play for me - albus/frankie

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It had been a long day and Frankie was tired. He wasn’t tired to the point where he was going to head to bed just yet, but he was more than tired from the long day he had. Aside from his classes throughout the day, he had been working out down at the Pitch for a couple of hours. He had a bit of homework to do, but the weekend had started at five o’clock that afternoon so he wasn’t overly worried. He had the next two days to get the three essays he had to do for next week done and he had every intention of doing them first thing the following day so he could get them out of the way.

He had dropped his Quidditch things off in his dormitory and then took a quick shower since he was covered in sweat. Once he was all clean and refreshed, Frankie picked up his guitar case and began to leave his dormitory. One of his roommates asked where he was going and he simply told them that he was going to take advantage of the empty Astronomy Tower and work on some music. After a quick goodbye, Frankie took his leave of his dormitory and then began to make hi way down to his common room and out of the portal entrance. He could have gone anywhere to play, even stayed in his dormitory, but he had someone to meet, someone who meant a lot to him.

He had seen Albus as he had come in from the Quidditch Pitch and told him to meet him up in the astronomy tower in about a half hour, which would give Frankie enough time to get upstairs and shower before meeting him. If anything, Albus would have some rounds to do, if he was even on that night, and could easily get up there without any complications. It wasn’t curfew for another couple of hours though, so they should be fine regardless. He arrived at the Astronomy Tower and began to make his way up the steps and towards the part of the tower that actually led to the outdoors. When he finally got there and settled, he opened up his guitar case and pulled out his guitar.

He tuned up and then started to pluck at the strings as he played the short practice song that he always played before actually getting down to work with whatever he is working on. Once he finished the song, he pulled out the small notebook from his guitar case and opened it to the last page he had something written on. Taking the pencil out of the case as well, he stuck it behind his ear and then began to pluck at the strings again. not long after he had started working on his next song, he heard the footfalls of someone coming up the steps. He knew who it was and he smiled as he continued to play his guitar.

“I was wondering when you’d finally make it up here,” he said as he then turned his head to find his best mate and next door neighbor standing in the entranceway. “I trust you’ve brought clothing to keep you warm,” he said with a grin, even though there was a part of his mind saying that he’d happily keep him warm if he needed to. Frankie knew he could never say that out loud though, especially since he was trying to get over Albus. Frankie wasn’t wearing anything warm either, but he had cast a warming charm on himself so he wasn’t overly worried. “how was your afternoon then? Glad the weekend is finally here?” he asked as he rested his arms on his guitar.

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Albus had spent most of his day in class writing, here and there he would take out his novel eager for the finish. He knew the weekend was coming and he hated not being in class. Albus would just have to find some of the little Slytherin brats to tutor. If he couldn't learn why not teach? It was beneficial for his people skills as well he assumed. The homework he was graced with could have took him a full day to finish, if he worked non-stop. Yet somehow he knew this would not be the case. Weather it be his pesky cousin Lucy, or one of his friends Albus was sure he wouldn't have study time. It seemed whenever he was having alone time it wouldn't last long. Something always peeked his interest. In the past he was not so easily distracted, but now a days, he could not admit that to being the case. Albus walked the halls holding his books to his chest counting each step he took. Over all he was clumsy and he didn't need to be tripping in public. Albus had been the target in the past of many bullies. It was only in fourth year he started to stick up for himself. Until then he had his best mate whom never let let him down.

Thinking of him, he crossed paths with Frankie whom wanted to spend some time with him. It was always a joy to be around his good friend. Albus enjoyed the comfort and safe feeling he always got around the Ravenclaw boy. Albus simply nodded agreeing he would show up in about an hour or so. After departing he watched his feet deep in thought. It was odd that he was strangely, attracted to his best friend, but he could never speak of it. Frankie was quite the looker and that accent of his was to die for. However, It would make things complex and although he loved his lessons that way, the little social life he had wouldn't be damaged. Why was he even thinking this way? Albus sighed walking a bit quicker to the dungeons to get out of his school robes. Once safe in his dorm he lay back on the bed looking at the ceiling. Over the years he had made a few loyal friends and he was fond of each for their own reasons. None like his best mate, he could tell Frankie everything. The ups the downs and even if he got an 'I told you so' Albus knew he deserved it for being stubborn. A smile crossed his lips as he pushed himself up going to have a quick shower and getting into his skinny jeans and a long sleeved shirt. He put on his shoes and exited the common room wondering the dark paths of the dungeon.

