welcome to LA

[joseph bryne vance]

It was a long time since Joe had been to Hogwarts, so long that he couldn’t remember when he was last at Hogwarts. Was it really eight years ago since he was here last? He couldn’t remember and he couldn’t remember if there was something or someone else who had brought him back to Hogwarts for any reason. It seemed only his beloved Dianna could achieve this and by God he was nervous. That was something else out of the ordinary with Joe, since when was he ever nervous? He wasn’t sure either, if it was because he was going to surprise his good friend Dianna with flowers in hand or if he was afraid of all of the memories that he may have to relive from when he was at school here.

As no one could apparate into Hogwarts, he had to go to Hogsmeade and walk the rest of the way. He also had to go through visiting check-ins and such, to prove that he wasn’t there to harm anyone. It was a tough job, but it was necessary for the security of the school. But soon enough he was one his way. Already memories were flooding in as soon as he was in the Entrance Hall. A lot were memories that he wished he didn’t have to remember, his reputation as a womaniser seemed to always catch up with him at times. He wasn’t going to let his past interrupt his visit though, he hadn’t seen Dianna since Derille’s funeral. He didn’t want to be in her way while she grieved and got herself ready for her first year as a Hogwarts Professor. He hoped that she didn’t miss him too much, but even if she did and she sent for him, he would have been by her side within seconds.

Now he was wandering around the Ground floor, willing for his memory of where the Staff room was, but with a few wrong turns he found it. He ignored a lot of the stares from passing students, but it was the first day back, so he hoped his presence wouldn’t be too distracting. He was told that he would find Dianna in the staff room and hopefully she was there, otherwise he would look quite silly walking around with a bunch of flowers. He probably already looked silly, he guessed it when some girls giggled, but at least he didn’t dress up in a suit or anything crazy like that. He wore his usual jeans, dark blue for today, a white button up shirt with various imprints and black biker boots. He had his hair tied loosely back into a pony tail, with a few strands hanging free, so probably Joe really did look a little more presentable than usual, well who could blame him when he was meeting the most beautiful woman he knew.

He was probably more nervous about whether Dianna liked the flowers or if they were a bit too much. He had never given flowers to a woman before, except for his mother of course. Since he had no idea what would be appropriate or what Dianna would like, he had gotten a variety of type of flowers and colours, but made sure they were bright and beautiful. He had also enchanted them so they would never die, even if they were left out of water. Upon finally finding the door, he took in a deep breath and knocked. He of course got another Professor who he didn’t know and so he asked for Dianna. He didn’t really register who the Professor was, but he waited at the door for Dianna to be notified that he wanted to see her.

He did his usual nervousness habits, running his hand through his hair, well at least what he could and glancing around him, hoping that time would go faster and he would be out of this situation, his nerves gone. He of course never wanted something to go faster when Dianna was involved, because well she is an empath. God, he almost forgot about that. Now as he waited, he did his best to calm his nerves, closed his eyes and was breathing steadily, as he waited to surprise his beloved friend, a friend he cared for so much that hopefully one day, she would share the same feelings as he.

[dianna ary lister]

Today had been a long day so far for Dianna. It seemed the more she ignored the fact that she was grieving and tried to act as if she were fine and dandy with her fathers passing the more fatigued she became. Not onlhy that, she had never imagined that a room filled with horny, hormonal, and extremely emotional teenagers could be that overwhelming after a time. It was enough to leave her with a headache for not a student in Hogwarts knew of her empathy...not from her atleast.

The raven haired beauty sat on the couch in the staff room, her eyes flickering over her daily planner. She was debating on what she was going to teach tomorrow and whether or not it should be a hands on thing. Some students were manageable, but Lord some of those students could get out of hand. Especially the guys. She had almost forgotten how annoying a boy's emotions could be.

The thought brought back memories. She had been an empath all her life. She had tried to ignore it with her first serious boyfriend. It was years of blushing, giggling, nervousness, and frustration when she was with that guy. His wanting was something she didn't understand for the longest, actually couldn't register what the dump that emotion was until she and her girl friends started talking about the birds and the bees. Needless to say, ever since she figured out what that emotion was and when she realized she was really in love with her boyfriend, she couldn't ignore it easily.

Her empathy was part of the reason she eventually gave into the guys persistance. She thought he loved her, but it was more lust than love. What she wouldn't give to have those days back and to have done things differently...if she had she would probably be considered an old hag for having her v card. At least two men in her life had done her right. Unfortunaltely one was dead, the other was her dearest friend and a man she was truly, deeply in love with ...even if she wasn't confident on admiting it.

Why was she so afraid of him? He wouldn't hurt her for anything. She completely trusted him.He loved her! She knew that. The words had left his mouth, but even before then she had felt his emotions. It was like she could feel them right now as she closed her eyes, sighing and pinching her nose to push away the headache and depressing thoughts...Why did Derille have to die and leave her feeling so alone?! Maybe she was just afraid to hurt him. Afraid that something would go wrong.

