crush for a while. Course now he’ll never say anything because Cedric is all over you but I thought you should know.” This was the most I’d heard Ron say all summer and all I could do was nod dumbly and let my mouth hang open.

“I thought….Ginny….he…” Have I suddenly lost all ability to speak in uncomfortable situations, I think that icy lake messed with me.

“He does like Ginny, but lately he’s been more interested in you. I’m sure once we get home and Ginny and him reconnect things will change but I figured you deserved to know.” Ron was beat red by the time he had finished, clearly uncomfortable with the entire thing. Hermione simple stood next to me, eyes wide and mouth hanging open. I didn’t even hear the small pop as Cedric returned and grabbed her, waving his hand and turning around once more vanishing.

“What do you want me to do Ron? Why would you tell me this NOW?! I mean a few days ago would have been nice, at least then I could have let him down without him thinking there was someone else, now he’s gonna assume I chose Cedric! I’m not saying something won’t happen with Cedric but now if it does Harry will feel like he was passed over! You silly prat open your mouth more often!” I slapped playfully at his arm and he gave me the Weasley grin before he too was whisked away with a small popping noise. Being alone was a little eerie but before I knew it I was being embraced with a strong arm and squeezed through time and space.

“Cedric, I’m not opening my eyes until you PROMSE me we’re at the burrow.” I should have made sure I wasn’t last but then again with him popping in and popping out I didn’t really have a chance to warn him that I wanted to go to the borrow and not his house or a hotel room.

“Um…..Erika….” I heard Harry and I turned red and finally opened my eyes. Not only was I in the burrow I was in Ron’s room. Wow, Cedric was good. Hermione was nowhere in sight, she must be setting us up in Ginny’s room. Harry and Ron were situated on Ron’s small bed looking through their Hogwarts letters, Ron groaned when he noticed that dress robes were once again required.

“Sorry, just…..well the past few days and all….I mean…..it…..we…..” WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH ME?!??! That lake must have been enchanted because I now an incapable of communicating in tense situations.

“Erika your letter is down stairs and Mrs. Weasley wants to get dinner in you before she lets us crash for the rest of the week.” Hermione walked briskly back into the room and threw her bag at the boys who immediately began pulling their trunks out, which was something of a miracle in the tiny room. I wondered where Harry slept.

“Let’s get outside and play some Quiddich!” Ron grabbed his broom from his trunk and turned, right into a death glare from Hermione.

“How about you and Harry get into bed! We’re going shopping tomorrow and I don’t want you two to be tired and sore. I expect because you’ve both already shoveled down dinner you have no reason to leave this room again. Goodnight boys!” She turned on her heel and slammed the door in her wake.

“What are our chances of survival if we just sneak out the window?” Ron was already putting his broom down knowing that those chances were slim to none. Harry hadn’t bothered to pull anything out of his trunk but PJ’s. I was distinctly aware that Cedric was still standing close to me though he had removed his hands I knew he was looking at me. I could feel his breath rustle my hair which must have been a disaster from a summer spent in the woods. It would have normally been smooth red waves that stopped mid waist. Yes, I was often mistake for a Weasley and from the time spent with them I might as well have been, Muggle parents don’t really get me anymore and I want to feel plugged in so usually a month is spent at home each year before I’m here. The only thing to separate me from one of the Weasley’s was my eyes, they were emerald green and made it look like Harry and I shared a relative somewhere. HAND!! Oh my gosh I have to stop getting lost in thought, Cedric had place a hand on my back and was guiding me toward the door, apparently Harry and Ron were trying to get to bed ‘as ordered’.

“Cedric you don’t have to stay, I’m pretty certain that after a meal from Mrs. Weasley all I’m going to do is crash. Besides I’m certain your parents will want to know that you’re alright.” I tried to pass it off as pure exhaustion, and I was very tired from running around all summer, but really I wanted him to go home so I could think, put myself back together and then tackle this later.

“No that’s ok; I want to make sure you’re alright. No one’s home anyway, still on vacation. They never even knew I was missing, why worry them?” He was so cool about the whole thing, never even flinching in the face of the dark wizard and his wrath. I walked down the stairs flanked closely by Cedric, which turned out to be a good thing as I tripped twice. Damn wizard houses and their crazy stairs!

“Oh! Hello dear! Cedric always a pleasure, hungry?” Mrs. Weasley was already loading two plates with mashed potatoes, peas, and what I hoped was swiss steak.

“Oh Mrs. Weasley I couldn’t possibly eat this much, really.” And truthfully I wasn’t sure I would even lift the plate, she rolled her eyes and began removing food from my plate and then ushered us to sit while we ate. I dove in, stuffing my face like a starved man and managed to eat everything before Cedric even finished his Mashed potatoes. I set my fork down, promptly turned a deep crimson, and allowed Mrs. Weasley to take my plate.

“Sorry, that really wasn’t very attractive was it?” He just laughed and continued eating. Could he be any more attractive?! This isn’t fair, how am I supposed to sort through feelings with him looking so….dreamy. STOP IT!! Your staring…..and possibly drooling, oh my gosh. This has to stop, he has to go home, or I’ll have to go to bed. BED! That’s it! He can’t really shadow me when I’m going to bed!

“Oh Erika, the twins are gone for the week, getting the shop in order so you’ll be in their room if that’s alright. Cedric you’re welcome to stay as well of course though you’ll have to bunk with Erika. I trust you two to be adult enough to handle that.” She grabbed Cedric’s now empty plate and shooed us off to bed. WHY! Was the universe so set on making us a couple?! FINE! I’m giving in I’ll see how this plays out because some force beyond my control was obviously set to get us together.

“Thank you Mrs. Weasley, it would be wonderful to stay, I hope till term starts is alright. My house has been quite empty all summer and getting some family time would be great.” Cedric was so polite and gracious! UGH! Could he get more perfect? I bet even though he’s a virgin he’s a great lover to. I stalked through the kitchen door and made my way through the living room to the stairs. I didn’t even need to turn to know he was just one step behind me, mirroring each movement, so I stopped without warning and smirked when he slammed into my back, his breath hitching for a moment.

Smirking all the way I climbed the stairs to the twin’s door. There room was s bit frightening, with half finished experiments and burn marks everywhere, it was a wonder they never set the house on fire. The good thing were the beds, each on opposite ends of the room, were much bigger then Ron’s and they looked wonderfully comfortable. Gosh that summer of camping was catching up with me, but I was still lacking PJ’s – Of course.

“I wasn’t sure what bed you wanted so I just put our trunks over here, I’ll leave so you can change.” He handed me a tank top and shorts and then left, perfect gentleman. Why was I so annoyed that he was perfect? I mean he couldn’t be totally perfect, he wanted me after all. But having someone so smart and kind and polite, well was that really so bad? He was also already head over heels for me and without that key point I wouldn’t stand a chance. I opted for the bed by the window and eased into the soft down comforter. It was like slipping into a cloud! Man the twin’s really knew comfort. I was just getting into a good position when I felt weight on the side of the bed.

“Cedric…..please…..I just wa-wa-wanna sleep alone.” A yawn slipped out as I tried to sound strong and convincing.

“I figured as much, but I thought we should talk about this before things get anymore awkward. I like you, quite a bit really and I understand if you don’t feel the same, this was rather sudden. I just wanted you to know that I’m here for you for anything and I really enjoy your company.” He placed a hand over mine and I was lit up with a burning fire that rocked through my body. I gasped, how did he do that? Was this was he felt? If so I knew why he was trying to touch me as often as possible. Though despite the wonderful feeling I pulled away as if shocked and he looked as if I had just slapped him.

“Cedric…that……that’s what you feel isn’t it? What is that? Why does it feel so right? I just met you really I don’t understand.” I reach out and grabbed his hand as I spoke; I could form words when I was touching him. I wanted more, I needed more, but we were in the burrow and we could be walked in on any moment.

“You feel it too? I’m glad I’m not crazy after all. I’m not sure what it is but yesterday Hermione helped me look up similar sensations. She’s convinced we’re Soul Mates and this is how we know; it said so in a book so she’s sure it’s true.” My chin hit my chest; he had just informed me we were soul mates……SOUL MATES?!?!? “I’m sorry! I shouldn’t have told you that, I just frightened you. Gosh I’m an idiot!” He stood to leave me but I held fast to his hand.

“I’m not freaked out, just a little shocked. I may not have been raised in the wizarding world but I’ve learned quickly not to let most of it scare me. It is a little odd it’s happening so suddenly because a few days ago I only even knew about you but, if this is what it is we should explore it and I’m willing to give it a try.” I squeezed his hand and smiled and he smiled back. Before I knew what was happening he was scooping me into his arms, waving a hand and then we were squeezed and stretched and popped into a different room entirely.

“Um….This is my room…” He set me down and shoved his hands in his pockets. His room was rather large, decorated in varying shades of blue and green. Funny, I thought it would be yellow and black for sure! His bed looked (if possible) more comfortable than the one I had just been in. There was a desk and an obvious spot for a trunk under the window, it was simple and efficient, the only thing that told me it was a wizards room was the broom stick in the corner and all the pictures were moving.