When he finally surfaced to the main level he looked at the Grand staircase, this was always an obstetrical. Albus even had trouble when counting out the movements as if they were a puzzle. Bloody Staircases. He thought making his way up each level. Once at the bottom of the spiral staircase that lead to the Astronomy Tower he looked into the dark obis. The spiral staircase was dimmed so he held his wand out and spoke clearly. "Lumos." Albus said the light on the end of his wand giving him enough light to see where he was going. Albus walked up quickly feeling the cold rush of air. Perhaps he should have worn more for the occasion. A smile crossed his lips when Frankie spoke and he walked closer. "Well I did have quite the venture you know, under the whole castle, fighting off the cobwebs of the dungeon." Albus mused looking up at the night sky. Frankie's words caused him to bit his bottom lip. "Nope just this, so you'll be keeping me warm, I assume?" Albus asked with a quirk of his eyebrow, that soon faded into a smile. Albus was always honest when he wanted to be cuddly he would be, when he wanted to be a loner he would. In control of himself was where he always tried to remain. "My afternoon was alright, I finished my pleasure novel, then I debated if I wanted to tutor some of the younger class-men, but I saw you and my night was planned and complete." Albus admitted shrugging, nothing interesting in the world of Albus Potter as of now. "You know I don't like the weekend unless we're drinking in Hogsmeade. It's a waste of time." Albus stated looking over Frankie's guitar, he leaning in plucking a string giggling a bit at the off key not produced. He'd leave playing to the talented, like Frankie. "How about you, did you have a good day?" Albus asked leaning against his friend, looking up wide eyed awaiting an answer.

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Frankie laughed when Albus told him that he had quite the venture crawling through the castle, fighting off the cobwebs and such. “I feel honored now. That you had to brave such conditions to come and see me,” he mused as he looked at his friend. Frankie couldn’t help but smirk when Albus told him that he hadn’t brought warmer clothes and told him that he’d have to keep him warm, even though there was a part of him dying inside. If he only knew, he thought to himself as he looked at his best friend. “Don’t I always?” he asked rhetorically as he kept his smirk in place. It was the truth though; there were many nights when the two would cuddle and just talk about whatever topic fell from their lips. As always, it was platonic, even though the crush Frankie had on Albus only flared up when they did so. It was time well spent, and was also silent torture.

Once the discussion of Albus' attire was done, Frankie asked about his day and if he was glad the weekend was finally upon them. Frankie grinned when Albus told him that he’d finally finished his pleasure novel, and Frankie had to bite back from asking how it ended because he knew he’d end up reading it at some point, if only so that he and Albus could discuss it in depth later on. They did that from time to time, and it was always interesting to see what they each got from the storyline, and if it was similar or not. Sometimes they were in the same mindset with the story, and other times they were not. It made for fun banter between the two friends and it was never dull, to say the least. Frankie chuckled when Albus mentioned the idea of tutoring some underclassmen, and then grinned widely when he said that he got plans when Frankie had asked to meet him now.

“And I don’t understand how you can hate it,” he said with a shake of his head. “The weekends are some of the best parts about Hogwarts. You get to do pretty much whatever you want,” he said with a grin. And it was the truth. Frankie loved the weekends, even though he liked class just as much; he got extra time to work on his homework and also to pay Quidditch; he also got more time to spend with Albus, even though that was just as much of a bad thing as it was a good thing. “Though, I do agree about the Hogsmeade part,” he added with a grin. He watched as Albus leaned over, closer to his guitar, and plucked one of the strings. Frankie always felt a rush when Albus was so close, but he always managed to keep his cool about it. He knew that it would be bad if he ever let it slip that his feelings for his best friend were more than what they seemed.

Frankie nodded his head after Albus asked if he had a good day. “Aye, I did,” he said as he softly strummed his guitar. “After I finished my classes for the day, I went down to the Pitch to work out or a bit,” he said as he looked up into his friend’s aqua eyes. Frankie took one of his arms off the guitar and draped it around Albus as his friend leaned into him. This was a common and usual gesture for the pair, though it always sent Frankie’s mind reeling with thoughts he knew he shouldn’t have. “I’m tired as hell though, but not enough to go to bed yet,” he said as he lifted his eyes up to the nighttime sky and looked at the stars shimmering above them, “which is why I’m up here, and asked you to meet me here,” he finished. “It feels good to relax a bit now,” he said as he leaned back slightly, extending one of his legs from the chair he was sitting on, “with the best company I could ask for,” he added, not looking at Albus as he said that.

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At the mention of Frankie being honored he smirked and puffed out his chest a bit. "Oh, it was almost a daring as battling a troll, the spiders were huge." Albus explained letting go of his stance as he grinned sheepishly. "But for you, how could I resist?" Albus asked quirking an eyebrow. In moments like this he was glad he had a best friend he could act himself around. When around others he was more up tight and and skeptical. It was great to let loose and enjoy company. When Frankie spoke of keeping his warn he rubbed his chin in thought. "Well there was that one time..." Albus explained his tone stern for a moment til he managed a smile. "Yeah, you do mate." Albus replied in his own little dreamy state of thinking. The boys were close enough to cuddle and close enough to flirt but not one forced their boundaries. Well Albus did in some ways but that's become he longed for affection and Frankie provided it for him.

