Ginny Weasley (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
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hogwash2010-11-20 04:28 pm
ginny_weasley) wrote in hogwash2010-11-20 04:28 pm
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Who: Ginny Weasley and Alicia Spinnet
What: Date night
Where: Alicia's flat, restaurant in Holyhead, Wales
When: November 17, 2002 in the early evening.
Rating: PG-13
Status: Completed
Ginny felt very self-conscious--a sensation she hadn’t been intimately familiar with since she left Harry--standing in front of Alicia’s flat building. She had assured herself that to be taken seriously, she had to make a drastic move. So, here she was, poised at the door of the building with a rather charming bouquet of colourful flowers(Neville had let her pick them, thank Merlin) and dressed sharply. Though Alicia had appreciated each time she had dressed feminine, Ginny decided to try making herself feel more comfortable and wear a handsomely fitting blue button-down shirt accompanied by fitted, yet still roomy, jeans.
Perhaps I should’ve owled..., Ginny thought miserably as she continued to stare blankly at the door separating her from the flat. Clearing her throat and berating herself for being such a silly git about the whole thing, she rapped three times at the door and waited. What’s the worst that could happen?
The worst that could happen would be that Alicia wasn’t home, and that was true-- for the time being. Lucky for Ginny, one minute after she knocked on the door, Alicia had apparated in front of her apartment complex, juggling three full bags of groceries. She managed to get halfway up the steps before she noticed someone was blocking her way. “Oi, excuse me, could you be a help and get that door--” she started, before peering over the bag blocking her face to see that unmistakable shade of red hair. Realization hit her and a bit of panic set in as she missed a step, tripping, her groceries flying every which way as she fell forward onto the landing in the most ungraceful way possible.
Ginny was impatient and the minute seemed to drag on, time stretching toward infinity--she’d bloody die waiting! Deflating some at Alicia’s obvious absence or insistence to ignore her, Ginny resolved to come back some time later until she heard a familiar voice. Turning toward Alicia, she looked quizzically at her and, as if in slow motion, she saw the ordeal with the groceries playing out in front of her eyes and there was nothing she could do about it. Hiding her snicker behind a suspicious cough, Ginny put the bouquet down on the landing and offered her hand to Alicia. “Need a bit of help, mate? Sorry about the surprise. I thought you might be laying around your flat today since we had the day off and I wanted to drop in.”
Alicia’s cheeks were bright red, half from embarrassment and half from anger as she realized her sunglasses, that had been on her head, were now shattered into a dozen pieces. She stubbornly waved off Ginny’s hand and got to her feet. “Just brilliant...” she muttered to herself, performing a quick Reparo on them to no avail-- they seemed to be beyond repair. Waving her wand again, the groceries flew back into their respective shopping bags, and she took a deep breath, collecting herself.
She took in Ginny’s appearance-- well groomed, wearing not-so-casual clothing, and then noticed the bouquet of flowers lying near her feet. “Drop in?” Suspicious, she crossed her arms over her chest for a moment, trying very hard to remain annoyed. “What exactly are you up to, Weasley? I don’t--”
Just then, at the bottom of the steps, two teenage boys were waving up at them, “GREAT MATCH YESTERDAY!” They yelled, before continuing on their way.
Alicia put on a modest smile and waved graciously to the fans, before she turned back to Ginny. “You better not be trying to-- to court me or something, because you KNOW that’s absolutely out of the question-- oh, gods, let’s just get in here--” She scrambled for her apartment key and handed one of her bags to Ginny before carrying the other two, leading the way up to her flat.
Ginny didn’t quite know what to say about the destroyed sunglasses other than to awkwardly glance away from Alicia as she struggled to fix them. “I’d think you’d be able to find a suitable replacement for the sunglasses. They’ve got some brilliant ones at the shops around here, or at Quality Quidditch Supplies.” After straightening up with the groceries, Alicia gave her that look and Ginny just grinned brightly at her instead. “What are you trying to say, Spinnet? I can’t walk out of my flat and visit a teammate with a nice outfit on and a little flat-warming gift?”
The teenagers made Ginny grimace. Alicia had played well, to be fair, but Ginny was still sore about being off of the starting roster for the rest of the season. She tried to not let it sour her mood much or change her pleasant facial expression--she knew, too, that it hurt Alicia.
“What if I was just maybe thinking about taking you to a brilliant restaurant? Made reservations and everything.” Ginny took the bag from Alicia and bent to carefully sweep the flowers into her arms again. Grinning, she watched Alicia’s arse as they climbed the stairs to her flat. Damn it, Weasley, stop getting distracted! Clearing her throat, she called up to her. “Listen, Alicia, give me a chance, all right? Hear me out and we can go from there in your flat.”
Carrying a grocery bag in each arm, Alicia led Ginny into the lift and clicked the top floor button. She busied herself by sifting through her groceries. “I hope I didn’t leave anything...” she murmured lamely, trying to figure out how she was going to handle this situation. Luckily, it was a quick lift ride, and they were back at Alicia’s studio flat. “All right, so what’s this about a restaurant?” She asked as she moved into her kitchen, hoisting the grocery bags on the countertop. Her eyes shifted quickly to those flowers and then back to the groceries, as she still couldn’t decide whether or not to accept them.
The lift ride was sufficiently awkward, but Ginny kept rehearsing what she would say once they finally got inside Alicia’s flat. Just as she hoped, she was already striding through the door and nudging it shut with her elbow. “All right, here it is. I’ve made a reservation at this absolutely brilliant Italian restaurant by those quaint little shops in Holyhead and I was really hoping you’d like to go with me.” Ginny spoke a little quickly, but she kept her voice confident and even. A bright grin tugged at the corners of her lips. “Listen, I know this isn’t the way things are supposed to go, all right? And I don’t really know how you feel, but I’ve got to say that I think you’re brilliant and I’m not just talking on the pitch and you’re really..., well, you’re beautiful, I think, and I’d really like if you gave me a shot, Alicia. As Ginny, not as Ginny Weasley or Ginny of the Harpies.” Exhaling slowly and watching her with careful eyes, Ginny waited for a moment before adding, “I’m not saying anything’s going to happen, but at least give the illusion that it might, yeah?”
Alicia knew Ginny was bold and confident, but she had to admit it was quite gutsy to say all of that. Alicia could handle boasting about her quidditch ability, but she never knew how to handle compliments that were not chaser-related. Her family had never complimented her growing up, so it always made her feel incredibly awkward and undeserving. She hated the blush that crept back into her cheeks-- why did Ginny have that effect on her? Alicia wasn’t in denial-- she did have feelings for Ginny, though she wasn’t willing to really think on how deep they are.
“Look, Weasley,” she started, quite firm in her tone and her stance, with her arms crossed over her chest. “I’m flattered. Truly. But it’s more complicated than risking both our contracts, which should be reason enough to stay away from each other.” She hesitated, giving a deep sigh. “I haven’t talked to George in years, but I still consider him one of my very best mates. It’s bad enough I’ve shagged his little sister-- but getting more serious? Your whole family doesn’t even know you’re a todger dodger.” Alicia would cut off her Quaffle-throwing hand before causing any sort of unnecessary strife within the Weasley family. “And Katie! You’re her new best mate, and she’s my old best mate, and she’d be against it too. I reckon she’d say we’re being selfish, risking messing with the team dynamic how it is.”