“Why are we here? Couldn’t we just sleep in the burrow?” My question was answered the moment it left my mouth. Because anyone could walk in on us, walk in on what though? Why was he looking at me like that? AM I THINKING OUTLOUD??! STOP IT!! Oh no!

“Relax, as you’ve said several times we just met. I just wanted a few hours alone with you, where we won’t cause an uproar. Now I’m not sure about you but I am extremely tired and would like to simply sleep next to you.” Cedric removed his shirt and pulled back the covers, he was doing this on purpose! Showing me what could be mine. Well Cedric Freakin Diggory its working! Ugh……..PANTS!!!! He just dropped his pants and those are……very attractive boxer briefs…..and he’s….SMIRKING AT ME!! Oh my gosh I’m gonna melt soon, and now he wants me to join him.

“I…..kinda……it’s a little cold in here, how is that it’s gotta be at least eighty degrees outside.” Talk about the weather, brilliant. Lose it every time he stares into your eyes and lays just that way with his muscles tight, his tongue caressing his bottom lip.

“No one’s been home since the Dementor’s took me; you know what they’re like. Come here and I can warm you up.” Great, climb into bed with a gorgeous man, trip over nothing, perfect. Just make it to the bed please, OOFH! Very graceful, falling onto the bed let’s make up for that. So I crawled my way up his body until I was straddling him, lips just inches from each other. Should I snog him? Should I make the first move, eh I’ll just slide off him and lay down, those pillows look super comfortable – and they totally were.

“Mmmmm your pillows are so comfortable.” Great last words girl think of something sexier maybe tell him how bad your breath is going to be in the morning, maybe you could confess how badly you want him and drool while you do it, or just drool. Hott.

“So are you.” Oh when did we get in this position? I knew I was on my side but when did he curl himself around me, oh he feels really good pressed up against me. Man sleep deprivation is getting to me. I finally managed to shut myself off and concentrate on what he was doing to me. His hands were large and strong, simply put he had amazing hands. One was resting on my stomach, tickling the edge of my tank top; the other was in front of me relaxed my head resting on his arm. I placed one hand in his unoccupied one, he was being particularly gentle with me, light movements and lazy circles were traced all over my body. It took me a moment before I realized he was asleep, moving against me in his sleep. I soon followed him into dreamland.

“CEDRIC! ERIKA!” Harry’s voice rang out in the empty house and I jumped out of bed. Cedric simple sat up and rubbed his eyes, mumbling about a good dream.

“ERIKA!! ERIKA!!!” Harry’s voice was becoming more and more panicked as he drew closer; I could see the light from his wand under the door and ran to open it. His face lit up for a moment, until he saw Cedric crawling out and bed and slipping his pants back on.

“Oh, great. You two go missing and we all panic, turns out you just snuck off to shag!” Harry was furious and he stomped into the room pointing his wand at each of us in turn, whispering to me. “There up here! Nothing’s wrong, let’s just get home!” Harry started walking away from me when Cedric finally woke up enough to speak.

“Hey mate! Something wrong? It’s like, two a.m. Is everyone ok?” If possible he was even more attractive sleepy. His boxers hung low on his hips, showing off the beautiful V and sex pack, oh wow. The flannel pants were only pulled up enough to pretend to be pants showing the top of his boxers. One hand hung loosely at his side holding his wand. The other rubbed his eye and then moved to tousle his hair. Don’t stare….don’t stare. He adjusted his pants on his hips and I lost it, I actually moaned!!! Harry looked ready to puke and I turned from the boys biting my bottom lip.

“Yea there’s something wrong! You sneaking off with Erika for a quick shag! We all thought you’d been taken! Arthur and Molly are out right now checking the woods with Mr. Lovegood. I can’t believe you would do this to us……that you would do this to me.” Harry’s rant got quieter until I was sure he was only talking to me.

“Blimey Harry I didn’t know we’d cause such a fuss, I just find my bed is so much more conducive to co-sleeping and well it gave us a chance to talk a little. We were coming back for breakfast of course.” Cedric’s voice was husky and rough with sleep and all I wanted to do was pounce on him and allow him to ravish my body, but Harry would have felt uncomfortable, so it would have to wait.

“So does this mean you’re with him now? Suddenly he saves you and even though you’ve never met your suddenly closer than us? He doesn’t know anything about you! How like when you eat breakfast you save your pumpkin juice for lasts, always. Or how when you’re really tired you drool, and most of the time when you talk in your sleep it’s about your grandmother who died in your third year.” Harry had grabbed my hands and was almost pleading with me, his eyes locked to mine. I kept looking from a stunned Hermione and Ron who arrived just as he began speaking to Cedric who was standing confused starting into my eyes. Why would Harry do this?! How is drool sexy?! Why did he think any of this mattered? Cedric may not know me but so far he knew my body really well.

“Harry we didn’t decide anything we put it all out on the table and then we went to bed. Last time I checked you were my friend, just my friend. I know you like me but that doesn’t mean you can get mad at me for liking someone else!” OH SHIT! My hands covered my mouth immediately and I watched as Harry’s face went through seven different emotions: Anger, sorrow, panic, greed, jealousy, nauseous, and finally settled on heartbroken before he turned to run out of the room. Ron followed suite followed by Hermione.

“What was that? Harry likes you? You like me?” HA! Cedric had caught whatever I had! The vomit of questions assaulted me and then I realized I had to answer them, crap.

“Ron told me, it’s ridiculous really he had all summer to say something.” I strode back to the bed and crawled in, hiding under the sheets hoping he would leave well enough alone and not press the matter. He did.

“You like me? Hey, don’t ignore me, come here.” He pulled the blankets off me and pulled me into his arms, I didn’t look at him but I was totally enjoying this position. He tipped my chin to look at him and cocked one eyebrow.

“I like you.” Why do I have to be so 2nd grade about the whole thing? Why can’t I just sit up straight and tell him. “Yes Cedric, I like you….a lot and I’d like it if we could peruse a mature relationship.” And I really did just say that out loud, and he’s smiling about it. I think I might cum just from that smile, yup, totally just finished myself off. Is he going to say anything or just sit there smiling at me, with one hand running up my back. Oh that felt good and so do his lips. HIS LIPS?! Oh wow when did he start kissing me? Am I kissing him back? KISS HIM BACK!! KISS!! KISS!!!

I guess my lips finally reacted because soon I was pressed into the pillows and Cedric moaned into me as he ran a hand up from my knee to my waist, I could only gasp now and then. Thinking I couldn’t get any more awkward I had to sneeze. Don’t sneeze in his face, not in his face…..I could feel it, my nose was twitching pull away! Shit I can’t get away, hold it IN!

“Are you alright?” I’d be asking the same question had he just made a noise like a mouse being stepped on. I blushed and shook my head, hoping to simply dissolve into the bed.

“Sneezed.” I said it more to the pillow then to him, and as if this couldn’t get any worse he started laughing! LAUGHING! Oh the nerve, I pushed myself away from him and curled into what blankets I could reach, he was still laughing. Just keep my eyes shut and maybe he’ll stop long enough for me to fall asleep and forget tonight ever hap – TONGUE! Tongue on ear…tongue in ear….tongue……I shivered, feeling his arms wrap around me.

“It’s late, we don’t have to continue if you’re not ready.” Not ready? I thought we were both the virgin in this equation? Was I wrong? Were the rumors about Cho Chang true then? Lucky girl! Wait! I could be the next lucky girl….I could be the last if I believed what Hermione had discovered.

“Um……I’m not the…..you laughed at me!” The prick….I was smoldering and at this point depending on what he did it would become flames of anger or passion, but the window to turn me into a wanton mess was closing quickly.

“It was cute! I didn’t mean to make fun of you! But what are you talking about ‘I’m not the…’ care to finish your thought.” His smile was melting me, damn why couldn’t I control myself! He wants to know what I was going to say, crap I can’t tell him he’s a virgin! Not that he doesn’t know but if I’m wrong, I don’t think I want to know some other girl has gotten to touch him, to taste him, to have his hand wander their body.

“I’m not the……the……*sigh*” I might as well finish the hole if I already worked so hard to get this far. “I’m not the only virgin here.” He choked on his own tongue and I just wanted to dissapear. For the first time since I met him he blushed.

“Well um…..not sure how you got that idea, and I’m at a loss as to whether confirm or deny it after you so eloquently reveled your virgin status. I won’t push you love don’t worry.” He kissed my forehead and I started crying. I cannot believe we were talking about this! We haven’t even been dating more than ten minutes and we’re already talking about sex.

“What did I do? What did I say? Erika?” Of course he was comforting me, hardly quarter of an hour into this relationship and he was already the model boyfriend. Sure I’ve been complaining about his perfection but it wasn’t all consuming. I was falling hard and fast for his perfection.

