We'll Get Lost in a Crowd of People||Raif

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

It was a sunny and cloudless day outside. The smell of the air was fresh and crisp with hints of the water from just off the coast wafting in if one were to pay attention. It was one of those days that seemed blissful and full of possibility. While she enjoyed that sort of weather, it also meant that Rachele had to carry one of her many parasols or the sun would bother her eyes too much. She knew that she could have worn sunglasses instead, but she always felt that she looked a little strange in them. Besides, she had managed to lose her last pair. They just weren't the easiest things for her to keep track of for some reason.

When she'd first stared out the window of her room, she'd considered staying inside. A lazy sort of feeling had washed over her, and lounging about had sounded like a great idea given all the things that had been going on lately. In fact, she had crawled into her bed, but the more she relaxed in her bed, the more she noticed how nice the view outside looked. Eventually, she couldn't stand it any longer. She'd rolled over and changed her clothes, grabbed her wand, parasol and notebook, and swept from the room without a glance back at what had been her sanctuary for the first part of her day.

Outside, she didn't hesitate about where to go. Normally she went for places like the woods or the peak, but those felt too isolated. Today, she wanted to be around people and hear the chatter and laughter. She wanted to be in a crowd even if she remained on the edge of it. It was just one of those days, so when she reached the courtyard she found herself one of the benches to sit on. It had a little shade from a plant nearby, but it was also close to other groups that were milling around. Immediately, she felt a wave of contentment come over her. It felt so good, and immediately the writer's block she had been stuck with for the past couple of weeks evaporated. Sometimes it only took an instant in time to be inspired.

The words came pouring forth from her quill into the leather bound notebook in front of her. Her parasol stuck out from the bush where she had placed it for a little more shade. The face of the Sournois was full of concentration and intensity as she tried to keep up with the thoughts in her head. However, she suddenly stopped short when she felt as though someone was watching her. Instantly her eyes shot up and started looking around the area to see if she was correct or just being paranoid.

At first glance, it did not appear that anybody even noticed that she was there. She started to go back to her work when she got the feeling again. Absentmindedly she started fingering her necklace that had been a gift. Again her eyes swept over the crowd. That was when she saw him. A guy that seemed strangely familiar caught her eye. It didn't appear as though he was looking at her now, but she could not be entirely sure. Still, her brain was sending off signals that she had met this guy before. However, she could not piece together where. "Think," she whispered to herself.

[raif donovan]

Beauxbatons was such a stark contrast to Durmstrang that he often had a hard time wrapping his mind around it. Sitting here in the sunlight, he basked in the thought that such a thing hadn’t been possible at Durmstrangs. His father had always been particularly keen on the school having graduated there himself. While Raif had once coveted the idea he’d grown farther withdrawn from it as his father had pushed the necessity of his schooling. Admittedly, he would have been better off in there, situated in the northernmost regions of Norway. The company had been more to his taste. He had friends here, but there were a slim few that he could actually say he was pleased to say he was associated with – the select few gentlemen he had encountered within his own house. He found it rather amusing, the way the houses situated the students into categories. Of course, they’d been separated by houses in Durmstrangs, but when it came down to it, all the students had the same common ends. It had since lost its reputation for housing those who practiced dark arts, but he knew well enough what happened within those walls. He’d no qualms about it. What he had had qualms with was his father’s constant need to interfere. Above all else that was what had lead him to transfer. His father was a pureblood and a wealthy one at that. He’d had far too many ties within the schools and ultimately Raif grew tired of his incredulous insistencies. So he’d transferred. Beauxbaton’s had been his choice due to the fact his father had so little pull here.

While his father’s behavior had been a major factor in his move, there was another reason that he had settled here in France. He’d said nothing of it to his family, as his father would think him foolish and it would likely set his mother into fits and would soon turn to an emotional breakdown. There had been other places where his family held little sway, but France was the place where his sister had disappeared. Mostly he sought for news of the girl, the one person in his family that he treasured above all else. Bella had come to school here as a first year as he had been starting his third year in Durmstrangs. The family knew nothing of her whereabouts and had received nothing – not even. She had chosen to stay in France over her winter break, but she’d never returned to school. Raif had become concerned when he’d not heard from her for weeks, but even more so when they received notice that she’d not returned for classes. It’d been a year since then and still there wasn’t a trace. It was a touchy subject back home, but it wasn’t one he had dismissed – regardless of what everyone else thought. Beauxbaton’s was the last thing he had tying him to his sister and he would enjoy it, if only for that.

