Well, here it begins…a sequel to "In the Shadows"—created primarily as a birthday gift for a friend of mine! Happy Birthday to Jonah (aka, part of Ferret2)…I began work on this in order to present chapter 1 as a birthday present to you. Hopefully I'll have the 7th (and final) chapter ready as a birthday gift to the other half of Ferret2…I hope you both like it.
Out of the Shadows
A sequel to "In the Shadows""There is nothing—absolutely nothing—worse than this moment," muttered Draco Malfoy, drumming his fingers on the table.
"Nobody here is thrilled about this," Ron Weasley muttered back, stabbing his fork into his pile of mashed potatoes, "believe me."
"Ron." Hermione turned towards Draco and forced a small smile. "This is for Ginny's benefit, remember that, Malfoy."
Draco felt the sneer fade slightly from his face. "Right."
"Well, then, how about it all?" Molly Weasley cried, a cheery smile on her plump face. "We're almost ready here, let's go ahead and dig in!"
Draco sighed and slowly picked up his fork, watching in disgust as the red-headed group around him began shoveling the piles of food lining the table onto their plates—and into their faces.
Ginny Weasley came out of the kitchen behind her mother, her red hair pulled into a high twist. Draco forced a small grin, and tasted a bit of the vegetables on the side of his plate.
They weren't half bad, actually.
Ginny grinned at him, and he blushed slightly, trying to bury his head behind the basket of rolls Mrs. Weasley had just set on the table—and ignoring the snickering stares of the rest of the Weasley family.
If my father knew I was here…
He shuddered to think of what his father might have in store for him if Lucius knew Draco was dining with his (almost) worst enemies.
Potter, luckily enough for him, was not here.
At least not for the moment.
"Mr. Malfoy, is everything to your liking?" Mrs. Weasley asked suddenly, casting a smile his way. Though her face appeared cheery enough, her eyes didn't crinkle at the sides, as he'd seen her smile at Potter.
She still didn't trust him.
Should I blame her?
"Thank you, Mrs. Weasley, everything is…wonderful."
"Good. Well, then, Draco, if there is anything else you might need, you just let us know, all right?"
"Yes Ma'am."
The rest of the Weasleys glanced his way, the twins throwing him identical hateful stares. Draco pushed the rest of the food on his plate around with his fork.
In truth, he had no idea what half of this stuff was. He'd gotten used to less than gourmet dishes at Hogwarts, but this was just…just…
"Difficult to get used to, isn't it?" Ginny said, taking her seat beside him. "It's not exactly what the House Elves might serve at Malfoy Manor, I know."
"N-no…its fine…I'm not too hungry…is…"
"It's alright, Draco," Ginny whispered. "I don't expect you to get used to things immediately—all of this will take time. I certainly won't be feeling comfortable the next time I visit Malfoy Manor."
She smiled at him, and he returned the smile, a genuine one this time. His grin faded as Ginny's eyes tightened for a moment.
He frowned, thinking back to the last time Ginny had visited his home. The only time—she had been made a prisoner of his Aunt Bellatrix, and subject to his Aunt's cruel curses.
But now she's dead…
His fork clattered to the floor.
My mother killed her…
"Draco?"
Ginny drew closer to him, holding his dropped fork. The rest of the table stared at him in silence, Granger watching him in apparent concern.
He snatched the fork out of Ginny's hand. "I'm fine."
Ginny sat back, huffing a bit.
A loud moan rattled the timbers above them.
"Oh, honestly," cried Mrs. Weasley, blushing. The eldest brother with the dragon fang earring—Sam…John…Bob…? clanged on a nearby stovepipe.
"That thing will never shut up," remarked one of the twins. "You should just let us get rid of it for you, Mum."
"Right. And have you destroy half the rooftop while you're at it? That ghoul has never really bothered anyone, he'll stay where's he's at, thank you very much. And so will my rooftop!"
Draco snorted; Ginny kicked him under the table. But she was grinning as well.
The Weasel frowned at him again. Conversation returned to normal around the Weasley table, and Draco observed the family at ease, acting almost as though he wasn't there—the first real instance he'd ever been to "The Burrow".
He would never let his family know this—not even his House Elves—but it wasn't all that bad.
"You've lived here all your life—haven't you ever wanted…a change?" Draco asked, turning to glance at Ginny for a moment.
Ginny laughed softly. Draco hadn't been terribly comfortable during dinner, but Ginny had expected as much. Life at the Burrow was extraordinary even for people like Harry—and he'd spent the first ten years of his life locked away in a closet.
"Of course I've wanted a change. But this is the family I have, and this is the situation we are in. I wouldn't change my family, of course—so I've learned to live with everything."
"I'm sorry, Ginny…I don't mean to be…"
"But you are. I'm sorry Draco, but you are. You're a Malfoy." She reached up and brushed aside a strand of his silver-blond hair. "I've learned to live with that, strange as it may be."
"Strange?"
"Yes, strange. As strange as a Malfoy choosing to be with a Weasley. There's nothing wrong with admitting that—so long as we don't let others influence our choices."
"Like your brothers?"
"Well, that, as well as the whole of Slytherin House."
"And Gryffindor."
"And Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw, for that matter!" Ginny giggled. "Probably some of the teachers too, poor souls. We're just a problem for everyone."
"Except us."
She turned to him; for the first time that evening, his eyes were serious.
"Except us," she whispered back.
He leaned in towards her.
"OUCH!"
Draco leapt from the bench, grasping at his ankle. "What was that?"
Ginny frowned, peering at the bite. And sighed.
"Garden Gnomes. They have nasty teeth."
"You have Gnomes in your garden?"
"Everyone does. Just not everyone has gardeners to tend to them." She rose, pulling out her wand.
"Flipendo."
A small, potato-headed creature staggered out from beneath the bench.
"Do you want to have some fun?" she asked coyly, reaching down to pick up the ugly creature.
Draco raised an eyebrow. "Fun?"
Ginny swung the Gnome above her head, then flung it out onto the dirt path beside the Burrow.
"What does that do?"
"They become so disoriented, they don't know what they're about. They'll lose their way and won't be able to find their Gnome-hole again. So they'll make a new one, away from the garden."
He pulled out his wand slowly, a playful sneer slowly spreading across his face. "My goodness, Ginny, you're just so terribly romantic."
She leaned over to him, brushing his hair from his face, and drew him into a kiss. "My dear Malfoy," she said softly, after releasing him. "You have to earn your way to everything around here."
"He did what? " Harry asked, his eyes widening.