“I can’t believe I would just blurt that out! How could you still be…..how? Being who you are, so handsome and so perfect, I’m silly to assume that with all your girlfriends over the years…you’d be….” I couldn’t say it again! I hope he didn’t think I would, his knowing brown eyes were so all consuming and I found myself wanting him. I wanted him to tell me he was a virgin that he was waiting for his soul mate whom he had found in me. I wanted to be the only one to touch him, to kiss him, to please him in the most primal way. I found myself drawn to this addictive tingling coursing through my body whenever he touched me.

“Darling do you want me to tell you what Hermione has already told me?” I nodded dumbly “Soul mates are not as rare as one might think, however each courtship is never the same. She did give me some key things to look for though and I think it’ll be helpful. Soul mates can only connect when both parties are virgins. They are both awakened through touch which is there to draw them together and make their love grow. Beyond that it’s apparently up to us, unless it intensifies. This is rare and when it occurs one of the parties involved is no longer a simple witch and wizard, they are something more. They are what her book called ‘Iunctus Pectus pectoris’ or the Pectus, roughly meaning beast. She’s not worried about that though it’s extremely rare. We are simply soul mates who were lucky enough to keep it in their pants long enough to find one another.” He laughed, and I laughed too, it was so easy being around him once we had cleared the air. I was so glad to be tied to him in such an intimate way, we belonged together. No one else would ever have him the way I do.

My tears had finally stopped and we simply lay there in one another’s embrace until first light tickled our skin, my eyes fluttered closed and the next thing I knew I was being awakened by a startled Molly Weasley. Apparently Cedric had apperated back, but had not gone to sleep in his own bed; breakfast was going to be great!

“Now I understand that we all have….urges….but only one of you is currently of age, at least until January, and I would like to ask you to refrain from such acts in the burrow. I know what young love is children, I did meet Arthur at school and from the moment we began dating in our fifth year we couldn’t get enough of one another, sneaking around the school and hoping to find and empty class room so we could – “ Molly was rambling and it was taking a turn for the worse, luckily Ron, so red in the face I thought he would explode stood and yelled MUM! Molly laughed to herself and left the room. Cedric and I were now alone with Ron, Hermione, Ginny, and Harry. I was terrified.

“Must be convenient that my Mum trust you two to bunk together, gives you plenty of opportunity to sneak off for a quick shag with your girlfriend whenever you like.” Ron was of course the first to speak, having very little tolerance for an awkward silence. This of course was the worst thing he could have done as he was seated across from me, I didn’t hesitate to stand and slam him, hard. Harry stood next to his wounded friend; this was what I was waiting for.

“Don’t hit Ron because you’ve gotten caught! It’s not his fault you two can’t keep your hands to yourselves, and in his house! I’m sorry Erika but this is unacceptable. You’ve just met him and suddenly you’re sneaking around and keeping things from us. You haven’t been yourself since we saved Cedric!” Harry had moved to stand directly in front of me, using his hands for emphasis every so often. I couldn’t believe what he was telling me! Had they completely ignored what Hermione had told them? It was like they didn’t..even…know…..I turned to whisper to Cedric for a moment.

“Did Hermione tell the boys what she told you? Do they know about us?” I had simply assumed Hermione had informed everyone and the boys were just being immature, but this would excuse everything they had done the past few days. Cedric shook his head no and I turned back to Harry to clue him in.

“I should have known you didn’t know, but instead I chose to think you were simply a jerk. Cedric and I are Soul Mates and in magical terms we are each a half to one whole. It started that night in the lake; it is an undeniable urge to be with the other one. Cedric and I are together now, in official terms. Hermione can explain this better but once she does you’ll know as much as we do. I would appreciate some better understand from now on please. Now can we please just go the Diagon Alley and have a day where we don’t fight about me and Cedric?” I turned and left the room before anyone could respond but I stopped just as the door swung shut.

“Is that true Cedric?” Harry’s voice was full of hurt and anger and I could just picture what his face looked like.

“All of it, now Harry let Cedric follow Erika and I’ll explain it all to you, Ginny, and Ron.” Hermione had spoken before Cedric could and a moment later I heard the shuffling of chairs and feet and I launched myself toward the stairwell, only to trip and land squared on my face in front of the kitchen door. Cedric walked through the door, which connected solidly with my head.

“What are you doing down there?” He smiled down at me and even from this angle he looked perfect.

“Being my usual graceful self.” I shifted to stand but was scooped up in Cedric’s arms instead. I kissed him gently and soon found that we had walked outside and were seated on the deck waiting for the Weasley family. The sun wasn’t yet above the trees in the garden and it sent long shows across the lawn. Hermione’s cat Cookshanks was chasing the gnomes around the vegetable garden while my cat (Ember) tried to relax in a patch of ever moving sun.

“Ok children let’s get going! Erika, Cedric? Were you planning to Apperate? Or would you care to join us in the floo? We’ll all be staying at the Leaky Cauldron the rest of the week, Arthur had business in London all week, something to do with a Muggle Antique show, the Ministry is expecting a lot of trouble, Arthur is heading up the task force.” Molly Weasley beamed with pride, but it meant I would have to figure out how to pay for a room as I couldn’t go home now, not so close to the start of term.

“You can stay with me love. We can Apperate later, once we’ve packed.” He had leaned in to whisper in my ear, he must have felt my agitation at the prospect of a stay in the pub, even if it was the cheapest place for a wizard to stay. “Mrs. Weasley we’ll meet you in Diagon Alley later, I still need to pack and Erika’s things aren’t in the best order in her trunk.” Cedric was of course the picture of polite, holding the door for Molly as she stepped back into the living room to join her family in the floo. Cedric’s left hand was on the small of my back guiding me past my friends, who all smiled apologetically, and onto the stairs toward the twin’s room.

He was right of course, my trunk was a jumble of books and clothes, I was going to have to find a Laundromat in London to clean all these clothes! While I do have the ability to clean them magically I always like the feel of them better when they’ve been laundered the Muggle way. I conjured up a duffle bag and began shoving dirty clothes into it and found I had only one set of clean robes and only one more change of clothes; I would be doing laundry tonight for sure! Cedric simply sat on the bed and offered his assistance which I declined. I was a very neat person, a little OCD at times even and had to pack things my way.

One hour and three re-packing’s later my trunk was finally latched. Cedric left with a small pop as he apperated my trunk to the Pub and got us a room. I ventured down stairs and into the garden to collect Ember (Who was now chasing gnomes in Cookshanks absence), she was in no mood for the cat carrier and I ended up having to stupefy her to fit her in the dam thing! Cedric was back by the time I was done, rolling in the grass laughing at my pervious antics and tricks. I bopped him on the head and began walking to the end of the drive, which really was pointless as we would be apperating to his house in a moment. He took Ember to our room at the pub and sooner than I thought possible I was once again in his room.

“Where’s you trunk?” I scanned the room twice and still saw no trunk. Cedric laughed lightly and walked into the hall, coming back a moment later, a large yellow trunk on tow. I rolled my eyes….of course it was yellow!

“Like the color do you? This should only take a minute. I haven’t got much to pack yet, just clothes really.” He opened his closet and waved his wand, with a gentle breeze all his clothes drifted into the air, folded themselves, and landed neatly in the trunk. The broom and several books followed and soon Cedric was done.

“That was much more graceful then my packing excursion. Don’t you have anything else you wanted to bring?” I stood searching his room for something else he might need.

“Oh your right!” He pulled me into a tight hug “I almost forgot you!”
*POP*

“Cedric! Good timing! Just got checked in ourselves, let’s get going, books don’t buy themselves!” Ron was walking toward us a large smile plastered on his face.

“He’s rooming with Harry AND Hermione.” Cedric winked before disappearing for a moment. He returned after a moment, leaving a room to my right. Ron and I were quickly on the topic of Quiddich and Harry and Cedric soon joined in, Hermione had each of our lists in hand and was going over them once more.

“Cedric, why on earth would you be required to purchase three different colors of robes? You need Black of course and possibly a new set of Dress Robes, but it also calls for a set of yellow robes?” Hermione had interrupted our conversation, but never took her eyes off Cedric’s letter, as if the words she was reading were a trick of the light.

“Graduation, each graduating student has to ware house colors, Erika will need crimson next year and you all the year after that.” He smiled broadly and squeezed my hand.

“Not next year, Erika you need crimson ones. Are you graduating early? How come you never said anything?” Everyone stopped, we had managed to make it to the Alley behind the pub and fitting seven of us in that tight space was awkward.

“I’m not graduating, at least I’m not planning to, and I still have a whole year after this one. I’m not sure why I need crimson robes but Dumbledore must know what he’s doing so I’ll have to get those as well.” I tapped the third brick and the archway soon appeared before us. I tried not thinking about the extra set of robes I would require and the meaning behind it but it kept drifting into my mind as the day wore on. Was I so advance that I could graduate early? Was I being asked to leave? Would they kindly allow me to graduate so as not to embarrass the poor Muggle born who couldn’t make it?

My thoughts were racing all day and before I knew it we were finishing up in Flourish and Blotts; on our way out we ran into Draco Malfoy, who was draped in none other than Daphne Greengrass, a Ravenclaw who had dated Cedric in their fifth year. Cedric pulled me close, wrapping one long arm around my waist while his free hand found his wand.