Frankie's logic was much different then his when it comes to having fun. Albus wasn't one for fun unless his mate or his brother dragged him along. In all aspects he was far from boring but he also had fear of getting in trouble or losing his chances of being head boy next year. Albus was a very goal oriented and pushed himself to accomplish everything in a set time limit. A times it was like his life was a schedule but he had his share of fun. "I don't hate it, I just am busy else where. I like learning and we do little of that during the weekend. As if I don't read ahead in the lessons anyways." Albus said sarcastically, he was already more then half way through his potions book and advanced charms and a third into arithmancy and xylomancy. Albus nodded. "You and I have not got drunk in some time, we need to change that. Being as intelligent as you and I are I think we could spare a couple brain cells." Albus explained with a grin.

The boy listened to Frankie explain his day and he nodded attentive. "No you can not sleep yet, but relaxing is always nice, if I let you..." Albus explained wrapping his arm around Frankie's waist in his seated position. Al rest his head on Frankie's chest listening to the boys heart rate. It was a bit fast and he looked up letting Frankie's compliment sink in. "I'll always keep you company when you need me too." Albus explained standing up and crawling into Frankie's lap. He got himself comfortable taking Frankie's hand and placed it on the boy's own chest. "Your nervous." Albus stated looking into the boys dark mysterious eyes. Albus quirked an eyebrow and smirked a bit. "How come?" He asked wondering deeper meaning. His eyes glancing to the night sky that was dotted with stars and he felt safe, watched over even. "Hi Dad." The boy thought mentally not speaking words. Albus gave Frankie a few minutes to come with with something in his own time in recollection before diverting his gaze back to his mate.

How to defuse tension? Albus stood up walking over to the balcony looking over the edge. It was fairly high of course but he wanted a rush. He climbed up balancing himself walking along the edge. Normally he wasn't courageous, just impulsive and never-the less clumsy. Albus looked over to Frankie and smirked. "You should woo me with a love song Frankie." Albus explained walking as he wobbled a bit wide eyed regaining balance, his heart fluttered in his chest as he looked down. The last thing his mother needed was a howler saying he had a broke neck being foolish on the tower balcony. In all honesty he wouldn't get down just yet he liked watching Frankie's reaction when he was being foolish or putting himself in slight danger. It was cute watching his mate get all protective and nervous. Albus took a couple more steps putting his arms out closing his eyes for a moment. In this moment, he was infinite feeling the slight wind chill his face as he slowly opened his eyes. "You going to just sit there and admire my figure? Come over there before I Accio you." Albus said with hinting a smile.

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A chuckle escaped Frankie’s lips as Albus told him that it was as daring as battling a troll, and that the spiders were very big. “Oh really?” he asked him, at both the tale of spiders and trolls and then also Albus’ next comment about not being able to turn it all away because it was for Frankie. “You know, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think you were purposely trying to make me blush,” he said with a cheeky grin. And he was, but on the inside. Even though the pair were best friends and they would do practically anything for each other, that didn’t stop Frankie from feeling nervous and excited (in that way) whenever Albus said something that would be enough to make any normal person swoon if their crush said that to them. The only problem Frankie had with this is that was not letting Albus see just how much his words affected him.

Frankie quirked an eyebrow when Albus started to say that there was one time when Frankie wasn’t there to keep him warm. He better not be being serious right now, he thought to himself as he looked at his best friend. His facial expression relaxed once Albus relented his joking manner and agreed that Frankie was always there for him, to keep him warm and then some. “That’s what I thought,” he said with a cheeky grin as he looked at his friend. It wasn’t that Frankie wanted to one up Albus, not at all, but he liked to get the credit for his actions and beliefs, instead of being made out to be what he wasn’t. Of course, he knew Albus was joking about it, but that didn’t make Frankie less bristled about it to start. He quickly changed his demeanor though, and he’d never openly be angry with Albus for joking around with him. Frankie could take a joke, most of the time.

The topic of the weekend came up and Frankie couldn’t help but shake his head slowly at his friend as he told him that it wasn’t his hatred of the weekends so much as it was that he liked learning and enjoyed being in class. “And I like class as much as you do, but I like my time off too,” he said before Albus commented that he read ahead in most of his classes already. “you never cease to amaze me, Potter,”he said, using his surname instead of his first name. He didn’t mean it the way most people did when they said his name, and he was sure that Albus would know that. He didn’t seem to mind it as he then went on to talk about them getting drunk together, and how long it’s been since they’ve done so. “Then perhaps our next Hogsmeade visit we shall have to remedy that,” he said with a wink of his eye.

“Oh, well, I guess I should thank you in advance then,” he said with a soft chuckle when Albus joked about whether he’d let him relax or not. Frankie felt his heart skip a beat when Albus wrapped his arms around his waist as he sat next to him. He took a deep breath when Albus then rested his head on his chest, trying his best to slow his heartbeat so that it wouldn’t give him away. He smiled when Albus told him that he’d always be there for him, to keep him company, when he needed him to be. And then, without any warning or preparation, Albus released Frankie and stood up. He was about to ask what the Slytherin was up to when he then crawled into Frankie’s lap. Frankie said nothing as Albus made himself comfortable on his lap and swallowed the lump in his throat when he said that he was nervous, and then asked why.

