Winterfell High

Chapter 31

Sansa Stark POV

I don't know why Cersei is being so nice to me. I mean, I'm glad she is, but there has to be some sort of catch. Is it because she likes me now? Is it because Daenerys told her to? Is it because I'm eating less and I look skinnier? Or is it because she wants something from me? It sucks that I have to think about the catches of why someone is nice to me, but that's how it is at Winterfell. Nothing is for free.

"I can't believe Cersei invited me to her father's gala," I say as Margaery drives me home from cheer practice on Thursday. "There has to be some sort of catch, I hope she isn't planning on embarassing me."

"I think it's because of how much Dany likes you," Margaery responds.

I've still been avoiding contact with Loras. Whenever I go to Margaery's house, he's either doing theatre stuff at school or in his room. Or he's at Renly's house. They still hang out, I think they might be a couple. I hope he can live his life, I just don't think it's a good idea for us to be friends.

"How's the goal coming?" Margaery asks me, bringing me out of my thoughts.

"Oh, it's going okay," I respond. "I've lost a little bit of weight, but not much."

"You just need to keep with it," she says. "It can take a while to see results."

"But you think I should keep with it?"

"I think you look fine, but we could all stand to lose a few pounds or benefit from some extra toning." I know that's her way of calling me fat without actually having to call me fat. She's my friend, of course she isn't going to come right out and say I'm fat.

"Are you excited for the final game next week?" She asks me.

"Oh, yeah," I respond. "It'll be nice to be done with football."

"Then we have basketball," Margaery says. "We get to see Jaime play then. Cersei is always at every one of those games so we hang out sometimes after. It's a fun time."

Cheerleading is a year-round thing. We do football, then basketball, then baseball, and a couple of cheer competitions along the way. We continue into summer competitions if we make it that far, then we prepare for the next school year. I really like cheering, I'm glad I have a form of excercise I can do year-round.

Arya Stark POV

Friday finally rolls around, and it's the last day that Gendry has to pick me up. I feel bad that he has to drive around a 7th grader, I know he must hate it. When I get into his car and as he starts driving towards our house, Gendry asks me, "Do you mind if I stop for gas? My light came on."

"That's fine," I say. I'm really craving sweets, so it'll give me an excuse to go by a chocolate bar. When he pulls into the gas station and starts pumping gas, I say, "I'm going to go get a snack." He just nods at me.

"Arya," I hear Gendry call out as I'm walking towards the door. He seems urgent in his tone. I turn around and he motions for me to walk over to him. That seems weird, why can't he just tell me what he needs to tell me? I walk over and he whispers into my ear, "You're bleeding." My heart starts pounding. I start tearing up and run into the gas station. I go into the bathroom and, sure enough, there's blood in my underwear and stained on my yellow jeans. I start crying even harder, because I'm so embarassed. Of course this happens when I'm around someone I don't even know. Of course my first period has to be the most humiliating experience possible. I couldn't have been with Sansa, or my mom, or even with my dad or Jon. I had to be with a virtual stranger.

I don't even know how long I've been in the bathroom, but I have to come out sometime. Once I stop crying, I walk out of the gas station and get into Gendry's car. He moved it to a parking space up front. I'm still sniffling and wiping my tears. I can't look at him. When I finally get the courage to look over because we're sitting in complete silence, I can see that he has pads and chocolate in his lap.

"What was that for?" I ask him.

"I just felt bad," he says. "I figured you must be embarassed, and I wanted to help."

He hands me the stuff. "Thank you," I say quietly. I just start eating the chocolate. "You didn't have to do that."

He pulls out of the parking lot and starts driving towards my house. "I know," he says. "But I didn't want to add to your stress. I just wanted to help in any way."

We pull up to my house and he says, "Would you like my hoodie to tie around your waist?"

"You don't have to do that."

"You can see the stain on the back of your pants. It's really no problem."

I think about it. "Okay. That would help. I'll tell my mom and Sansa what happened tonight."

Gendry hands me his hoodie from the backseat and the pads. I put them in my backpack. I get out of the car and tie the hoodie around my waist. "Thank you," I say again.

"It's no problem. I can take the hoodie back whenever. Call me if you ever need anything."

I smile at him and walk into the house. Sansa, mom and dad aren't home yet. Bran and Rickon are in their rooms, they take the bus home now. I go up to my room and put Gendry's hoodie on. I can't believe how nice he was about everything. A lot of guys would be weirded out or grossed out, or even make fun of me. I'm very thankful for his kindness, he really minimized the awkwardness of a very awkward situation.

Chapter 32

Jon Snow Stark POV

It's not long before Ygritte and I have sex again. My hormones and desires got the best of me once, and it's hard to stop it now. We've been dating for a couple weeks, and I know this is what's expected out of relationships at Winterfell. I'm helping her bring her stuff in again, and neither Tormund nor her aunt are home.

We sit on her bed to take a breather, and before I know it our clothes are off again. She's captivating, she's so hard to stay away from. After we're done, she just buries her head into my chest. It feels really nice and comforting, I think I might be falling in love with her. God, what's happening to me? How can things change so much in such a short amount of time?

"Don't ever betray me, Jon Snow," Ygritte suddenly says.

This takes me by surprise. "Why would I do that?" I ask her.

"I've been warned about guys from Winterfell, and I don't want you to think you can just discard me."

I'm sure she means Tormund. Tormund is just as bad as the rest of them, he just isn't as popular with the ladies.

"I'd never do that, Ygritte," I say, kissing her on the head. "You mean a lot to me. I couldn't just discard you."

"Good," she says, smiling and looking up at me. "I'm yours now, and you're mine." She kisses me.

Some guys my age might be freaked out by her investment in this relationship, but that's fine by me. I don't want this to be a one or two time thing, this is for the long haul. It has to be.

Sansa Stark POV

The night of the Lannister's gala, I'm at Margaery's house getting ready. Daenerys is also here. She told me she had a couple of nice dresses that I could try on. I can't believe Daenerys Targaryen is letting me borrow her clothes. Daenerys is going to drive us, and I convinced my mom to let me stay at Margaery's. Well, she thinks it's Margaery's. We might just crash at the Lannister's.

I'm not sure what to expect from this event. I know it won't be a rager like they usually throw, but still everyone seems to want to be a part of it. It must just be an honor to be invited.

I'm a little taller than Daenerys, but she's obviously thinner and prettier. I didn't eat today in preparation for this, I want to be able to try some of the hors d'oeuvres. I'm changing into a purple sleeveless dress with a synched waist. It's a little tight around the waist, which makes me feel really disappointed in myself. I walk out of the closet to see what Daenerys thinks.

"You look so good!" She says. I don't feel good. The waist is too tight and I feel like it's really obvious.