“Oh hello Cedric! How are you?! Looking fit as usual, though I haven’t much to say about the company you keep. Harry Potter? Really? Along with a Weasley, a Mudblood, and Erika Harper? Honestly you’re going to taint that wonderful pureblood of yours with this bunch?” Daphne peeled herself from Draco long enough to give our group a once over complete with vile insults fir for a Malfoy, I noticed Draco sneering behind her, apparently pleased they shared the same opinion of us.

“Come on Daphne, I want to get home and as much as I love to annoy Potter and Weasley I would much rather be in my room right now, with you, let’s go.” Draco stepped up to whisk the vile creature away and in good time, Ron was about to attempt a Slug Vomiting charm and with his aim it would have probably hit Malfoy instead. They left in a whirl of robes and bags and I was glad to see them go. It was bad enough I had to endure the likes of Draco and Daphne in school but in the real world I would have liked nothing more than to ignore their existence. Cedric still had an arm wrapped possessively around my waist long after they had left, as if I were in danger or something.

“Whoever the new DADA teacher is they better have a reason for assigning us three books! How are we going to get through three books in one year?!” Ron was still groaning as we made our way up stairs and into our respective rooms before dinner.

“Honestly Ron, two of them aren’t even five hundred pages!” Hermione was struggling under the weight of all her purchases and it looked rather comical from behind, she was almost waddling!

“No there just four hundred and ninty-nine pages each!” Ron rolled his eyes as they disappeared into their room as Cedric opened ours. Our trunks were stacked neatly at the base of the large four poster bed, the only bed in the entire room. No surprise there, I was already fully aware of Cedric’s preference to sleep with me. I was glad my trunk was on top for I quickly opened it to remove my large bag of laundry and replace it with my new books, ink, quills, and robes. Hermione, Ginny, and I decided to have a girl’s day tomorrow in order to shop for the formal gowns we would need this year. I slung the massive bag over my shoulder and grabbed my wallet full of muggle money (I had exchanged almost twenty pounds in Gringotts).

“Where are you off to love?” Cedric had settled himself on the bed with one of his new books and had been reviewing the first spell before noticing I was about to leave.

“I’m just going to do some laundry, the Muggle way. You can stay, it won’t take long, I usually magic the machines to work quicker, shouldn’t take me more than an hour or so.” He stood anyway; I should have known he would insist on coming along. He took the bag from me and motioned for the door.

“I hope it don’t take long, Molly and Arthur said they would collect us for dinner at six, so right now we have just over two hours and from the weight of this bag we’ll need that much time, even if we magic the machines.” He hurried me down the stairs and into the crowded London Street where we began searching for a Laundromat.

Cedric located a Laundromat with his wand after we wandered for almost ten minutes. However upon arrival everyone who had previously been doing their laundry finished rather quickly, leaving us completely alone, which was good because I was going to be using magic on these machines and didn’t want witnesses. Cedric helped me cram all my clothes into three super capacity washers, turning them each on with a tap from his wand. (It’s an empty Laundromat; did you really believe I would pay? The Muggle money was for show should there have been other patrons.) In ten minutes we had moved each load to a dryer and ten minutes after that we were folding, by hand, after an elderly woman had arrived with a large basket of towels.

“I don’t know how they do it, I don’t believe I have ever done laundry the Muggle way and here you prefer to do it this way! Your and odd one you know that. Most wizards wouldn’t dream of doing anything the Muggle way, especially not by choice.” He elbowed me gently and whispered in my direction, folding yet another pair of my jeans, I had almost twenty pairs from the shopping adventures my mother insisted on taking me on whenever I came home for the summer

“My clothes feel better when they’ve been washed this way, besides its how I grew up, I like doing certain things the muggle way.” I stuck my tongue out at him and then almost chocked on it as he held up one of my lacy thongs, this one was orange but I had about twenty more, all in different colors. I snatched it out of his hand and began digging through the massive pile to collect them all before shoving them into the bottom of my duffle bag, my cheeks a firm red, Cedric was almost in tears from a suppressed laughter, one that didn’t stop until we were back in our hotel room.

“If you don’t stop laughing you’ll never see them on me.” That worked, he clammed up instantly. Harry came and knock on our door a little later, informing us that we would be having dinner shortly, his mood had much improved after our chat this morning, he seemed to have settled back into his routine of liking Ginny, because she was just behind him, and I noticed their fingers were inter laced.

“Have any of you given though to your dresses this year?” Molly leaned into our group away from the boys and their Quiddich discussion, Ginny and Hermione both giggled but I just sat there, I really hadn’t.

“Oh well I suppose I’ll see them tomorrow after you’ve picked them out, we’re you planning to go to a Muggle shop or one in Diagon Alley?” She took a bite of her baked potato; I had long finished my cup of beef stew and couldn’t help but notice Cedric’s sideways glances at my lack of appetite.

“Ginny and I already scouted the shops in Diagon Alley and I want a gold one I saw at Madam Malkin’s. I think Ginny was eyeing a crimson one in Twilfitt and Tatting’s. Erika never mentioned anything but I’m sure it’ll be yellow.” Hermione nudged me and I couldn’t help but giggled along with the girls.

“Well ladies I think its dessert time!” Arthur had sat up straight to peer down the end of the table at us and beckoned over the waiter. Harry and Ron both ordered Banana splits while Ginny and Hermione opted for Strawberry Italian sodas, I declined, but only until Cedric suggested we split and Apple Pie and I can’t turn down Apple Pie! Molly and Arthur both skipped dessert and instead started a conversation about our futures.

“Cedric, you’ll be first to graduate, what are your plans? Going to follow your father into the Department of Regulation and Control of Magical Creatures? You know we have an internship open in my department this next summer eh?” Cedric laughed lightly at this before Molly could intervene.

“Now Arthur you can’t go around bating bright young wizards like Cedric into your internship! Let the boy chose his own way!” Molly was helping the bus boy clear the table of our dishes. I leaned closer to Cedric, thoroughly interested in his career path as it would more than likely directly affect me.

“Well I’ve applied for the internship in the department of Mysteries. I’m hoping to be an Unspeakable actually, its fascinating work whatever they do, it has to be to be kept under such a tight watch.” His smile was forced as he awaited a reaction.

“Brilliant! Wonderful choice, I’ll put in a good word for you as I’m sure your father has already!” Arthur clapped Cedric on the back and from there the conversation took a lighter turned until our chairs began wiggling in an effort the stack themselves, it was well past closing time and we all needed to get to sleep. I stood slowly, hanging on Cedric’s arm to support my tired body as we filed up the steps behind the Weasley family. We all trickled into our respective rooms with muffled goodnights. As soon as our door shut I began peeling off clothing, much to Cedric’s surprise because when he made to join me in bed I was clad only in my tank top and a pair of yellow (to perfect right?) lacy knickers. I saw his shock and sat up, suddenly aware of what I had done. He was clad only in boxer briefs but that is what he had always slept in and so his attire was not as out of place as my own, I made to cover myself until he grabbed my wrists, pulling me into a fiery kiss. This kiss was different, more urgent and needy, was this the start of our first time? Would I not be a virgin in the morning?! As if he could read my mind Cedric pulled away and started intently into my eyes.

“Is this ok?” He whispered the words into my waiting lips, I could do little more than nod in response and he deepened the kiss, pinning me to the bed beneath him. I wiggled to free my hands so I could feel him but he held me fast. So far I was right; he was a great lover even though he was virgin. Not that I had anything to compare it to. When his hands finally released mine it was to remove my tank top, revealing my breasts to his gaze. I moved to cover myself but he stopped me, placing kisses around and between my breasts before moving to kiss each hardened nipple.

“OH!” I arching into his gentle touches and the fire he created in me grew hotter. My hands roamed his back and shoulders, reveling in the sweet addictive feel of his skin on mine. One of his hands moved to my back to press my naked chest to his as our mouths met in a searing kiss. As he lowered my trembling body onto the pillows he whispered into my ear.

“I love you; please tell me if this is too much.” Even his words of concern were turning me on! I knew my panties must be drenched and I immediately flushed from embarrassment, turning my head to avoid eye contact. He took this opportunity to remove his underwear and kneel between my legs completely bare to me. My eyes slowly took in his body, his upper body was tense and flexed, revealing exactly what Quiddich could do to the male form, until my eyes wandered lower and I gazed upon his hardened member for the first time. It was long and thick, proudly bobbing from the slight moment of his body, I gasped, how would it fit? I knew my body and I knew I was not nearly that wide. I cringed at the thought of the pain that was yet to come and soon found myself in Cedric’s caring embrace.

“We can stop; we can just go to sleep love. Seeing you like this is more than enough for now.” I shook my head no and took a few relaxing breaths before kissing him passionately, I wanted this just as much as he did and I’ll be damned if fear would stop me now.