The weather, sunny and warm, was not something he’d been privy to at his old school and he knew it had been one of the reasons his sister had chosen Beauxbatons over the other schools. Sitting out here in the courtyard as he was, Raif found that the weather was one of those simpler pleasures, one that he had been lacking. The courtyard was full of students, rushing to and fro between classes, but Raif found himself content sitting on one of the marble benches, just watching people pass by. It was relaxing to be outside his father relentless grasp as he could just take a moment to breathe. He’d not sought any company as he’d doubted any of the guys would be up for a sit in the courtyard, that thought was amusing in itself. He’d really not had many others to turn too, but he wasn’t displeased. The houses here did really seem to separate the students into groups, each thought of in stereotype to house. Sournois seemed to have this negativity about it, just as Slytherin did at Hogwarts. It was all relatively amusing to him the way the students flocked to their houses like they did. Though it suited him well enough, Sournois seemed to be where he rightly belonged and the only place he had found much for suitable company.

His eyes paused in their wandering as they met a dark haired girl covered in the shade of her parasol – something in her demeanor beckoning familiarity. He kept his gaze on her, brown eyes searching her features as she drew. For a time he watched her, aimlessly toying with the jewelry at her neck, her attention seemingly averted. It was only when her eyes met his from across the courtyard that he was able to recognize why she’d struck him as familiar. He knew this girl, she’d been daughter to one his fathers close colleagues. Rachele? He called out as he rose from his seat on the bench, mazing his way to the crowd to the place where she sat. Upon closer inspection he was sure that it was her. They’d been close before he had departed for school in Norway, but over time their friendship has dwindled as had all things. It was hard to believe that she was here, as he’d been so far removed from everything else in his past. I’d forgotten you came to school here, otherwise I might have sought you out sooner.

Bad start, sorry. Couldn't think.... lo

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

Many faces danced through Rachele's memory as she tried to go back and think of where she had met this guy before. It felt like he was from another lifetime. He definitely wasn't someone she had met recently or even in the time leading up to being turned. That left a fairly wide range, and Beauxbatons was rather large. There were people that she recognized but had not met. However, she was quite certain that this was not the case with the guy; she knew that she knew him somehow. Then, it suddenly clicked in her head as he turned to face her again. It was Raif, and it really was a lifetime ago since they had spoken much less seen one another.

Raif's father had been close with hers. They had been colleagues, and the two children had met when they were on a business outing of some sort. During that trip, the two of them became close. In fact, Rachele had considered him to be her best friend. Of course, he had gone off to school just as she had. They had managed to stay in contact for a while, but they had drifted. She wondered if he had heard about her parents. Then there was the matter of her having been turned. That should be a fun conversation. She didn't think he would have the reaction her family had, so that was something at least. If she was honest with herself, though, she was actually very excited to see him. It had been too long, and a face from her past who had actually known her parents was very welcome.

When he called out to her, she smiled immediately. As he made his way over, she stood up to greet him, making sure to stay where the sun wouldn't bother her too much. "Raif!" she exclaimed with a huge grin. Part of her wanted to throw her arms around him in a huge hug, but she was worried it might be too soon for that especially since it had been so long since they'd done anything like that. "I had a leave of absence for a while, but yes I've gone here for a while. No worries though. It has been a while. Not that I'm complaining about seeing you." Honestly, she had missed Raif. She knew that childhood friendships often didn't carry over, but this was one she would definitely try to make work.

Raif looked the way she remembered from the last picture she had seen of him. Of course, he had gotten older, but overall he was how she remembered him. Still, it was strange seeing him now. She wondered what might have gone on in his life. The last letters they had exchanged, she had felt that things were going on for both of them. After that, nothing had been said. "I am glad to see you, Raif," she said quietly looking more at his chin than him. It seemed that she was feeling a bit shy. However, she cleared her throat a little and looked up. "How long have you been here at Beauxbatons?" she asked with interest.