"I'm just wearing the shoes I wore to Homecoming," I say. "I hope that's okay."

"Yeah that's fine," Daenerys responds. "Let's do your makeup." She sits me down and starts doing my makeup. She really is good at it.

"So why is this gala such a big deal?" I ask, just to fill the silence.

"It's a really fancy event," Margaery says. "It kind of symbolizes who is officially popular if they're invited. It means you can be associate with the Lannister family, not just Jaime and Cersei."

That does sound like a big deal. Daenerys even starts curling my hair when she's done with my makeup.

"Your skin tone and hair suits so many colors," she says to me. "You can look pretty with so many different looks."

"Thank you," I'm stunned. "Does your dress look okay on me, you think? I'm worried it's too tight."

"Maybe a little," Daenerys responds. "But you can't really tell." A little is still too much.

When Daenerys is done I look over at Margaery and ask, "What do you think?"

"Oh Sansa," Margaery says. "Loras should have never let you go." I know she meant that as a compliment, but thinking about the whole thing with Loras makes me feel even more insecure. I never want to think about that incident again.

Jaime Lannister POV

Father is setting up for the auction gala with the caterers and his law partner. I'm so tired of this. I know I'm supposed to be grateful, and no one has sympathy for a rich, white teenager. At least Ramsay and Theon are coming this year. Ramsay is supposed to bring weed so we can all smoke under the deck.

I'm sitting in the TV room watching some random shows to kill time when Tyrion walks in. He sits next to me on the couch, but he doesn't say anything. That feels weird to me, he's always messing with me or joking around.

"What's up?" I finally ask, breaking the silence.

"I'm nervous about tonight," Tyrion says. We're both looking straight ahead at the TV. "Father hasn't met Shae yet, and I don't want her to see how much of a disappointment I am."

"Then why did you invite her?"

"I want her to know that she's welcome in the Lannister family, and the gala is a big event."

"Well, you like her right?"

"I really, really do. I know she's known to sleep around, but she's really funny and sweet. And great in bed."

"Ew," Why did he have to mention that? "Listen, you'll be fine. Father would never do anything to make himself look bad at this event. This is actually the perfect way to introduce her. And you guys are more than welcome to hang out with our friends."

"Cersei isn't going to like that," Tyrion responds.

"She doesn't have to." Tyrion will always be my brother and my best friend (besides Cersei), and he'll always be around whether Cersei likes it or not.

"Shut up, I know she always takes priority over me." I can tell Tyrion is annoyed, but I can't say he's wrong. He's my brother and my best friend, but Cersei is the love of my life. I know deep down Cersei will always come first for me, even when I don't want her to.

"Make sure to talk me up to Shae tonight," Tyrion continues, bringing me out of my thoughts.

"You know I will." He can always count on me being his wingman.

Chapter 33

Sansa Stark POV

When we drive up to the party, most of the guests are already present. I'm so nervous, my heart is pounding. I also have a throbbing headache, but that could be because I haven't eaten. When we walk in, Cersei and her father eagerly greet us. I've never seen Cersei this happy.

Daenerys and Cersei immediately go off to where there's alcohol and I can see them looking out for each other while they pour some for themselves. They're laughing together. It's weird to see Cersei so happy, her fun side only comes out with Daenerys.

…

I get separated from everyone at one point, and when the actual auction starts I have no idea what to do, so I just stand and watch. Margaery walks over to me and hands me a drink.

"Hey, we're all under the Lannister's deck," she says. "You should join us."

I just nod and walk outside with her. We go under the deck and behind some posts, where there's actually a lot of space. As I get closer to them, the strong smell of weed hits me. I've never smoked weed. I know Jon has, but he'd deny it if I ever asked him. I hope I don't have to smoke any and I can just stand on the sidelines. When I get to the rest of the group I see Ramsay, Theon, Jaime, Cersei, Daenerys, Tyrion and Shae. I didn't realize there was a whole hiding spot back here.

"Where's Myranda?" I hear Jaime ask Ramsay.

"I'm done with her," Ramsay responds before taking a hit. "She's nuts."

"She's still friends with Missandei," Theon responds. "You'll still have to see her."

"Shut up, Reek." He started calling Theon that recently, I have no idea why.

Margaery lights up a joint and takes a hit. After she takes a hit, she passes it to me as if to offer it. I just look at her at first before timidly taking it. I don't know what to do, but I just end up copying what the others are doing. I start coughing after I take a hit, this really doesn't do much for me so I pass it back to Margaery. She hands it back to me after taking another hit. I don't really want to keep smoking, but I feel like I might as well. After passing it back and forth for a bit, I do start to feel something. It's not much, I just feel really dizzy and I'm getting tired.

Tyrion and Shae are just making out next to me, and it's really awkward. I can tell Cersei is a little annoyed by that, but she's trying to play it cool. Plus, she's high, so that helps her chill out. Jaime is starting to get really stoned, and he has a drink in his hand. He looks really tired, and he starts leaning his head on Cersei's shoulder. Euron suddenly walks up to us. I guess Theon told him where we are. I always forget he's Theon's brother, he doesn't ever hang out with us. He's just dating Cersei, but she doesn't seem to care much for him.

He walks up to Cersei and they kiss. She looks like she couldn't care less to see him. Jaime just sits down and makes room for Euron, dispite looking a little peeved. People are talking, but I'm not really listening. I've pretty much tuned out, but I think Ramsay is making fun of Theon again and trying to get everyone else to join.

"How are you doing?" Margaery asks me. I'm feeling really out of it.

"I'm okay," I lie. I don't feel good, and I'm even hungrier now. I'm getting paranoid that everyone can tell I'm out of it and starving and I look stupid.

"So Sansa," Cersei suddenly says. "Are you coming to Dany's Halloween party tomorrow?"

"Oh, I'm not sure," I respond. "I don't really have a costume to wear."

"You should totally come," Daenerys says. "It really doesn't matter what you wear. It's just going to be a small thing."

"I think I can at least stop by," I say. That's the truth, but I don't really want to go. It's really hard to keep up with everyone, but I will stop by for a little bit if my mom will let me. It blows my mind that they can just party all weekend after having to do school all week.

…

I wake up in one of the Lannister's many bedrooms with Margaery sleeping next to me. I don't remember much about how I got there, but I think I got high and a little drunk and they put us here. Margaery starts to stir awake.

"Margaery," I say. "Wake up."

She starts grunting and looks at the time. It's 10 a.m. "I wonder if Jaime made anything for breakfast," she says. "He's usually an early riser."

We walk downstairs and, sure enough, Jaime and Cersei are cooking pancakes on the stove. "Where's Euron?" Margaery asks.

"He went home around 1 a.m.," Cersei responds. "Father wouldn't have let him stay over."