Ginny patiently listened to Alicia’s response and tried not to look a little satisfied at how ruffled she’d gotten the other Harpy. But something about the way that she was so firm and was looking for reasons to not give her a go made Ginny feel a bit crestfallen. She tried to let it not show on her face, but she must have--just a little bit. Moving over to Alicia’s kitchen table, she left the bag of groceries and the flowers laying there in order to shove her hands into her pockets. Sighing, she shook her head before she started a rebuttal. “First off, I asked you not to think of me as a Weasley, Alicia.”
“I’ve never heard of someone actually just getting outright sacked for breaking contract that way. I should think they would respect you more than that, starting chaser. Me, on the other hand, what’ve I really got to lose? You and Katie are brilliant, young starting chasers. I haven’t a chance for that, see? So in all likelihood, they’d trade me or some such. George and Katie would want you to be happy, Alicia, and if dating me made you happy, then they’d try their best to understand. My family wants me to be happy. I’m not asking for your bloody hand in marriage, mate, I’m just asking for a date. Give me a shot.” Ginny gave Alicia a meaningful look, trying to convey that she really did like her, that she really meant what she said.
Alicia set her jaw, leaning back against the counter as she listened to Ginny’s counter-argument. She did have some valid points, unfortunately, though she knew Ginny was wrong about getting traded. Alicia could tell Jones had a special place for the younger chaser in her heart, and Ginny would get another shot soon enough. It wasn’t a discussion of quidditch though, and Ginny did say not to think of her as Ginny the Harpy, didn’t she? Alicia knew she was running out of excuses, so she reluctantly gave a nod.
“All right, fine. I’ll have dinner with you. But there are rules.” She raised a brow. “We make a conscious effort not to tell anyone about this. I prefer to keep my private life just that-- private. We split the cost of the meal, fifty-fifty. And under no circumstances will I engage in any sort of public display of affection. I don’t do that.” She crossed the room and rather aggressively tore a crystal vase out of the cabinet, setting it on the counter. She flicked her wand. Aguamenti. Wingardium leviosa. The vase filled with water and the flowers gently found their way into the vase. “I’ll need twenty minutes. Make yourself at home.” With that, she disappeared into her bedroom to figure out what the hell to wear. She hadn’t been on a date in ages.
Ginny knew she had gotten to Alicia. Her counterargument was brilliant, frankly, and how could she not be swayed by the sharp outfit and the flowers? Rolling her eyes at the rules, Ginny sighed. “Shame, I’ve already sold the story to Rita Skeeter--we’re close, you know--and I told the restaurant not to take our order until I shagged you stupid on the table.” Smirking, Ginny shook her head. “Really, Alicia, I thought you knew me better than that! Of course we keep it quiet. I don’t ordinarily kiss and tell. I’d rather not have any kind of damning articles out to ruin my career with the Harpies. You should feel a bit special that I’d be willing to put it on the line for you.” She crossed her arms over her chest, watching her carefully. Though Alicia seemed a little frustrated that it would have been impossible for her to say no, Ginny knew she was going to make her have a brilliant time. “Right, you go get ready and I’ll be here. I’ve also taken the liberty to get us a little private room at the place. Hope you don’t mind.” As Alicia took off into her bedroom, Ginny settled down at her kitchen table and propped her feet up on the chair nearest to her. Ginny Weasley, sometimes you even impress yourself.
Alicia was grateful she’d had practice that morning-- it ensured she had a shower late that afternoon before she’d gone grocery shopping. She had never been great with styling charms, but after years of practice she knew how to prepare her hair with just enough body, wavy in the right spots. She was fortunate to have an olive complexion and bright green eyes that attracted most of the attention on her face, so she wasn’t one who used make-up charms often. Since this was, in fact, a date, she put a bit more effort in and applied a bit of blush, black eye-liner, and lip gloss. She then moved to her closet and flicked on the light, groaning at all of the choices. “Bloody hell-- can’t believe-- she’s making me do this--” she muttered spitefully as she pulled six outfits off of their respective hangers before finally settling on a forest green cocktail dress with matching strappy heels. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been on a proper date-- it certainly wasn’t within the past two years, and she couldn’t remember when or where she purchased that dress, but she had to admit, looking in the full-length mirror in her closet, it was quite flattering.
She checked the clock and realized a half an hour had gone by, hoping Ginny wasn’t counting the minutes-- though really, she didn’t feel too bad considering she didn’t have any notice. Alicia fumbled with a pair of pearl earrings before reemerging in her sitting area, clutching a small, dressy handbag. “All right, so where are we going?”
Ginny did grow a bit impatient waiting for Alicia to finish, though she reasoned that she couldn’t expect her date to be done and look good without putting time and effort in. By the time Alicia returned, Ginny’s nose was buried in a Quidditch play analysis book she’d found laying around in the living room. “Hm?” Lifting her eyes from the text, Ginny’s mouth opened of its own accord and she sat, looking rather dumbstruck. Closing her mouth slowly and swallowing hard, Ginny’s eyes first admired Alicia’s face--she had done a smashing job with her make-up--then looked lower to the curve of her breast, the swell of her hips and the length of her sexy, toned legs. She very nearly groaned aloud. “Bloody hell, you look fucking fantastic.”
Grinning, she pushed up from the table and offered Alicia her arm. “It’s a surprise. Just let me impress you.” Undoubtedly, she earned herself an eye roll from her date but Ginny really may have done a bang up job. Leading her out of the flat, Ginny even did a very careful Apparition to just outside Maggio’s Italian Ristorante. When they entered the restaurant, they were immediately swept off to a much more private and secluded room with delicate lighting and the table, slightly larger than the others in the restaurant, was decorated with an elegant flower arrangement. Ginny moved behind Alicia and, before she could react or protest, pulled the chair out and waited for her to take a seat. “Brilliant, hm? Glad I forced you to come along, yeah?”
Alicia had the grace to blush and look away as Ginny complimented her on her appearance, and decided to give up the reluctant charade. It took far too much energy, and she might as well at least attempt to enjoy herself, since she was already committed to dinner. When they arrived outside the restaurant, Alicia tossed a few paranoid glances over her shoulder; luckily, since it was dark, they were less recognisible.
The private room in the restaurant was incredibly romantic. It was only when Ginny held out her chair for her when she realised her jaw went slack at just how impressive it was. “Right. Um, thank you, Weasley,” she said softly, clearing her throat as she sat down and scooted her chair in. “I mean, er... Ginny.” That was going to be difficult to get used to.
“Quite welcome.” Ginny grinned at her brightly once she returned to her own seat across the table. Picking up the rather thick looking menu, she began to glance through to see if anything initially tickled her fancy. Almost immediately, a waiter came to their table with a bottle of blush wine and a wine bucket on a stand, filled with ice. “You ordered this, correct, Miss Weasley?” Glancing at the label, Ginny nodded in response and the waiter uncorked it to pour them both a hearty glass full. “I’ll be back in a few moments to take your orders. Feel free to ask any questions you may have about the menu.” With a winsome smile, the man hurried off just as Ginny took a sip of the wine and sighed.