One of his hands flitted down my body and soon his fingers were caressing me through the delicate lace that still covered me. I pressed myself into his hand to encourage more, I didn’t know what more was but I wanted it. His talented fingers teased me into a frenzy before he pulled aside my knickers and plunged one finger into my folds. OH GODS IT WAS INCREDIABLE!! I never wanted him to stop touching me! He looked deep into my eyes and we shared an unspoken conversation with our bodies. My hands were wrapped around his neck, anchoring myself to something. My hips bucked in approval of the slow movement of his skilled finger and soon there was another added to the first, this addition of a second was noticeably uncomfortable but as he added it he found something. He was expertly stroking the wonderful bundle of nerves on the outside of my body as well as the inside. I could feel his fingers grow slick with my own juices as he continued to whip me into an even greater passion. I pulled his lips to mine before allowing them to wander to his ear, nibbling and biting and caressing it with my mouth. He moaned into my cheek and I lost it. My hands released his neck and fisted in the sheets, my head thrashing from side to side and wave after wave of pleasure shook my small frame.

When my body finally stilled I took note that Cedric had removed my panties and was positioning himself at my entrance. My body tensed as I felt his tip kiss my folds and he whispered sweet words of love to me as he pressed onward. My cavern was stretched awkwardly, a new sensation taking hold of my already burning body, in one smooth motion he was completely encased in my body and pain shot through every inch of me. I twisted and thrashed beneath him as he covered me with his body, holding me tightly as I grew accustomed to this intrusion.

“Do you want me to stop?”By the time the words left his lips the pain was already giving way to a new pleasure I had only dreamed about. Dreamed about! I dreamed about this! It was him that night in the woods when Harry had awoken after the image of Cedric floated into his mind! I had seen this! I moaned into his shoulder and wiggled, urging him to move, to throw me over the edge once more.

My feet locked under Cedric’s calves to pin our bodies together but to allow him to move freely within me. He eased backwards until he was almost completely withdrawn from my body before gently rocking back into me. He let out a low moan as he bit his bottom lip. One of my hands was still fisted in the sheets while the other ran lightly over her bicep before coming to rest between my own shoulder blades, allowing me to arch into his body better than before. He slowly worked into a rhythm my hips matching him thrust for thrust. The only sound in the room was our panting, gasping, and moaning driving us further into the throws of pleasure. Cedric soon lost the ability to hold up his head as a familiar tingle turned into a wild fire, coursing through our veins threatening to consume us together, his forehead rested on my shoulder and his cheek was pressed to mine as we gasped and moaned into the others ear. His thrusting became frenzied and erratic, his body pounding into mine seeking release. I could feel my pleasure mounting again and knew we would finish together.

“Erika! I love you!” Cedric thrust hard and deep into my waiting body, releasing a hot spurt that sent me into my own oblivion. Most of the stories girls told in school about seeing starts and limbs losing all function and feeling seemed impossible to me but suddenly I was experience it all at once, my eyes saw fireworks as my toes and hands lost feeling and function. I moaned his name as my last ounce of strength was drawn out in a wonderful climax.

Cedric was the first to move, removing himself from my spent body and quickly cleaning us both up with a quick spell, he curled himself around me, as I gave into sleep finally after making love for the first time. It was everything and more because I was loved and cherished by the man I gave myself to.

“MEOW!” Wow that was a great wakeup call! Ember was rocking her cage and meowing loudly, apparently it was breakfast time. I sat up slowly, Cedric’s arm falling from my body; if I couldn’t hear him breathing I might have thought he was dead.

After shuffling around the room for a minute I managed to throw my stupid cat into the hall way and fall back into bed. After tossing and turning for another half an hour I gave in and shuffled into the bathroom, where I finally realized I was still naked. Fantastic I hope no one was in the hallway when I threw my cat out. I was way too sleepy to care at this point but maybe after a shower I could find some emotion on the subject. Turing on the shower was yet another thing that my mind was unable to process but I did manage to remember it required my wand and soon hot water was cascading over my sore body. The ache between my legs seemed to dull slightly as I continued to move around and wash my body.

As I stepped out and wrapped myself in a towel I heard Cedric moving in the other room, mumbling to himself and shuffling around. He soon entered the bathroom, still naked, and kissed me on the cheek before stepping around me into the shower. God that boy was attractive! I walked back into the bedroom and made my way to my trunk and began sifting through my newly laundered clothes. I opted for a pair of jeans I had never worn from some American store called ‘American Eagle’ I pulled them on with a plain white t-shirt and started lacing up my converse, I was fully clothed by the time my Hufflepuff slowly made his way back into the room, his towel wrapped loosely around his hips, exposing most of his upper body, stopping short of reveling him completely.

“Sleep good?” I laughed and so did he, his question was ridiculous as we both knew the answer, after our first time we both completely passed out; we didn’t even know what time it was. We were interrupted by a forceful knock on the door.

“Cedric? Are you in there boy?” Amos Diggory was on the other side of the door and Cedric stopped moving, his arms stretched over his head as he pulled on a blue sweater, a pair of plain jeans already in place over his boxer briefs.

“Cedric! Do you want me to open the door?” I whispered urgently, taking several steps toward my frozen lover. He finished pulling on his sweater and brushed past me to open the door.

“Dad? Mom? What are you doing here? I though you would be in France for another two weeks?” He swung the door wide, exposing me to his parents prying eyes. Great, my boyfriend is bloody brilliant his parents are going to think I’m some sort of slut.

“Well we wanted to see you before you left for you final year dear. We’re going home tonight though if you would like to join us. Oh! Who is this lovely young lady?” His mother had been staring at me since the door opened and I tried my hardest to simply melt into the floor. She had answered her sons question quickly and stepped around him to get a better look at me, our trunks, and the bed which had obviously been slept in, possibly by two people. She was smiling at me, with a patient stare as Cedric and his father turned their attention to me. His father looked offended but Cedric simply smiled and reached for my hand.

“Mom…Dad….This is my girlfriend Erika Harper. Erika this is my father Amos and my mother Lisa.” He guided me toward his parents, both looking confused and anxious as I shook each of their hands in turn.

“Very nice to meet you both.” How awkward with this? Could someone please save me? Please?!

“Well it’s very nice to meet you as well dear though I’m afraid we weren’t aware of you until just now.” Amos looked from his wife to his son and then back to me with a sympathetic smile. Apparently they thought I was just a summer fling because their son hadn’t mentioned me. What they weren’t aware of was that we had only been dating a day or two. Just as tension began to seep into the room Harry and Ron passed by, pausing to peer into the open door.

“Harry! Are Ginny and Hermione around? I think they wanted to take me shopping today and I don’t want to keep them waiting.” I launched myself at the boys and guided them down the hall and into their empty room. Leaving the Diggory’s to ponder of their son’s new girl, I could only imagine the conversation Cedric was about to have with his family.

“What? What’s going on? Why do you look as if you’ve just escaped a dragon? Weren’t those Cedric’s parents?” Harry was thoroughly confused but I refused to answer any questions until the boys had securely shut their door.

“Yea those are Cedric’s parents, and I was just introduced to them as the girlfriend. Though you can imagine how that went over after finding us in the same room together. I really didn’t want to stay for the conversation that is now taking place, and I really did promise I would go shopping with the girls today.” Whew! I got it all out and they only looked at me like I was half mad, fantastic.

“Well Ginny and Hermione are finishing breakfast with my parents downstairs. I think they’re getting ready to go, thought you and Cedric might have left because you didn’t answer the door about an hour ago.” Harry was still the only one forming words. I think Ron was still confused, poor sap.

“Thanks boys! Tell Cedric I’ve gone shopping! I’ll be back later!” I ripped opened the door and hurry downstairs hoping I hadn’t missed the girls, unfortunately The Diggory’s were leaving my room at the same moment, obviously continuing their conversation.

“Cedric you cannot be serious! You have just met this girl and yet here you are sleeping together already? Really Cedric what does that say about her? What about Cho darling, she was so lovely and really looked much better paired with you than this Erika person. Not to mention she was from a wizarding family where as I have never heard of the Harpers. You really could do better” I froze; I couldn’t believe his wonderfully polite mother would say such vile things!

“Mother honestly! What part of Soul Mates do you not understand? Erika is my one whether or not you approve though I wish you would. Dad are you just going to stand there and let her say these things?!” Cedric was standing in the door way, his parents having moved into the hall.

“Son I understand that you’re of age and so free to choose your own partners, but your mother and I are still allowed to give you our opinion and now you’ve heard it.” Amos, if possible, was even colder than his wife. I couldn’t stand to hear anymore, let along Cedric’s retort. I started running, and didn’t stop as I brushed between my lover and his parents, there shocked expressions barely registered in my mind. I could feel Cedric’s hand wrap around one of my wrists but I shook him off, damn those Seeker skills. I didn’t stop running until I collided with a stunned Ginny.

“Erika are you alright? Why were you running?” Ginny hadn’t fallen but I had, landing hard on my bum; the pain distracted me from my inner turmoil and prevent my tears from falling.