"Helped clean out the garden. The entire garden. They were out there until 4 am," giggled Hermione, clearing the breakfast plates from the table. "I've never seen anything like it. It was amazing."
"It was bloody disgusting, it was. Malfoy. Cleaning out our garden like…like he was a part of the family." Ron glared at Hermione from his position in a nearby armchair.
"Looks like someone didn't get much sleep last night," Hermione said with a small smile.
"Don't worry, Ron, its not as bad as it seems, I'm sure," said Harry with a grin.
"I can't believe this! First Ginny convinces my mother, and now the both of you!"
Harry glanced at Hermione, who smiled at him.
"Relax, Ron. We're not going to become his best friends, you know."
"I bloody hope not—because I might have to employ some of those jinxes we've been studying for DA. You know—the really nasty ones."
"What did you find out, Harry?" Hermione asked, ignoring him. "Did you learn anything from the Professor Dumbledore?"
"No." Harry settled down at the table, brushing his hair from his face. The night had been a long one. "Professor Dumbledore still hasn't figured out what we're going to do about the upcoming school term. And he wouldn't tell me much anyway."
"Certainly they do not expect an attack like the last one?"
"He has no idea what to expect," said Harry, glancing between her and Ron. "That Bellatrix Lestrange was capable of such a massive attack against Hogwarts has he and the rest of the Order concerned, obviously. But short of canceling the term, there is little he can do to ensure the absolute security of the students."
"I would imagine the parents understand that the teachers have done everything they can to protect the students. What happened with Bellatrix was unpredictable," Hermione said, sitting down next to him. "No one even began to fathom she could produce such an army."
"That is what worries Professor Dumbledore," replied Harry. "That no one, not even her close family, knew what she had planned."
"They knew about the Dementors," said Ron harshly. "They just chose not to tell."
"How in the wizarding world did she manage to amass such a group so close to Hogwarts, though? That's what concerns them. Even if the Death Eaters concealed the fact that they had gathered such a large army, the idea that they could get so close to Hogwarts—right on the front doorstep—without any of the protective spells being affected or any of professors being able to sense them…that's what remains troubling."
"Most of that had to do with that fellow Roget, though, aren't I right?" asked Hermione. "Because he was in charge of the protective spells surrounding Hogwarts. Now the Ministry knows better. I'm certain they'll employ more than one person to protect the school."
"Yes…but how many of the employees of the Ministry might be Death Eaters? Or against Professor Dumbledore? We cannot be certain whether they'll provide the appropriate protection."
"So…they're just going to cancel term?" Hermione asked, wide-eyed. Harry shook his head slowly.
"Hopefully not. I would hate to go back to Privet Drive."
"Why not just stay here, then? You can live at the Burrow. We might even be able to have Hermione around, to keep us up on our lessons—although on the other hand..."
"Very funny, Ron."
"Believe me, I wish I could…but I can't. If it looks like term won't begin, I'll have to return to my Aunt's house."
"Why, Harry?"
He glanced up at her. "I…I can't say. But believe me when I say its important."
"He just loves muggles. Can't get enough…doesn't want to stay away. Perhaps he should go live with them for good."
Harry frowned as they turned to the door. Draco Malfoy was leaning against the frame, a cruel smile on his face.
"What's wrong, Malfoy? Run out of Garden Gnomes to throw about?"
The grin disappeared from the Slytherin's face. "What are you doing here, anyway? I thought you'd be staying in London, with that namby-pamby of a Headmaster. 'Oh, precious Potter, can't let him out on the street, he might stub his toe and then we're all lost.'"
"Shut up, Malfoy," Ron hissed, rising.
"Make me, Weasel. Or maybe we can get your Mum to do it."
"At least my Mum…"
"Ron!"
"RONALD!"
"Harry!"
Harry glanced past Malfoy; behind him stood Mrs. Weasley and Ginny. Mrs. Weasley had her arms crossed and was glaring at Ron, but Ginny was smiling, and brushed past her boyfriend.
"Harry! I'm so glad you've come back! We were worried!"
"Hello, Ginny. Glad to be back."
"Did you have a safe journey?"
"Ginny!"
Ginny turned, a confused expression on her face. "What?"
Malfoy had straightened, a slight pink tint to his face. "Don't we have to work on that thing for your Mum?"
"What thing?"
"You know, that thing…"
"What are you talking about?"
"You know…"
"No, I don't…"
"Its alright, Ginny. Ron and I have to talk to Harry anyway," said Hermione with a smile, looping one arm around Harry's and grasping Ron by his jumper. "If you'll excuse us, Mrs. Weasley, we'll all catch up later."
"Of course, dear," said Mrs. Weasley, a conspiratorial grin on her face.
Harry waved a small goodbye to the group as Hermione yanked him through the doorway, knocking him into the back of Ron's head. When all three were out of the Burrow, Hermione bent over, giggling.
He frowned as he straightened his glasses. "What was that all about?"
"He was jealous! " gasped Hermione between giggles. "Couldn't you see? He was jealous—of you!"
"Who…Malfoy?"
"Yes! Because of the way Ginny spoke to you! He was so jealous his face was going green!"
Harry grinned. "I wish I'd been paying more attention."
Ron crossed his arms, looking quite put off. "I don't find that funny. "
Hermione straightened back up, stifling the rest of her giggles at the sight of Ron's face. "You only say that because you dislike him."
"OF COURSE I BLOODY DISLIKE HIM! HE'S MALFOY!"
Hermione sighed. "You've been like this ever since Ginny started dating Malfoy. You can't keep running in circles forever, Ron. Something has to change on your part."
"He should change on HIS part."
"He HAS, Ron. He has changed quite a bit since last term. You haven't noticed because you've been blinded by your hatred of him. For Ginny's sake, though, he is trying."
"Oh really? How?"
"Well, for one thing we haven't gotten into a spells duel—other than that one Fred and George tried to start and which your mother quickly put an end to—and…well, he hasn't called me a m-mudblood once."
Harry turned to her. "He hasn't?"
"Not once."
"That really is something."
"I can't believe you'd give him even a little bit of sympathy, Hermione! Did you hear what he just said? Besides that, he's Malfoy! He's never been 'good' or even remotely close to it!"
"Ron, people change. Ginny certainly has—she's nothing like she used to be. And now she's changing Malfoy."
Ron made a face, crossing his arms. "I'll believe it when I see it."