Daenerys walks into the kitchen as she says that. "And you listened to him?" She asks Cersei.

"There are too many people here anyway," Cersei says. "I still took care of him, don't you worry." Ew.

"Where did you go last night?" Daenerys asks Cersei. "We fell asleep in your room, and I woke up a couple times and you weren't there."

"I was there," Cersei says defensively. "You know i have sleep issues. I went out on the deck in the middle of the night." I make eye contact with Jaime, and he's beet red. I just pretend I didn't see that.

After Theon and Ramsay come downstairs, we all eat breakfast together. I actually do eat a pancake and a couple strawberries. I'll just have to not eat for the rest of the day to make up for it. Cersei was right, Jaime is a really good cook. I text Jon and ask if he can pick me up from the Lannister's house and not tell mom. I want to get my homework done before going to the party. He agrees, but says he's not happy about it.

When he pulls up, he actually comes to the porch and knocks on the door. God, why couldn't he have just texted me? Cersei opens the door.

"Oh, hi Jon," she says to him. "Are you here for Sansa?"

"Yeah," he says as he walks in. "Let's go." He says to me.

"Will you take me to Dany's party tonight?" I ask him. I know I shouldn't have asked him, but Margaery will be hanging out with the group all day getting ready and I don't want to inconvenience her.

"Sansa," Jon says. "You need to do homework or mom will throw a fit."

"That's why I'm going home now!" I start arguing.

"You can come if you want," Daenerys suddenly says to Jon.

"Really?" Jon asks her.

"For sure," Daenerys says. "Bring whoever you want."

I didn't expect that, and I don't think Jon did either because he looks like he's thinking it over.

"Okay," he finally responds. "But only for a little bit. Mom and dad have a work event tonight, we have to be back before then. I'll ask Sam and Ygritte if they want to come."

Daenerys looks disappointed at the mention of Ygritte, and I can tell Cersei is trying not to laugh. It makes me feel so embarassed. I feel like I have 3 parents, 4 when Robb was at home. At least I get to go.

Chapter 34

Jon Snow Stark POV

I can't believe I got invited to a party at Daenerys Targaryen's house, and I can't believe I agreed. I know Sansa will find a way to go without me, and at least if I go I can see what the people she hangs out with are really like. Sam, Ygritte and Gilly agreed to come too, but I told them it'll only be for about a little bit. Sam really wanted to bring Gilly so she would be impressed by his popularity. He's still trying to win her over. I feel really bad for leaving Arya, Bran and Rickon home on a Saturday night, but they said they could handle it and we won't be gone for long.

When we arrive, Sansa immediately splits off to go find the others. I'm worried about her, but I can't think too much about that now. "Are you okay?" I ask Ygritte.

"I'm fine," she says. "I've just never been to a popular party." She grabs my hand. I like that, but I know Sansa will have questions if she sees it.

I look over and see Sansa anxiously take a shot with Cersei, Margaery and Daenerys. I want to go over and yell at her, but I can't do that now. I'll talk to her about it later.

I walk into the kitchen to make Ygritte and I some drinks. I just pour a soda for myself, since I have to drive home. Daenerys walks into the kitchen as I'm pouring drinks.

"Hi, Jon!" She exclaims. "I'm so glad you could make it!" She suddenly gives me a hug, which takes me by surprise.

"Oh, yeah we can't stay long, though."

"That's okay! I'm glad you brought some friends, too."

"Really?" I thought she wouldn't want to be associated with them.

"Of course! The more the merrier." This is not what I pictured Daenerys Targaryen to be like. I pictured her to be much more snobby, like Cersei is.

"I hope it's okay that I got some drinks," I say to Daenerys. "It's just for me and my girlfriend."

"Oh," she says, sounding surprised. "Yeah that's fine. So you are dating her?"

"Yeah," I admit sheepishly. "She wore me down."

Daenerys just smiles at me and I walk out of the kitchen to go find Ygritte.

Sansa Stark POV

The girls pressured me into taking a shot, and I agreed. I tried to look cute for this party, but I honestly feel like crap. I haven't eaten since breakfast, and now I feel nauseous from the alcohol. I just hope I put enough makeup on to mask how I'm feeling.

Daenerys comes out of the kitchen with a drink, I didn't even see her go in there. "Jon is here with his girlfriend and two of his nerd friends," Daenerys says.

"What?" I ask. I'm so confused. "Jon doesn't have a girlfriend."

"He told me she was his girlfriend," Daenerys says, looking at me confused. Then she realizes I didn't know. "Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sure he was going to tell you." Whatever, I don't have time to worry about that. I'll ask him about it later.

"Sorry, Dany," Cersei says, smirking. "Now you may never get to hit that."

"Will you let that go?" Danaerys is getting peeved. I really don't want to be here for this conversation where they're talking about fucking my brother.

I walk off and find a sitting area in Daenery's house where there isn't anyone sitting. I'm drinking a Sprite to help ease my stomach, even though I know it's loaded with sugar. I want to find Jon and ask him if we can go, but I'm the one that convinced him to take me. He also has never been invited to one of these parties, so I might as well let him enjoy it. This is the worst I've felt since I started dieting. My hunger has been easier to ignore, but lately I've been feeling like I'm going to pass out after cheerleading practice.

I've been sticking to no breakfast, a hard boiled egg for lunch, half a protein bar after practice, and as little dinner as I can get away with. The protein bar is only so I don't pass out, and lately it's been working. At least I've lost a little weight.

As I'm taking a breather, Ramsay walks in. "Oh, sorry," I say as I start to get up. He probably wanted to come in here to be alone just like me.

"No, stay," he responds as he sits next to me. "I was actually looking for you."

"Oh," I say. That surprises me, I didn't even know he knew I existed. "What's up?"

"I wanted to say you didn't deserve what happened with Loras," he says.

"That was like a month ago. Is that all I'll ever be known for for the rest of high school?"

"Not at all, it's all he'll be known for. I don't even know how it happened, you could keep any man straight." He tucks some hair behind my ear.

"Thank you," I say, blushing.

"You're beautiful, don't ever forget that," he says before walking away. That was actually really sweet. He recently broke up with Myranda, maybe I do have a shot.

Jon Snow Stark POV

After taking Sam and Gilly home, Ygritte and I head back to my place with Sansa. I told her she could hang out for a bit before I take her home. I check on Arya, Bran and Rickon and they're just chilling out. I knew they'd be fine, we were only gone for about an hour and a half. I don't introduce them to Ygritte, but Arya sees her go into my room with me.

We walk into my room and Ygritte sits on the bed. "Did you have fun tonight?" She asks.

"I guess," I respond as I sit next to her. "It wasn't really my scene. I went to watch over Sansa."