“Oh! The boys had said you were about to leave and I didn’t want to miss you! Are we ready?” I stood and made my way to the back of the pub, constantly glancing at the stairs. If the Diggory’s come down now I’ll be forced to stay and endure their disapproving glances as they exchange pleasantries with the Weasley’s. Luckily Hermione had already been moving in the same direction and soon we were disappearing into Diagon Alley. I knew I couldn’t hide here but at least it would make it harder for Cedric or his parents to fine me. I just wanted to ignore the harsh words from his parents and be caught up in a day of shopping.

Hermione bought the gold dress she had talked about last night and Ginny bought the red one. After having taken care of themselves the girls tuned to me, getting me to try on a billion different dresses in six different shops, turning them all yellow before passing them thought the curtain. They finally allowed me to chose one, settling for an elegant black strapless number with pale yellow accents and a pale yellow bow which wrapped around just under the bust line. It hugged all my curves till mid thigh and then flared slightly. Why they insisted I wear yellow was beyond me, they had some romantic notion that wearing Cedric’s house colors would get him going. Too bad I already knew what got him going, and while they were yellow they were much smaller than a dress. After opting for a simple pair of black Stilettos (Ok not so simple but rather basic as far as shoes go) we made our way back toward the pub, stopping in to order an espresso before making it back for dinner.

“I cannot believe you two are Soul Mates! That is so romantic!” Ginny had been yammering on all afternoon once Hermione had casually asked me about Cedric. She was extremely curious about our relationship and how on earth we managed to move so quickly when Harry had taken all summer to just get eh courage to hold her hand! Ginny hadn’t really thought much about our bond being the reason for our speedy relationship.

“Real romantic after you get over the fact that you’ll be spending the rest of your life with some you’ve only just met, someone’s whose parents don’t approve of you.” Shit, I managed to keep it to myself all day and just as I was in the home stretch I open my big mouth. Hermione and Ginny both stilled and shared and worried looked. I rolled my eyes and retreated to a small table in the back of the café where I knew we would spend the next hour or so discussing what had happened. They followed with drinks in hand and waited for me to start.

“Cedric’s parents stopped by our room just after we had finished getting showered and dressed. I panicked and fled when I saw Harry and Ron, I didn’t say anything to them. His parents had introduced themselves and they were nice enough, but they didn’t like me after Cedric told them I was his girlfriend. So then I left the boys to find you two, and I heard them talking. They said how I wasn’t good enough for him. How they wanted him to be with Cho because she was smarter then I am and she looked better with him. They also mentioned how I am Muggle born and not from a wizarding family which would tarnish his image.” WHEW! I got it all out and it felt so good to talk about it even if they hadn’t said anything just yet.

“Well didn’t he tell them you’re Soul Mates?” Ginny cocked her head to the side and reminded me instantly of a bird, Hermione rolled her eyes.

“Of course he did, they thought he should be able to work around it and leave me; like I’m just some summer fling. This relationship is already so hard and we haven’t even started school yet!” I buried my head in my and let the tears come. I was in the company of my best friends; if I could cry anywhere it was with them.

“Honey there just his parents; they don’t control his life or who he loves. I understand wanting to belong to the family you may marry into some day, but it’s not always how it works out. Give them time, you’re a wonderful person, they’ll come around. What did Cedric say to them?” Hermione was my voice of reason; she always grounded me after my life ‘fell apart’.

“I didn’t hear it, I ran downstairs and right into Ginny after I heard his parents opinion of me.” I sighed heavily, knowing she would tell me to talk to Cedric about the whole thing, Ginny was lost the poor girl was only now fourteen, the entire concept of love and relationships was brand new to her but she tried her best for my sake.

“Well you already know what I think, I suggest you talk after dinner though, that way you have all night to discuss things.” Hermione stood and gathered her bags, Ginny and I followed suite and soon the three of us were laughing and talking all the way to the pub. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were seated at our usual table, Harry and Ron were already there finishing a game of Wizard chess. As we ascended the stairs I heard Ron give a whoop of victory followed by loud protesting from Harry.

“At least the boys managed to keep themselves entertained while we were out.” Hermione pushed open the door to the room my four friends were sharing, throwing their bags on the beds before turning back to me. I was fidgeting in the hallway, if Cedric hadn’t been downstairs it meant he was in our room and I desperately wanted to postpone our chat as long as possible.

“Oh Erika really! We’ll come along to collect you in five minutes! Go!” Hermione shut the door in my face, leaving me in the eerie silence of the hallway. I shuffled my way to the door, my heart racing as I grabbed the knob and pushed my way into the room. It took my eyes a moment to adjust to the dark but once they did I realized the room was unoccupied, under a closer inspection I took note the Cedric’s trunk was also missing and my heart fell through the floor. Tears leapt from my eyes instantly as I threw myself onto the bed, leaving my bags where they fell. The crinkle of paper under my fingers told me there was at least a note, not that I could read it now my vision was to blurry from the hot tears that were running down my face but I did my best. Tapping the lamp to my right to illuminate the piece of parchment in my hand I found Cedric’s neat handwriting.

‘I have gone home with my parents until the start of term, though I paid for the room though the rest of the week. I know what my parents said hurt you and I’m sorry to have caused you any pain but they have always known what’s best in the past and I need to trust them once again. I’m sorry – Cedric’

My world slid out of focus as Hermione and Ginny ran into the room in time to stop my fall. I could hear Ginny’s worried questioning as Hermione scanned the letter. My last fleeting thought was of my last moment with him, I had brushed past him in the hall way, shaking off his attempt to comfort me.

The next four days passed in a blur of tears and comfort. Harry and Hermione became my stabilizers, she keeping me functioning during the day and Harry chased away my nightmares during the brief periods of time I managed to sleep, always in his arms. They managed to make me eat a few times but I had lost all taste for food. My world was numb and colorless. I couldn’t comprehend how Cedric could ignore the bond between us when he had been the first one to whole heartedly accept it. I could only imagine what Cedric was doing, probably owling Cho everyday trying to salvage whatever they had. I could take comfort in the fact that we wouldn’t have any classes together which might lessen the blow of being ignored. Why did I ever let myself love him?

“Erika, Harry’s got your trunk loaded and he and Ginny are going to get you into our compartment, Ron and myself need to go to the Prefects compartment for a moment.” It was like I wasn’t really there anymore, they had resorted to talking to me like a child and I was to numb to care. “Ginny I’m trusting you to make sure, he, doesn’t come in contact with her. Harry I’ll be there as soon as I can. I already alerted Dumbledore and he has planned for all of us to meet with him tonight to address her obvious state of……nothing.” Hermione was speaking quietly in our small huddle; we had arrived early in hopes of avoiding Cedric as long as possible. I knew I would have to see him eventually, I would see him in the halls and at meals and whenever I played his team in Quiddich.

“Uh…Hermione…he’s……”Ron’s bumbling snapped me out of my daze and I began scanning the crowd for the sandy brown hair and light brown eyes. I found him easily and his appearance drew a gasp from my mouth, my friends all froze around me, tensing in case I did something stupid, but I simply watched him. Cedric’s hair was disheveled and messy, his robes hung awkwardly on his thinner frame and dark circles hung under his eyes. He shuffled through the crowd, his eyes blank and unseeing until they found me. My breath hitched again as his eyes locked with mine, he was just as dead just as pained as I was. My mouth refused to form words and my body was too weak to move more than a few inches before I melted into Harry, the tears falling on their own. I could feel my body’s attraction to his grow stronger until I was sure he was right in front of me, but I refused to open my eyes just to be disappointed.

“Is she alright?” Cedric’s voice seemed to embrace my small form. I was a junkie in rehab who had just been slipped a sniff of coke and I wanted more. I hated myself for needing him so badly after only four days with him, I couldn’t fathom how all consuming this desire for him was until he was near me again.

“She’ll be fine when you leave…again.” Harry’s words lashed out at the man who had abandoned me just a few days prior, my eyes now refused to open despite my orders to gaze upon the lovely face of my Hufflepuff. Knowing he was so close I was grateful that Ginny had insisted I put myself together today, styled my hair, did my make-up, and dressed in something other than sweats, I looked more or less put together, save for my pained face and tired eyes.

“I doubt that, she looks like she hasn’t eaten or slept in days, just exactly what are you doing to her?” Cedric’s voice rose as anger took his body, I felt him step closer and heard as Hermione slapped his hand away from me.

“We?! We’ve been trying to save her! You Cedric, you’re the one who did this! She’s in a catatonic state because you’ve left her, your denying this bond, rejecting your Soul Mate, and it’s killing her! I don’t understand how you can stand there like this isn’t your fault!” I could picture Hermione’s rant, and had I not been shut off for the past few days I would have laughed hysterically. Her arms would be waving in the air and her expression that of shock and fury, her eyes bugging out of her head. The trains whistle blew above us and the crowd around us began moving faster, hurried goodbyes could be heard around us but our group stood unmoving for a moment the tension in the air growing thicker as the moments passed.

“Harry please take Erika onto the train, I believe Ron, Cedric and myself are needed up front for a moment.” Hermione and Ron moved away from me, my eyes slide open enough to watch three retreating backs before Harry swung me around and walked onto the train. He had chosen a compartment half way down the second car, our luggage was already in place and no one else seemed to be around. I was laid on a bench and covered with Harry’s robes falling into a blissful sleep as the train began moving, my mind filled with images of Cedric.