[raif donovan]

The smile which lit her lips when she called out his name was quickly reflected in his own chiseled features. He’d been hesitant in calling her out as he had never been one to seek out old company. In fact, more often than not she tried to leave the past far behind him. Fair had never been particularly interested in dwelling in the past, as it offered no room for movement forward. He’d outgrown his life at home and dropped many old acquaintances in order to search out new ones. So far he’d been doing well for himself, though those acquaintances here at Beauxbatons were far more numbered than they had ever been before. He’d found it humorous having been sorted into Sournois, supposedly home to the darker and more obscure wizards, but he was finding it to suit him favorably – all of his favorite company sharing his house and most his ideals. Rachele though was not an acquaintance he’d been eager to leave behind. She had been the only company he’d ever enjoyed in his father’s household. They’d stayed friends for a time, but like all things time had slowly drawn them apart.

He stepped in close to greet her as she stood from her place on the bench, a parasol shading her from the tendrils of sunlight which reached out to touch her. Raunning a hand back through his hair, he stepped in close, though keeping his distance. Some time had passed since they’d last met and he wasn’t sure what was appropriate, even their last letters had stopped mailing years past. I would never have known had you not told me. It’s been too long I would think. He said, nodding cordially. He was surprised to hear that she had taken some time off from school and could not even begin to fathom the reason why. Raif had never had much an ear for his father’s tellings so had he shared anything, it was likely Raif had missed it in entirety. I can’t say as though I’m complaining either. He said with a laugh, his chocolate gaze taking in her features. She had grown since he’d last seen her, but that was to be expected considering all the years that had gone by. She was lovely though, more lovely than he remembered, but this was his closest childhood friend.

I’m definitely glad to see you. You’re the first familiar face I’ve seen at this place, but I can’t say that isn’t refreshing.[/b[ he rather liked being at Beauxbatons just for the fact it had given him a fresh start. It had given him the opportunity to step out from underneath his father’s constant scrutiny. Something he had never had in Norway. I’ve just transferred. I finished last term at Durmstrangs and then started the new term here. Just needed a new start, I suppose. But what of you? How have you been? It would seem we’ve years to cover

Sorry it took so long >< All these Colorado fires making me nervous. Some a bit close to home ><

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

It seemed that he was also a little unsure of how to greet her as he got close but still kept a decent distance. For a moment she fidgeted, but she quickly stopped. Even though they had not talked or seen one another for years, she saw no reason why she could not greet him with a hug even if it was an awkward one. They used to be quite close, so while a flying hug would be a bit much, a regular one would probably be alright. Of course, if he seemed against it she would just change it to a handshake or something. Slowly, she moved forward and stepped in with a little hesitancy to give him a hug. It had been far too long.

"That's good to hear," she said with a smile and a light laugh. "It would be really awkward if we were sorry." Her dark eyes looked up to his, and she realized just how much taller he was than she. That was definitely a change from when they were younger. Back then they had been much closer in height. Now, he dwarfed her. Then again, most guys did that. Still, it was strange to have known Raif back when they were up to mischief and to see him again when they were both grown. It was a nice feeling though. Over the years she had lost many of her childhood friends. Raif was one that she had greatly treasured, so having the chance to talk to him again was nice. However, she couldn't help but wonder what his reaction would be to all the changes that had taken place.

Rachele smiled at him. "I get what you mean." Honestly, not much more needed to be said about that. She had felt the same way when she had first come. Most of her childhood friends had not attended Beauxbatons, but most of her childhood friends had been from other places. Besides, this was a rather large school. It was hard to see everyone, particularly if they were from a different house. Even in the same house one could see someone new almost every day. It was little wonder that it had taken this long for the two of them to cross paths. "Durmstrang huh? I think I remember that." It had been some time after all, but memories of his letters and talking from people made its way to her mind. "Like it here? I'm sure it's a bit different."

When he asked about how she'd been, she realized it was a far more complicated question than one would think. Still, she might as well answer it honestly. "Mostly I've been doing quite well. I was a bit of a wreck after my parents and a few other things, but I'm pretty happy here. It was a little strange coming back after my little hiatus, but things have eased out. How about you?"

Note: No problem at all. Everything ok? How close were you? One of my family's friends lives in Canon City and another in Black Forest. It was pretty scary. I hope you're alright.

[raif donovan]

His lips lilted into a clumsy smile as Rachele stepped forward a bit hesitantly before wrapping her slim frame around his own. With a soft chuckle he returned the gesture, curling his strong arms about her slight figure – she seemed so small which was just another reminder of how time had changed them. Well you know that I’m not much a fan of awkward He said, his laughter mixing with her own, as she stepped away lifting her dark eyes to meet his. Besides I’ve missed having someone to charm all the time. That was one thing that would never change. Raif Donovan, would always be a charmer. Even in his younger years he’d always played the role of a pleasing gentleman, even if him and Rachele were nothing but friends. It was in his nature.