If only, he thought to himself as he looked down into the aqua eyes of his best mate. Instead of telling him the truth of the matter, he simply shrugged his shoulders. “I don’t know. Maybe it’s just because it’s cold, regardless of the warming charm I cast on myself,” he said to his friend. He hated lying to him, but he knew he couldn’t admit the truth either. His eyes turned upwards once Albus looked away from him and up at the night sky. He felt peaceful at that moment, and was glad that he was sharing that moment with his best friend. He was surprised when Albus stood up and walked over to the balcony, even though he was partly relieved at the same time. he watched his friend as he pulled himself up onto the balcony and began to walk along it, his arms out to balance him. “Do be careful,” he said as he sat up straight and watched his friend like a hawk.

There was concern and fear clearly etched into his face as he watched Albus walk along the balcony, and Frankie couldn’t help but think about how he would explain this to Albus’ mother if he fell and broke his neck. She’d kill me for sure, he thought as he watched Albus closely as he wobbled a bit. His eyebrows arched when Albus suggested that he wooed him with a song and Frankie couldn’t help but grin. “Woo you?” he repeated, wondering if Albus meant that as a joke or literally. Frankie wasn’t sure how to take that, especially with his crush burning a hole within him. He smirked when Albus told him to come over to where he was on the balcony before he used magic to get him there. “Only if you come down first,” he said as he rested his guitar against the chair and stood up. “I don’t want to be responsible for your broken neck,” he said as he moved closer to Albus.

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"Trying to make you blush ey? No if I wanted to do that I'd get real close and give you kisses, then you'd blush. I'm just flattering your ego handsome." Albus admitted with a wink. Of course there were truth to his word, well not the whole troll and spider bit but if Frankie wanted him there he'd so whatever it took to by his his friend's side. It was like that both ways, Albus was known to have his own emotional break downs and Frankie was always there. His shoulder to cry on and his voice of reason when he become antsy or suicide. Albus was far from perfect but when around Frankie, he always felt like he was seen as not perfect, but imperfect and loved for just who he was. It was a great feeling to have real friends whom were always there. Not to get that wrong, Albus and Frankie would have a small ego clash here and there but always would end up caving in and making up for it in the long run.

On the weekend topic he smirked slightly. Both of the boys enjoyed lectures but Frankie likes his free time. Which was understandable. Albus liked his free time to maul things over in the prefect bathroom. Almost as much as he liked following up on his novels. The Hogsmeade weekends with Freddie were the best, he enjoyed being able to feel himself out of the school environment. Even at home he had standards to live up to. A reputation he set for himself. Perhaps this was why his mother always asked him to babysit instead of James. "Of course, but I must warn you it's not like in the past anymore where I am just cuddly. I get promiscuous and become a 'tease' or whatever the hell Ben called me." Albus admitted looking down for a moment. The boy didn't want to think of Ben nor mention him but it slipped. Albus knew Frankie didn't like Ben for his own reasons but he cleared his throat and quickly processed something else. Rest was over rated, Albus himself didn't sleep much and he'd much rather spend time with Frankie then to be sleeping. "You can thank me, I'm keeping the balance of slight entertain in your life." Albus explained, shrugging. "If I wasn't here I'd probably be studying and over thinking about my love life. So really I should be thanking you for inviting me up here to invade on your rest time." Albus added with a cheeky smile.

Cold? That was his brilliant excuse? Albus looked at Frankie unamused and poked his nose. "Cold? Well then, you should have clung to me. I would have kept you warm. That is, if you were not nervously hiding something from me." Albus explained quirking an eyebrow. Albus was keen, he was too keen to not know nervousness when he saw it. The boy himself was always nervous so he knew the vibe well. On the edge of the tower he felt as if he were on top of the world so to say. The butterflies roamed his stomach as he listened to Frankie tell him to be careful. "Careful? I'm always careful where is the fun in that? Due tell me. If I wasn't so stubborn and held such high moral standards for myself I'd still be happy." Albus explained looking up at the moon. He chewed the inside of his cheek letting out a breath. "Careful." He muttered to himself. Now he was starting to feel moody and cold. Living on a constant mood swing was not promising as it sounded. The extra energy he tried to maintain and the way he wanted to be productive could not happen at this hour.

The middle Potter crossed his arms over his chest. "You couldn't be responsible for it, I take all credit for being foolish." Albus explained jumping down. He brushed himself off and walked over to Frankie and poked his tummy. "I'm down, so get all romantic, pretend I'm beautiful and let your heart play for me, sing even." Albus asked give him big aqua eyes. Albus put a little pout on his bottom lip, he knew when he was being cute and he couldn't help to giggle and take Frankie's hand making him sit on the floor with him. Albus rest his head on Frankie's shoulder for a moment taking in the heat. Of course he wanted Frankie to play for him, he enjoyed viewing talent he didn't possess. Albus wasn't really good at anything outside of obtaining perfect grades, of course he considered himself a great dancer. Dance, that was right. "Frankie are you going to the Valentines Ball? I was thinking about it, but I wouldn't have a date nor a Valentine to bring. Therefore I might be better off with a bottle of wine and a book in my dormitory." Albus explained looking up in Frankie's eyes waiting to find out his mates plans.