" Dianna, there is a Romeo at the door for you."
Dianna opened her eyes and looked up confused," Huh?" Her blue eyes full of curiousity as she chuckled," Romeo?" She smirked and knitted her brows together, standing and placing the planner on the coffee table. She wasn't dressed in those black robes for she had no more classes to teach today. Instead, she had on comfy stretchy tight fitting blue jeans, a cute body fitting dark turquoise sweater, and black flats. Her hair was layered about her face which was still sweeter than ever, but hionted of the fatigue she was experiencing from the silent grief she was battling.

As she pulled the door back to look out she was still looking curious, confused. Her eyes immediately locked on the flowers, her brows pursing together until her eyes swept upward. A broad and happy smile grew as she recognized who it was, halfway squealling as she rushed from the door and threw her arms around his neck hugging him tightly and laughing happily," Joe!" She kissed her cheek, never beinghappier to see someone in her life. Dianna hadn't seen him since the funeral. Many times she wanted to contact him, wanted him to show up, but didn't want to bother him or interrupt his life." Oh my god! I have missed you so much!" She said with joy as she leg go of his neck and stepped back slightly, looking him over with admiration.

Dianna almost forgot all the bad of the recent months and was completely absorbed in her love for Joe. She could sense his nervousness from the door, but wouldn't point it out. No sense in embarrassing him or making him feel more nervous," Your looking exceptionally handsome today, whats the occasion?" She smirked and giggled, brighter than her dull self she had been moments ago.

[joseph bryne vance]

Joe continued to wait anxiously, fiddling with the flowers, giving them a once over to make sure they still looked presentable. Since the door was left ajar, he heard how the Professor had described him, which only just made him more nervous, but also hopeful. Even though he would wait forever for Dianna, he still wished and hoped for the day she wanted him for more than a friend and when she did, he would of course be there waiting. Hell he has even dreamed of proposing to her, because he really did want to spend the rest of his life with her. Though he would have nightmares too, with all of the wealth she inherited, would she think little of him because of it? Thankfully they were only nightmares, but they buzzed at the back of his mind, but he knew he shouldn’t worry about it, he couldn’t. He couldn’t see Dianna being that type of person, especially as he knew that she would rather see Derille step through that door again. He hated leaving her alone, was always scared that he was doing the wrong thing by giving her space, maybe she wanted him there, a shoulder to cry on. But he had been there when she found out about her father’s death and he had been there for the funeral and now...he was here now.

His world brightened when he saw her step through that door, it never mattered what she was wearing or how she looked; she was always and forever will be beautiful to him. He smiled as he watched her, loved the look on her face when she was confused, but then stepped back and was only just able to move the flowers out of her way as she rushed to him. He stumbled as their bodies met, but held firm as her arms flew around his neck, his free arm wrapped around her lower back as they hugged. He wished he could just drop the flowers, lift her into his arms and run away with her, he also wished that such a greeting could have gone with more than a friendly kiss on the cheek, though naturally he kissed her cheek back.

As she let him go, he regrettably did the same, but stepped back also to look her over, a stupid smile on his lips, he of course couldn’t be happier. He could be broke and living on the streets and still he would have been happy just to see the beautiful woman who stood before him, not to mention hearing her call his name. One day he hoped he could say that she was his, but he would wait, but how long could he really wait for? He perked a brow as her eyes drew in his appearance, scratching the back of his head and laughed softly at her words, looking down at himself. His gaze then returned to her, his smile never leaving his lips. It was then that he remembered the flowers and held them out to her, his smile growing into his famous charming smile. “You are the occasion, Dianna, for being the most beautiful woman in the world.”

He waited for her to take them, waiting for her reaction, before he smiled more and nodded. “And I have missed you too, Di, more than you can ever imagine. I’m sorry I didn’t come sooner; I thought you would want some space.” His smile again changed to a sympathetic one, a guilty one, hoping that he had done the right thing, he wasn’t used to working out what a woman wants, other than the details that would normally involve a bed. Joe then glanced around her to the staff room door, before again his eyes returned to her. “So is the most beautiful woman in the world allowed to take a walk with a friend around the grounds?” Saying the word friend was difficult for him to say, but he had to let her know that no matter how much he loved her, he wasn’t going to push her into anything that she wasn’t ready for.

[dianna ary lister]

Oh how Dianna loved being in his arms. It made her regret her decision to just be friends for now. If she had let things go at that fast pace they would probably share more passionate kisses, share more passionate embraces, and probably end up getting her fired from all the days she would end up leaving to go see him. Okay, so they wouldn't get that bad but a girl could dream. This woman, this woman right here? She could dream and dream and dream...All it would take was three words, eight letters, and a short moment or long one to tell him how much she secretly loved him back, how badly she wanted to just give herself fully to him. She wasn't a virgin but she might as well be. Compared to ost women her age she was a nun. Why did she keep running away from Joseph when all he wanted to do was love her. She knew that. She believed him, trusted him, but not herself it seems.

All of Josephs emotions, well the prominent ones, made her smile. He was nervous, which didn't really affect her that much just made her wish she had reassured him of her love. She was the one with empathy, not him, he couldn't possibly positively know every emotion she had like she could him. His love for her warmed her heart and made it thump in her chest as she hugged him with such enthusiasm that it sent him stumbling. She giggled because of that. Joseph kissed her cheek right back. Ugh, why didn't she just do what her heart wanted?! Alas, she didn't, instead she stepped back and looked at him.

