Not About Angels (A Tom Riddle Story)

Chapter 40

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The events of last night's dance did not escape the sharp eyes on the dance floor. 

Hogwarts was buzzing with rumor. 

Abigail suddenly became the center of every conversation, every piece of gossip. The Slytherin Prince and the Gryffindor heir were both vying for the attention of one girl, and the masses were at the same time intrigued and enraged. 

Of course, the vicious rumors only intensified. 

Cassie was in the library, grabbing a charms book, before being approached by Penny.

Cassie wanted to avoid her, since their awkward confrontation for Abigail a few weeks ago, Penny has been less than friendly. But still, they were dorm mates, and Cassie did not want to start any trouble. 

"Hello Cassie." Penny said, sitting down next to her. 

"Oh hey." Cassie said cooly. 

"I'm sure you've heard all about it?" Penny asked. 

"Yes. Yes Penny. I know what you want to talk about.  I don't know why you don't like Abi. She's such a sweet girl, really. You should get to know her better."  

"Oh, trust me, I know Abigail. I know her better than you'll-"

"I know, Penny. I know about her past-and I suggest that you stop trying to slander Abi. What's your problem, Penny? I thought we were all friends."  

"Of course. It's just that-I feel sorry for you, Cassie. I feel sorry that your best friend is going behind your back with Gabriel." 

"I know everything, Penny. Stop it. Gabriel and Abi are just friends, okay? Don't always believe the stupid rumors people spread. Most of them aren't even true. And plus-Gabriel barely knows me." She admitted sadly. 

"But it doesn't have to be that way, Cassie. You're every bit as competent as Abigail, trust me. If she can do it, why not you?" 

"Stop it, Penny. If you're going to talk like this, then we can't be friends anymore. She's my best friend, and nothing you say will change that." 

"Oh, Cassie. As your friend, I just don't want you to be stabbed in the back by someone who you trust. Don't say I never warned you, Cass. One day you'll see her true colors, trust me. You know what they say, the apple doesn't fall to far from the tree. Remember who she is. Who she always will be." 

Cassie had it with Penny. "Shut it! Leave me and Abi alone. She's not like that at all. I suggest that you shut the hell up and mind your own business." She snapped, grabbed her books and left. 

"What's wrong, Cass?" Abigail asked, seeing her friend storm angrily into the common room. 

"Merlin. Penny's such a bitch, Abi. She hates you." 

"I know." 

"But why though? Why does she hate you?" 

Abigail shook her head. "She always has, Cass. it's okay. Don't mind her. We-We go way back and she's always picked on me. But it's okay. I guess Penny has a lot of problems too. Just leave her be." 

"It's not okay! Abi, you need to stand up for yourself. You're not anyone's punching bag." 

Abigail laughed. "It's okay. I'm sure she'll grow out of it. I was angry with her...but I think we all need to let it go." 

Cassie stopped for a second. 

"Last night, Abi, what really happened?" Cassie asked. "how was Gabriel? you were so lucky! dancing the night away with him."