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As much as Frankie wanted to blush a deep shade of red, he knew that he couldn’t. Albus telling him that he’d come closer and give him kisses if he really wanted to make him blush caused several reactions within the Ravenclaw. Ever since they both came out to the other about their sexual preferences, it has been easier for Albus to say things to Frankie he wouldn’t normally say to others. And, with that, it gave Frankie even more of a reason to keep his crush on his best friend a secret. He’s seen enough people cross that line with their good friends and it end badly, even in a broken friendship, and that was the last thing he wanted here with Albus. He’d never be able to forgive himself if that happened. “Would you now?” he said, his voice coming out as somewhat challenging. To be quite honest, Frankie wasn’t sure what he’d do if Albus ever kissed him. He was sure it would never go that far between them, so he’d be shocked, at least to start. He couldn’t guarantee that he wouldn’t react, and respond, to his friend, but he would be highly afraid that it would cause problems later.

Frankie couldn’t help but raise his eyebrows when Albus told him – no, warned him – that he was more than just cuddly when he was drunk nowadays. Albus told him that he gets more promiscuous now, and even a tease, though Frankie's face hardened slightly when Albus said that that was according to Ben. There mere mention of Ben annoyed Frankie, and for several reasons, not just the fact that Frankie himself had a huge crush on Albus. he didn’t say anything about Ben though, especially with the look Albus gave after he mentioned the boy’s name. Frankie would like to punch that bastard in the face, if he was being perfectly honest, and, yet, he wouldn’t because he knew that it would give Ben some satisfaction in knowing that he had fucked with Albus’ head. As if Al’s misery lately wasn’t enough of a testament to that fact. Frankie hated seeing his friend that way and he’d do whatever was within his power to change it. “Well, I’d be there to make sure you didn’t make too much of a spectacle of yourself,” he said, trying to cheer his friend up. “I Mena, I may laugh a bit at you, but only out of love,” he said, instantly regretting his chosen term of endearment.

Frankie grinned widely at his friend when Albus admitted that, should he not be there with Frankie right now, he would be studying or overthinking his live life. “You’re more than welcome,” he said with a nod of his head. “I do what I can,. Of course,” he said with his own cheeky smile. When the topic moved over to Frankie’s nerves and the cause of them, he did his best to avert the topic and alarm his friend seemed to have over what it was. “I’m not hiding anything,” he said firmly, though his tone wasn’t as convincing as he would like it to be. He only hoped Albus didn’t catch onto it and start thinking that he was keeping secrets from him. he was, of course, but there was only one, and it was a huge secret he felt he needed to keep. “And if you wanted to cuddle with me still, you shouldn’t have gotten up,” he said before sticking out his tongue playfully at his friend. Albus being on the edge of the balcony frightened Frankie, though more so because he was just afraid of his friend getting hurt. Being present for it would make him feel horrible over it, and wrought with guilt.

When the topic of music and Frankie ‘wooing’ Albus came up, the Slytherin seemed keen on the idea and got down from the ledge so Frankie would have no choice but to play for him. Frankie moved back over to the chair he had been sitting in before Albus even first joined him up in the Astronomy Tower and only just sat down when Albus asked him if he was going to be going to the Valentine’s Ball. Frankie looked up at his friend when Albus continued to say he was thinking about it and that he didn’t have a date or a valentine. Before Frankie could say anything, Albus said he was thinking about just skipping it with a bottle of wine and a book in his dorm and Frankie widened his eyes at his friend. “And not share any of it with me?” he asked in an incredulous tone. “I’d like to think you’d share that wine with me, since I don’t have plans for the dance either,” he said, “unless we go stag together,” he added with a smirk. He then listed up his guitar from its current resting place and brought it up to his lap. He started to tune it once again, before singing for Albus. “All right then, here goes," he said to Albus before he began to play for his best friend.

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and the song of choice is.... -drumroll- clicky

Kissing Frankie would be something he'd try. Albus was very open with Frankie and if he needed certain types of affection he'd act impulsively. The boy knew no limits with his best friend and that may have been a problem. Albus hoped Frankie thought nothing of it even if it were a little awkward afterward. The two had practically seen each other nude at one point in time. Well, at least that one time he was changing. Albus had sneaked a couple peeks here and there too at their sleepovers but he wouldn't mention it. At Frankie's challenging tone he quirked an eyebrow and bit his bottom lip in thought. A challenge was a challenge and he loved to test himself but he decided against it, at least for now. Albus mentally noted he would kiss that before before the night was over accepting the challenge of making his best friend blush. "Well I don't know mate, you might fall in love if I kissed you, then you'd never leave my side, wanting more." Albus mused biting his bottom lip sexy. Albus could be a little proud of himself at times, one of his many traits.