“Stop it Harry! Let her sleep she needs this.” I woke to a tender hand caressing my side, it was warm and inviting and I couldn’t help but roll to allow it better access to my body. I knew it wasn’t Cedric but I didn’t care, they were gentle and caring and I wanted to feel loved.

“We’re almost there Hermione, see the train is even slowing down.” Harry’s voice was coming from somewhere above me, so it must be his hands that were wandering my body so expertly. I rolled into his embrace and clung to his chest, I didn’t want to face Hogwarts yet because it meant facing Cedric.

“Harry you cannot carrier her, we’re at school now. Do you know what it will look like? I know what shape she’s in but she can walk to the carriage and then to dinner.” Hermione placed her hand on Harry’s, great I would have to fake my way through the rest of the night when all I wanted to do was try and sleep.

“Erika? Hey love we’re at school.” Harry spoke into my ear and sent wonderful shiver down my spine.

“I know, I’ve been awake for a little bit. Can I skip dinner?” Harry sat me down and I allowed my eyes to focus on his face for a moment, but I turned away, ashamed I would have the desire to kiss him when Cedric was my Soul Mate. I was a complete mess over a boy I hardly knew and now I was trying to rebound. My body sought love and comfort and tender touches, and it didn’t care who they came from.

“You really need to eat, we’ll leave early but you can’t go to bed until we meet with Dumbledore.” Harry held me close to his body, apparently afraid I would fall over, I didn’t blame him, I was shaking like a leaf.

“Fine, but….Harry……um….I know the Hufflepuff table is right next to ours and I just don’t want….” I don’t want to see, smell, hear, or feel Cedric was it so hard to say his name? I had known him four days and yet it’s like when he left he took my heart with him. I didn’t care that he was suffering, it couldn’t be that bad, he was the one who left after all.

“Come on then, we don’t want to be left behind” Harry turned me around and let me lead the way, his hands holding my shoulders. Ron and Hermione were arguing behind us and I couldn’t help but snicker to myself, they were such an old married couple already. We made it onto the platform and toward the carriages without much incident. Luna and Neville joined us and the conversation turned to Quiddich and summer vacations. Luna had been to France over the break and was telling us all about the Eiffel Tower when we finally arrived. Harry lifted me easily from the door and wrapped one of his strong arms around my waist as we shuffled up the steps and into the Great Hall.

The whole school was abuzz with activity and chatter, the noise made it easier to not think. Our group took up our usually seats in the middle of the table facing the wall. I was settled between Ron and Harry facing Ginny, Hermione and Neville. Most of the students were already seated and were awaiting the sorting ceremony.

“Welcome! Welcome! Welcome students! I am so glad you are all here! Before we can begin filling our bellies we must sort our newest students. Professor McGonagall?” Dumbledore stood at the head table, his voice echoing around the now silent hall. Several students coughed and shifted while we waited for the first years to assemble at the front of the hall.

The next few minutes were a blur of new students and house names. I turned it all out after a moment, I kept flinching each time the hat shouted ‘HUFFLEPUFF’. Soon enough food was filling the plates and bowls on the table and Harry was coaxing me to eat.

“You skipped breakfast and slept through lunch, you’re going to eat something.” Harry’s breath was hot on my neck and caused a familiar shiver to take my body. I nodded dumbly before allowing him to fill my plate with food. Happy chatter filled the hall as students ate dinner and then dessert and soon all the food was cleared from the table, much to Ron’s disappointment.

“I would like to inform and remind all of you that the Whopping Willow and Forbidden Forest are to be avoided unless you fancy a stay in the hospital wing. Now as the hour grows late I would like to welcome back Professor Lupin as the Defense Against The Dark Arts teacher. Now as you all look extremely sleepy I suggest you all head straight to bed! Off you trot!” Dumbledore waved his hands at us as the teachers moved to leave as well. Harry helped me to my feet and we were soon swept into the mess of people. In the chaos that was happening around us I was being jostled violently, I tripped suddenly but instead of falling to the floor I fell softly into Harry’r arms. I was beginning to think I was incapable of walking on my own for how much Harry simply opted to carry me instead.

“I’m beginning to doubt my ability to walk on my own anymore.” I giggled into his neck, I think eating a real meal was going to my head. Harry chuckled, the sound reverberating from his chest to warm my body.
***

“Licorice Wand.” Hermione spoke the password firmly and soon we were disappearing up the spiral stair case.

“Harry I can’t believe I am saying this again but can you please set her down. She may be a little off right now but I’m sure she can walk on her own.” Hermione rolled her eyes at us, obviously disgusted with his affection toward me and my blatant uncaring. I finally noticed that my group was missing a member. As we had another minute or so before reaching Dumbledore’s study (I could have crawled up stairs faster than these things moved) I inquired as to what had happened to my red headed semi-sister. I have got to stop thinking like this.

“Where’s Ginny?” My voice sounded foreign and I felt instantly guilty for being the least bit happy.

“She ran off with Dean Thomas as soon as dinner was over, I suspect it’s more than just friends catching up.” Ron was matter of fact, his voice trailing off as he turned and looked at Harry, his face a stern mask. He muttered an apology before turning back to face forward.

“But I thought…..Harry?” I looked up to the boy on my left, his arm was securely around my waist in case I should exhibit classic Erika form and fall without even taking a step.

“Ginny and I….we’ve decided to just been friends.” This was brand new information to me but I could see Ron and Hermione flinch slightly and new this was a topic they had already talked about a lot.

“Well when Cedric left we all focused on you and she’s kinda seen why her and I would never work.” Harry wouldn’t look me in the eye and before I could respond I was being swept into Dumbledore’s office.

“Ah! Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, Miss Granger, and of course Miss Harper. I understand that you especially have had a rough week. Miss Granger had been so kind as to inform me somewhat of the situation but I would like to make sure I have it right. I hear you have discovered that you and Mr. Diggory are Soul Mates, yes well that is wonderful. However, as Miss Granger has stated he is now attempting to break this bond? I must ask why he would be driven to desire such a thing. Though before this happens I would like to let you know Erika that being top of your class has put you almost a full year above your peers, because of this we at Hogwarts are extending you an opportunity, to graduate early should you desire to do so, you will simply take 7th year N.E.W.T.S in April and then join the graduation ceremony in June.” Dumbledore barely let us sit down when he began speaking to us. I could only nod dumbly as he summed up the situation. I felt stupid for having fallen apart like this over a boy I had known only four days and even dumber for not reacting at all to the news that I would be allowed to graduate early.

“Um yes, thank you Headmaster. I would like a bit more time to consider this, I am thankful for the opportunity.” I didn’t recognize the voice coming out of my own mouth but at least I had spoken at all. I lowered my head and started at my feet, twisting my hands together uncomfortably, I hope they weren’t expecting me to explain things. I’m not even sure I could listen to it without crying. Hermione was shifting uncomfortably next to me I could feel her eyes on me; I simply nodded allowing her to launch into an explanation.

“We aren’t sure sir but he left after a visit from his parents and then Erika, sorry, lost it, frankly it’s shocked us how much of an effect he holds over her though it seems she has done the same damage to him. Professor we were wondering if there was anything we could do for Erika and in turn for Cedric as it seems he is opposed to this relationship.” Hermione was all business as usual; she thought that this was a problem simply solved by an answer in a book.

“Well I assure you that you cannot break the bond of Soul Mates however if the bond is not a desirable both parties may part without any ill effects. I’m afraid I can offer no more insight tonight; this will take some research on my part as well as yours. Hermione I would like to meet with you tomorrow, during your study hour I think. Now off you go.” Dumbledore was much less of a help than I expected. I think I was hoping there was a simple potion or spell that would lift the burden from my heart, I shuffled along the hallway with my friends, sighing every now and then from disappointment.

“I don’t understand how any of you can be relaxed about this. I’m going straight to the library tomorrow morning, but after all the research I’ve done on Soul Mates I can already tell you what Dumbledore is thinking.” Had Hermione been any more agitated I’m sure she would have exploded, as it was she was walking much faster than any of us were and we had to jog slightly every so often just to keep up. She had turned with an exasperated huff a moment ago after our silent indifference on the matter.

“Oh what are you going on about? Professor Dumbledore would have told us if there was anything to worry about. Can we go to be please? We’re just one flight away from bed Hermione!” Ron stomped his foot and moved to pass Hermione when she spoke again, this time in a whisper.

“This is serious! This is Erika’s life we’re talking about! At the rate things are going she won’t last until Christmas!” Good to know my friends have such confidence in me and my ability to survive. I really had to make more of an effort apparently. Being in the same place as Cedric was weighing heavily on me, but knowing that I would still be able to see him brought hope into my life, the thought of seeing him more sent my heart into my throat, it’s erratic beat pounding painfully against my neck.