“Hope you like the wine. Er, so, are you thinking about anything in particular? I’ve got to say, the spaghetti here is just smashing. I know it’s not the most exciting thing on the menu, but I’ve tried a few of the other dishes and I guess I’ve just got to stick to what I know, yeah?” Leaning back into the rather comfortable cushioned chair, Ginny took another sip of wine and made eye contact with Alicia. She winked.
Alicia froze when a waiter entered the private room, addressing Ginny by name. Has she sworn him to secrecy, or will I have to Obliviate him after this? She opened her mouth to ask about it, but really, she didn’t want to disturb anything, as Ginny had clearly gone the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect. Alicia appreciated it-- she truly did, and found it quite endearing, though to be honest, she’d be much more comfortable in sweatpants with a box of pizza.
“Thank you,” she said to the waiter, eyeing him a bit suspiciously as he poured her wine. She took a couple large gulps, hoping it would help her relax. Bloody hell, why am I so damn nervous? I’d be more comfortable flying starkers around the Quidditch World Cup pitch. Fumbling for the menu, she willed herself to calm down as she perused the dinner options. “You’re the expert then, spaghetti sounds just fine to me.”
“Brilliant.” Ginny smiled genuinely at her then. Alicia seemed rather nervous, didn’t she? She had never even witnessed Alicia fumble much of anything, though it was rather cute and made Ginny a bit proud that she had caused such a reaction. Clearing her throat, she glanced around for a sign of the waiter before she set down the menu with the intention of going to find him. As if on cue, he reappeared back at their table, a notepad flipped open. “You ladies look ready. What’ll you be having?”
Ginny looked thoughtful for a moment before responding, “Spaghetti for both of us, please. With chicken. Simple enough, yeah?” The waiter just smiled at her, nodding along, “Yes, yes, let me put this in for you.” And with that, he was gone again. Suddenly, Ginny realised that she and Alicia were going to be alone. Until their food got there. And now she was nervous. Ginny took a hearty swallow of wine, hoping for a boost of liquid confidence to keep acting cool, calm and collected. Just look like you are, mate, it’ll be all right. “So Alicia, other than my brilliant arguing abilities, what really made you want to come out with me tonight? I’ve got to say, I was sort of expecting you to make me work harder or to shut me down. Glad you didn’t, of course.”
Alicia was grateful that Ginny took the reigns with ordering the food so that she could drink a bit more wine. Her question caught her a bit off guard and she looked up at her briefly before grabbing a slice of sourdough bread from the basket in front of her. “I... I didn’t give it much thought. I suppose it’s because... I had a nice time with you the other night. Even though I fell asleep...” She gave an embarrassed little chuckle, loosening up a little, and she used her knife to butter her bread as she asked a question in return. “Is this a habit of yours, wining and dining your teammates?”
“I had a rather nice time with you, too. You’ll have to expose me to more of those muggle films, I liked the one you picked.” Even though she felt a little nervous around Alicia, Ginny thought it was a good thing she did. It meant that she cared, in a strange sort of way, and that made her feel like maybe this was the right thing to take a chance on. Alicia’s question was naturally bold and to the point, Ginny could only smirk at her. “If you count Katie, then yes. But never with any intention of romance, of course. So I suppose the real answer is no, you’re the first. Actually, ah, you’re the first.. woman I’ve been on a real date with.” She looked a bit uncomfortable at admitting it, but at least if something went wrong, she had her inexperience to blame it on. “Don’t get wined and dined much, Alicia?” Smoothing her expression with a grin, Ginny reached over and pulled two slices off of the small loaf of bread. In an effort to be ladylike, she held the bread over the plate in front of her as she took a bite before setting it down. This fancy date business is loads of work, blimey. Can’t wait until I get sauce slopped all down my shirt.
Ginny’s smirk was relaxed and familiar, and it helped to make Alicia more comfortable in such a formal atmosphere. “A real date? As opposed to what, a fake date?” She teased, giving a shrug as she ate a bite of the buttered bread. “I haven’t been on a formal date like this in years. Not that I haven’t had offers, of course... the blokes down under were quite smitten, and a few of the sheilas as well.” She finished off her glass of wine, deciding to wait a bit before going for another glass. “I suppose I always knew, deep down, that I wanted to come back here, so I didn’t want to risk getting attached down there.”
“Well, I’ve got to admit that I’m glad you came back unattached. As you can imagine from our first meeting, it’s not often I’m interested in real dating anyone. There are such things as fake dates, you know! It’s the illusion of taking someone out on a date with only the intention of shagging them afterward and not actually appreciating their biting commentary.” Laughing a bit at Alicia’s teasing, Ginny relaxed enough to tease her back. It was... nice, this teasing and talking to each other in such a nice place. There was something exhilarating about having someone she wanted to be romantic with in this ideal atmosphere--especially when the person was actually interested in her. Lifting the lip of the wine glass to her lips, she also drained the rest of the glass and she found herself admiring Alicia openly. Chewing at her lip thoughtfully, she struggled to think of something else charming to say. It seemed that every time she tried relying on her charisma in these sort of situations, it failed her.
Surveying Ginny’s response, Alicia eyed her with great suspicion, leaning back in her chair a bit more comfortably. “I see. So since this qualifies as a real date, does that mean you have no intention of shagging me afterward?” That was a rhetorical question, of course... she really didn’t want Ginny to even attempt to answer that. At that exact moment, the server returned with two steaming bowls of pasta, setting a bowl down in front of each of them. “Mmm... this smells delicious.”
“You’re a woman of black and white, Alicia. Maybe I’m enjoying our date before I start considering what comes next.” Ginny grinned. She wondered vaguely if Alicia would find her little joke funny. Really, if she were honest, she didn’t even necessarily consider the shagging part. Ginny was just glad that Alicia was here with her at all. Smiling at the server as her plate was lowered in front of her, Ginny wasted no time in picking up her fork and digging into it. “I told you this place was brilliant. Wait until you taste it.”
Alicia watched for a moment as Ginny began attacking that pasta without a second thought. It was cute, she thought, and reminded her of Ginny’s quidditch style-- aggressive and relentless. Alicia, on the other hand, was much more strategic, relying mainly on technique over power. Neither approach was necessarily better than the other, and Jones didn’t really care-- whatever got the job done, she said. Similarly, Alicia was excited to eat the spaghetti, but old habits die hard and her uptight mother’s voice rang in her head: Sit up straight. Tuck in your chair. Napkin on your lap. Be. A. Lady. Straightening her posture, Alicia quickly draped her napkin across her lap before lifting a fork in one hand and a spoon in her other, methodically twirling pasta on her fork against the spoon to make sure she would only bring enough pasta to her mouth as she could handle in one bite.
She washed a few bites down with some wine and smiled, realizing they hadn’t spoken in a few minutes as they were preoccupied with their meals. “Tastes great. Really. Definitely makes the top five Italian meals I’ve had.” She hoped she didn’t have any sauce or meatball residue on her teeth as she flashed an appreciative smile over at Ginny before tucking back in to her meal.