"You know, it doesn't help matters if you think like him," Hermione huffed, "you're supposed to be the good one, but you act just like the Malfoys, without any tolerance for anyone else! I suppose that once you've set your opinion, there is no changing your mind!"
"Probably not!"
"Then you're just as bad as they are!"
"All right!" Harry said, stepping between them. "That's enough. We'll do what Hermione says and let Malfoy alone—"
"WHAT?"
"—Until he bothers us. And when he does, the consequences are on his head."
Ron looked slightly pacified; Hermione turned away from them both.
"Fine. Just don't do anything foolish…for Ginny's sake."
"This is what you were talking about?" Ginny mumbled, tossing aside a tattered piece of cloth. "Cleaning out the attic?"
Draco narrowed his eyes, refusing to turn to her. "Your mum mentioned something about it."
"But you took her seriously. She's always complaining about the attic! You didn't have to volunteer!"
"I thought you wanted me to be nice to your family!"
"There are some things that even you shouldn't be forced to do." Ginny sat back on her legs, rubbing her eyes for a moment. Her pretty red hair was covered in dust. The ghoul hadn't shown yet, but that hadn't stopped him from making quite a bit of noise trying to chase them out.
She turned to him, suddenly smiling. "But I'm grateful you're being considerate. There are some things you shouldn't be forced to do, but you're doing them anyway, and you haven't complained once."
Draco's heart fluttered a moment. " 'S nothing…"
She grinned, and turned back to her pile of junk, stifling a sneeze. Draco turned back to his own mess, thumbing delicately through what looked like an old boot, a strange sort of pointed device with a long cord, and a broken compass.
"What IS all this?"
"Mmmm…mostly Dad's old junk. We have a shed in the back where he keeps the stuff he's working on, but Mum makes him clean it out periodically. If there's something he doesn't want to get rid of, he tends to try and hide it in here."
"So…some of this stuff is…muggle stuff."
"Yeah…anything with this," she held aloft a long cord that had two blunt pieces of metal sticking it out of the end, "is a muggle device. There are other things here too, but I'm not certain which are muggle things and broken wizard things."
Draco wrinkled his nose. "Either way…"
"Don't worry, they won't bite you!" she laughed.
He smiled as she covered her mouth with her hands, trying to stifle her giggles.
He was still surprised that he was sitting here, in a dusty, moldy attic, with a girl that had, only months before, been considered one of his worst enemies. Sister to the Weasel, friend of Hermione Granger, his greatest classroom rival (and a muggleborn to boot) and, of course, supposedly the girl meant for Harry Potter, the person he hated most in the world.
He rose, moving towards her, and placed a hand on her face.
"What?" she asked, her laughter dying away. "What is it?"
"I…just wanted to make sure this was real."
Her face softened. "Draco…"
Draco leaned in to her, pulling her towards him.
From somewhere above them, the ghoul rumbled softly in the upper eaves of the house.
Ginny pulled him closer to her, wrapping her arms around him, deepening the kiss.
There was a soft whistling sound from somewhere outside, followed by the sound of shattering glass.
Ginny pulled away from him. "Wha…"
An explosion of bright light filled the attic; the ghoul shrieked and rattled the timbers so violently that the entire house shook. From above them there was a popping sound, and Draco barely managed to pull Ginny to the floor as a wash of liquid poured down upon them.
The ghoul's moaning stopped, and the house stilled. Draco wiped his face, trying to move the purplish goo out of his eyes.
Ginny was gaping at the room, which was completely covered in the sticky, lavender mess. Identical giggles were filtering up from the backyard. Ginny's eyes widened, and she bolted towards the broken window.
"Fred! George!"
"Ginny! Were you up there?"
"YOU KNEW PERFECTLY WELL WE WERE UP HERE YOU PRATS!"
"Sorry Gin! We were trying out the new Ghoul repellent! It won't happen again!"
"YOU BET IT WON'T!!"
Ginny pulled out her wand, slipping through the goo towards the door. Draco watched her open-mouthed.
"Ginny…Gin! Wait…" he struggled through the muck as she slid through door.
"You can't use magic! Ginny…Wait!!"
"Some things are so good they're worth taking a picture of," said Ron contentedly.
"Ron, that wasn't funny," Hermione remarked, though she was having a difficult time maintaining her frown.
"Malfoy…covered in purple muck…and you don't think that was funny?"
"Not when Fred and George caused it."
"That's why its funny."
"Honestly."
"You have to admit, Hermione…it was a little funny," Harry said, looking up from The Daily Prophet he'd been studying.
"Alright…fine. It was funny. Ha ha. Malfoy covered in slime. A jolly good laugh. I just don't understand why you all have to be so juvenile about this. He's Ginny's boyfriend. You're not going to drive him away by playing such stupid tricks. You're just going to make her angry."
"Anything that humiliates Malfoy is worth Ginny's anger."
"You're not going to say that when you end up in outer Mongolia because of a piece of Shepard's Pie you ate. Remember what happened to Fred and George last year?"
Ron sighed. "Alright. I'll stop teasing him."
Hermione smiled. "Thanks."
"…while you're around."
"RON!"
"Look at this!" Harry interrupted. He unfolded The Daily Prophet in front of them. "Narcissa Malfoy is going before the Wizengamot tomorrow."
Hermione leaned over his shoulder. "Goodness. Should we show this to Malfoy? Or do you think he already knows?"
"I don't think he knows—if he did, he'd probably be gone by now. But do you think telling him is a good idea?"
"Well, he should know…it is his mother, after all. He has the right."
"But that would be helping him."
Hermione turned around, glaring at Ron. "Ron!"
"I think Hermione's right this time, mate. It is his Mum. Wouldn't you want him to tell you if your Mum was in trouble?"
Ron pulled himself up from his chair. Fine. But I'm not going to be the one to say anything—you tell him."
Harry grinned. "Oh, right…"
"I'll do it," said Hermione snatching the paper from Harry's hands. "At least he knows I would tell the truth."
"Fine by me."
"Alright."
"BOYS. " Hermione mumbled, rolling her eyes.
"Thanks."
Draco took the paper from Hermione's hands, staring at the picture on page seven.
Ginny took his hand. "It will be alright, Draco."
"I wonder why the Crumholtzes didn't tell me of this…I would have thought the Manor would have informed them. At least before The Daily Prophet informed me."
"Perhaps they haven't seen the news yet. Some of the people who report for the Prophet have very good sources."
"Better than my own Mother?"
Hermione and Ginny exchanged glances.
"I'd better return to the Crumholtzes. They'll be wondering why I have not yet come back to their Manor."