There was so much that had changed over the years, but having Rachele here next to him made everything seem comfortable. In his later years, Raif wasn’t known for having many friends of the female variety. His playful, witty charm mostly sold him for a bit of a player and it was not something he found arguable. As a child Rachele had been his sole friend, but more importantly his best friend. She had been the one thing that had made his life bearable, given his father constant intrusions. Raif didn’t resent his father for all things, but life at home had not been particularly favorable. Of course. My father didn’t want me anywhere else. He has ties there you know? His words were laced with an air of sarcasm. Rachele of all people probably knew her of fathers ties within the worlf of purebloods, most delving into dark magic. I needed a change of pace. Can’t be my own person with my father lurking over my shoulder all the time. I’m liking it here well enough, though I must say the people are definitely… different.

Raif shifted a bit uncomfortably when Rachele turned to answer his question, noting that she’d been a wreck after her parents. Maybe more had changed than he’d been willing to accept, it brought a sudden pang of guilt for having lost contact. He let the palm of his hand rest on her shoulder as she spoke. I didn’t know. He said softly. About your parents that is. But everything else, is everything else ok? He questioned hoping to gauge a bit more of a response from her.

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

Raif had always given nice hugs, but this one felt especially nice. Of course, that was probably because he had grown quite a bit since the last time, so he now enveloped her. She nodded at his comment about not liking awkward. Yes, she knew; that wasn't to say that when they were younger the two of them hadn't pushed the other into awkward situations. His next words made her smile and chuckle again. "Classic Raif, but..." she trailed off as she moved a little closer to whisper in his ear. "I've missed your charms, and not many can charm me." She was half teasing. She had missed Raif's charms but not in the way that man might think. Honestly, she'd just missed Raif; his gentlemanly ways were just an added bonus to what made him him.

Honestly, Rachele should've remembered a little better how the ties of Raif's father worked. She had seen first hand how things were. "Of course," she said simply. Ties meant quite a lot in their world. Not that she really saw much of them anymore, but she remembered. "Makes sense. I like you as your own person. You're one in a million, Raif," she told him honestly. A slight laugh came out at the comment about different. That was definitely the easiest way to describe what people were like. In her travels, she had not come across any place with people like those at Beauxbatons. "Well, you should fit right in then. Different has always kind of been us, don't you think?" she asked with a smile.

Bringing up her parents still caused a pang in her heart, but it was not as bad as it used to be when it was just so raw. She felt a little guilty about springing it on Raif. It was obvious that he hadn't heard, but she had thought that perhaps his father might have mentioned something. Her mind was called back from these thoughts the moment his hand moved to her shoulder. "It's alright," she hasted to say. "We have been out of touch for a while. Didn't mean to just drop it on you like that. Well, most things are fine. Family issues because of some changes in my life, but mostly things are amazing. Coming back to this place was definitely the best decision I could've made."

"What about you?" she asked with interest. "Big news? Chasing girls off with a stick or what?" She winked at the last question; teasing him a bit was fun. Although, she wouldn't be surprised if there were a couple of girls interested in him. However, she was more interested in what all he had been doing. There was so much to cover, and she was looking forward to it. It wasn't every day that a person from one's past ended up walking back into her life. This was special. "Would you care to sit?" she asked gesturing to the bench that she had been sitting on before he had come over.

[raif donovan]

With Rachele enveloped in his arms, he could hardly believe how much at changed. She was slight and small against him. There had been a time, not so very long ago, that she’d met him height but now he easily towered over her small stature. His smile was still lilted on his features as she pulled away, her dark eyes turning towards his. It was nice to hear the girl’s laughter at his words, still joyful as ever. If there was one thing that hadn’t changed, surely it was that. You know me all too well. He said nonchalantly with a decided shrug of his shoulder as made her point, leaning in closer to whisper in his ear. He shook his head as she pulled away, crossing his arms against his chest. Well consider me honored to be one of the few. I see you’ve not lost yours. He stated in reply, wondering briefly what others had charmed her. The Rachele he knew was not so easily wooed, he was curious to know what suitors had managed such a feat. His instincts as a friend, albeit and old one, wondering whether or not he would approve.