That charming smile of his could really make a girl weak in the knees. Ever since that night their love was physically expressed in that amazing kiss she had felt herself longing for him. Not a good thing when she needed to focus and keep things slow. Soon that was all going to be over. The young woman was silently and slowly coming up with ideas to subtly show him how she felt. That washard to do when he was so handsome. His hair tied back, the tendrils randomly hanging out, something she silently labeled as sexy in her mind. Joseph's clothes, his flirting, his love, his voice...that list could surely go on into eternity.

Her eyes fluttered from the flowers to him, her mouth opening slightly with a hint of a smile, as usual blushing slightly from his words and loving feeling that heat in her cheeks again," For me??" Flowers, something no other guy had ever really shown interest in giving her. Joseph made such an effort for her. Cleaning up and looking handsome, bringing flowers, being as cahrming as ever...," You shouldn't have." She said with a giggle, immediately reaching for them and smelling them slowly, her eyes closed," Mmm, intoxicatingly delightful!" She giggled again and grinned up at him. She was acting like a love struck teenager, the one she was when she thought her life was perfect. The raven haired beauty hugged his neck happily, making sure not to wallop him with the flowers as she held them at an angle. She hugged him tightly," Thank you so much, Joe. You don't know how happy it makes me that your here."

This time, Dianna placed a sweet peck onhis lips, not expecting the jolt it gave her to her insides but ignoring them for the most part," Your the sweetest guy I've ever known...." She grinned and placed herself flat on her feet, moving her hand to his upper arm as she looked up at him," And I thought I needed the space, but obviously I was wrong." She smirked and then dropped her hand from his arm," Hmmm..." She pursed her lips, narrowing her eyes as she turns and looks at the staff room, then cocking her head to the side and looking back to him with a lopsided smile," Even if I wasn't allowed, I would walk with you anyday of the week."

[joseph bryne vance]

Joe couldn’t take his eyes of her, just like a man in love with his fiancé watching her join him at the altar on their wedding day, hell Joe would be just like if he ever got to marry the woman he loves. It would be the same after a wedding too and probably many years to come that Joe wouldn’t be able to stop looking at the woman who held his heart. He loved the way she giggled, the way she smiled, and looked at him, not to mention her voice. Even though he wasn’t an empath, he could still tell that she was excited about the flowers, excited about seeing him. He liked knowing that she missed him and was excited to see him again, if only he didn’t have to wait for her to tell him that she loved him just as much. He knew there had to be some love for him, even if it were as simple as a love for a friend. But a friend’s love isn’t really what he wanted; he just hoped that he would be able to stand the long wait for her to feel comfortable, for her to fall for him if she hadn’t already. It was amazing that a few girls he had been with could tell him that they loved him with only a few days together and he always ended it, breaking their hearts, but now the one that he had fallen for was going to make him wait as long as she decided to make him wait for those three words, words that he had already said to her.

He was aware of her past relationship though and in knowing that and not wanting to go too fast in fear of his old habits returning and ending up leaving her was making him wait, no matter how impatient he may get he wasn’t going anywhere. He couldn’t just give up and leave her, he would never forgive himself. He actually feared the fact that if he gave up waiting, he would miss out in being with the woman he loved. He just hoped he didn’t ruin his chances with her; that fear had come about when they had shared that first kiss. He blamed himself of course for moving too fast, but sometimes he couldn’t help but wonder that if she hadn’t need it to go slow for the possible fear of being hurt again or the time she needed to put into her new job. He had respected her when she made that decision, no matter how much his mind was screaming for her to take him.

Joe smiled as he watched her breath in the scent of the flowers, stood there as she hugged him, not allowing himself to hug her back, otherwise he may have never been able to let her go. He instead stepped back and gave her a deep bow, just as if he were bowing for a Queen, grinning up at her. “The pleasure is all mine, my sweet” He rose slowly, with his grin still remaining, just in time for their lips to meet. It almost came as a shock to him, he knew it was only a friendly kiss, she did it occasionally, but every time she had done it his yearning grew, as it was now. It wasn’t lustful, but just the yearning to pull her into his arms and give her a real kiss, a kiss that would make her melt in his arms and never want to leave. Again for the same reasons for the hug, he didn’t return the kiss, otherwise it would be more than just a friendly peck on the lips. He made himself smile though as they parted, though her hand on his arm was just killing him. How could he go on like this? The last thing he wanted was to suddenly become distant in a means to fight the yearning he felt to have her in his arms and kiss her like a real woman should be kissed.

He ignored her compliment of him being sweet. It was still hard for him to hear such things from a woman, any woman for that matter, when years ago he would be named a sweet charmer, but an evil one, a heart breaker and a user. He was glad that he had managed to change and he saw Dianna as his reward for making that change. He felt better too, felt better as a person and felt better in the world he was in, hoping that his future could only be bright and that could only happen with his beloved Dianna by his side. He gave her a cheesy smirk at her words of being wrong about the needed space, he was glad for that, just as much as he was glad that she had missed him. “Well I am here now, so you don’t have to worry anymore, because I’m not going away unless you tell me to. It could be interesting if I went along with you to your classes, but I suppose I can’t abandon my own job, huh? Maybe I can get the paper to write a story of the beautiful new Care of Magical Creatures’ Professor? It will give me an excuse to see you in action.” He grinned and winked at her after those words, but then turned serious as he watched her glance over at the staff room, catching a few peeking heads at the door withdraw back into the room. Smirking at the questions Dianna would have to answer later on, he held out an arm for her to take, like a real gentleman should, he really was going all out today, but it was for her, always for her. “Well in that case, shall we?”