"Alright then, we'll see you tomorrow?" Granger asked timidly. Draco threw her a snide look.
"Right."
Ginny sighed, chastising. He rolled his eyes. "I will see you tomorrow…Granger."
"Goodbye."
Ginny walked out with him, down the dirt path through the front of The Burrow gate. "Thanks for that, Draco."
He shrugged. "I don't know when I'll be back tomorrow."
"Just drop on by when you can." Her face saddened. "I hope you've had a good time."
He placed a finger under her chin, and raised it. "I have had a good time. Your parents have been great, and your brothers…well…"
"Draco, they drive me mad!"
"Alright then, they drive me mad. But I've been here with you, so that's fine."
She threw her arms around him. "You really are…just…amazing."
"Goodnight, Ginny."
"Goodnight."
She kissed him softly. For a moment, he felt a bit lightheaded.
And very glad he had come.
The walk to Castor Manor wasn't very far. The massive castle was only a short broom ride away from Ottery St. Catchpole, the tiny village where The Burrow was. But the Manor sat a full five miles into the property, and was concealed carefully from prying eyes.
Which meant he had a very long walk.
His Mother had insistedthat he stay with someone close to The Burrow; why she didn't just let him remain at Malfoy Manor was beyond him, but he figured it might have something to do with those meetings that still (to his knowledge) took place in the dungeons.
The problem was, the Crumholtzes disapproved of Floo travel: a poor man's method, he'd heard Mr. Crumholtz state many a time, despite the fact that the Malfoys, and many other reputable families, used the Floo constantly, because of their children. Apparating was out of the question with the Crumholtzes—he wouldn't dare ask them to arrive anywhere near The Burrow. And there was no point in creating a Portkey—the villages were too close—and the key too dangerous.
With the village of Ottery St. Catchpole so near, he couldn't ride his broom, and riding in Mr. Weasley's elected form of transport—a muggle car—was absolutely out of the question.
So, like a common muggle, Draco walked.
He didn't mind so much; the walk allowed him to clear his head. He tended to forget, when he was with Ginny, of the proud traditions his family upheld. He wanted to keep those feelings as close to his heart as he could—mainly to remember that the majority of his life existed away from the Weasleys, in Slytherin. It also prevented the Crumholtzes from growing suspicious.
His mother had arranged he stay with them because they were a family intimately connected with the Malfoys for many generations. His Mother would not explain to him how, exactly—an excuse Draco took to mean they were Death Eaters.
He was glad, however, she'd arranged it. He cared about Ginny very much, but he didn't think he could stay at The Burrow, no matter how much he wanted to see her.
The walk up the wide lane was dark, lined with elm trees that cast a strange shadow over the rocky landscape. Castor Manor, seated in a small vale in the distance, was massive—and cold, after the warmth and comfort of The Burrow. Malfoy Manor was much grander, but Castor Manor's eerie atmosphere made it feel familiar—and a bit ominous. The still waters of the lake were just a bit too still; the bushes around the house just silent enough to warrant suspicion.
Jakob Crumholtz was waiting for Draco as he entered the massive sitting area, a copy of The Daily Prophet spread across his lap.
He stared at Draco for a moment; Draco knew he was studying him to see if he was aware of the news.
"Hello, sir."
"Draco."
There was an awkward silence.
"I heard about Mother, Mr. Crumholtz."
The gentleman sighed, refolding the paper. "I had a feeling they would inform you. I suppose there was no help for it. Draco, you must return to the Manor, and await the news from Azkaban."
"Are they really expecting the trial this quickly?"
"Of course. I needn't explain about the power your family has within the wizarding world."
"No sir."
"Well then, we've have settled the matter. I will escort you home this evening."
"NO!"
Mr. Crumholtz turned, his eyes narrowed. "Your Mother will be awaiting your return."
"My…my Mother?"
"She has been afforded a special privilege…she was allowed to return to the Manor today, in order to prepare for her trial."
"She's at home? Why did no one inform me of this?"
"She did not want to…disrupt your 'visit'. Extremely considerate of her."
Draco frowned. "Of course I will return, as soon as I am able."
"Able? I take this to mean you're not leaving at this moment?"
"I will leave tomorrow, as early as I can."
"Draco, why ever would you want to stay when she needs you most?"
"I have to explain to my—acquaintances—why I must leave," he said, refusing to look up. "I can't just abandon them without a word of explanation."
The expression on Mr. Crumholtz's face turned dark. "I've agreed to allow you to stay here because of the allegiance I hold for your father, and all he believed in. Assisting you in working against his wishes is the not exactly rewarding his loyalty to our cause."
"Just one day, Mr. Crumholtz. Then you shall be rid of me and my unpopular ideals."
"Unpopular? You are shaming your family, Draco…your Father, and all he stands for…"
"One more day, Jakob," interrupted a voice from the foyer. Mrs. Crumholtz, one of his mother's very best friends, came up behind him, her thin nose raised, and placed her long fingers on his arm. "Narcissa approves of this, and I shall not go against her wishes, no matter how…distasteful it might be."
Mr. Crumholtz frowned, but said nothing. His wife smiled thinly at Draco.
"You have one day, Draco. But that is all. Your Mother needs you—and know who is visiting them now."
"Do you mean Harry Potter?" The Crumholtzes seemed to grimace at the name. Draco raised an eyebrow. "Is something going to happen?"
"Not particularly—except…wherever he goes, who knows what danger might follow? You have one day."
"Are you happy, Ginny?"
Ginny glanced sideways at Hermione, who was curled up against one of the trees the lined the back of their yard. Harry, Ron, the Twins, and Bill were playing a rowdy game of Quidditch, practicing, Ron said, for the upcoming year. Even though Ginny would be a Chaser on the team, her brothers had insisted it would be "too rough."
Harry, catching her expression, had been slightly more genteel, insisting that she stay on the ground to keep Hermione company. Ginny gave him the benefit of the doubt.
"I suppose so…why?"
Hermione sighed. "It just seems so odd—such a difficult match."
"That's because it is an odd and difficult match."
Her friend laughed. "At least you realize the truth about things. I never would have imagined Malfoy could be anything close to what he is like now. But he is, and I suppose that is all for your benefit."
"I hope so. But I also hope that he wants to change for his own good, not just for me."
"I don't know if he has any 'good' beyond you."
"Don't say that!" Ginny snapped. "Every person has some good in them!"
"Everyone? What about Lord Voldemort?"
