Page 89 of Wallflower

I did just that, noticing how Snape gave an exasperated sigh but let me pet him anyway. When Dare came over a second later, though, he got up and went to him.

"That's a good boy," Dare said, running his hand along the dog's back. I swear grumpy Snape actually sighed. "Did you like flower petting you? You pretended not to, but I know you did."

I rolled my eyes and went to say hi to all of the other animals. Making my way back to Hermione, I leaned down. "Any requests?" I asked.

She chuffed, and I nodded.

"Something upbeat," I said. "Got it."

"Do you think she understands what you're saying?" Dare asked.

I shook my head. "No, I know she does."

He nodded, leaned down and put his ear next to Snape.

Dare looked up a second later. "He says he wants a Drake song."

"That's very specific," I said. "Usually the Professor isn't so picky."

A shrug. "That's what he said."

I bit back a smile. "I'll see what I can do."

"So, were they mad? About the whole kissing thing?"

"You mean, the kiss where you had me pressed against the wall across from my parents bedroom?" I asked, watching in fascination as heat rose to his cheeks. "Oh no, they were thrilled."

"Viola, I—"

"Did somebody say something about a kiss?" Paris's smile was wide as she joined us. "Now, this I have to hear."

"Actually," I said, gesturing to all of the fur babies, "my adoring crowd wants a song. I can't keep them waiting."

"Okay, okay," Paris said, "but you'll tell me about it later."

I might, I thought. But I also might not. True, I loved telling Paris things and getting her input. But that kiss had felt special for some reason, something for just me and Dare.

Oh yes, and my mom who'd walked in on us.

Gah.

As I got ready to play and took a seat, Paris and Dare were standing across the room. The animals were waiting, too. But Dare's face was what got to me. There was this challenge in his eyes as if he doubted I'd be able to meet his request to play any of Drake's music. Well, I'd show him.

I quickly looked up what I needed on my phone then set it on the floor and pushed play.

Then I did my thing.

The instrumental backbeat was perfect. My cello taking the lead.

Take Careby Drake and Rhianna.

It was a piece I knew by heart, and I hoped it didn't reveal too much of my feelings. But I made that cello sing. I didn't look up until the end, wanting to make sure I played everything just right. Some parts I had to improv because they'd typically be on violin. But it was fun, and I think it turned out well. When I finished and looked up, the animals were excited, a few barks and meows followed. Paris looked proud as punch. And Dare…he was gaping at me.

"Where did that come from?" he asked.

I lifted a shoulder. "My cousins and I play together sometimes. Scarlett does most of the arrangements. Freya is lead violin, and my other cousin, Aurora, loves Drake so…yeah."

"That was incredible."

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