Disclaimer: Sadly, I own nothing except the plot.

A/N: This is the first chapter of my collection of short Dramione stories. I hope you like it. Tell me what you think. Feel free to give me suggestions. If I like your suggestion, I'll make a short story about it and give you credit for the idea. Thanks!

Thank you for my awesome beta, bzsilver!

Chapter 1: It hurts me to see you leave

There were two lovers. They became sweethearts when they were in their fifth year in Hogwarts. Draco Malfoy was a rich egotistical prat who lives to torment Hermione Granger, but he still loves her dearly. Hermione Granger on the other hand is a know-it-all bookworm who lives to put her boyfriend in place.

One day, Draco Malfoy received a very important owl requesting him to travel half way around the world to settle some business. The letter did not state how long he'd be gone and he's worried that he won't make it to Hermione's birthday.

"Draco, do you really have to go? I'm sure they can settle this business without you," Hermione stated.

"Love, this is important. Our future depends on this. It's for our own good," Draco replied as he hugged her.

"But won't you miss me while we're apart?"

"I'll miss you every second that I'm not at your side. I promise to owl you regularly. I promise. There's nothing you can do to stop me, I just have to do this,"

"You promise? Just be happy, Draco. I love you," Hermione smiled sadly at her departing boyfriend.

Draco Malfoy is a very strong man. He's good looking, a great wizard, talented at potions, and so much more. But there's one thing he isn't; he isn't ready to say the 'L' word.

"Hermione, you know tha-"

"I know Draco. I don't care. I know how you feel, and it makes me happy. Be careful, okay?"

"Ain't I always?" Draco laughed as he kissed his girlfriend goodbye.

Draco indeed kept his promise. They owled regularly for the next two months, talking about the changes in the business and stuff. On the third month, however; Hermione stopped responding. Draco was worried sick, but couldn't do anything because he still had work to do.

Draco was able to return to his flat during the fourth month. He hurriedly went to see his beloved to give her the ring he bought. He was going to propose to her at long last!

He knocked at her door. He knocked again but the door remained closed. He just waited outside her door until one of her neighbors told him of the unfortunate news.

Hermione had died because of an incurable disease.

Her neighbor handed him a letter that Hermione asked him to give to Draco.

Dear Draco,

You're back! I'm glad you're safe. If you're reading this, it means that I've moved on from this world. I knew that I had only months to live. I just couldn't bring myself to tell you that I was dying. I decided that maybe it was best to just enjoy the last few moments of my life. It pained me so much to see you leave. I wanted you to be there for me, but destiny has a different plan for us. I have no regrets, and neither should you. I was glad you were a part of my life. I'm thankful for all the memories I had with you. You made my life more meaningful. I love you. I know that you never told me, but I know you loved me. I love you, Draco. I just want you to promise me something. Be happy. I hope you never forget me.

-Hermione

He was torn apart. He loved her, but he never told her. He regreted being such a coward. She gave him a thing he never had; love. And now she's gone.

He locked himself in his home for four days. He was on the brink of insanity. He loved her so much and he never told her. What was he thinking?

On the fifth day, he went to the cemetery to visit her grave. He regretted leaving her.

From that day on, he vowed to leave flowers on her grave. It was all he could do to show her how much he loves her.

A/N: Please tell me what you think.