Ginny jumped. It still surprised her to hear Hermione speak of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named so casually. Harry had done it for quite some time, but he'd never really referred to You-Know-Who as You-Know-Who. Hermione had, though—but then again, she was muggle-born, it was probably no surprise she could address him by his name so quickly without flinching.
She'd never really known what it was like living her whole life afraid of a man who was no longer a shadow.
"He doesn't count as a person."
"Right." Hermione's gaze was fixed on the skies, where Harry, standing in for Ginny, was trying his best to get around Ron and score a goal. The practice, after all, was much more for Ron's benefit than anyone else's—and Harry needed little practice as a Seeker.
"Are you happy, Hermione?"
"What?"
"You asked me if I was happy. Are you happy?"
"I'm quite happy. Other than being afraid for Harry, and for Ron, and for you, and your family, and my family, and the teachers, and the Order…and what's coming…I suppose I'm quite happy."
Ginny giggled. "Sorry. I just…wonder, sometimes…how you feel."
Hermione turned to her, a pink blush spreading across her face. "Feel…"
"You know…"
"I don't know. I just don't know." She turned back to the Quidditch game, where Ron was zooming excitedly around the makeshift keeper goals they had erected from one of their mother's washtubs and a set of poles Bill had "extended". Harry was staring at him with a sour expression, until he caught sight of Hermione and Ginny, at which point he grinned and waved. Ron, watching Harry, turned and waved as well.
Hermione grinned and waved back; as the twins sent their bludger (one of their dad's old shoes, actually, again enchanted by Bill) zooming at Ron's head, calling for him to resume the game, her smile faded. "I just don't know."
Ginny nodded. "We'll just have to wait, then, and see."
"No…leave that…leave that ALONE!"
Harry peered around the corner of the stair, into the kitchen of the burrow, where Ginny was chasing after one of the twins with a ladle.
"GIVE THOSE BACK TO ME! MUM!!!"
"Fred—George! Place those eggs back on the table."
"But Mum…they don't have the proper ingredients. "
"That's right, Mum…and with Malfoy coming over we have to add our special seasonings," came another voice from somewhere within the kitchen.
"He'll be here any minute! You better let me have those, or the next place you go won't be within apparating distance!"
"Muuu-uuummm…Ginny's threatening to Floo us somewhere again!"
"FRED, GEORGE, GINEVRA WEASLEY!!! YOU STOP THIS RACKET THIS INSTANT!!! GEORGE, SET THOSE DOWN RIGHT NOW!! GINNY, PUT AWAY YOUR WAND! YOU BETTER HOPE YOUR FATHER DOESN'T COME IN HERE AND FIND YOU LIKE THIS!!!"
Harry chuckled; life at the Burrow was often chaotic—and Harry enjoyed it very much. The door behind him creaked open, and he turned, expecting to find Mr. Weasley coming for breakfast after working in his garage.
Draco Malfoy entered instead, his face darkening as he caught sight of Harry. "Still here, Potter?"
"I should ask the same of you, Malfoy. What are you doing here so early?"
"I, unlike you, was invited."
"I was invited, Malfoy…although I, unlike you, have been told I don't need an invitation."
"Well, maybe you should consider more carefully the invitations you choose to accept…especially now."
Harry narrowed his eyes. "What do you mean?"
"Did it never occur to you that you might be putting people in danger here?"
Harry stared at him for a moment. "What do you know, Malfoy?" he asked slowly.
"Nothing in particular. But I have it on very good authority that the Death Eaters know you're here. Which means the Dark Lord knows you're here. You've been particularly lucky before—you might even survive again, should they come for you—but that doesn't mean everyone else here would. Mrs. Weasley, her family, Granger…Ginny. They're all in danger—just because you are here."
Harry watched him silently. Malfoy had a nasty sneer on his face, but his gray eyes were perfectly serious.
"Why don't you think of someone other than yourself for once. Might have helped you in the past, with Diggory and…that convict you were hanging around with."
Harry balled up his fist, rage coursing through him. Sharp tears pricked the back of his eyelids. "Malfoy…"
Malfoy grinned at him evilly. "Touch a nerve, Potter?"
"Malfoy?" Hermione came down from the stairs, a puzzled look on her face. "You weren't supposed to be here for another hour or so."
Malfoy turned to her, looking slightly displeased. He swallowed, but replied in a cordial voice, "I cannot stay. I just came to say goodbye."
"Goodbye?" Ginny emerged from the kitchen, her hair slightly mussed, and still holding the ladle. "Why goodbye? You were supposed to stay here another week."
"I can't. My Mother…"
Ginny's face fell. "Right. The Wizengamot. I'm sorry, Draco, I was not thinking."
"Don't worry," he pushed past Harry. "I didn't know either. The Crumholtzes told me that I should return to the Manor. I wouldn't leave so suddenly if…"
"I know, Draco. If you need to leave, I can explain to Mum and Dad."
"No, I'll give my apologies to your mother." Ginny took Draco into the kitchen. Harry watched them go.
"What's wrong, Harry?" asked Hermione, staring at him. He hadn't realized she was still standing there. His fist was still tightly closed, his nails digging so sharply into his skin he'd drawn blood.
"Nothing," he muttered, turning away from her.
They're all in danger—just because you are here.
"Harry…"
"We'd better go say goodbye to Malfoy."
"What?"
Harry shook his head, moving towards the kitchen.
"Well, now…we'll certainly miss having you around, Draco. But I am glad you were able to come and stay with us for a short while."
"Thank you, Mrs. Weasley," Draco smiled genuinely. For all the quirks of the Weasley family, Mrs. Weasley really was a nice person. A bit odd, of course—and certainly different from any mother he'd ever met. But she was a bit like Ginny, which made him…appreciate her.
Not that Mother will ever know that.
"Bye, Malfoy…we're so sorry to see you go so soon," sneered the twins in unison. Ginny glared at them.
The other Weasley brother…Benny? nodded at him. He was kinda quiet…and that dragon fang earring was really rather smart. Of any of the Weasleys, other than Ginny, Draco probably liked him most.
The Weasel, Granger, and Potter were standing together, in the corner. Granger was trying her best to smile pleasantly; Weasley was hiding behind her bushy hair. Potter was closest to him, but he was looking down.
Draco raised a hand to Mrs. Weasley, and started to walk past them.
"You know what you have to do," he hissed as he passed by Potter, low so the others could not hear. Potter looked straight at him, his green eyes blazing. But he said nothing.
Mr. Weasley was waiting at the door, having come out from his garage after hearing Draco was leaving.