"You're such a good big brother."

"Well I worry about my siblings, and mom and dad aren't around enough to keep them as safe as they should be."

"When do I get to meet your famous parents?"

"Soon," I respond. I really do want her to meet them, but I'm concerned they'll make a big deal about this.

Ygritte starts kissing me. I'm nervous because I need to take her home before my parents get back. I think I still have some time, but I want to be careful. I start kissing her back, and we lay down on the bed. She starts taking off her clothes, and she takes off my shirt as well. Once we're naked, I forget about everything else. We're fooling around naked and she's touching me when I hear the door open downstairs.

"Shit!" I exclaim, getting up. I start to get dressed and Ygritte starts to do the same.

"Is that your parents?" She asks me.

"Yeah, they weren't supposed to be back until later."

I don't think I can sneak her out because my parents are talking by the front door. We walk downstairs and they immediately stop talking and look at her.

"Who's your friend, Jon?" My mom asks.

"Mom, dad, this is Ygritte," I respond. "We were just studying, but I'm going to take her home now."

"Nice to meet you, Mr. and Mrs. Stark," Ygritte says, smiling.

"Nice to meet you, Ygritte," my mom says.

"Jon," my dad says as we start to walk out the door. "We'll talk later." Shit.

…

When I get back from taking Ygritte home, my dad is sitting on the couch waiting for me. He starts to go out back and turns around to look at me. I can tell he wants me to come out with him to the back porch. I walk out there and we sit down.

"So who was that girl, Jon?" My dad asks me.

"Just a friend of mine," I say, avoiding eye contact.

"Jon," he doesn't believe me. "I've been around the block a few times, this will be a lot easier if you just tell me the truth."

I pause. "She's my girlfriend," I say quietly. "But, we just started dating."

"That's okay," my dad says. "I'm happy for you, but you know you can't have girls over without us here. I've convinced your mother not to ground you, but you will be grounded next time."

"Okay," I say as I start to get up. That went better than expected.

"There's one more thing," my dad says. I turn around. "We want to have Ygritte over for dinner so we can get to know her."

I just nod, but that thought terrifies me. I walk back inside. That wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.

Daenerys Targaryen POV

I lay awake in my bed after the party. There are people sleeping downstairs and in the spare rooms, and Cersei is asleep next to me. We've literally shared everything since we were six. I love her, but she does scare me. She's very intimidating and can be really mean, but I know she has a heart deep down somewhere under her wall of ice.

I know about her and Jaime, even though she's never admitted it to me. I pretend I have no idea, but everyone knows. I need her to think I'm oblivious, in case I ever need to use it against her. I know that sounds bad, but I'm the queen of Winterfell and I'm willing to take anyone down who threatens to take my crown.

I wish she would shut up about me and Jon Snow. Yes, I had a crush on him in 8th grade, and a little bit my sophomore year after Khal Drogo and I broke up. But that's in the past now, and I've actually been talking to a guy named Daario who graduated last year. We started getting close before he graduated, and he hit me up recently. Cersei knows about that, I don't know why she still makes fun of me about Jon. I guess she can't comprehend me ever liking someone who isn't popular, but I think there's much more to people than that. Don't get me wrong, my status means the world to me, but not everyone can be as popular as me and they can still be good people.

I've worked too hard to build this reputation for myself to not have a backup plan if it falls apart. I know all too well how easily reputations can fall apart. My family has a lot of money, and we were once just as highly regarded as the Lannisters. My father was looked up to in town, before he went insane and had a mental breakdown. My oldest brother ran off with some girl right after I was born, and my family never saw him again. My other brother died a couple years ago. My father still checks in and stays with me sometimes, but I'm mostly alone and living off their money while he's looked after by family. Needless to say, the community has mixed feelings about the Targaryen family. I've busted my ass to rebuild my reputation since then, and I'm not letting it go.

Chapter 35

Jon Snow Stark POV

It's the week before Thanksgiving break, and my parents have insisted that I bring Ygritte over for dinner after they saw her leaving the house. I'm surprised I didn't get grounded or anything, but I think they realize they can't stop everything. I've been able to put off this dinner for a couple weeks, but they have a free night where we can all have a family dinner. I told them I'll bring Ygritte over after rock climbing practice. I hope my siblings don't embarass me too much.

I never talked to Sansa about her drinking. I want her to make better choices than Robb and I have, but I know she won't see it as that. I don't like her hanging out with those girls, but I understand why it's important to her. Daenerys seems nice enough, but I still don't want Sansa to get too close. I know enough about Winterfell to know they could turn on her at any point.

When we walk in, Mom and dad are cooking dinner together. They actually are really good cooks, when they're home. We set our rock climbing stuff down by the door and walk to the kitchen. "Hi, Jon," my mom says in this fake nice tone. "It's good to see you, Ygritte." Is she going to pretend that she likes me and that our family is perfect all night?

"You too, Mrs. Stark," Ygritte responds. "Can I help you with anything?"

"Not at all, dear," my mom says. "Just sit down and make yourself at home." We sit on the couch and Ygritte grabs my hand.

Bran and Rickon come barreling down the stairs, I'm assuming because they smelled food. My mom and dad are making tacos, which both Bran and Rickon love. They're being loud and rambunctious until they see Ygritte, then they just stop and look at her.

"Who's that?" Rickon asks mom.

"Why don't you be polite and introduce yourselves?" My mom responds.

"Hi," Bran says timidly. "I'm Bran." I can barely hear him.

"Ygritte, these are my younger brothers," I chime in. "Bran and Rickon."

"Hi, nice to meet you," Ygritte responds. She seems nervous. I get it, I have a lot of siblings.

A little bit later the food is ready and my mom calls down Arya and Sansa. They come downstairs and go to the kitchen to serve themselves. When they come back, Sansa has about 2 spoonfuls of ground beef on her plate. That's so weird, she loves tacos.

"Sansa, don't you want full tacos?" My mom asks.

"No, tacos have been messing with my stomach lately," Sansa responds.

"Well, we have rice," my dad says. "We have avocado and tortillas."

"Really, I'm okay," Sansa responds, cutting him off. "I had a snack when I got home."

"Kids, this is Ygritte," my mom says after a long pause. Why does she have to announce it like that?

"Is she your girlfriend?" Bran asks.

"Yes, she is," I respond. Ygritte smiles but stays quiet.

"So Ygritte," my dad says. "What grade are you in?"

"I'm a sophomore," she says.

"And what do you want to do after you're done with school?"

"Either travel and do humanitarian work of some kind, or become an archery instructor."

"You do archery?" Arya asks. Ygritte nods. "That's so cool!"

"I'd love to teach you a little bit, sometime," Ygritte says to her. Arya's beaming.