A grin was plastered to his face at this point, he enjoyed the chemistry they had. The look Frankie gave after he mentioned Ben made Albus curious to know what was on his mind. Albus loved knowing exactly what that boy was thinking. Frankie overall was the one to talk him out of his bad relationship. It made Albus feel good about himself the way Frankie always talked up to him as if he were not small to the world. Albus was a fern believer that he settled upon his crushes due to the fact he was insecure. Anyone to notice small things about him and make him feel special for the slightest second were the ones that he fancy. -Even if he deserved better- Albus listened on as Frankie spoke of Hogsmeade and getting drunk. "Who said I don't like making a spectacle of myself? I like to be the center of attention and affection when I'm drunk." Albus confirmed nodding. It wasn't him to be that way naturally, he was soft spoken. When drunk he was more free to enjoy himself and not having to deal with anything but the stories and hangover of the next morning. "You'd laugh at me? It's okay when you see it, I'll be laughing too therefore I wont take offense." Albus added knowing he was a giggly and outgoing drunk. It beat being an abusive or mean one by far.

Albus chewed the inside of his cheek seeing Frankie was sticking with the 'hiding nothing' story. The boy would pry at his friend anymore he knew that temper too well and didn't want to trigger an argument. Albus and Frankie rarely fought but when they did it was something most didn't want to interfere in. Of course, they would laugh it off when it was settled but it was still hurtful to the two being separated. Albus knew half of the arguments they had were for either boys own good. Frankie was normally right when it came to Albus and being foolish 'in like' with people but Albus could be stubborn and moody. Needless to say, every fight they had made them stronger and come to an understanding of one another. If he wanted to cuddle he shouldn't have moved? Albus crossed his arms and pouted a bit. "But I'm back for more." Albus said his tone a bit whiny as he couldn't help to keep his immature act of an excuse up. A smile crossed his lips as Frankie acted insulted about his plans for the dance. "Of course your invited to my own party, I'll even save a dance for you. I'll have James grab me a bottle and we can cuddle and drink that night away." Albus suggested, he wasn't one to attend things that made him nervous or claustrophobic. "As for going stag, I refuse to conform to those acts you can go for a bit then come find me. I'll be hiding out in the student lounge." Albus added, it was a perfect place to get away when there were events going on in the great hall.

When Frankie started to play he listened closing his eyes letting the melody of Frankie's voice take him to a good place. His heart warmed and he grew goosebumps from his friend's playing and the song lyrics. It was beautiful, so sweet. Albus couldn't help to think any boy or girl who got to date his best friend would be lucky to have him. Frankie was a great person in a whole. Even with the tiny flaws he had Albus could never think of him as imperfect. When the boy was mid song his cheeks were a color of scarlet as he opened his eyes looking into Frankie's. Albus chewed the inside of his cheek bobbing his head a bit with the rhythm. When the song ended he clapped. "Your brilliant do you know that? I will be so jealous of the boy who ends up with you. He better treat you right." Albus said shamelessly. In all aspects he wanted Frankie to be happy before anything, but that side of him he couldn't hide. Jealousy was just a trait that defined him. Probably a bad one but it was just Albus. Albus moved Frankie's guitar and crawled back into his lap tracing the Ravenclaws jaw line with his finger tips. This was perfect timing to accept his challenge. Albus leaned in pressing his lips against Frankie's, he parted the boys lips with his tongue allowing the kiss to become passionate. Albus could feel his heart speed up as he rested his finger tips on the back of the boys neck. Letting his tongue dance around for a while he became breathless and ended the kiss slowly opening his eyes to see Frankie's expression. Never the less those cheeks were red and he couldn't help himself. "Challenge accepted and accomplished." Albus whispered through his own steamy tension now.

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Frankie chuckled softly as he looked at Albus. He tried his best not to allow his real thoughts and feelings on the matter to shine through as he thought about kissing his best friend. It wouldn’t be the first time he’s thought about that, especially since he saw his best mate naked that day. “Is that a prediction, or a desire of yours?” he asked his friend playfully, not really sure he wanted an answer to that question. He knew that, no matter what the answer, he would feel like an ass and also even more nervous than he was right now about it. He would either find out that his mate had a thing for him, like he had on Albus, or that he didn’t think about him like that. Either way, Frankie was sure that he would want to be swallowed up by a giant black hole than be there right now.

Frankie chuckled again when Frankie said that he liked making a spectacle of himself, and that he liked making a fool of himself when he was drunk. “Well, then I stand corrected,” he said with a cheeky grin, “even though I will still laugh at you,” he added, a smirk forming on his face. The fact that Albus said he would be laughing at himself too only made Frankie chuckle a little harder. It was always better when you laughed with someone as opposed to laughing at them. Frankie knew he’d never laugh at Albus in such a way, even if something was funny. He’s never had to before and, so far, it’s always come down to the pair of them laughing together at something one or the other did that warranted such a laugh. “Well, at least we can agree on that,” he said with a grin, “’Cause I’d hate to laugh at you, mate,” he told Albus.