[dianna ary lister]

Joe and his adorableness...How was Dianna still sane?! How could she be so wicked and keep her feelings from him?! Dianna felt really wicked for all of it. Joe, despite his past, was a great guy. What happened in the past stayed in the past. True, she felt like she couldn't get past the fear of the possiblility if they were together and he just up and left her. Another thing like that and she was sure to have a nervous breakdown. Especially since her beloved adoptive father had died. Slipped right through her finges as she watched him take his last breaths.

Well thats definitely not happy thoughts Dianna...She really needed to stop thinking like that. Joe wasn't going to hurt her. She could just tell that about him. No one had felt the way Joe felt for her. Dianna had never felt what she felt for Joe before. And here she was, torturing him. Not telling him what he diserved to hear from her a long time ago. Dianna couldn't deny that she loved him. She had thought about it. Wondered and made sure what she felt was love. It was. But with the new job, Derrille dying, and the weight of a hefty fortune resting on her shoulders Dianna felt like she just wouldn't be able to be the woman Joe diserves right now.

Dianna loved the bowing. It was one of those things he did that could make her smile no matter what. How she hated to kiss him so...friendly like, but no good would come of it if she just went wanton on him...no good at all. The rumors, the talk, she could handle it, but teasing him like that, it would be unforgiveable! She could sense that pull, that yearning. She sighed mentally, but didn't let it affect her mood. One day, Dianna was going to let him have her...and anyway she liked...Bad thought path DIANNA!

Mentally she cleared her throat, scolding her mind as she continued to be just as cheerful as she felt. She was so happy he was here that she felt herself healing already. One small piece at a tender time. He was right, she didn't have to worry anymore, even though she knew she would. She had so many things to take care of and didn't know how to do it, poor Joe couldn't keep going to the mansion everyday to feed the creatures there. He did have a job and a home of his own to tend to. She blushed slightly as she looked back at the door, the nosy coworkers of hers peering silently through the door...well not completely silent, they were snickering and their emotions were enough to smother her.

Dianna looked back to Joe when he held his arm out for her, smiling that sweet smile of her," Yes...lets." She placed her arm in his and placed her free hand on his forearm, that longing to be close to him winning in this batle. She waited until the staffroom was far behind them and out of earshot. Her voice was soft and just loud enough for him to hear," I know I said it before, but I'm really really happy that your here, Joe." She looks up at him and then smiles as a small group of students walk by them, waving back at them before returning her attention to him," Everything is just so new and overwhelming...I'm so happy! But...these students...and their teenage urges...they are quite something. Very distracting at that. I can't believe I never really noticed it when I was a student myself!" She shook her head And then gasped," I haven't asked you about you! How are you doing, love?" She looked up at him with those kind but obviously hint of sadness eyes.

[joseph bryne vance]

There was a split second when Joe thought she wouldn’t take his harm, but he was soon in all smiles as she agreed to leave the Staff Room behind. His heart began to pound a little faster as she not only looped her arm with his, but rested her free hand on him. He could picture how they would look to everyone and yes they would really look like a couple with the way she greeted him and how they walked together with their arms looped. Usually it would be couples in love walking with arms linked, such body language to show how close a couple was and their determination to not letting their other half go. That’s how Joe felt right now; he never wanted to let Dianna go. It was hard on him trying his best to act as only a friend when he felt so much for her. Sometimes he truly didn’t want to let her go, fearful that the next time they see one another would be too long away. Wow if he was like this when they were only friends, what would he be like if she did end up sharing the same feelings for him? The last thing he would want to do is annoy or scare her too much with how devoted he is to her, because there’s a possibility that he would lose her forever and he wouldn’t be able to cope with that.

He knew he had to give her time, especially with the recent events of Derille dying and her responsibilities here at the school. He had to let her settle into the new year before hoping and praying that she would finally accept him as more than just a friend. To make it worse, he knew she was an empath, so it was extremely hard for him to keep his emotions in check. It was easy enough making sure how he behaved around her, but how was he going to make sure that his feelings weren’t constantly irritating her or pushing her into something that she didn’t want yet? First things first, he had to stop thinking about the future and how much he so wished to be more of a friend to her. He had to think of there here and now. Spending time with her, stealing her away from her duties for a walk on the grounds was good enough, because even as a friend he loved her, enjoyed her company.

He led her away from the staff room, and his smile widened when she informed him that she really was happy to see him. Barely noticing the group of students, he brought his free hand to hers that was holding onto his arm and gently rubbed it in a more affectionate way, a smile on his face. “Well I’m glad, because I couldn’t wait to see you again.” Finally, he noticed the students and let his hand drop away from hers as she waved to them. His eyes didn’t meet theirs though, just watched them with interest as they passed by. He couldn’t help but give a slight grin as he thought about the questions they would ask her when next they saw her, let alone the gossiping they would do after seeing one of their teachers being escorted by a strange, but handsome man. His grin though transformed into a laugh as she described the emotions she could read clearly from the students in Hogwarts. But just as quickly as his laugh came upon him, it had vanished and he held the grin once more, his eyes in a teasing mood. “Well my dear, if you had met me when I was their age, I would have you blushing so red to last a week. But thankfully I’m not like that anymore; I can at least control myself now.” He gave her a wink to tease her even more, probably wanting to her go red.

