Out of the Shadows // Sebastian Sallow

Chapter Forty-Two*****

Happy 4th of July, America! Here's a spicy treat for all ;)

*****Warning: This chapter contains sexually explicit adult content.*****

"Champions. Follow me please." The Durmstrang Headmaster instructed us and we followed him and Headmaster Black and the Beauxbatons Headmaster out of the hall and down a set of stairs into a small room.

Before leaving, I looked over at Seb quickly. He just gave me a soft smile. I knew he wanted to be picked but also wanted to support me. He was trying to hide his regret and envy. I could tell. I sighed. I was going to have battle his ego, I was sure of it.

The door closed and the Durmstrang Headmaster spoke. "Congratulations to you all. The Goblet of Fire is an extremely enchanted magical object. It only picks those of great ability and the best chance of vinning the tournament. You should all be proud that you vere chosen for this great honor.

Your headmasters and I will be the judges of the tournament. There vill be three tasks in vhich you vill compete and be scored on. By the end, ve vill have our victor based on their cumulative performance. Good luck to you all!"

He then pulled out a piece of parchment and unrolled it. He read aloud, "The first task vill take place on Sunday next on the Great Lawn at ten o'clock. It is a task designed to test your logic and intellect. To vin, one's mind must be sharpened. You have eight days to prepare."

We all looked at each other. A mental task? I hoped my mind was sharpened!

Just then, each champion was taken aside by their respective headmaster. I was hoping for words of encouragement from Professor Black, but it was in vain.

"I hope you represent Hogwarts proudly and win this tournament, Bennett. After all, your... sullied... reputation is also at stake. Best not to make things worse, I say. Do not make me regret readmitting you to school this year." And with that he walked away and out of the room.

I plopped onto the nearest couch and put my head in my hands.

"Why is it always me?" I questioned, not realizing I had said it aloud.

"Because you're special." The spot next to me sank in as a presence joined me on the couch.

I scoffed. "Doesn't feel special. Feels like pressure. And stress. And anxiety."

"Then why did you come?"

I sighed. "I guess I did it for my boyfriend." I lifted my head up to find Will sitting with me. His face was open and his bright blue eyes were staring into my green ones once again.

"I mean, I wanted to come. I wanted an adventure. To experience another place, a new culture, learn something new. But I didn't expect to actually get picked." I chuckled. "I actually thought Sebastian would be picked. And I'd be here to support him."

"Well, now he's here to support you. Isn't that how relationships are supposed to be?" He was honestly asking. It didn't seem sarcastic or mean.

"Yes. You're right. That is how it's supposed to be."

"He seems enamored of you. I'm sure he'll be fine." He smiled gently.

"Thanks, Will. You're right."

"You're welcome."

We sat there for a minute longer before either of us spoke just as it started to get awkward.

"So..." we both said at the same time and then laughed a little at each other.

"A sharpened mind." He said.

"Logic and intellect." I replied.

"Got any ideas?" He asked.