Well you are one of the few. He said, a soft laugh escaping alongside his words. Raif had always found his father’s intrusions a bit humorous. He wanted him to follow in his footsteps so badly that he’d seem to have forgotten that there was another personality lurking there. When it came down to it, Raif had always had his father’s best interest in mind, but he’d followed a less discernible route, something his father never seemed to understand. Ties meant everything to his family and in Rachele’s as well, it was the reason they had grown so close over the years. While Raif could not deny that they were important, he didn’t think they held as much weight as his family gave them. There were other ways to meet ones ends. Perhaps you ought to remind my father of that sometime. He knew just as well as she did that it would make little difference, but it was a nice thought. But you’re right. Different has always been our thing, there was a reason I spent my time with only you.

Though he knew she’d be the las to admit he could still see the hurt lingering in Rachele’s eyes when the conversation had turned towards his parents. He was a bit surprised not to have heard the news from his father, giving their close family ties, but he supposed that was more his fault than anyone else’s. In leaving Durmstrangs he’d cut off most communication from his father. It had been his goal to close off the communication and this word was enough to prove it was working. Resting his hand on his shoulder he watched her intently waiting for her to bring her gaze back to him. Don’t you worry about me. I can take any news. As long as you are doing alright. He said, it was more of a question than a statement, but he didn’t want to push her into the conversation if she was not read for it. He was able to smile again when she admitted how well Beauxbaton’s had been treating her
.
I’d love to sit. He said, making his way over to the bench where he’d first spotted her from the courtyard. Far too much to discuss on foot. Our feet would surely grow tired. He teased, motioning for her to take a seat, before resting down on the bench himself. And aren’t I always? He laughed, shaking his head at her comment. He’d always had a bit of a reputation with the females. He’d never sought out for relationships and always hid from those that did. It was pretty regular for him, charming until he got bored. Though it seemed one had managed to hold his attention pretty consistently. Just trying to get settled in here. My roommate is well, just like me. So we’ve been getting on well and just been capturing attention where I can.

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

Seeing Raif's smile was wonderful; seeing him was wonderful. "Maybe not as well as I used to; it has been a while after all." Still, she couldn't argue about how well the two of them did know one another. Of course, that probably was a given since they had spent so much time with one another thanks to their fathers. At least they had liked one another; it would have been a drag if they had hated one another. "Oh you should be, Raif. Glad to hear I haven't lost my touch," she responded with a light laugh at his next comment. She didn't really consider herself to be charming, but everyone was allowed their own opinion. It was Raif that possessed that magic. Besides him, there were only two others who had ever managed to charm her. She liked to keep it that way.

"Somehow, I sincerely doubt that," she told him seriously but with a smile. Hearing his laugh made her smile a little more. She loved that sound; it hadn't changed, and it seemed that their relationship hadn't either. Of course, they had only been chatting for a bit, but she still felt that level of comfort that she had when she was a child. It was refreshing. "You know I wouldn't have a problem with doing that," she told him with a laugh. "Of course, he might not know who I am after all this time." She felt pretty sure that some of her family still saw him, but there was no way they'd ever let Rachele see him. Still, if Raif had really wanted her to, she would definitely remind him about how awesome his son was whether he saw it or not. "Beyond the fact that we were at times the only two kids even around?" she asked with a small smirk. "I agree though. We are the most awesome kind of different."

Rachele's eyes refocused on Raif before her mind went too far down the path it was on. This meeting was far more important that letting herself relive something like that. "I always worry about my friends," she answered. "I am now. Not so much after it happened, but I am now." Mostly that was true. There were times where the memory of the day she found out plagued her, but she supposed that was to be expected with something like that. However, she did not let it bring her down as much or as often as it once had. She smiled again and with relief saw that he was smiling too. It would not have been good if he thought that she was unhappy.

She followed him to the bench and sat down in a way that she could face him. "Maybe yours would," she said with a smirk. "I could always carry you though. And yes you are. I'm surprised that they aren't following you now. Maybe I better watch my back." Her eyes darted around the space dramatically before they settled back on Raif, and she smiled. She was glad that he had a roommate that he got along with. He deserved that for sure; besides that always made transitioning a little easier. "Sounds nice. Who is it, if you don't mind me asking?" She doubted that she'd know, but she couldn't help being a bit curious. "You don't even have to try and you catch attention," she told him rolling her eyes a little.