"I thought you had sworn off girls for life," Bran says, laughing. "I never thought you'd bring a girl here."

"Bran," my mom says. "Be respectful to our guest, please."

"I'm just telling the truth," Bran says. "I thought he'd die alone." I glare at him, and Rickon is just laughing. Bran is usually much more quiet at dinner, I don't know what's gotten into him. I don't know why Sansa won't eat tacos anymore, I don't know why Arya never snitched on me for forgetting to pick her up or why she's been wearing a large hoodie in the house now. It feels like I don't know my own family anymore.

Sansa Stark POV

Everyone is talking and asking Ygritte questions, but it all sounds like white noise to me. Ygritte seems nice, it'll be good for Jon to see what dating is like. I wish I could see what having a real relationship is like.

"Sansa," Ygritte says to me. "How is cheerleading?"

"It's going well," I say, honestly surprised she took any interest in me. "We're about to start basketball season."

"Oh that sounds fun," Ygritte responds. Does it? She seems like she couldn't care less about stuff like that.

The dinner continues with awkward small talk. My parents always want to get to know our friends, which is a good thing, but it's always awkward when they have to talk to our entire family. Eventually the dinner ends and Jon leaves to drive Ygritte home.

…

Arya and I are laying in bed, trying to go to sleep. Sometimes we fall asleep immediately, but usually we stay up talking. "Sansa," Arya whispers after a long period of silence.

"Yea?" I'm facing away from her.

"I never told you that I got my period."

I roll over to face her. "What?" I'm shocked. "When?"

"Almost 2 weeks ago."

"And you didn't tell me?" How did I not figure it out or notice anything?

"You've been so busy with cheer and your friends," Arya responds. "I didn't see a time that I could." She isn't wrong, and that makes me sad. I really have been cheering, with friends, doing homework or sleeping these past couple weeks. We've barely talked just the two of us.

"I'm sorry, Arya," I say. "High school has been kicking my butt."

"I know," she says. "I just really wanted to tell you."

"How do you feel?" I ask her.

"It hurt a lot. And I felt like I wanted to cry all the time."

I chuckle. "Yeah, it's like that sometimes. You get used to it."

There's a pause. "I was with Jon's friend, Gendry, when it happened. He had picked me up from tutoring that week."

"That's horrible, I can't imagine how awkward that was."

"It was, but he was so sweet to me. He bought me chocolate and didn't make me feel embarassed."

"Awww that's so sweet," I'm unsure if I should say what I want to say next, but I decide to. "Arya, do you like him?"

"What? No! He's basically an adult. God Sansa, does everything have to come back to that?"

I chuckle, I'm not convinced. I hope we're always as close as we are now, she's the most consistent friend I've ever had in my life.

"Goodnight, Arya."

"Goodnight, asshole."

Chapter 36

Sansa Stark POV

At lunch today, people are talking about their Thanksgiving plans. Daenerys is going to see her father where he's staying with another one of her family members, and of course the Lannisters are hosting a big family event at their house.

"My grandmother is cooking her signature pumpkin pie, and then some family is gathering at my house," Margaery says. "Sansa, what does your family do for Thanksgiving?"

"It's always a big affair with us," I respond. "Robb is coming back to town. He wants us to meet his new girlfriend."

"Oh, I miss Robb," Jaime suddenly says. "I'll have to hit him up." Robb sometimes hung out with the popular crowd, but he was also pretty busy helping my mom and dad take care of us.

Ramsay keeps stealing glances at me. It feels like he might actually like me, but I'm trying not to overthink it. I'd rather assume a guy doesn't like me and then be pleasantly surprised, especially after what happened with Loras.

I'm honestly terrified about Thanksgiving. I know I'll have to eat more than I should. I'm already planning out how much I'll eat to get everyone off my back. I've been losing weight, but I can't fall off the wagon. I've lost almost 4 lbs so far. I don't have a goal weight, I'm just going to keep going until I like how I look.

Jon Snow Stark POV

Robb is coming into town tonight with his girlfriend. It's still interesting to me that he's bringing her home so soon, he never dated much in high school.

I invited Ygritte to come to Thanskgiving with us so she could meet Robb, but she said her family is hosting something.

"Are you excited to see Robb?" Ygritte asks me as I'm driving her home from school. We didn't have rock climbing practice today, but I still give her rides most days.

"I am," I say. "I really miss him. He was so helpful when he was here."

"He seems like a great brother."

"He is. We have so much fun, he really treats me like I'm part of his family."

"But you are."

"Technically, only halfway." There's a pause. I think she feels either awkward or sad about my family situation, or both.

When we get back to her house, I help her carry her things back to her room and of course we start fooling around again. I don't want this to be all our relationship is about, I think as we're cuddling after. We don't really talk much after we have sex, she tends to doze off. I'll have to take her on a real date over the break so she knows I'm in this for more than just the sex.

…

Around 8:30 p.m., I hear a knock at the door while I'm sitting on the couch. My mom goes to answer it, and sure enough it's Robb. We figured he'd be back later rather than sooner, the drive is a few hours.

"Robb, sweetheart!" My mom is overjoyed to see him, I think she was hoping he'd come back before Thanksgiving. He gives my mom a hug. "Kids! Robb's home!" She calls out. The rest of my siblings come downstairs and start hugging Robb. Once they're done, Robb walks up to me and gives me a hug.

"Jon!" He says. "I missed you buddy."

"I missed you too," I say to him. "It's hard looking after all these kids without you."

He doesn't respond to that. Instead, he gets all the kids and my parents to be quiet. "Everyone," he says. "This is Talisa." He gestures towards the girl standing next to him.

"Talisa, it's so lovely to meet you," my mom says, shaking her hand. She puts their bags by the front door. "Sit down. Tell us about yourself."

They all sit down in various seating areas in the living room. "This is Bran, Rickon, Arya and Sansa," my dad says, pointing to each of the kids. "Don't worry, you don't have to have that all memorized immediately." He laughs.

"Well," Talisa says quietly. "I'm a nursing school student. I really want to be a nurse, maybe in a trauma unit."

"Wow," my dad says. "That's a really intense job."

"Yeah," Talisa responds. "I want to help people when they're at their worst. It'll be a really fulfilling career, I think."

Robb smiles at her, he looks so in love. "Mom? Dad?" He asks. "We've had a long drive, would it be okay if we got settled?"

"Of course," my mom says. "You can take Robb's old room. Jon has no problem going to Bran and Rickon's room for the week."

"Oh," Robb responds. "Are you sure, mom? We don't mind being in separate rooms. I would hate to do that to Jon."

"It's fine," I say. "Let me just go get some of my stuff." Mom's right, I don't mind, but it would have been nice if she mentioned it to me first.