“Sorry…I’m not….it’s just that..” Maybe I was thinking out loud again, it was possible, I didn’t recognize my own voice anymore. Hermione was whispering a hurried and awkward apology when the door at the end of the hall burst open.

“It’s past curfew and unless you want points removed before you even had a chance……to…” Cedric Diggory was walking toward us. His eyes flashed a moment before he stopped dead in his tracks, if my heart was in my throat a moment ago it was now in my shoes.

“Cedric.” The name whispered past my lips and seemed too connect with its owner like a slap across the face.

“You are one floor away from your dorms, I suggest you hurry a long before someone less lenient finds you.” He turned to leave and I followed, running the best I could.

“Cedric….CEDRIC!” My body fell into his, his arms moving to wrap around my slender form. I inhaled his scent it was like parchment and lavender and it filled the empty spot in my soul.

“Erika please……..I’m not strong enough for this……..I can’t let myself love you…..please.” His arms that had just a moment ago been around my waist were now pushing at my arms as he tried to escape me.

“Please.” His eyes locked with mine, they were brimmed with unshed tears, he was begging me, pleading with me that I let him leave again. My strength left me and I melted to the floor, my hands still reaching and my heart still hoping. Cedric tried catching me but not before Harry could.

“Cedric you wanted to leave so go. Don’t confuse her even more; just leave as you have already proved is so easy for you.” Harry turned to hand me to Ron but I clung hard and fast, preventing him from doing something stupid to the man I love. It was like witnessing a train wreck as Cedric righted himself and half ran half fell out of the hallway.

“Harry we should put her in bed, come on.” Hermione was pulling us along up another flight of stairs and into the Gryffindor common room. Thankfully it was empty so the fact that I was clinging to Harry as a life line went unnoticed by prying eyes.

“This is getting old Harry, can you set her down? You cannot come into the girl’s dorms even if it’s just to put her in bed, barrier magic remember? Erika come on love lets go to bed, good night Ron, Harry.” Harry set me down and I wobbled a bit before Hermione guided me upstairs. I usually shared a dorm with seven other girls but when I went to the 6th year dorm room my name wasn’t on the door.

“Oh! It looks like you’ve been given your own dorm like the 7th years. Well that should be a nice change.” Eh, it just meant that instead of Maggie’s snoring to keep me up it would be my own thoughts. I just wanted to forget, I wanted to let go, I wanted my life back. I sat heavily on the bed and stared out my widow, the moon wasn’t quite full yet but the light was enough that I didn’t need more than one candle.

“Well….goodnight then….I’m just down the hall, you can come get me any time.” Hermione flitted around the room and managed to gather PJ’s for me and set them in my lap before disappearing into the hallway.

I guess I should change at least, no point in sleeping in my clothes….again. I had just pulled on the shorts and had the tank top in hand when I saw my reflection. I was startling; my hair was smooth thanks to Ginny but had lost its shine and body, my make-up was simple as usual but did nothing to hide the bags under my eyes and my boney cheeks. I had lost at least fifteen pounds, my arms were thin and my thighs didn’t touch anymore. I looked sickly and damaged, I couldn’t keep this up something had to give. Thankfully sleep came quickly and I welcomed the darkness with open arms.

I woke up a few hours later; my bed was cold to my frail form though the fire roared happily just a few feet away. I had just been in the lake once again, saving Cedric as I slipped into the abyss. My panicked heart rate didn’t show any signs of slowing down. I needed someone who understood what waking in a panic felt like, someone I trusted to take care of me. Right now I needed Harry.

It was much easier than I expected to sneak into the boy’s dorms, no one was awake and due to my lighter form I found it easy to not make noise, though I was braced for the moment when I would knock something over or trip because I was fast approaching a full blown panic attack. The door to the 5th year boy’s room was unlocked and thankfully didn’t squeak when I eased it open; it was also handy that I had silenced my slippers when I was downstairs.

My heart continued to race and panic flooded my veins, my breath caught in my chest. I cannot have a panic attack in the middle of the boy’s dorm! Unfortunately telling myself that wasn’t going to make this stop, I had to find Harry’s bed, why weren’t there name tags on these stupid curtains?! My chest began tightening painfully constricting my burning lungs! Which one? The snoring one is Neville, Dean and Seamus slept on either side of the door. The room was spinning and I had to decide which bed I would be throwing myself on when my legs gave out. I chose the one to my right and didn’t look back.

I slipped my body through the crimson curtains and tried breathing a sigh of relief when I saw black hair sticking out of the sheets. My sigh soon turned to a gasp as my lungs burned form the effort to take in enough air. Harry sat up suddenly, his eyes lidded and confused. He cocked his head to the side asking a silent question but I could do little more than cover my mouth to quite my gasping and fall toward his bare upper body.

“Silencio! Erika? Erika!” Harry gathered me into his arms and tried to comfort me in his sleepy stupor. I felt as though I was back in the lake, my lungs burned with a familiar cold tingle and then suddenly all feeling left me. What little air I had left in my body began to be squeezed from my lungs and I was sure I was turning blue, until I suddenly gulped in clean smooth air and I felt my body come alive again. I sat there panting in Harry’s arms for a moment, trying to understand how waking in a panic could have escalated into the most intense panic attack I had ever experienced.

“Erika? What just happened? Love?” Harry’s concernd was adorab- WHAT! Harry had just called me love, but he’s called me love before. So then why was it different now? Maybe because he was in boxer briefs and I was in little more than a swim suite and he was whispering into my ear and when did The-Boy-Who-Lived…fill out and then tone up?! He was not like this last year, not even close!

“I’m….I thought this was a panic attack but it was more. Harry it was like I was drowning again, in that lake but this time Cedric didn’t save me.” My hands were pressed against Harry’s strong chest, this intimate contact was stirring desire inside me and I hated myself for it, I was allowing my body to betray me.

“I’ll always save you.” His voice was changed it was now thick with a desire, one I couldn’t bring myself to deny him right now. I need to be loved, to feel like I am important to someone, even if it wasn’t Cedric. Harry’s lips brushed against mine, testing the waters before pressing himself to me. His lips were chapped and rough, a harsh contract to Cedric’s which were like kissing silk. Harry’s hands were hot on my skin as they wandered my body. He was moving quickly, easing me onto the pillows his hands grabbed at my tank top, forcefully pulling it over my head before he allowed a rough hand to grab one of my breasts. His tongue forced its way into my mouth as I allowed him to take control, pinning me to the sheets roughly. He moaned into my mouth before letting his lips wander lower on my body, nipping hard on my neck. His inexperience was evident in his trembling movements; his mouth was teasing one of my hard nipples.

I was letting this happen; I was betraying Cedric and what we had. I was welcoming this assault on my body and I wanted even more to lose myself in pleasure. I wanted Harry to touch me to force Cedric from my mind; I wanted the pain to stop. My back arched into Harry’s touch, one of his hands sliding from my breast to the hem on my shorts. My hands were fisted in his hair and I pressed my lips against him roughly. His underwear and my shorts were flung into the closed curtains landing in a mess at the end of the bed. Harry and I were completely bare to one another now; his panting breath moistened my neck. He was kneeling between my legs, one hand on either side of my head. He pulled away from me, his green eyes lidded and full of passion. My heart began racing as the heat between my legs intensified. I arched my back into his body and eagerly kissing him with new passion. It wasn’t enough yet, I was worried it wouldn’t be enough.

“Erika we shouldn’t be doing this.” Harry’s voice was like diving into ice water, I froze with one hand in his hair while the other brushed his manhood. His hips thrust toward me involuntarily as he bit his lip to stifle a moan. I was trying my hardest to ignore him; I didn’t want to think anymore I just wanted to feel.

“Erika stop, your just doing this because….well I’m not really sure why you’re doing this but it’s defiantly not the reason I’m doing it.” Harry rolled off of me slowly, running a hand through his hair as I started pulling my clothes back on. I had just slipped my tank top on and grabbed my wand to leave when he stopped me, having put on a pair of flannel pants.

“Why did you come to me?” Seriously? Was it not clear that I needed someone who would understand the true feeling of a nightmare? I knew that he had been waking much like I had over the summer, his vision filled with Voldemort’s unspeakable acts. On several occasions Hermione or myself would get it out of him during an Occlumency session, but other than that we had no way of helping him. I was not nearly strong enough to suffer in silence, not after what everyone had done for me; they at least deserved to know.

“Because you know what waking up in the middle of the night is like, well ok that sounded stupid. You know what a true nightmare is like, you know what it feels like to wake in a cold sweat having just seen or experienced something terrifying. I needed someone who would understand, someone who would love me who would do their best to make me forget. Harry all I want to do is forget.” I was crying; perfect make a bigger fool of yourself Erika wonderful. First I sneak in here and wake him up while I’m having some sort of panic attack then I let him and later encourage that he take advantage of me and now I’m crying. I’m a right nutter and tonight proves it. Despite my insanity Harry gathers me into his arms and tucks us into bed. My head on his strong chest he simply lets me cry, no more words need be said for now as we both settle back into sleep.

AN - R&R Please But No Flames, Not Unless You Tell Me WHY It Sucks(ed)