"Goodbye, Mr. Mal—er, Draco," he said pleasantly, though, like Mrs. Weasley, his smile was more polite than caring.
At least he'd stopped trying to push that Beauxbatons exchange program on Ginny.
"Goodbye, Mr. Weasley. Thank you very much for all your kindness."
Ginny's father seemed taken aback. "Well…thank you. Thank you very much. We look forward to seeing you again."
He extended his hand. Draco shook it cordially. "Of course. I'm certain I shall see you soon."
Ginny walked out with him. She was trying to appear disaffected, but failing rather miserably. "Be careful. I'm sure your mother will be fine."
He grinned. "My Mother will be more than fine. What about you?"
"I'll be alright."
"Will you be able to survive your brothers?"
"I've survived them for fifteen years," Ginny remarked smartly. "I think I can handle a few more weeks with them. Besides, Fred and George will be getting back to their joke shop, now that you've gone. They were only here to…observe. "
"That is a very nice way to put things."
"Draco? I'm nervous for you."
"Whatever for?"
"What if the situation doesn't work out like it should?" Ginny leaned forward, placing her forehead upon his chest. "What will you do?"
He sighed. "I will do what I am must do."
She pulled away, gazing up at him with a petulant expression. "Why do you always have to say that like you're inheriting leadership of the Death Eaters?"
"What?"
"Things have been so pleasant this last week…and now that this business with your Mother has come up, you've gone…cold again…"
"Cold?" He stiffened. "What is that supposed to mean?"
"N-nothing…its just that…well…you've become Malfoy again."
"I AM a Malfoy."
"Yes, but you don't have to be Malfoy…"
"Ginny…let's not do this…again?"
"Do what?"
"This…the Weasley 'dance of righteousness'. We've had a good week, haven't we? Let's not fall into this every time you're reminded of who my family is. I would prefer not to talk about it."
"Well, I think its important to talk about."
"Well, at this moment, I don't."
"Draco…"
"I thought we agreed not to discuss this until later."
"We did?"
"Yes we did," he said, trying to remain calm. "Of course, with him here I wouldn't expect you to remember that…"
"What? Who?"
Draco waved a hand. "Let's just not do this."
"Of course. Harry," Ginny placed her hands on her hips, as she often did when she was chastising her brothers. "Draco, the only reason Harry is so welcome here is because Ron's been friends with him since he came to Hogwarts. It's great Harry's a hero and all, but my brother's friendship with him really has nothing to do with that. Harry's a good person, and that's why my family loves him."
Draco shuddered, a twinge of jealousy coursing through him. "Of course, the perfect Potter. How your family can be so fooled about him I'll never know."
Ginny crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes. "If I can't criticize your family, then don't you question mine."
"But you do criticize…all the time."
"Oh, do I?"
"Yes…but why wouldn't you? My family is wicked, remember?"
"Right…I'm sorry," Ginny said, her tone growing cold. "I'm sorry I said anything at all. Of course you should do what you must—and risk the lives of everyone around you. If it would make you feel better, you should just go ahead and take care of Harry here, it would make everyone's life easier…I'll do you a favor and stand in front of him, and you can take care of me too…"
An image of Ginny tumbling to the ground…looking eerily like his Aunt Bellatrix as she fell forward, dead by his mother's hand…
"STOP!" He pulled her back to him forcefully. "Please…let'snot do this!"
She wrested herself out of his grasp. Her face softened slightly at the expression on his, but she pulled away from him anyhow. "Take care of yourself, Draco. Tell your mother…tell your mother I wish her luck."
"Ginny…"
There was no warmth in her eyes—the damage had been done. He suddenly felt extremely glad he was leaving. "Goodbye."
"Goodbye."
"Goodbye? "
Harry stuffed another shirt into his sack, trying his best to avoid Hermione's vexed expression.
"Lay off, Hermione," said Ron, catching Harry's face. "I'm sure he has a good reason to go."
Harry grinned at him gratefully—he was glad Ron, at least, understood.
Hermione glanced from one to the other, growing ruffled. "But you can't leave! Its just a few more weeks before term! Where are you going to go? Back to your Aunt and Uncle? You can't go back to Grimmauld…"
Hermione raised a hand to her mouth, her eyes widening. Harry stopped packing, glaring at her.
"Harry, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to…it's just that…you're always so happy here…why would you want to go? And yesterday you were saying…"
"Its not a matter of wanting to go, Hermione. I have to."
"But why do you have to? You're always doing things alone! You said yourself that you've suffered things we can't understand—that's because you're always leaving us behind! Don't…"
Outside, voices rose from the walk in front of The Burrow.
"Right…I'm sorry. I'm sorry I said anything at all," Ginny was yelling coldly. "Of course you should do what you must—
"What in Merlin's name…" murmured Hermione. Ron eagerly trotted to the window. Harry turned away, still packing.
"…and risk the lives of everyone around you. If it would make you feel better, you should just go ahead and take care of Harry here, it would make everyone's life easier…I'll do you a favor and stand in front of him, and you can take care of me too…"
"Wow…" Ron said softly.
"STOP!" He heard Malfoy shout. The conversation died away as they moved out of earshot.
"Goodness," Hermione said, moving away from the window. Ron continued to watch, a satisfied smile on his face. "Leave it to Malfoy to make his last day the worst one. Maybe now she'll be reasonable."
Hermione yanked him away from the window forcefully, puffing up in a manner very similar to Mrs. Weasley when she was about to yell at the twins.
"She'll probably need someone to talk to…why don't you go and find her?" Harry said, before she could begin again. Below them, the front door slammed, rattling the timbers.
"I'm not going away so you can leave behind my back!" Hermione replied hotly, arms crossed.
Harry sighed. "I'm not leaving to get away from you…or Ron" he added. "I have to leave. Its not safe for anyone when I'm here. Ginny, you…Mrs. And Mr. Weasley, Ron…everyone's in danger when I'm near them."
"Harry, does this have something to do with what Malfoy said to you earlier?"
He paused a moment. "What does it matter if it does? What he said was true—people are in danger when I'm around."
"Harry, if that was the case, they'd have you locked away no matter where you went! As it is, Professor Dumbledore knows you'll be protected if you come here! He's not going to allow anything to happen to anyone."
"The Burrow isn't like Hogwarts. Dumbledore can't be here round the clock to make sure everyone is protected. What happens if the Death Eaters escape? What happens if Voldemort comes looking here? Only Ron's Mum and Dad are here—are they going to be able to protect all of us and survive?"
