Random encounter by the Lake-side

"Nice," Ash said. "I have to say that reading up on history has always been fun for me."

Alex listened and then said, "my Great-grandparents were very big into history, especially about my Family. My Grandparents weren't as much into Family history, though we all can't help but learn where our roots have come from," he added.

"Exactly," Ash said. "And there is some family history you would rather not find otu about... but you do anyways."

"Exactly. The good, the bad and the ugly are always unearthed," said Alex looking towards the sky. "It is always nice to learn neat stories about one's ancestors. Do you know anything cool about your Family?," he asked kindly.

Ash rolled her eyes. "WEll, everyone on my mum's side are either alcoholics, druggies, or both... or worse," she said. "And I don't know much about my Dad's side because I don't see him like ever."

"Oh...that's sad," said Alex kindly. "Its regrettable that...well...I'm at a loss for words...I'm very sorry," he said gently.

"Meh, I'm used to it and it doesn't bother me anymore," Ash said, shrugging. "So... any interesting things in your family past?" she asked, smiling.

Alex nodded and said, "my Great-great-great-grandfather founded the 'Daily Prophet.' My Family doesn't directly run it anymore, though we own a controlling or majority stake in the business. Suffice it to say, we haven't had to worry about money for a while," he said, almost in an embarrassed fashion.

"That's so cool," Ash said. "And it's always nice to have a bit of money." She chuckled. "There's no need to have that tone when you talk about it."

"Well. Some would flaunt their money around, showing off. I'm not one that likes to brag. My Parents are the same way. We do things, though its not like everyone has to know we have money," said Alex honestly.

"Well, if you fluanted it I'd probably hate you," Ash joked, chuckling.

"Some would, though sadly, many in the Wealthy world expect it. I haven't lived in the latter, though I much more enjoy not having to constantly living up to the wealthy standards of the high and mighty. It doesn't matter what 'rank' we are on the 'Grogan Stump Wealthiest Wizarding Families' list," said Alex with a chuckle.

Ashley chuckled. "Yeah," she said. "The wealthier wizards expect you to be some sort of snob -- which you obviously aren't -- and that's just the same as everyone expecting Austin and I to become druggies or something." Ash shook her head. "And that's not going to happen... so don't become snobby or anything because that means that I'll end up a druggie or somethign!" Ash laughed and shook her head.

Alex laughed, and said, "you've got a deal. I don't plan on becoming a snob anytime soon. The Slytherins seem to have that covered," he added with a smile.

"Yeah, you're right, I think they do," Ash agreed.

Alex wasn't sure what to talk about next. He stared out at the lake.

Ash sighed with content and also stared out at the lake. For once she had nothing to say -- which is utterly amazing! After a few minutes she looked around the grounds and saw quite a few other students enjoying the nice day -- including her brother who was with a Slytherin girl and Riley who was sitting by a tree reading. SHe smiled somewhat evilly. "I'll be right back," she told Alex. SHe stood up and went over to Riley. "you're coming with me and you're making another friend," she informed, waiting for RIley to stand because she knew that Riley disliked being touched -- even in just a friendly manner.

Riley sighed and marked the page in his book and stood up -- it would be worthless to argue with Ashley. He followed her to the lakeside where she plopped down next to another guy.

"Sit," she instructed.

Riley did as he was isntructed and sat, but said not one word.

Ashley rolled her eyes. "Alex, this is Riley," she said, making introductions. "Riley, that's Alex. He's a year below us and is in Gryffindor."

((Sorry you have a few posts to read, Chris! Ash kinda took over and dragged Riley into it... not sure where she's going with it... but I think she just wanted to talk again. ))

Alex watched her run to a person and then bring her over. Once Ashley sat back down, he listened. Extending his hand to Riley and said, "Its nice to meet you, Riley. My name is Alex. Alexander Corvinus," he added with a smile.

Riley shook it to be polite because if he didn't, Ashley would bite his head off later. "Riley Houston," he replied quietly. Corvinus, Riley thought, surprised that the name rung a bell. Oh, right. Them. The ones my grandparents hate...

Houston...Houston...where have I heard that name before, he thought to himself, after they shook hands. "Do you mind my asking...your Grandparents...are their names, Gunther and Cornelia?," Alex asked with a tilted head, while thinking aloud.

Riley nodded.