Frankie was glad that Albus chose to leave it alone for now, and not press him for the truth behind why he seemed so nervous. The mere conversation the pair was having right now was bad enough, but to tell Albus the truth about the crush he’s been harboring on him for so long would only make the entire conversation worse and more nerve wracking. Frankie didn’t hide his smirk when Albus told him he was back for more after Frankie told him that he shouldn’t have gotten up if he wanted to continue cuddling with him. “So you are,” he said before Albus reassured Frankie that he was invited to join Albus in his bottle of wine during the dance. He didn’t seem keen on Frankie’s idea about going stag together though, which caused Frankie to frown slightly when Albus suggested he come looking for him after he went down to the dance. “Then I’ll meet you in the student lounge,” he told him.

When Frankie finished playing, he felt nervous about even looking at Albus, who was clapping for his performance. Frankie smiled at him when he told him that he was brilliant, and his cheeks flushed a shade of red when Albus added that he’d be jealous of whatever boy ended up with him and how he better treat him right. “Yeah, well, I guess only time will tell on that one,” he said through his French accent. Frankie was a bit surprised when Albus moved his guitar from his lap and took its place. Frankie felt his body stiffen when Albus traced his finger along his jawline and, as much as he wanted to tear his eyes away from his Slytherin friend’s, he couldn’t. It was then, before Frankie could protest, that Albus closed the distance between them and pressed his lips against his own. Surprised at first, Frankie didn’t move, until he felt Albus’ tongue slip past his lips and enter his own mouth.

Was this even happening right now? Frankie’s mind was in a whirl of thoughts as he then began to, finally, respond to Albus’ kiss. Frankie could feel his heart begin to speed up and he could all but hear it thudding beneath his ribcage as the two best friends sat there kissing for what felt like eternity. One of Frankie’s hands moved up to Albus’ face, softly trailing along his jawline as their lips continued to press against one another’s. What was he even doing right now? Frankie knew this was bad, and for so many reasons, and he was both happy and sad when Albus finally pulled away from him. To say he looked flabbergasted was an understatement and Frankie, for the first time in a long time, had absolutely no idea what to say to Albus. “What?” he managed when Albus said that the challenge was accepted and accomplished. “I- I- what was that all about?” he asked, her heart still thudding in his chest. He was at a loss for words now, and felt his feelings beginning to show on his face.

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Is it a prediction or desire of mine? Albus thought on the topic for a moment. There were many uncertainties in life and Albus didn't really plan out things in his love life. Things always seemed to happen weather it mean something or not. Not saying he was doing anything outside of a relationship type standard but even his mild flirtations, were out of mare nerve. Albus acted spontaneously when given those moments. "Call it whatever your heart desires mate." Albus mused leaning forward, leaving his response open ended. No, he couldn't just come out and speak more on the topic it could end in disaster. As much as Albus loved being complex this wasn't the time nor place for it. Albus could toss questions in the same circumstances at Frankie but he decided against it.

Al managed to snicker at his friend admitting he would still laugh at a drunk him. Albus loved to be foolish when he was drinking. There were so many things he could actually do when drunk. Albus would actually speak to others, outside of his friends. It may have been pure comedy for someone to view but Albus didn't mind. "Well it's settled." Albus replied. The night of the dance he would also be drinking. Albus would have to get James to agree to get him some liquor which was torture in it's self. James wouldn't out right deny his little brother a chance to loosen up a bit, that he knew. The slytherin shouldn't always be uptight and tense. When Frankie agreed to meet him in the student lounge he smiled. "I would go to the bloody ball if you really wanted to, but I wouldn't be doing to to make myself happy." Albus stated, he could be very selfish at times but not when it effected his friends. Albus would just rather stay in the student lounge, the last time he went to a ball his ex-boyfriend had pressured him into things he wasn't ready for. Albus took a moment to think of the topic, on second thought it was probably best to stay away from social events. Albus couldn't look his past in the eyes. It hurt him even if he liked to play it off like he was wasn't phased in the slightest bit.

Albus much rather grab some music at Dominic Maestro's and dance all on his own. At his own pace, if drinking he'd probably want to dance. Albus took time reflecting on Frankie's response to his compliment on the playing. A smirk crossed his lips and he shrugged. "Time is of the essence." Albus replied. In his heart he knew he occupied most of the boy's time. Albus wouldn't know where he'd be without Frankie it was sad to admit but true. Albus wondered if Frankie felt abandoned, when he was off frolicking around with his ex. Although he was not sure he wanted to place that type of question in front of the other boy. Jealousy would be there on Albus' part he knew this to be true. "We'll just have to see but I have a feeling I'm right." Albus added knowing himself pretty well. If one had an understand of them self they could predict these type of scenarios. When played out in his head it was the only thing he could come up with.