Ginny felt her cheeks heat up at Alicia’s bright, appreciative smile. It was nice, to feel like she had done something to please her date. Making sure to chew the big bite of spaghetti in her mouth, Ginny swallowed and shot a smile back at Alicia. “I’m glad to hear it, really. Don’t fill up on pasta, though, because they’ve got some really great desserts, too. Pull out all the stops, yeah?” She enjoyed watching the meticulous way Alicia seemed to eat, careful bites and expertly twirled pasta. As she noticed the light flickering on the surface of the silver wear, her eyes couldn’t help but wander to that unbelievably fitting dress. Bloody hell, that dress looks brilliant on her... bet it’ll look just good off of her. Biting her lip, she tried to chase the thought from her mind. Ginny couldn’t be thinking about that already--they weren’t even finished with dinner! But she couldn’t help the way her eyes lingered at the top of Alicia’s dress.
“Desserts?” She raised a neatly shaped brow in question, surveying Ginny with great exaggerated suspicion as she finished off the last strands of spaghetti in her bowl. “Trying to fatten me up, Weasley? Trying to slow me down in the air? Now I know your real motivations for this date... I’ve got you all figured out...” She tried to keep her stern expression, but another grin threatened to escape. She raised her wine glass and tossed her head back, downing its contents. “What did you have in mind, anyway? I’m sure they’ve got quite a selection here. Canoli? Spumoni? Gelato?”
“I thought you might catch on, Spinnet. I’m a woman who goes after what she wants. Though, I’ve got to say that I doubt you’ve got me all figured out, Alicia. I’m full of surprises, wouldn’t you say?” Ginny grinned coyly at her, eyebrow arched in a challenge instead of in query. She had finished off her own spaghetti and had made sure to wipe her face off(with the napkin instead of obeying her instinctual urge to wipe it on the back of her hand) before she had even spoken. It was obvious that Alicia was very careful about her table manners and Ginny thought that perhaps she might earn herself a few brownie points if she were equally careful. “All of it is excellent, but my favourite is their canoli by far.” Then what came after dessert? Before her brain launched into another dirty thought, she brought her glass of wine to her lips and emptied it. “So, have any other plans waiting for you after our little date, Alicia?”
“Don’t underestimate me either, Weasley. I am quite a bit older than you. Therefore wiser, too,” she added with a nod, smirking as she refilled her wine glass and took another few sips. “All right then. I’m fancying something sweeter-- gelato is my absolute favourite. Chocolate. Let’s get one of each and we’ll share. Though I reckon we’ll have quite a bit leftover, not sure I’ve got much room left after that spaghetti...”
Ginny chuckled and leaned against the back of the chair. “Fair enough, Alicia. You are much older than me. I look forward to see what you’re better than me at, other than Quidditch.” Ginny reached over and, just as Alicia’s hand began to withdraw from her wine glass, she grabbed her hand and gave it a quick squeeze. “Sounds brilliant. I’d be willing to share.”
The waiter who had been taking their order suddenly reappeared, as if out of nowhere and looked at them. Quickly, Ginny withdrew her hand and shakily smiled at him, though he seemed unfazed. “What can I get you for dessert?” Ginny replied quickly, “A canoli and chocolate gelato, please.” With a nod, the waiter strode off into the main part of the restaurant and Ginny exhaled loudly. “Bloody hell, sorry.”
Color drained from Alicia’s face when she realised what had happened. Her eyes flashed over at Ginny after she ordered, not necessarily out of anger, but out of nervousness. “How well do you know the staff here, exactly?” She tried very hard to keep emotion out of her voice, so she took a sip of wine and swallowed. “I’m quite practised at Memory Charms, you know. I wouldn’t hesitate if you think there might be a problem...”
“Well enough to know they’ll keep their gobs shut or else.” Ginny glanced at Alicia, a smile playing at the corner of her lips. “Don’t worry, yeah? I didn’t toe the line with that, did I?” She looked a little nervous now, but only because she didn’t have anything to occupy herself with. Ginny shifted a bit, focusing on Alicia’s lips and couldn’t help but think how much she wanted to kiss her. Before she could continue to think on it, the server returned with the canoli and gelato, placing them in front of each of them before making himself scarce.
Alicia rolled her eyes and gave a snort, finishing off her wine glass as the desserts were set down in front of them. “You’re always toeing the line. I daresay I’m getting rather used to it by now.” With an overdramatic sigh, she picked up her spoon and started with the gelato.
“Glad to hear you’re adjusting at the very least.” Ginny smirked at her eye-rolling and broke into the canoli, taking a hearty bite. Groaning at the taste, Ginny closed her eyes and sighed, swallowing the bite. “Bloody hell, this is really excellent. How’s the gelato?”
“I’ve changed my mind-- I’m not sharing,” she declared, pulling the dish of gelato out of Ginny’s spoon’s reach. Gelato really was her favourite, and even though she decided not to share her gelato, she dared to thrust her spoon across the table into Ginny’s dish, vying for a bite of canoli. Her reflexes were usually quite quick-- but they weren’t as speedy after a few glasses of wine.
Ginny gave Alicia a dirty look at that, brandishing her spoon before she knocked Alicia’s away. “Did I say you could have a bloody bite of that?” Shaking her head, she sighed and pulled the canoli away from her. Scooping a bit onto her own spoon, Ginny reached across the table, a tiny grin playing at the corner of her lips. “Here,” she offered the spoon to her.
“Damn, I’m much quicker than that...” Alicia seemed to have forgotten that she was trying to steal a spoon of dessert from a fellow professional level chaser. She raised a brow when she was offered a bite from Ginny’s spoon, hesitating. “Smash that in my face and I swear, you’ll be in for it..” she warned, slowly leaning forward to taste the canoli.
“I won’t smash it in your face,” Ginny rolled her eyes and sighed, gently pushing the spoon forward to feed it to her. As she took the bite, Ginny grinned at her and pulled the spoon back so that she could take a bite of canoli herself. “Good, eh? I’m sure it didn’t hurt that it was my spoon,” she winked.
“Mmm, yes...” she managed, with her mouth full of canoli. She swallowed and nodded. “Very good. I do prefer the gelato, I must say.” She reluctantly pushed her dish forward, offering Ginny the last bite, as the server arrived with their check. Alicia dug through her purse for a few galleons, hoping Ginny remembered about one of her rules of splitting the bill.
Ginny looked impressed and pleased that Alicia would offer her the last bite--she took half of it and pushed back the last savory bit. “Quite good, but I’ll stick with canoli. Thanks.” Smiling genuinely at her, Ginny took the check and glanced at it. It wasn’t as bad as she was expecting. The sound of coins caught her attention and she looked over at Alicia. Right, the rule..., and she dug in her own pocket for a handful of galleons and sickles, dropping them on top of the bill. “Shall we go back to your flat?”
“Back to my flat?” She asked with great interest. “Why on earth would you want to go back there?” She was teasing, of course-- it was far too easy and too entertaining to engage with Ginny this way. “Oh! Yes, all right. You can help me put my groceries away, as I haven’t had a chance to do that yet and it’s all your fault.” She gave her a knowing look before pulling her wand and disapparating to her flat without waiting for her response.
As Alicia Disapparated, Ginny looked perplexed for a moment before she followed suit and, after the unpleasant compressing tug between her belly button and spine, she appeared standing on top of Alicia’s couch cushion. “Bloody hell... oi! Alicia, didn’t anyone teach you how rude it is to Apparate away before they can respond? Help you put your groceries away... bollocks.” Stepping down from the couch, Ginny grinned and stealthily crept about the flat in an effort to find her date. It wouldn’t be too hard, she had caught a glimpse of the look the brunette had given her before disappearing. She peered around the bedroom doorjamb to find Alicia splayed across the bed, and Ginny didn’t need any further invitation.