Talisa seems really sweet, but I can tell she's nervous talking to us. I get that, there's a lot of us. I'd be terrified meeting so many people in a family at once, especially this soon in a relationship.

Chapter 37

Sansa Stark POV

It's Thanksgiving Day, and Jon, Arya and I are helping my mom and dad cook and set up. Bran and Rickon are playing outside. Mom would have them help, but they tend to cause more trouble. Talisa and Robb are still sleeping, they've been sleeping in a lot since they got here. I've been going to bed earlier too, I'm just tired all the time. But at the same time, I have a hard time staying asleep. I've been slacking a little on my diet since we've had a break from cheer, but I need to get back to it after today.

As I'm helping mom cook, I hear my phone ding. I pull it out and see a text from a number I don't recognize.

*Happy Thanksgiving, beautiful. This is Ramsay. I got your number from Dany* the message says. I didn't think Dany had my number, but she must have gotten it from Margaery.

*Thank you :)* I respond. *You could have just asked me for my number.*

Ding. *I was too nervous. I didn't want you to think I was creepy.*

*I don't at all :).*

Ding. *Good. I hope you have an amazing holiday. Text me later 3.* It's really flattering that he got my number and wanted to talk to me. Maybe I can actually get a guy to like me.

…

We're sitting at the table after the food is served, and everyone is talking amongst themselves. At least they aren't focusing on how much I'm eating. I only got one bread roll and once slice of turkey, which is honestly more than I feel like I should have gotten. All of the sudden, Robb gets everyone's attention.

"Everyone," he calls out. My siblings all fall silent. "Talisa and I have something we need to tell you." There's a long pause, Robb looks incredibly nervous. "We're married. We got married a couple weeks ago."

It's so quiet, you could hear a pin drop. "What?" My mom asks.

"Robb, I know you aren't serious", my dad says. Robb just nods. "This isn't funny."

"Is Talisa pregnant?" My mom asks.

"No, she's not!" Robb yells angrily. "And she's right here, you don't have to talk about her like she's not here."

"I'm not pregnant, Mrs. Stark," Talisa says. "I just really love your son."

"What about college, Robb?" My mom asks. "We payed for you to live in the dorms for at least two semesters."

"And that's still the plan," Robb quickly answers. "Talisa's parents have the same plan for her. We're going to live in the dorms for two semesters like we planned, and then we'll move in together next summer. We're still finishing school."

Mom and dad are obviously not happy, but that seems to shut them up. Robb is only 19 and he just started college, not to mention he met Talisa in August. This is definitely something I wasn't expecting, but I'm excited for them.

Jon Snow Stark POV

This should be a fun weekend, hopefully. My 17th birthday is this Saturday, but I'm not having a party. Robb and Talisa are taking me, Ygritte, Sam and Gilly to lunch, and then I'm opening presents from my family in the evening and having cake. I've had a couple birthday parties, but I have a lot more fun just hanging out with a couple friends. My mom is usually crankier around my birthday, it just further reminds her of the affair my dad had. I try to stay even more out of the way when it's my birthday, it's easier that way. I told Robb I'm dating Ygritte, which shocked him but he's happy for me.

The rest of Thanksgiving dinner is pretty awkward. Mom isn't happy about Robb and Talisa getting married. I guess I understand, it is pretty quick and they're young.

Robb and I are sitting on the back porch late at night on Thanksgiving, and I have to ask him about this. "Why did you get married? I'm not judging, I just have to know."

Robb just smiles, like remembering that he has a wife makes him light up. "We just felt like it was right," he says. "We were talking, and we couldn't picture life without each other. I know it's quick, but I've never been more certain about anything, Jon."

"I believe you," I say. "It's just shocking to us, is all."

There's a pause. "So how's your first relationship?" Robb asks me.

"I really like her," I respond. "It's just scary. I don't want to mess it up."

"You won't, if she likes you she likes you. And if not, you don't need her." There's another long pause.

"So how far have you guys gone?" He asks me.

"We've…" I'm so nervous to tell him. "We've done it." I said it so quietly.

"What?" He sounds shocked. "I thought you would never."

"Well, we did," I say. "I couldn't stay away from her."

"Congrats, man," Robb says. "I'm excited to meet her."

…

We arrive at a cafe on my birthday with Ygritte, and Sam and Gilly are already there. I wish I could be more excited about my birthday, it's just never been a great occasion for me.

"Sam!" Robb gives him a hug before sitting down. Sam is basically the 7th Stark sibling, Robb knows him well.

"Hey Robb. This is Gilly," Sam responds. "So tell me about your wedding."

"We honestly just eloped one day," Talisa says. "We decided we love each other, and we wanted to build a future together."

"Aren't you a little worried with it being so soon?" Gilly asks.

"Honestly, not really," Robb responds. "We did what we felt was right, and we're sticking to it."

"Do your parents know?" I ask Talisa.

"They do," she responds. "We told them right after since they live right by the university."

"What was their reaction?" Ygritte asks.

"They were shocked, but they love Robb. We want to get both families together at one point, maybe during the summer."

This is all very sweet, but I could never act on a whim like that. It took me long enough to get a girlfriend, I can't imagine just getting married one day to someone I barely know. Robb and Talisa look very happy, but I do want to make sure he's making the right choices. I know I can't babysit him, I just hope this all works out.

Samwell Tarly POV

While I'm driving Gilly home after lunch, I'm thinking about what Robb did. I can't believe he just got married like that. It makes me realize how important it is to live in the moment sometimes.

Gilly is talking about something, but I'm too lost in my thoughts. "Gilly," I say. I feel bad cutting her off, but I need to ask her this before I chicken out.

"Yeah?" She's caught off guard. We pull up to her apartment building.

"Will you be my girlfriend?" I just spit it out. We've been dancing around the subject for a while, but we've been hanging out more and more. I've been getting the feeling that she likes me back, but I won't know until I ask.

She just looks at me. I think she's surprised. "What?" She asks.

"I've liked you for so long, I've wanted to ask you since the day I met you."

I'm convinced she's going to say no until she subtly nods. "Okay," she says quietly.

"Really?" I'm surprised she said yes.

"Yeah," she responds. "I've liked you for a while too."

I lean in very slowly, to give her plenty of time to stop me. She doesn't, and I kiss her softly on the mouth. "Bye, Gilly," I whisper. She smiles and walks into her apartment building. Once I see that she's gotten inside safely, I immediately pull out my phone and text Jon.

*I asked Gilly to be my gf! She said yes!*

Ding. *Yes! Congrats dude!*

I'm so happy, I drive home elated.