He grinned softly to himself, as he let his teasing settle, his grin soothing into a smile as she gasped, remembering that she had yet to ask him how he had been faring. He paused in thought at her words, his mind already trying to store the sound of her voice when she had called him ‘love’. Meeting her gaze almost made him choke, that slight sadness he could see confused him, he guessed it was because of her grieve for her father, but he wanted to think that it was for him for her inability to show the love he wanted from her. He smiled softly, wishing he could take her in his arms, kiss her a thousand times and with each kiss promise that he would never leave her, never hurt her, just as long as she would accept him and have him as her own. He sighed within himself, and made himself tear his eyes off her, just as they headed out the main entrance to Hogwarts and stepped out into the open. He glanced around the grounds, before leading her towards the lake. It was a rather nice day for a walk, but then again he would walk with Dianna even if it was pouring down with rain. “I have been fine, missing you of course, and trying to keep up to date with work. There’s always something going on over the holidays. I’ll never sell your photos though, because they’re priceless.”

[dianna ary lister]

Dianna wasn't helping him out at all....Poor Joe's emotions were all bouncy as she tried to ignore them. Everytime she touched him she would sense what he was feeling ten times as much as when she was ten feet from him. It wasn't helping her out either. Everytime she was near him she would feel her heart pound, her insides loving and lusting after him, but she couldn't show them...But why? Why was she torturing them both by not being in a relationship?

The raven haired beauty didn't know. What she did know was that she loved him and wanted to be with him in every way imaginable. Body and soul. This, what they were feeling for each other, was muchmore than puppy love. Way more important, way more love, and way more fulfilling than anything she had ever felt for another person in her life. Now she just had to tell Joe and everything would be alright. Walks like this could actually BE what they looked like. Two people in love enjoying each others company.

Right now, she was just so happy to be with him, to touch him, and to talk to him. It was a distraction from the grief that was inside her. It was a very good medicine. If only she could reassure him she was completely his for as long as he wanted her...in time she supposed she could open up and let him in fully. At the moment, she was just going to enjoy this, especially his hand rubbing hers. So gently and affectionate, just like the night they first kissed.

She looked up at him with a smile. Lord, how she loved this man. The student caught her eye and she waved nicely, although wishing she hadn't so she could feel his love through his fingertips. But she found herself looking up at him and blushing as she smirked and shook her head," Oh you!" She chuckled and then smiled. Joe Vance...good thing she didn't meet him as a young teenager, she would have probably turned into THAT GIRL. The one that isn't very innocent.

As they stepped outside she inhaled deeply, happy and overjoyed for the first time in months. He started leading her towards the lake and then her eyes looked back to him as she smirked, then looked forward, loving his compliments but silently answering them with her facial expressions. She hugged his arm tighter," You know, I've missed you so bad that I have come close to quitting and coming to find you." She smiled sweetly up at him," But you beat me to it so I can stay." She winked up at him and looked towards the lake.

[joseph bryne vance]

Joe laughed at the sound of her voice. He was expecting her to hit him or something, but she didn’t. He actually loved that he could make her blush, probably because he hoped that it would make her want more, make her curious and of course make her flush. He wouldn’t do it often that was more of his past self. Actually, his past self would be whispering into her ear, his breathing hot on her skin as he teased her about the things he could do to her. It used to be how he managed to get a lot of girls wanting him, no matter if they were taken or single, it didn’t matter to him. He could even do it with a simple look, but since he was changed, he had never tried anything like that on Dianna, well unless she wanted him to, but it would be different with her, simply because he loved her and he had never loved anyone like that before. He was probably more scared of ruining his chance than wanting to get her into his bed, something his past self would have wanted. The main way to distinguish between him now and his past self was that his past self wanted sex, but here and now all he wanted was to make love and he was happy to wait forever for it.

He grinned sheepishly at her, giving her a wink. He removed his arm from his for only a brief moment as he wrapped it around her waist, pulling her closer to him in a hug, kissing her cheek softly, before returning his arm to hers, looping it with hers again, a charming smile on his face. “Don’t worry Princess, I wouldn’t have liked it if you met me in the past. You’re too beautiful and pure to be taken advantage of. I probably would die if I ever hurt you.” His smile had softened as he spoke, letting her know that he was actually quite serious. Even as a friend he would hate himself if he hurt her and it wouldn’t just be because it will ruin his chances with her, but he cared for her that much that he never wanted to hurt her. It was probably his greatest fear. Especially as he wasn’t really good with a woman’s feelings, he had broken a hell of a lot of hearts in his wild years but he was trying his best to never hurt this woman’s heart.

