Author's Notes: All of my stories come from one random burst of ideas or another - which is exactly what happened with this one. IMO, this is one of my more interesting fics.

DISCLAIMER: I want Draco all to myself. Even Harry will do. But... no such luck.

What He Wants

Dear Hermione,

Remember that day back in Second Year, that first time I'd called you a Mudblood? Do you know why I did? It was because you'd angered me so much, with your countless talents and abilities. Being the Golden Boy's second-in-command only added to all the glory. Even back then, a mere two years after we'd met, I knew already that I would never be good enough for you.

Truth is, I fell in love with you long before you made designated me your arch-nemesis. I'm not sure exactly when it was, that our verbal wars and temper tantrums became something that I actually looked forward to. But – perhaps inevitably – it did, and that scared me. Being brought up in a strict Pureblood family, with threats of arranged marriage at any moment, how was I supposed to react? And yet… that day, the first time you genuinely smiled at me, I knew I was utterly and hopelessly in love.

The last year we've spent together has only proven my verdict - my fate, I guess you could say. As I pen these words, I know I'd never be able to say them straight to your face – I'm too much of a coward. You have to realize that I am a broken man; there is too much grief and pain left in me from the war. I may be damaged beyond control, not worth saving, but you do not have to suffer such a fate. I never want to hurt you, Hermione. I don't want you to have to deal with such a life. Though my heart breaks as I write this out, I need you to believe me when I say that it's for the best.

I can only hope that you will understand, and that you will not wish to hex me to Hell and beyond when you receive this. You are better off without me, you see. There are others out there who can grant you a happy life – perhaps even more.

Forever yours,

Draco Abraxas Malfoy

Running a hand through his ginger hair, he contemplated the consequences. You don't have to do this, his conscience nagged. But Ron Weasely had always been a selfish man. And so, he did.

So, what did you guys think? Should there be a sequel? It's a one-shot as of now, but that could always change... :)