What: Date night
Where: Alicia's flat, restaurant in Holyhead, Wales
When: November 17, 2002 in the early evening.
Rating: PG-13
Status: Completed
Ginny felt very self-conscious--a sensation she hadn’t been intimately familiar with since she left Harry--standing in front of Alicia’s flat building. She had assured herself that to be taken seriously, she had to make a drastic move. So, here she was, poised at the door of the building with a rather charming bouquet of colourful flowers(Neville had let her pick them, thank Merlin) and dressed sharply. Though Alicia had appreciated each time she had dressed feminine, Ginny decided to try making herself feel more comfortable and wear a handsomely fitting blue button-down shirt accompanied by fitted, yet still roomy, jeans.
Perhaps I should’ve owled..., Ginny thought miserably as she continued to stare blankly at the door separating her from the flat. Clearing her throat and berating herself for being such a silly git about the whole thing, she rapped three times at the door and waited. What’s the worst that could happen?
The worst that could happen would be that Alicia wasn’t home, and that was true-- for the time being. Lucky for Ginny, one minute after she knocked on the door, Alicia had apparated in front of her apartment complex, juggling three full bags of groceries. She managed to get halfway up the steps before she noticed someone was blocking her way. “Oi, excuse me, could you be a help and get that door--” she started, before peering over the bag blocking her face to see that unmistakable shade of red hair. Realization hit her and a bit of panic set in as she missed a step, tripping, her groceries flying every which way as she fell forward onto the landing in the most ungraceful way possible.
Ginny was impatient and the minute seemed to drag on, time stretching toward infinity--she’d bloody die waiting! Deflating some at Alicia’s obvious absence or insistence to ignore her, Ginny resolved to come back some time later until she heard a familiar voice. Turning toward Alicia, she looked quizzically at her and, as if in slow motion, she saw the ordeal with the groceries playing out in front of her eyes and there was nothing she could do about it. Hiding her snicker behind a suspicious cough, Ginny put the bouquet down on the landing and offered her hand to Alicia. “Need a bit of help, mate? Sorry about the surprise. I thought you might be laying around your flat today since we had the day off and I wanted to drop in.”
Alicia’s cheeks were bright red, half from embarrassment and half from anger as she realized her sunglasses, that had been on her head, were now shattered into a dozen pieces. She stubbornly waved off Ginny’s hand and got to her feet. “Just brilliant...” she muttered to herself, performing a quick Reparo on them to no avail-- they seemed to be beyond repair. Waving her wand again, the groceries flew back into their respective shopping bags, and she took a deep breath, collecting herself.
She took in Ginny’s appearance-- well groomed, wearing not-so-casual clothing, and then noticed the bouquet of flowers lying near her feet. “Drop in?” Suspicious, she crossed her arms over her chest for a moment, trying very hard to remain annoyed. “What exactly are you up to, Weasley? I don’t--”
Just then, at the bottom of the steps, two teenage boys were waving up at them, “GREAT MATCH YESTERDAY!” They yelled, before continuing on their way.
Alicia put on a modest smile and waved graciously to the fans, before she turned back to Ginny. “You better not be trying to-- to court me or something, because you KNOW that’s absolutely out of the question-- oh, gods, let’s just get in here--” She scrambled for her apartment key and handed one of her bags to Ginny before carrying the other two, leading the way up to her flat.
Ginny didn’t quite know what to say about the destroyed sunglasses other than to awkwardly glance away from Alicia as she struggled to fix them. “I’d think you’d be able to find a suitable replacement for the sunglasses. They’ve got some brilliant ones at the shops around here, or at Quality Quidditch Supplies.” After straightening up with the groceries, Alicia gave her that look and Ginny just grinned brightly at her instead. “What are you trying to say, Spinnet? I can’t walk out of my flat and visit a teammate with a nice outfit on and a little flat-warming gift?”
The teenagers made Ginny grimace. Alicia had played well, to be fair, but Ginny was still sore about being off of the starting roster for the rest of the season. She tried to not let it sour her mood much or change her pleasant facial expression--she knew, too, that it hurt Alicia.
“What if I was just maybe thinking about taking you to a brilliant restaurant? Made reservations and everything.” Ginny took the bag from Alicia and bent to carefully sweep the flowers into her arms again. Grinning, she watched Alicia’s arse as they climbed the stairs to her flat. Damn it, Weasley, stop getting distracted! Clearing her throat, she called up to her. “Listen, Alicia, give me a chance, all right? Hear me out and we can go from there in your flat.”
Carrying a grocery bag in each arm, Alicia led Ginny into the lift and clicked the top floor button. She busied herself by sifting through her groceries. “I hope I didn’t leave anything...” she murmured lamely, trying to figure out how she was going to handle this situation. Luckily, it was a quick lift ride, and they were back at Alicia’s studio flat. “All right, so what’s this about a restaurant?” She asked as she moved into her kitchen, hoisting the grocery bags on the countertop. Her eyes shifted quickly to those flowers and then back to the groceries, as she still couldn’t decide whether or not to accept them.
The lift ride was sufficiently awkward, but Ginny kept rehearsing what she would say once they finally got inside Alicia’s flat. Just as she hoped, she was already striding through the door and nudging it shut with her elbow. “All right, here it is. I’ve made a reservation at this absolutely brilliant Italian restaurant by those quaint little shops in Holyhead and I was really hoping you’d like to go with me.” Ginny spoke a little quickly, but she kept her voice confident and even. A bright grin tugged at the corners of her lips. “Listen, I know this isn’t the way things are supposed to go, all right? And I don’t really know how you feel, but I’ve got to say that I think you’re brilliant and I’m not just talking on the pitch and you’re really..., well, you’re beautiful, I think, and I’d really like if you gave me a shot, Alicia. As Ginny, not as Ginny Weasley or Ginny of the Harpies.” Exhaling slowly and watching her with careful eyes, Ginny waited for a moment before adding, “I’m not saying anything’s going to happen, but at least give the illusion that it might, yeah?”
Alicia knew Ginny was bold and confident, but she had to admit it was quite gutsy to say all of that. Alicia could handle boasting about her quidditch ability, but she never knew how to handle compliments that were not chaser-related. Her family had never complimented her growing up, so it always made her feel incredibly awkward and undeserving. She hated the blush that crept back into her cheeks-- why did Ginny have that effect on her? Alicia wasn’t in denial-- she did have feelings for Ginny, though she wasn’t willing to really think on how deep they are.
“Look, Weasley,” she started, quite firm in her tone and her stance, with her arms crossed over her chest. “I’m flattered. Truly. But it’s more complicated than risking both our contracts, which should be reason enough to stay away from each other.” She hesitated, giving a deep sigh. “I haven’t talked to George in years, but I still consider him one of my very best mates. It’s bad enough I’ve shagged his little sister-- but getting more serious? Your whole family doesn’t even know you’re a todger dodger.” Alicia would cut off her Quaffle-throwing hand before causing any sort of unnecessary strife within the Weasley family. “And Katie! You’re her new best mate, and she’s my old best mate, and she’d be against it too. I reckon she’d say we’re being selfish, risking messing with the team dynamic how it is.”