Such a fear continued to grow the longer he was by her side as a friend, even more so with recent events of her becoming a Professor and losing her father. He suspected Derille would haunt him if he ever hurt his beloved daughter, even if she wasn’t his real daughter. His death probably helped keep himself at bay, he just wanted to be a shoulder to cry on, someone at her side if she needed him. He didn’t like seeing her upset, but he did his best to comfort her, especially as they both watched her father died peacefully at his home. Maybe it was good for her that she had a more demanding job to keep her occupied and actually get her away from her inherited estate.

He finally pulled himself away from such thoughts, enjoying the walk, the sun was warm on their skin, even in the cooler months, but he knew clouds would soon hide it from view. Maybe he brought her out here on purpose, to make her feel the cold and she would just have to cuddle up to him. No he couldn’t do that to her, he had only just want a little more privacy and a pleasurable stroll out in the open. His brows lifted in surprise at her words, he could have pulled her into his arms and kissed her then, but he didn’t. He was quite surprised that she was willing to do something for him, but he shook his head, sliding his hand down to squeeze hers gently as their arms remained looped. “You shouldn’t do something like that just to see me, Princess. If you wanted to see me so badly, you could have just sent word and I would have came sooner. You dreamed about being a Professor for so long, I can’t let you throw it away just for me.”

He had almost sounded like a scolding brother, but he didn’t want to be a brother to her. He was already a brother to his other female friend, Mac. He loved Mac as a brother would, but it didn’t come close to how much he loved Dianna. He wanted to spend the rest of his life with her; he had even begun to dream ways of how he could propose to her. He softened his near scolding with a smile, his hand still holding hers, prolonging the hand contact as much as he could, but now he let go, only to rub her hand softly. “So how is life as a Professor, save for all the hormones you’re reading from the students?”

[dianna ary lister]

Dianna would surely die if she didn't figure things out soon. The waiting thing and the whole her not being ready for a relationship was a complete lie. Well not completely. She was jsut scared, for no reason, to let someone else have her heatt. The thing was that Joe already possessed it, she just had to say it. All she had to say was 'I love you' and this torture would be all over! But, alas, she was too sweet, too caught up in the moment of just walking with him and feeling him close as he hugged her and kissesd her cheek, making her worries forgotten for a few minutes.

Joseph Vance made her smile everytime she saw him, save for the few sad times in the past. Even then he made her feel comfort in her sadness. The mere thought of him gave her comfort and made her resetless at the same time. A big reason she couldn't stand not getting to see him much. She had to find a way. She had to think of something and fast.Right now she was just loving him so much that all she could do was smile and look up at him. He seemed worried about hurting her, but she knew he wouldn't. She may look fragile but she wasn't. The benefits of having a trouble with love in the past was that she was prepared, even if she knew he would never do anyhting on purpose to hurt her...unlike that other scumbag.

Ugh the thought almost made her gag.Good thing that man was out of her life, stupid boy and his cruel mind and heart. She didn't know what she would do if she ever saw him again." Well, Joe, I wouldn't worry about hurting me. I have complete and total faith in you," she smiled again, looking at him as she hugged his arm tighter again," Besides, I know you would never mean to...and I would never let you." She winked and looked forward, resting her head on his shoulder as they walked, then picked it up again to watch a bird swoop through the sky. The creature was completely happy and enjoying its time outside.

She moved her hand to squeeze his back," Joseph Vance, I would do anything for you and you know it...well...now you do." She giggled and rubbed his arm with her other hand. She kept her hand on his arm and looked at the scenery again, only to find herself looking back to him, and shrugging," It is alot different than what I thought it would be. I never even thought about the trouble my empathy would cause for my lessons and such...But I do love the fact that I get to see to the creatures of this place...so fascinating...no matter if I have seen them before its always fascinating." She smiled at the memory and sighed," But my social life has been a drag lately. Haven't made many friends with the other professors...I haven't really done a lot of socializing now that I think about it..." She looked slightly down to the ground, not liking the thought of being reclusive and hermit like now that she had achieved her dream.

Dianna shook her head and looked back up at him, smiling," This surprise visit has been the highlight of my year so far. I just want you to know that...," Raises up on her tiptoes to kiss his cheek while still moving," Thank you so much, Joe."

[joseph bryne vance]

No matter what she said, Joe still felt a little weary of himself, Dianna may have faith in him, but did he trust himself? He hoped that he would never have to see that he had hurt Dianna, even if it were by accident or misunderstanding. He smiled though when she said that she would never let him hurt her, and for a few seconds there he actually believed that she could hurt him instead. Now he was amused by the thought and wanted to see her try. He also began to wonder if she would ever tease him, well he was already teasing him now from withholding her love for him, but the teasing in the sense of fun. Even though he knew her reasons as to why their relationship had to be on hold, it still killed him and he yearned for her every day and night. And yet still, he was contempt with having her just as a friend for now, always enjoying her company no matter where they were in a relationship.

Carefully, he used his free hand to brush some escaped tendrils of hair out of her face, tucking it gently behind her ear as he smiled softly. “That makes one of us who has faith in me.” He didn’t say anything further, not wanting to dwell on it. They have already discussed his past before; they have known one another for months now and been through a lot. He knew that when the time came, he would indeed have faith in himself, but until things started happening between them, with her letting it happen, he would remain afraid well at least slightly that he would do something to hurt her in anyway, because unlike some witches and wizards, he could not predict the future.