"Where are you going to go?"
"I know that I'm safe with my Aunt and Uncle. I'll go back to them—to Privet Drive."
"But they're horrible, mate," Ron said, looking surprised. "They'll do nothing to protect you."
"Trust me. There, I'm protected," Harry said, tying up the sack. "Both they and I will be safe. And they might be bad—but they're not worse than Professor Umbridge. If I could survive her for a year, I can survive another few weeks with the Dursleys."
Ron shuddered. "She was horrible. No one is worse than her."
"Except for Voldemort," Hermione said, her lower lip starting to tremble. "He's looking for you, Harry. How can you know they will be able to protect you, when we can't?"
"Professor Dumbledore told me so," he said softly.
Both of his friends looked up at him.
He walked over to her, placing one hand on her shoulder, the other on Ron's. "You trust Dumbledore, right?"
She nodded slowly.
"Believe me when I say that even Voldemort won't be able to find me. I know that's its surprising, but, as I said before, the Dursleys are the best possible solution right now. And at least this way I know that everyone will be safe."
He turned, leading the way out of the room. Hermione followed, arms still crossed, looking as though she wanted to say something, but restraining herself. Ron followed with his hands stuffed in his pockets. He stopped short as Ginny approached them, shuffling up the stairs slowly, her head down.
"Ginny? I'm leaving now…I…" he paused as he caught sight of her face. It was red, and splotchy.
She glanced up at him. "You're leaving? Why?"
"I…just have to…did Malfoy…are you two alright?"
"Yeah," she said snidely, rubbing her cheeks. "He said goodbye, that's all." She pushed past him. Ron watched her go, his face darkening.
"If Malfoy said anything cruel to her…"
"You heard what she said to him, Ron. What would you expect?" Hermione snapped. "Leave her alone. Sometimes people just don't consider the feelings of the ones they're leaving behind."
Ron rolled his eyes. "Honestly, Hermione, you'd think Harry was going to his death, they way you speak."
She glared at him. "Don't say such things."
Harry shook his head, and started down the stairs. Mrs. Weasley was in the kitchen, tending to the breakfast; the twins were beside her.
"Mrs. Weasley?"
"Hello again, Harry. I'm sorry I wasn't able to greet you sooner, but with Mr. Malfoy leaving, and Ginny and…" she stopped as she caught sight of Harry's sack slung over his shoulder. "Are you going somewhere, dear?"
"I'm afraid I have to be leaving, Mrs. Weasley."
"So soon? But…Dumbledore said…Harry, are you sure?"
He nodded. "Thank you for your kindness, Mrs. Weasley—but I'm afraid there is something important that I forgot to do, and I have to go back to Surrey. I'm sure I'll see you again soon. Tell Mr. Weasley thank you as well?"
"Well," she looked suspiciously at him, but gave him a quick hug. "Of course I will. You know you are always welcome."
Hermione was still pouting when he reached into the Weasley's rapidly shrinking bucket of Floo Powder a few minutes later.
"I'll send some up when I get the chance," he whispered to Ron, feeling slightly guilty for using up some of their limited supply.
Ron's ears went slightly pink. " 'S nothing, we'll manage."
Harry nodded at Hermione. Ginny, having come down to see him off, was standing beside her. Both girls were staring at him rather coldly. He turned back to Ron. "Make sure you talk some sense into her, right?"
Ron frowned. "I'll do my best. But you know Hermione…"
Harry grinned. "Good luck."
"Take care of yourself, mate," Ron said, slapping his shoulder.
He nodded, and stepped into the Floo. "I'm going to stop by the Order, first…"
"What?" Hermione's face immediately became concerned. "Harry, are you certain? It's…"
"I want to talk to Professor Dumbledore, and I can't get to Hogwarts," he said forcefully. He also needed to see if the Floo to his Aunt and Uncle's fireplace had been cleared. The last time the Weasley's had tried to use it, they had gotten stuck behind the decorative plug his Aunt Petunia had placed inside it.
He raised his fistful of Floo Powder, glancing for a moment over the group gathered around to watch him go. The warm surroundings were ten thousand times better than those he would find at Privet Drive.
Malfoy's unpleasant face floated into view. They're all in danger…
He dropped the powder into the grating. "Number 12 Grimmauld Place."
Ginny backed away as the large green flames consumed Harry, lightning the room around them. The flames died away quickly, taking the spinning Harry with them.
Hermione's face dropped as soon as he disappeared. Ginny knew how she felt.
They go off, thinking its alright to face all their problems by themselves. They don't even take into consideration how others might feel.
"He'll be alright, Hermione," Ginny said softly, placing a hand on her friend's shoulder.
"I'm sure he will be," said Hermione coldly. "Harry can take care of himself—or at least he thinks he can. I'm certain that if he comes up against an army of trolls, he'll just wave his wand and turn them all into flowers. Next thing you know, your brother will be riding off to face dragons."
"My brother does fight with dragons," giggled Ginny.
"Not that one," said Hermione loudly, still frustrated. Ron turned to look her, raising an eyebrow. Hermione blushed.
"He'll be alright, Hermione. They both will. Trust in Harry. He does know what he's doing."
"Right."
"Hermione?" Ron said tentatively, coming over towards them. "Do you want to go up to Percy's old room? He's got loads of books I'm sure you haven't …"
"I'm going to help Mrs. Weasley," Hermione interrupted.
Ron sighed as she moved towards the kitchen. "I just don't understand her, sometimes. She's got a big heart, Hermione does…but…what Harry needed was for her to be a bit more understanding. You know how much he wanted to stay. That he actually left shows how much he was concerned for our safety."
"Hermione's just worried about him, is all," said Ginny. "Harry doesn't tend to think about how his actions will affect others. I know he's doing what he's doing to protect us, but still…"
"He doesn't consider how others might worry. That's just Harry. He's spent the last few years of his life saving people inadvertently, maybe with a bit of luck, but mostly because he's so determined to protect everyone he doesn't think of the consequences to himself. But he doesn't see it that way. He sees everything that's happened—Tom Riddle taking over you, You-Know-Who coming back, Diggory getting killed—even Sirius—as his fault, because he didn't know how to protect everyone from the start. Now he's going to do everything he can to avoid getting people into danger, even if it means facing people like You-Know-Who by himself."
"Sometimes that just places people more in danger, you know. We all have hero complexes—especially in this family. Even you."
Ron frowned. "What's that supposed to mean?"
"Nothing," Ginny smiled.