Ginny patiently listened to Alicia’s response and tried not to look a little satisfied at how ruffled she’d gotten the other Harpy. But something about the way that she was so firm and was looking for reasons to not give her a go made Ginny feel a bit crestfallen. She tried to let it not show on her face, but she must have--just a little bit. Moving over to Alicia’s kitchen table, she left the bag of groceries and the flowers laying there in order to shove her hands into her pockets. Sighing, she shook her head before she started a rebuttal. “First off, I asked you not to think of me as a Weasley, Alicia.”
“I’ve never heard of someone actually just getting outright sacked for breaking contract that way. I should think they would respect you more than that, starting chaser. Me, on the other hand, what’ve I really got to lose? You and Katie are brilliant, young starting chasers. I haven’t a chance for that, see? So in all likelihood, they’d trade me or some such. George and Katie would want you to be happy, Alicia, and if dating me made you happy, then they’d try their best to understand. My family wants me to be happy. I’m not asking for your bloody hand in marriage, mate, I’m just asking for a date. Give me a shot.” Ginny gave Alicia a meaningful look, trying to convey that she really did like her, that she really meant what she said.
Alicia set her jaw, leaning back against the counter as she listened to Ginny’s counter-argument. She did have some valid points, unfortunately, though she knew Ginny was wrong about getting traded. Alicia could tell Jones had a special place for the younger chaser in her heart, and Ginny would get another shot soon enough. It wasn’t a discussion of quidditch though, and Ginny did say not to think of her as Ginny the Harpy, didn’t she? Alicia knew she was running out of excuses, so she reluctantly gave a nod.
“All right, fine. I’ll have dinner with you. But there are rules.” She raised a brow. “We make a conscious effort not to tell anyone about this. I prefer to keep my private life just that-- private. We split the cost of the meal, fifty-fifty. And under no circumstances will I engage in any sort of public display of affection. I don’t do that.” She crossed the room and rather aggressively tore a crystal vase out of the cabinet, setting it on the counter. She flicked her wand. Aguamenti. Wingardium leviosa. The vase filled with water and the flowers gently found their way into the vase. “I’ll need twenty minutes. Make yourself at home.” With that, she disappeared into her bedroom to figure out what the hell to wear. She hadn’t been on a date in ages.
Ginny knew she had gotten to Alicia. Her counterargument was brilliant, frankly, and how could she not be swayed by the sharp outfit and the flowers? Rolling her eyes at the rules, Ginny sighed. “Shame, I’ve already sold the story to Rita Skeeter--we’re close, you know--and I told the restaurant not to take our order until I shagged you stupid on the table.” Smirking, Ginny shook her head. “Really, Alicia, I thought you knew me better than that! Of course we keep it quiet. I don’t ordinarily kiss and tell. I’d rather not have any kind of damning articles out to ruin my career with the Harpies. You should feel a bit special that I’d be willing to put it on the line for you.” She crossed her arms over her chest, watching her carefully. Though Alicia seemed a little frustrated that it would have been impossible for her to say no, Ginny knew she was going to make her have a brilliant time. “Right, you go get ready and I’ll be here. I’ve also taken the liberty to get us a little private room at the place. Hope you don’t mind.” As Alicia took off into her bedroom, Ginny settled down at her kitchen table and propped her feet up on the chair nearest to her. Ginny Weasley, sometimes you even impress yourself.
Alicia was grateful she’d had practice that morning-- it ensured she had a shower late that afternoon before she’d gone grocery shopping. She had never been great with styling charms, but after years of practice she knew how to prepare her hair with just enough body, wavy in the right spots. She was fortunate to have an olive complexion and bright green eyes that attracted most of the attention on her face, so she wasn’t one who used make-up charms often. Since this was, in fact, a date, she put a bit more effort in and applied a bit of blush, black eye-liner, and lip gloss. She then moved to her closet and flicked on the light, groaning at all of the choices. “Bloody hell-- can’t believe-- she’s making me do this--” she muttered spitefully as she pulled six outfits off of their respective hangers before finally settling on a forest green cocktail dress with matching strappy heels. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been on a proper date-- it certainly wasn’t within the past two years, and she couldn’t remember when or where she purchased that dress, but she had to admit, looking in the full-length mirror in her closet, it was quite flattering.
She checked the clock and realized a half an hour had gone by, hoping Ginny wasn’t counting the minutes-- though really, she didn’t feel too bad considering she didn’t have any notice. Alicia fumbled with a pair of pearl earrings before reemerging in her sitting area, clutching a small, dressy handbag. “All right, so where are we going?”
Ginny did grow a bit impatient waiting for Alicia to finish, though she reasoned that she couldn’t expect her date to be done and look good without putting time and effort in. By the time Alicia returned, Ginny’s nose was buried in a Quidditch play analysis book she’d found laying around in the living room. “Hm?” Lifting her eyes from the text, Ginny’s mouth opened of its own accord and she sat, looking rather dumbstruck. Closing her mouth slowly and swallowing hard, Ginny’s eyes first admired Alicia’s face--she had done a smashing job with her make-up--then looked lower to the curve of her breast, the swell of her hips and the length of her sexy, toned legs. She very nearly groaned aloud. “Bloody hell, you look fucking fantastic.”
Grinning, she pushed up from the table and offered Alicia her arm. “It’s a surprise. Just let me impress you.” Undoubtedly, she earned herself an eye roll from her date but Ginny really may have done a bang up job. Leading her out of the flat, Ginny even did a very careful Apparition to just outside Maggio’s Italian Ristorante. When they entered the restaurant, they were immediately swept off to a much more private and secluded room with delicate lighting and the table, slightly larger than the others in the restaurant, was decorated with an elegant flower arrangement. Ginny moved behind Alicia and, before she could react or protest, pulled the chair out and waited for her to take a seat. “Brilliant, hm? Glad I forced you to come along, yeah?”
Alicia had the grace to blush and look away as Ginny complimented her on her appearance, and decided to give up the reluctant charade. It took far too much energy, and she might as well at least attempt to enjoy herself, since she was already committed to dinner. When they arrived outside the restaurant, Alicia tossed a few paranoid glances over her shoulder; luckily, since it was dark, they were less recognisible.
The private room in the restaurant was incredibly romantic. It was only when Ginny held out her chair for her when she realised her jaw went slack at just how impressive it was. “Right. Um, thank you, Weasley,” she said softly, clearing her throat as she sat down and scooted her chair in. “I mean, er... Ginny.” That was going to be difficult to get used to.
“Quite welcome.” Ginny grinned at her brightly once she returned to her own seat across the table. Picking up the rather thick looking menu, she began to glance through to see if anything initially tickled her fancy. Almost immediately, a waiter came to their table with a bottle of blush wine and a wine bucket on a stand, filled with ice. “You ordered this, correct, Miss Weasley?” Glancing at the label, Ginny nodded in response and the waiter uncorked it to pour them both a hearty glass full. “I’ll be back in a few moments to take your orders. Feel free to ask any questions you may have about the menu.” With a winsome smile, the man hurried off just as Ginny took a sip of the wine and sighed.
“Hope you like the wine. Er, so, are you thinking about anything in particular? I’ve got to say, the spaghetti here is just smashing. I know it’s not the most exciting thing on the menu, but I’ve tried a few of the other dishes and I guess I’ve just got to stick to what I know, yeah?” Leaning back into the rather comfortable cushioned chair, Ginny took another sip of wine and made eye contact with Alicia. She winked.