He didn’t let the mood settle though, it was too much of a nice day to think of his past and his fears and being in her company made the day all the more glorious. He wouldn’t be surprised that she could be turning him into a romantic; he would of course be romantic for her, if she wanted it. But no one needed to make sure that he complimented her or gave her flowers, he had just proved that he could do that all on his own. He smiled all the more when she told him that she would do anything for him, but soon thoughts of asking for a kiss or putting pressure on her by asking for her to reveal her feelings for him swamped his mind, so he could only just smile. His smile became more pleasant as she described her life at Hogwarts as a Professor. He knew she adored the creatures, both magical and non magical, it was why he had agreed to look after Brutus and the other creatures that had been left to her along with the estate, so no he needn’t say that he would do everything for her too, because he was already doing it. It wasn’t really too far out of his way, because he could apparate and it was he after all who had put up the extra security spells after he came to her aid after the burglary.

Joe enjoyed doing things for her, even if the task didn’t include seeing her, he would still do it because of her, but to also be closer to her in some way. Visiting her inherited estate every day or so meant he could still be a part of her life, even if she was currently residing at Hogwarts while teaching. There was no real need for him to go every day, because he could enchant bowls to refill on their own if he needed to, but it was always good to check up on things to make sure everything was fine. Joe paused then as Dianna mentioned her inability to socialise and he squeezed her hand softly again as they continued to walk. “Don’t worry Princess, it’s only the start of your career. You’ll get along fine with them I’m sure.” When she kissed him, he smiled and gently ran a thumb over her cheek. “Pleasure is all mine. I couldn’t keep you waiting now could I?”

[dianna ary lister]

Ms. Lister had complete faith in Joseph Vance. His past worried her only a little at first, but as she got to know him he became the most honest and trustworthy person she had ever known. That was the truth, plain and simple. Dianna loved Joe for plenty of reasons, and hat was oneof them. She could trust him. She could read his emotions and just know he wasn't lying becasue they were so strong. She figured his were much stronger because, maybe, what they had was true love. So why was she scared to be in love with him and relieve him of his worries?! She could trust him, she loved him, he loved her, and he was so worried about hurting her that she knew he would never do it on purpose. Dianna knew things happen, things are said in a wrong way, but she wasn't one to blow things out of proportion...normally. No, she was one to let them go or understand. Dianna was a pretty understanding woman.

The way Joe touched her always sent tingles to her core, always made her smile. No matter what was going on that was bad with her life or had been bad in her life, it was seemingly gone when she was with him, almost anyway. He always reassured her, made her feel comfortable, and he respected her fully. Even when he made his remarks about her beauty or his emotions poked her with his wanting or desire for her, she knew he still respected her. She actually loved the feeling of being wanted so much. Hence why she had to tell him her feeling soon and why she was so scared to let them be a relationship. There was no telling what they would do or how fast they would move. It wouldn't bother her though, for she truly and deeply loved him.

With his thumb on her cheek and his words hitting her, she almost sighed. He would never keep her waiting, and here she was making him wait for her. There had to be some way she could ease herself into telling him without freaking out. Every singel time she came close to saying it her heart pounded and she came close to breaking a sweat. All she could right now, however, was continue to smile up at him, hug his arm and then suddenly grab his hand with hers, lacing the fingers together as she tugged him behind her, heading in a straight line for a tree next to the lake.

When they got there she spun around and reached for his other hand, smiling at him again that sweet signature smile of hers. Genuine in every way. She pressd her back against the tree and looked up into his eyes as they stopped, only to find herself blushing and forcing herself to look at the glimmering water." You know, Joe...I've been thinking..," She looks down and then shrugs slowly as she takes a deep breath and looks back up to him with a slightly smile, her voice soft and sweet," It really means alot to me that...well, everything you do means alot to me, but..." She chuckles lightly, nervously as she continues," What I mean is, you go to the mansion everyday to feed the animals and it is out of your way and uneccessary, and there are plenty of rooms..so..." Wow, this idea was a huge developement. Would he take it the way she meant it to be taken? A hint she is trying to be open aout her feelings for him? She hoped he did," What do you say to the idea of you living at the mansion? Completely free of course."

[joseph bryne vance]

If Joe had been an empath like Dianna, he probably would be able to tell what she was going through. He would also already know that she cared for him as much as he did her. But he wasn’t one and it was probably lucky that he wasn’t, because if he knew her feelings for him, he probably wouldn’t be able to handle himself. He would use those feelings against her in many ways than one maybe and he wouldn’t want that happening. He wanted to let her go at it in her own time, give her the time she needs to recover from grief, get her life sorted out. All Joe knew was that he had to be by her side, no matter what. Guilt had flooded through him on many occasion when he was trying to work out when the best time it was for him to return to her, even if he was just a friend, he still wanted to be by her side. And now knowing that she may have needed him here earlier, he wished he had. He didn’t want her to be alone and it seemed like it was a slow start in her Hogwarts career, but he guessed that there were going to be other times like this when they had to be a part for whatever reason, it only meant that they might be all the more eager to see one another again. He could tell that she was happy to see him after all of this time, he didn’t need to be an empath to know that, hell she had even told him that she missed him and was glad to see him again. And now they were having a leisure stroll on the school grounds, playing catch up of what they had been up to and how much they missed one another, like friends should.