Chapter 38

TW: Medical problems related to EDs in this chapter

Sansa Stark POV

We're back at school, and today is Thursday, which means it's the first basketball game of the season. Cersei is throwing a party tomorrow night to kick off basketball season, apparently she does this every year. There's only about three weeks left until Christmas break starts. I'm kind of dreading the Christmas season, I slacked a lot on my diet over Thanksgiving break.

Ramsay and I have been texting a little bit. He's been so sweet. I know he seemed like a jerk when he was making fun of Theon, but that's kinda just how guys act together. I'm sure it's all in good fun. He and I have been texting about so many things, he's so easy to have a conversation with.

We're getting ready for the game in the locker room when it's revealed that Missandei is finally dating Grey Worm.

"What happened?" Daenerys asks Missandei.

"Many things," is all Missandei will say. "We went on a date over Thanksgiving break and afterwards one thing let to another." There's a shriek among the girls. I don't really know Missandei, but I'm happy for her. Apparently she's wanted him for a long time.

As I'm cheering in the first basketball game, I see Ramsay, Theon and Cersei in the crowd. I knew Cersei came to every basketball game to watch Jaime, and it's nice that Ramsay and Theon are also here now that football season is over. As we finish our last routine for the game, I start to feel really dizzy and lightheaded. I've been feeling like this off and on for a while this week. I somehow make it through the routine, but as I'm walking back to the bleachers, my vision goes black. I fall down, but I don't remember actually hitting the ground. Margaery comes over to me and I can hear her freaking out. She helps me up and I feel like I'm barely conscious. She walks me over to the nearby locker room and we sit down.

"What happened?" I ask her.

"You passed out a little bit!" She says. "Everyone else is finishing the winning routine, the coach said I could take you in here." She hands me some water and I start drinking. This must be because I didn't eat at all yesterday or today.

Margaery gets a protein bar out of her bag and tries to hand it to me. At first I wave it away. "Sansa," she says. "You need to eat something to get your blood sugar up. That's probably why you passed out." She's right. I take the protein bar and eat a couple bites. I don't even want to eat it, it feels wrong in my stomach. I guess my body feels weird consuming food after so long.

…

It's Friday, and I stayed home from school today just to be sure I was okay. It's nice to have a break, but it sucks that I have to miss Cersei's party tonight. My mom is making me drink Gatorade and eat decently, she arranged to work from home today. She doesn't know what caused me to pass out, but she assumes I must have been overworking myself and not drinking enough water.

A little after school would have ended, there's a knock at the door. I'm laying on the couch, and my mom insists on getting the door. When she opens it, Ramsay is standing on the porch.

"Can I help you?" My mom asks.

"Hello, Mrs. Stark," Ramsay says, extending his hand so she can shake it. "I'm Ramsay, I'm a friend of Sansa's and I just wanted to check on her."

"Sure, come in. She's on the couch."

Ramsay comes in, sits next to me on the couch and hands me a container. "I brought you some leftover stew my stepmom made," he says. "I thought you might like it."

"Thank you," I say. "You didn't have to do that. How did you find where I live?"

"Dany told me. I wanted to surprise you."

"I really appreciate it. I didn't know you knew what happened."

"I saw you pass out, and then Margaery and Daenerys told me what went down. I just wanted to make sure you were okay."

I just smile at him. My mom is in the kitchen, but she can't quite see us. Ramsay gives me a kiss on the head. "I'll text you later," he whispers before walking out the door.

"Sansa," I hear my mom say after he leaves. "Who was that boy?"

"He's just a friend from school," I reply. "He hangs out with Daenerys sometimes."

"How old is he?"

"He's a junior, why?"

"I just… wanted to know. No one who's just a friend comes by like that."

"Mom, he's really just a friend," I pause, unsure if I should say what I'm thinking. "But honestly, I think he might like me."

"If so, I need to get to know him more," my mom says as she walks upstairs. God, why does she have to be so nosy?

Cersei Lannister POV

It's almost time for the party that I'm throwing to celebrate the start of basketball season. Sansa isn't coming, which I'm glad about. At least tonight I don't have to pretend to like her.

Dany is helping me set up, and she's sleeping over tonight. I wish she was my actual sister, it would be nice to have one instead of Tyrion.

Jaime and I turn 18 on Christmas Eve, and we're throwing a huge 18th birthday/Christmas rager the day before. Father's firm always throws a Christmas party every year in a fancy hotel ballroom, and we convinced him to make this year's event a joint party with our 18th birthday. He stopped really doing anything for our birthday when his law firm started throwing these Christmas parties. It's not like I need to have my daddy throw me a birthday party as if I'm 7 years old, but it would be nice if he acknowledged it. The most we get for our birthdays these days is maybe a piece of cake each with a candle and some spending money, as if money makes up for us not having a mom or dad around.

That's part of why Dany and I are so close. I was there for her during her father's breakdown, and she stayed with us a lot before she was able to take care of herself. A family friend would stay with her at her house sometimes, but she preferred to stay with us. I'd do anything for that girl. Well, almost anything.

Jaime and I are also throwing this basketball season party to celebrate that we got into a university about a two hour drive away. We plan to live together during college under the guise of saving money, even though everyone knows we don't need to save money. I don't know what our excuse will be to live together after that, and I also don't know what I'm going to do about Euron betwee now and graduation time.

I'm excited for college, we can finally do what we want and we won't have to sneak around. Dany applied to the same college, but she applied late so she's still waiting to hear back. I'm sure she'll get in, she helps a lot with the homeless community by joining fundraisers and charity drives, and her grades are decent. I can't wait to spend 4 more years partying and enjoying myself, but without having to worry about our parents. And I'll finally be away from Tyrion, God that's the dream.

Jaime Lannister POV

The party is kicking into high gear, Cersei always goes all out for basketball season. I'm standing around with Ramsay, Theon and a couple of guys from the basketball team while Cersei is off with her friends and clinging onto Euron's arm. I wish she could be on my arm instead.

Grey Worm walks up to us. "Ramsay," he says. "Myranda is here, she wants to talk to you."

"Tell her to fuck off," Ramsay responds before taking a big swig of beer. He's getting tipsier. "I dumped her for a reason, and I've moved on. I already have my eyes on another."

"Who?" I ask.

"Sansa Stark," Ramsay responds with confidence. That gets Theon's attention.

"Really? A freshman?" Theon asks. Ramsay is the type of guy who you wouldn't think would go for a freshman.

"She's so sexy, and she'll be queen of Winterfell High one day," Ramsay has this all figured out. "I don't care that she's a freshman. I'm a great teacher."

"At what?" Theon asks.

"You know what, Reek. God, how are you such an idiot?" Ramsay responds, playfully shoving him. "I think she's into me, too. I just have to lock her down. That was the plan tonight, but she's not feeling well. I'll be asking her out very soon."