Alicia froze when a waiter entered the private room, addressing Ginny by name. Has she sworn him to secrecy, or will I have to Obliviate him after this? She opened her mouth to ask about it, but really, she didn’t want to disturb anything, as Ginny had clearly gone the extra mile to make sure everything was perfect. Alicia appreciated it-- she truly did, and found it quite endearing, though to be honest, she’d be much more comfortable in sweatpants with a box of pizza.
“Thank you,” she said to the waiter, eyeing him a bit suspiciously as he poured her wine. She took a couple large gulps, hoping it would help her relax. Bloody hell, why am I so damn nervous? I’d be more comfortable flying starkers around the Quidditch World Cup pitch. Fumbling for the menu, she willed herself to calm down as she perused the dinner options. “You’re the expert then, spaghetti sounds just fine to me.”
“Brilliant.” Ginny smiled genuinely at her then. Alicia seemed rather nervous, didn’t she? She had never even witnessed Alicia fumble much of anything, though it was rather cute and made Ginny a bit proud that she had caused such a reaction. Clearing her throat, she glanced around for a sign of the waiter before she set down the menu with the intention of going to find him. As if on cue, he reappeared back at their table, a notepad flipped open. “You ladies look ready. What’ll you be having?”
Ginny looked thoughtful for a moment before responding, “Spaghetti for both of us, please. With chicken. Simple enough, yeah?” The waiter just smiled at her, nodding along, “Yes, yes, let me put this in for you.” And with that, he was gone again. Suddenly, Ginny realised that she and Alicia were going to be alone. Until their food got there. And now she was nervous. Ginny took a hearty swallow of wine, hoping for a boost of liquid confidence to keep acting cool, calm and collected. Just look like you are, mate, it’ll be all right. “So Alicia, other than my brilliant arguing abilities, what really made you want to come out with me tonight? I’ve got to say, I was sort of expecting you to make me work harder or to shut me down. Glad you didn’t, of course.”
Alicia was grateful that Ginny took the reigns with ordering the food so that she could drink a bit more wine. Her question caught her a bit off guard and she looked up at her briefly before grabbing a slice of sourdough bread from the basket in front of her. “I... I didn’t give it much thought. I suppose it’s because... I had a nice time with you the other night. Even though I fell asleep...” She gave an embarrassed little chuckle, loosening up a little, and she used her knife to butter her bread as she asked a question in return. “Is this a habit of yours, wining and dining your teammates?”
“I had a rather nice time with you, too. You’ll have to expose me to more of those muggle films, I liked the one you picked.” Even though she felt a little nervous around Alicia, Ginny thought it was a good thing she did. It meant that she cared, in a strange sort of way, and that made her feel like maybe this was the right thing to take a chance on. Alicia’s question was naturally bold and to the point, Ginny could only smirk at her. “If you count Katie, then yes. But never with any intention of romance, of course. So I suppose the real answer is no, you’re the first. Actually, ah, you’re the first.. woman I’ve been on a real date with.” She looked a bit uncomfortable at admitting it, but at least if something went wrong, she had her inexperience to blame it on. “Don’t get wined and dined much, Alicia?” Smoothing her expression with a grin, Ginny reached over and pulled two slices off of the small loaf of bread. In an effort to be ladylike, she held the bread over the plate in front of her as she took a bite before setting it down. This fancy date business is loads of work, blimey. Can’t wait until I get sauce slopped all down my shirt.
Ginny’s smirk was relaxed and familiar, and it helped to make Alicia more comfortable in such a formal atmosphere. “A real date? As opposed to what, a fake date?” She teased, giving a shrug as she ate a bite of the buttered bread. “I haven’t been on a formal date like this in years. Not that I haven’t had offers, of course... the blokes down under were quite smitten, and a few of the sheilas as well.” She finished off her glass of wine, deciding to wait a bit before going for another glass. “I suppose I always knew, deep down, that I wanted to come back here, so I didn’t want to risk getting attached down there.”
“Well, I’ve got to admit that I’m glad you came back unattached. As you can imagine from our first meeting, it’s not often I’m interested in real dating anyone. There are such things as fake dates, you know! It’s the illusion of taking someone out on a date with only the intention of shagging them afterward and not actually appreciating their biting commentary.” Laughing a bit at Alicia’s teasing, Ginny relaxed enough to tease her back. It was... nice, this teasing and talking to each other in such a nice place. There was something exhilarating about having someone she wanted to be romantic with in this ideal atmosphere--especially when the person was actually interested in her. Lifting the lip of the wine glass to her lips, she also drained the rest of the glass and she found herself admiring Alicia openly. Chewing at her lip thoughtfully, she struggled to think of something else charming to say. It seemed that every time she tried relying on her charisma in these sort of situations, it failed her.
Surveying Ginny’s response, Alicia eyed her with great suspicion, leaning back in her chair a bit more comfortably. “I see. So since this qualifies as a real date, does that mean you have no intention of shagging me afterward?” That was a rhetorical question, of course... she really didn’t want Ginny to even attempt to answer that. At that exact moment, the server returned with two steaming bowls of pasta, setting a bowl down in front of each of them. “Mmm... this smells delicious.”
“You’re a woman of black and white, Alicia. Maybe I’m enjoying our date before I start considering what comes next.” Ginny grinned. She wondered vaguely if Alicia would find her little joke funny. Really, if she were honest, she didn’t even necessarily consider the shagging part. Ginny was just glad that Alicia was here with her at all. Smiling at the server as her plate was lowered in front of her, Ginny wasted no time in picking up her fork and digging into it. “I told you this place was brilliant. Wait until you taste it.”
Alicia watched for a moment as Ginny began attacking that pasta without a second thought. It was cute, she thought, and reminded her of Ginny’s quidditch style-- aggressive and relentless. Alicia, on the other hand, was much more strategic, relying mainly on technique over power. Neither approach was necessarily better than the other, and Jones didn’t really care-- whatever got the job done, she said. Similarly, Alicia was excited to eat the spaghetti, but old habits die hard and her uptight mother’s voice rang in her head: Sit up straight. Tuck in your chair. Napkin on your lap. Be. A. Lady. Straightening her posture, Alicia quickly draped her napkin across her lap before lifting a fork in one hand and a spoon in her other, methodically twirling pasta on her fork against the spoon to make sure she would only bring enough pasta to her mouth as she could handle in one bite.
She washed a few bites down with some wine and smiled, realizing they hadn’t spoken in a few minutes as they were preoccupied with their meals. “Tastes great. Really. Definitely makes the top five Italian meals I’ve had.” She hoped she didn’t have any sauce or meatball residue on her teeth as she flashed an appreciative smile over at Ginny before tucking back in to her meal.
Ginny felt her cheeks heat up at Alicia’s bright, appreciative smile. It was nice, to feel like she had done something to please her date. Making sure to chew the big bite of spaghetti in her mouth, Ginny swallowed and shot a smile back at Alicia. “I’m glad to hear it, really. Don’t fill up on pasta, though, because they’ve got some really great desserts, too. Pull out all the stops, yeah?” She enjoyed watching the meticulous way Alicia seemed to eat, careful bites and expertly twirled pasta. As she noticed the light flickering on the surface of the silver wear, her eyes couldn’t help but wander to that unbelievably fitting dress. Bloody hell, that dress looks brilliant on her... bet it’ll look just good off of her. Biting her lip, she tried to chase the thought from her mind. Ginny couldn’t be thinking about that already--they weren’t even finished with dinner! But she couldn’t help the way her eyes lingered at the top of Alicia’s dress.