Though there was always that ache inside him that was waiting, hoping that she would share his feelings for her. He knew she had some type of feelings for him, but all he could do was wait and see, because well, he was going nowhere. His heart nearly skipped a beat when she hugged his arm, and then before he knew it, she had her hand in his and was leading him to a tree by the lake. That sweet touch may have been innocent, but he couldn’t help but hope. He loved having physical contact with her, even if they were as simply as a hug, or hand-in-hand as they were now. He didn’t want to let her go. When she took his other hand, his head automatically told him that she was finally going to tell him her feelings and when he saw her back pressed against the tree all he could think of was pushing her harder against it, keeping them in a position where the tree hid them from view of others, so he could be free to kiss her like he wanted to, like other lovers do. He shook this from his mind, glancing back towards the castle where students probably couldn’t see her, but they could still see him and he kept it that way.

Returning his gaze upon her, his thumbs gently rubbed at her hands as she held onto his. He did his best to concentrate as best as he could on every word she said. Yet again his heart skipped a beat when she mentioned that she had been thinking. That pause had him holding onto his hope so tightly it could probably burst. He remained silent as he listened, waiting for her to get everything out. He was much calmer now once she started talking about the animals, letting go of his hope as he began to think that she was merely asking for another favour. But then all of a sudden, she had asked him to move into the mansion, her home. It probably wasn’t her home while she was at Hogwarts, but still his hope returned. He smiled softly, while his thumbs soon found the inner area of her wrists, rubbing them gently instead. He did his best to compose himself, stopping himself from jumping straight in an answer.

He continued to remain silent, lowering his eyes as he watched his thumbs rub over the soft skin of her wrists. It would seem as though as he was thinking it over, making sure that it was indeed a good idea. Even though it was something that he wanted, to be closer to her in some way and it would indeed be more convenient when he tended to the animals at her estate, he had to think of his family. Would he be too far away from his nephews and what about work? No it shouldn’t matter; he could still apparate where ever he wanted. His work was easy enough to deal with, he barely went into the office as it was and he could probably even bring his nephews over to have a look, they would love seeing some of the animals. Finally, deciding on his answer, he brought his gaze back up to her, freeing one of his hands to stroke her cheek gently again, before letting it drop onto her shoulder, in a more innocent and friendly manner, smiling at her. “I’ll do anything for you Princess, because I enjoy doing it and yes, moving into the mansion would be an easier option. Just as long as there is a free room for all of my photography equipment and I’m sure if Brutus gets over it, he will be happy to have a constant resident to annoy so he won’t be so lonely.” He then paused and glanced around the grounds as fewer students were around, before he did anything too soon, he managed to free himself from her and took a step back. “I’ve probably stolen you away for longer than I should have, and there’s probably a pile of work for me back at the office. But I wouldn’t be a gentleman if I didn’t escort you back to the staff room. Give something the other Professors to gossip about.” He winked at her, his smile a charming one as he once again held out his arm for her to loop hers back with his.

[dianna ary lister]

Dianna knew Joe liked her to touch him. She liked touching him, liked him touching her too. His emotions gave him away all the time, but Dianna didn't mind it at all. The fact he loved her and wanted her so much ws something she actually appreciated. Because he was trying so hard to fight it and hold it back. If he gave in she wouldn't mind, wouldn't blame him. She would definitely cave if her feelings got out of control. She had just figured out how to keep them in check after all these years. But put them in a setting where she had less distractions and no worries, and her emotions would mirror his. She would have kissed him by now if other people and their emotions weren't on her mind too.

AS she waited for his response her heartbegan to beat hard in her chest. His thumbs on her wrists probably could feel her pulse pumping hard in her veins. When he looked down she nibbled on her bottom lip and then glanced around. There were people coming onto the grounds, she couldn't see them but could feel weak pulses of emotion caressing her very lightly. She sighed softly, silently as she looked back to him. He wasn't looking up at him yet so she watched his hands, feeling his soothing yet exciting touch on her skin. She looked up just when e did, her heart skipped a beat. He was going to answer her. She smiled softly as he stroked her cheek. His gentleness soothing her and making her worries disappear.

When he said he would she giggled happily, sighing with relief and grinning as she squeezed his hanbd," Of course, Joe! There are plenty of rooms so take as many as you like." She was so happy, so relieved he said yes. This was her step to easing herself in to telling him. Now she could go home and get comfrotable and then express what she felt. He deserved that, she deserved that. When Joe stepped back she reluctantly let go of him, still smiling happily as she listened to him then took his arm." Yes, I do need to get back to work I suppose." She sighed, but still a happy sigh as she looked around and then at him.

The whole way back to the staffroom was full of small talk and plans. She would see him one of the weekends when he moves in. Dianna was sure this would work out for them, and knew she would be able to ease his worries and make their lives all the more happier. She did hate it when they hugged and parted at the staffroom door. She of course kissed his cheek and smiled at him, telling him she would see him at the mansion soon. And then she watched him bow to her, calling her princess again before leaving. Dianna just smiled and giggled, practally having to swat the people away from the door as she walked back to her place on the couch happily and plopped down to finish her work. Dianna was the happiest she had been in four months.