[raif donovan]

Well that shouldn’t be a problem any longer, not now. He said nudging her playfully with his elbow. Now that we are here at the same school, I’ll be expecting word from you much more often. It was comforting to have this little piece of his childhood, not that he was ever nostalgic for it, but there were always comforts you couldn’t deny in life. Company here wasn’t something he’d been lacking, but actual friendships were in short supply, as he often found himself disinterested with such company. While he was certain that Rachele lacked the dark edge he had, he couldn’t help but feel comfortable around her due to the mere fact he’d known her so long. Rachele had spent a considerable amount of time with his family, but he wasn’t sure she knew much about the dark under minings that happened there. It wasn’t something he’d bring up without good reason. Still playing hard to get though it would seem, or has some gentleman finally managed to climb those walls? He asked, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

You’d be surprised. He huffed, raising his shoulders a bit. His father had always spoke of Raif’s potential and while Raif was sure it was there, his father had always thought he’d drowned it when he’d strayed from the path set out for him. He’d never had a keen interest in being told what to do and not even his father could change that. My father is not one to forget faces, particularly from families so important as yours. Seems to be the pureblood way of things. He said with a smile, but it was true. Raif knew as well, he never forgot which families were important. They were a step in the social hierarchy and always useful for a favor. Well, then it only emphasizes the fact.

Should you ever need anything, you know you can come to me.He said a bit more seriously as he took a seat beside her. He didn’t really for Rachele, she was a tough girl, but that didn’t change the fact that he viewed her almost like a sister. He laughed when she followed her next comment. I can’t have you carrying me around Rachele, it really should be the other way around. He said, raising an eyebrow in her direction as she took a place on the bench beside him. Tired or not, we’ll just go with taking a seat. resting his palms on the stone, he leaned back looking over to her as she questioned about his roommate. You might have heard of him, but maybe not. His name is Sampson Abernathy.

[Rachele Mistrot♥]

She laughed and nudged him back. "Oh you won't have to worry about that. You will get many words from me. Perhaps I will even find a way to sneak into your chambers when you are least expecting it," she said with a smirk and a glint in her eye. Honestly, she probably could figure some way to do that, but she wasn't sure that she would ever make good on her threat. Still, it was always interesting to keep people guessing. Plus, teasing him brought back some very happy memories and thoughts. Times had been a lot more simple back then. She had been a lot more simple back then. Of course, there was no sense dwelling on that. After all, things were what they were, and getting to know one another a little more grown up would definitely be a fun and interesting experience.

Raif asked about a gentleman being in her life, and she knew that had she been able to, she would've blushed. There was no point in trying to hide anything. One, she didn't mind talking about it, and two, she was pretty sure that Raif would realize she wasn't being truthful if she did try to lie. That was something he had been quite good at when they were younger. "I suppose you could say that," she responded a little slowly. "I did play, but so did he." She wondered how much Raif really wanted to know and if he would know Mathew when she told him. Mathew did have a reputation with girls; he had been quite the ladies man. However, it seemed that he had put that behind him.

The dark eyes of the little vampire darkened for a moment. That was one thing she'd always hated. She felt as though Raif hardly ever got the kind of praise and recognition he deserved. However, it was not for her to say anything about that, and it didn't seem as though Raif minded too much. He had always been a strong person. "True enough. That's why it was always so hard for me to get away with things when we were little." Somebody always ended up recognizing her because of who her parents were, and then she got in trouble. Of course, that had not stopped her from getting into more mischief. "I'm sure our families still have deals going on somewhere," she said. "Them and all the rest of the 'important' families." Rachele couldn't be sure of that, however, since her grandmother made sure that she never learned of anything and that no one every learned of her.

"I know," she responded softly. Frankly, Rachele did not like seeking help from anyone. It always felt as though she was a burden. However, she felt that with Raif she really could. After all, he had known her since she was little, and he was the closest thing to a brother she had ever experienced. He would understand most of what she felt better than most. "The same goes for you. I'm always free to help in any way." She arched a brow at his laugh over her comment. There was no doubt, she'd just have to show him sometime. "Maybe so, but I could carry you if I had a mind." Though it was true that she could, she doubted if she'd ever do it in public. The girls might kill her. When he said the name, she knew who he was talking about immediately. They had never been formally introduced, but she knew of Sampson. "I have indeed heard of him. He's also quite popular. The two of you must be quite a pair."