Albus looked into Frankie's dark eyes unsure if he wanted to run far away or wait for a response after that kiss. Albus shifted a bit and looked away he could feel himself to start to breath heavier. The last thine he needed right now was an asthma attack. Quickly he tried to regain control of himself watching Frankie's lips form words he could not hear. It was as if he were deaf trying to make out what his friend was saying. Albus let his eyes raise from Frankie's lips to his eyes and he blushed feeling slightly excited but rejected all in the same moment. "You made it sound like I wouldn't.." Albus muttered feeling himself start to sweat a bit. The boy quickly pushed himself from his friend's lap and walked over to the edge of the balcony looking over the wall. Albus didn't know what it was, he just knew somewhere deep down he was hurting. After leaving his friend with no response for quite some time he looked over his shoulder at the boys still shocked reaction. Albus sighed and walked over to him bending down kneeling in front of his friend. "Look, I'm sorry I just do things before I think sometimes..." Albus muttered admitting to his impulsive nature. There felt as if there were a lump in his throat or just pure anxiety in his chest. "I'm so sorry." The boy whispered looking down for a moment, he wasn't sure if he could process tears but he felt them behind his orbs anyways. Albus was too strong to cry even though it was out of pure confusion. "I sort of...liked it though.." Albus admitted standing up walking back to the balcony looking up into the night sky. He wanting the stars to fill his mind and take away the confusion and mixed emotions he was now feeling.

Albus was more shocked at himself for admitting he enjoyed it then anything. How could he be so foolish to put a damper on his friendship. Maybe he should just go to bed, rejection and confusion were taking over his mind and he was beginning to have an episode. The last thing he wanted was to become snappy. Albus didn't like what he couldn't paint out in front of him. Love was one of those pictures that would remain blank on his canvass. For now he remained silent just observing his surroundings.

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Frankie merely nodded his head when Albus told him to call it whatever he wanted, in reference to Albus claiming that Frankie would fall madly in love with him if Albus gave him a kiss. The truth of the matter was that Frankie already had very strong feelings for Albus, so a kiss probably would send him over the edge. Albus didn’t know that, of course, or he probably wouldn’t have made such a claim. “If you say so then,” he managed, doing his best to keep his tone neutral and with as little emotion as possible. He was glad that topic didn’t continue any further because the Ravenclaw wasn’t sure he’d be able to handle much more of it.

The topic of the Valentine's dance didn’t help matters much, or at least to Frankie, because now they were talking about getting drunk together and Albus admitting that he was a promiscuous drunk. That could mean a number of things, and it could lead to a disaster and a shattered friendship should things get out of hand. Was Frankie prepared for that? Was it something he was willing to let happen? The Ravenclaw Keeper wasn’t sure, but there was a part of him that hoped he didn’t have to worry about it. “Well, as long as you dance at least once with me, I’ll be happy,” he said with a cheeky grin as he looked at his friend.

Frankie snorted when Albus told him time was of the essence in terms of him finding that special someone. “Yeah, well, I’m not rushing that one,” he said softly. “There’s no point to rush that, especially if you’re talking till death do us part,” Frankie added. “Oh yeah? Well, I guess we’ll have to wait and see then, mate,” he said after Albus told him that he had a feeling he was right about Frankie finding someone to treat him right, and that Albus would be jealous, though he wasn’t sure if that was what his friend meant. Surely, Albus wouldn’t get jealous over someone Frankie chose to be with, when Albus would more than likely be with someone himself by that time, right?

The kiss Albus had given Frankie intensified the feelings already present for his Slytherin counterpart as he stared at his friend. Albus obviously had no idea what he just did, or at least in the sense of how Frankie felt about it and him and when Frankie asked him what that was all about, Albus simply states that Frankie made it sound like he wouldn’t do it. Had he done that? Frankie couldn’t even think about that right now; his head was swimming in so many different directions at the current moment, he could barely think straight right now. Albus then went on to say that he sometimes acted impulsively, and apologized twice for kissing Frankie. Frankie merely swallowed the lump in his throat.

Frankie didn’t know what to say right now. On the one hand, he could admit that he’s had feelings for him for a couple of years now, and that the kiss they just shared was just the icing on the cake, but the other hand was telling Frankie that this was clearly a mistake, or so Albus sort of just admitted to, and that admitting his feelings would only make matters worse. And then Albus said that he sort of liked it and Frankie’s mind went into overdrive. I did too, he thought, but he wasn’t sure he could say such a thing, since he was more than sure that Albus didn’t mean that in the sense of liking him enough to want to be more than what they already were.

Frankie sat there for a few more moments, afraid to even look at Albus as he stood over by the balcony. He sighed softly to himself and then opened up his guitar case and placed his guitar inside of it. “Blimey, look at the time,” he said when his eye caught the clock hanging on the inside of the Astronomy Tower. “We’ve been up here for almost two hours,” he said, his voice strained as he tried his best to keep his cool and not let his real thoughts and emotions shine through. “i’ve got to be going in a few minutes. I’ve got practice early in the morning and I am going to need my sleep for that,” he said, while trying not to make it seem that he really only wanted to get out of there before things got weirder.

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thought i'd get them headed towards that unresolved note; nudge me for changes