I know Ramsay is bad news, but I could see Sansa falling for him. He can really turn on the charm, I've seen him do it.

Cersei and I make eye contact from across the room and she waves me over. It's time for us to announce that we got into our top choice college.

Cersei goes up to the front of the room and clinks a knife against her glass. "Everyone, listen up!" She yells. Everyone goes quiet. "Jaime and I have an announcement to make."

I look over at Jaime and smile. He pulls out the acceptance letter from a drawer behind us and says, "We got into Southwestern University!" A series of cheers erupts from the room. Cersei and I cheers and take a drink from our glasses. It takes everything in me not to hug her and kiss her right now. I couldn't be happier about this outcome, college is the first step to our life together.

Cersei Lannister POV

Dany and I are drinking wine in my room after the party, just laughing and having fun being drunk. Ramsay, Theon and Grey Worm stayed over, but everyone else went home. We tried to get Missandei and Myranda to stay, but they're crashing at Missandei's place.

"I can't wait for college," I say to Dany. "If you get in, which I know you will, we're going to have so much fun."

There's a pause, and Dany's expression drops. "Cersei?" She asks me.

"Yeah?"

"I decided to take a gap year after graduation."

"What? I thought you also applied!" I'm so angry, she promised me.

"I did! If I get in, I'm deferring."

"But, why?"

"I need to make sure my dad is okay, he isn't ready to return to this house yet without me. I can spend those two semesters doing charity work and easing my dad into living alone again. I'll come visit all the time. Plus, Daario asked me to be official the other day. I want to stay close to him and see where it goes."

"So you're choosing a guy over your best friend?" I'm getting really angry now.

"Cersei, no! That's just one plus for me. The main reason is my dad."

I think for a second. I'll miss Dany so much, it really pisses me off that she would do this. But I also know I would do the same for Jaime if he needed it.

"How am I going to survive the first year of college without you?" I ask her.

"You'll have Jaime," Dany replies. "You know you can handle anything, Cers. You'll completely destroy anyone who gets in your way, I know you can do it. You've done it your whole life, with very little help from me."

I know she's right, it's just that going to college together was always the plan. This just proves to me that the only person who will ever be consistent in my life is Jaime. The thing I want most in life, above all else, is to be with him.

Chapter 39

Jon Snow Stark POV

I love being with Ygritte, but I'm still not used to having a girlfriend. I feel like not much has changed from when we were just friends, and then I get anxious that I'm not doing enough as a boyfriend. I want to take her on a nice date during winter break, we haven't had many real dates. The only really big thing that's changed from when we were friends is that we have sex now.

I take her home after rock climbing practice most days, and we usually have sex before I leave to go home. All the more reason to take her on a real date, so she knows I'm just not here for the sex.

I'm taking Bran and Rickon to baseball practice on Saturday, my mom and dad have a work meeting but they promised to pick him up. I wish they didn't have to work so much, I don't know why they signed us up for so many activities when they can't keep track of them. I don't know why they had so many kids in the first place.

Bran and Rickon are arguing in the back seat, they fought over who would get to ride shotgun so I told them nobody could. They're yelling at each other, and I'm pretty much tuning everything out until I hear Bran say, "I thought we would both get girlfriends before Jon would."

"Bran, I need you to stop making fun of my relationship," I say to him. "It's not funny anymore."

"I know what you guys do, I may be 10 but I'm not stupid," Bran says. Rickon is just laughing at him.

"What are you talking about, Bran?" I ask him. He wasn't usually this much of an asshole.

"I know what people in relationships do, I've seen it." I'm assuming he's talking about sex, but the way he's bringing it up is concerning me.

"What do you mean? When did you see that?" I ask as we pull up to their baseball practice. He goes silent and he and Rickon run out of the car and go to their baseball practice. I swear I understand my siblings less and less every day.

Sansa Stark POV

I got invited to Jaime and Cersei's 18th birthday party on December 22. It's supposed to be a huge deal, and it's combined with their father's law firm's Christmas party. I feel really honored to be invited, it's a fancy event.

Margaery and I are going shopping for a dress for the party. We went to a discount store, it's the only way I was able to buy a new dress. My mom wanted me to rewear my homecoming dress, but I really hate that thing. I shouldn't have wasted an opportunity to buy a new dress on that mostrosity.

"So have you been talking to any guys lately?" Margaery asks me as we're looking at dresses. We haven't had a lot of chances to gossip recently, I'm sure she would want to hear about Ramsay.

"Well actually," I begin. I'm nervous to tell her, as if she'll disapprove. It feels wrong because she really wanted me to be with Loras. "I think Ramsay Bolton likes me."

"Sansa," Margaery seems to not like that idea. "You can't go out with him. Pick anyone else, I swear any other option is better."

"Why? He came by my house after I passed out during the game and brought me food. He texted me happy Thanksgiving, and he told me I was beautiful at Dany's Halloween party."

"That's how it starts. He's always sweet talking at first, and then he takes a turn."

"How would you know?"

"Myranda dated him off an on for a long time, they had a really toxic relationship. I don't expect you to know about that because you weren't here, but trust me on this."

I hate that she tries to make me out to be some idiot because I'm a freshman, I didn't even know she and Myranda were that close. Just because Ramsay and Myranda had a bad relationship doesn't mean we would.

I eventually settle on a green dress that's a little sparkly. It's perfect for Christmas. I still hyper-focus on all of my fat and noticeably chubbier parts, but at least I'm still losing weight. My mom has been making me eat more since I passed out during the game, I think she is catching on that something's wrong. I just need to be sneakier about it. I hate that Margaery is so disapproving of who I want to date, as if it's any of her business. I obviously can't be with her brother, yet she has a problem with anyone else I want to be with. I feel like I can't win.

Jon Snow Stark POV

I'm taking Ygritte home from the last rock climbing practice before winter break, and I keep trying to think of stuff we can do for a date. I can't stop thinking about what Bran said, though. I have no idea why he would say he's seen people having sex, I don't know who he would mean besides maybe mom and dad. It concerns me that he says he's seen stuff like that.

Ygritte and I have sex after I help her bring her stuff in. I still worry about getting her pregnant, but I try to pull out even though we use condoms. I'm not always successful at pulling out, though.

"What do you want to do over winter break?" I ask Ygritte. "I was thinking I could take you on a real date."

"Didn't think you were the romantic type, Jon Snow," Ygritte responds. "There's supposed to be a lights festival at a local coffee shop that I read about."

"Oh right," I know what she's talking about. "They have that every year. I can try to reserve us a spot, but it fills up pretty quickly."

"That sounds like fun," Ygritte says as she starts to nibble on my neck. I can't control my moans when she does that. Before I know it she's down there and we're going at it again. I swear she'll be the death of me.