“Desserts?” She raised a neatly shaped brow in question, surveying Ginny with great exaggerated suspicion as she finished off the last strands of spaghetti in her bowl. “Trying to fatten me up, Weasley? Trying to slow me down in the air? Now I know your real motivations for this date... I’ve got you all figured out...” She tried to keep her stern expression, but another grin threatened to escape. She raised her wine glass and tossed her head back, downing its contents. “What did you have in mind, anyway? I’m sure they’ve got quite a selection here. Canoli? Spumoni? Gelato?”
“I thought you might catch on, Spinnet. I’m a woman who goes after what she wants. Though, I’ve got to say that I doubt you’ve got me all figured out, Alicia. I’m full of surprises, wouldn’t you say?” Ginny grinned coyly at her, eyebrow arched in a challenge instead of in query. She had finished off her own spaghetti and had made sure to wipe her face off(with the napkin instead of obeying her instinctual urge to wipe it on the back of her hand) before she had even spoken. It was obvious that Alicia was very careful about her table manners and Ginny thought that perhaps she might earn herself a few brownie points if she were equally careful. “All of it is excellent, but my favourite is their canoli by far.” Then what came after dessert? Before her brain launched into another dirty thought, she brought her glass of wine to her lips and emptied it. “So, have any other plans waiting for you after our little date, Alicia?”
“Don’t underestimate me either, Weasley. I am quite a bit older than you. Therefore wiser, too,” she added with a nod, smirking as she refilled her wine glass and took another few sips. “All right then. I’m fancying something sweeter-- gelato is my absolute favourite. Chocolate. Let’s get one of each and we’ll share. Though I reckon we’ll have quite a bit leftover, not sure I’ve got much room left after that spaghetti...”
Ginny chuckled and leaned against the back of the chair. “Fair enough, Alicia. You are much older than me. I look forward to see what you’re better than me at, other than Quidditch.” Ginny reached over and, just as Alicia’s hand began to withdraw from her wine glass, she grabbed her hand and gave it a quick squeeze. “Sounds brilliant. I’d be willing to share.”
The waiter who had been taking their order suddenly reappeared, as if out of nowhere and looked at them. Quickly, Ginny withdrew her hand and shakily smiled at him, though he seemed unfazed. “What can I get you for dessert?” Ginny replied quickly, “A canoli and chocolate gelato, please.” With a nod, the waiter strode off into the main part of the restaurant and Ginny exhaled loudly. “Bloody hell, sorry.”
Color drained from Alicia’s face when she realised what had happened. Her eyes flashed over at Ginny after she ordered, not necessarily out of anger, but out of nervousness. “How well do you know the staff here, exactly?” She tried very hard to keep emotion out of her voice, so she took a sip of wine and swallowed. “I’m quite practised at Memory Charms, you know. I wouldn’t hesitate if you think there might be a problem...”
“Well enough to know they’ll keep their gobs shut or else.” Ginny glanced at Alicia, a smile playing at the corner of her lips. “Don’t worry, yeah? I didn’t toe the line with that, did I?” She looked a little nervous now, but only because she didn’t have anything to occupy herself with. Ginny shifted a bit, focusing on Alicia’s lips and couldn’t help but think how much she wanted to kiss her. Before she could continue to think on it, the server returned with the canoli and gelato, placing them in front of each of them before making himself scarce.
Alicia rolled her eyes and gave a snort, finishing off her wine glass as the desserts were set down in front of them. “You’re always toeing the line. I daresay I’m getting rather used to it by now.” With an overdramatic sigh, she picked up her spoon and started with the gelato.
“Glad to hear you’re adjusting at the very least.” Ginny smirked at her eye-rolling and broke into the canoli, taking a hearty bite. Groaning at the taste, Ginny closed her eyes and sighed, swallowing the bite. “Bloody hell, this is really excellent. How’s the gelato?”
“I’ve changed my mind-- I’m not sharing,” she declared, pulling the dish of gelato out of Ginny’s spoon’s reach. Gelato really was her favourite, and even though she decided not to share her gelato, she dared to thrust her spoon across the table into Ginny’s dish, vying for a bite of canoli. Her reflexes were usually quite quick-- but they weren’t as speedy after a few glasses of wine.
Ginny gave Alicia a dirty look at that, brandishing her spoon before she knocked Alicia’s away. “Did I say you could have a bloody bite of that?” Shaking her head, she sighed and pulled the canoli away from her. Scooping a bit onto her own spoon, Ginny reached across the table, a tiny grin playing at the corner of her lips. “Here,” she offered the spoon to her.
“Damn, I’m much quicker than that...” Alicia seemed to have forgotten that she was trying to steal a spoon of dessert from a fellow professional level chaser. She raised a brow when she was offered a bite from Ginny’s spoon, hesitating. “Smash that in my face and I swear, you’ll be in for it..” she warned, slowly leaning forward to taste the canoli.
“I won’t smash it in your face,” Ginny rolled her eyes and sighed, gently pushing the spoon forward to feed it to her. As she took the bite, Ginny grinned at her and pulled the spoon back so that she could take a bite of canoli herself. “Good, eh? I’m sure it didn’t hurt that it was my spoon,” she winked.
“Mmm, yes...” she managed, with her mouth full of canoli. She swallowed and nodded. “Very good. I do prefer the gelato, I must say.” She reluctantly pushed her dish forward, offering Ginny the last bite, as the server arrived with their check. Alicia dug through her purse for a few galleons, hoping Ginny remembered about one of her rules of splitting the bill.
Ginny looked impressed and pleased that Alicia would offer her the last bite--she took half of it and pushed back the last savory bit. “Quite good, but I’ll stick with canoli. Thanks.” Smiling genuinely at her, Ginny took the check and glanced at it. It wasn’t as bad as she was expecting. The sound of coins caught her attention and she looked over at Alicia. Right, the rule..., and she dug in her own pocket for a handful of galleons and sickles, dropping them on top of the bill. “Shall we go back to your flat?”
“Back to my flat?” She asked with great interest. “Why on earth would you want to go back there?” She was teasing, of course-- it was far too easy and too entertaining to engage with Ginny this way. “Oh! Yes, all right. You can help me put my groceries away, as I haven’t had a chance to do that yet and it’s all your fault.” She gave her a knowing look before pulling her wand and disapparating to her flat without waiting for her response.
As Alicia Disapparated, Ginny looked perplexed for a moment before she followed suit and, after the unpleasant compressing tug between her belly button and spine, she appeared standing on top of Alicia’s couch cushion. “Bloody hell... oi! Alicia, didn’t anyone teach you how rude it is to Apparate away before they can respond? Help you put your groceries away... bollocks.” Stepping down from the couch, Ginny grinned and stealthily crept about the flat in an effort to find her date. It wouldn’t be too hard, she had caught a glimpse of the look the brunette had given her before disappearing. She peered around the bedroom doorjamb to find Alicia splayed across the bed, and Ginny didn’t need any further invitation.