"Huh. At least you're smiling again. What did Malfoy say to you? If he…"
"He didn't say…anything. Don't ask me again."
"Ginny…"
"Come on. At least we can give Hermione a hand," she said, leading the way into the kitchen.
"Harry, there was no need for you to be so cautious. I can guarantee the Weasleys will be perfectly safe while you are staying there."
"But, Professor…"
"Harry…I'm certain you understand that, by now, the Weasleys have brought as much danger upon themselves as you have. It was the choice they made when they decided to stand against the Death Eaters. It was a choice everyone in the Order made."
Harry nodded, trying not to look up at him. It was slightly difficult to do when your head was in one place and your body in another.
Professor Dumbledore was pacing back and forth in front of the Floo in his office, where Harry had appeared—or rather, Harry's head had appeared. His body remained in an uncomfortable crouch on the living room floor at Grimmauld Place.
"But…Professor…Voldemort is looking for me," said Harry, trying to avoid Professor Dumbledore's eyes. "If he finds me at the Weasleys…"
"I hardly think Lord Voldemort will be searching for you personally, Harry—at least not right now. You are still a mystery to him—he will not run the risk of being threatened by your uncanny ability to elude him."
"What about Privet Drive? I thought…"
"It is impossible to ensure your protection for a long period of time, of course. Events like the Dementor attack upon you and your cousin last year are an example of how unusual circumstances may arise that we may not always be prepared for. Your Aunt's protection is the best you have in the long term. But for the two weeks you have to remain with the Weasleys, be assured that you and they will be safe and protected."
Harry paused for a moment; he would much rather return to the Burrow than Privet Drive. But Malfoy said…
"I know that there is a guest visiting with the Weasleys for a brief time; I believe by the time you return you will find he will be otherwise preoccupied."
Harry looked up at him; the Headmaster's eyes were twinkling. "Yes, Professor."
"Enjoy your time with your friends, Harry…and don't concern yourself with what Mister Malfoy says. I can assure you, he has his own worries."
"Thank you, Professor Dumbledore." Harry withdrew his head from the fire, coughing slightly at the puff of ash that rose from the slightly dusty fireplaces at Grimmauld Place. Professor Lupin was standing over him, looking weary.
"What did Professor Dumbledore have to say, Harry?"
Harry brushed some of the ash off his jumper. "He told me to return to The Burrow, at least until term begins—if it begins…"
"Don't worry," said Professor Lupin with a smile. "I have it on very good authority that term will commence as planned. I don't believe the Ministry will allow anything to approach within 50 miles of the school, after what happened last year."
"I hope so. I would hate to return to the Dursleys for an entire year."
"Perhaps Dumbledore would allow you to remain here, if…"
"That's alright," said Harry quickly. "I'd…I'd almost rather be there."
Lupin looked at him sadly. "What happened to Sirius was not your fault, Harry."
"I don't want to talk about it."
"Harry…"
"I
don't want to talk about it!" Harry pushed himself to his
feet. "I should get back to the Burrow. Ron's having to deal
with Hermione and Ginny right now."
Professor Lupin sighed. "If you need anything, make sure to send Hedwig, or one of the Weasley owls. I'm here for you Harry, whenever you need me."
"Thanks, Professor," said Harry. "I'm going to get my things."
He could feel Professor Lupin's eyes on his back as he trudged towards the staircase. He tried not to look at the tapestry of the Black family tree, hanging on the wall, where Sirius's name was burned out.
Sirius…I'm sorry…
He walked away from Professor Lupin as swiftly as he could. He wanted to leave quickly and he missed the warm comfort of The Burrow.
Grimmauld Place was full of too many memories.
"It has been a…pleasure to have you here, Draco. Are you ready?" Mr. Crumholtz gestured towards an ornate goblet on the table.
"This Portkey has been designed to transport you back to Malfoy Manor. It was given to us by your mother, to ensure your safe return."
Draco stared at the cup, a lump rising in his throat. He'd stopped three times on the way back to Castor Manor, uncertain if he should turn around and say something to Ginny. He didn't want to leave things where they stood.
But…I can't return to my Mother simpering like a baby because my girlfriend disagrees with me.
"Draco?"
Mrs. Crumholtz had her head tilted to the side, blinking at him. "Draco, are you ready?"
"I…I…"
"Draco?"
Ginny…
"Draco, you don't have much time."
"Mr. Crumholtz, Mrs. Crumholtz, thank you for your hospitality," Draco cried, untying his cloak. He swirled it around the Portkey, careful not to touch the object with his hand, and gathered it up into his arms. "I will give your best wishes to my Mother."
"DRACO!"
"Goodbye," he called, racing towards the door.
Ginny sat on the porch outside the Burrow, watching as the sun slowly sank beneath the treetops in the distance.
She couldn't believe Draco had left her without bothering to apologize.
He's such a prat! Just like Harry, refusing to listen to reason…they're more similar than they think, those two…
She grinned, imagining what Draco would say if he knew she'd just compared him to Harry.
"Are you feeling better?"
She jumped; it was the last voice she was expecting to hear, particularly considering she'd just been thinking about him.
"Harry!"
Harry stepped out onto the porch, running a hand through his wild dark hair, and breathing in the nighttime air softly. He looked rather sad.
"What…what are you doing back? I thought you were going to the Order, and then to your Aunt and Uncle's…"
"Professor Dumbledore wagers that you lot are no safer whether I'm here or not, so might as well make ourselves targets together."
"Harry."
He grinned. "I'm glad, actually…I didn't really want to leave. But I have to be careful, because I don't want…"
"Anyone else to get hurt?"
He looked rather sheepishly at her. "I suppose that's becoming something you hear all the time."
"With you, yes," she said curtly. "Except that usually you're yelling it at one of us."
"Right…er…sorry."
"Never mind. We're all accustomed to it, by now. I'm just glad you're back. Has no one else seen you?"
He shook his head. "I didn't see anyone when I came back through the Floo, though I'm sure quite a few people will be surprised."
"Mum and Dad went out for a bit, and Bill's returned to London, as have the twins. Hermione and Ron, I think, are up in Percy's old room, reading some of his old books. It was the only thing he could think of to take her mind off…well…you."
"And…Malfoy?" he asked nonchalantly.
She frowned. "He's gone for good, I daresay. Didn't even bother to apologize."
"Well…" he looked slightly uncomfortable. "I suppose I should go and rescue Ron. I rather fancy some Quidditch practice right now," he started to turn away, then stopped, leaning over to place a hand on her shoulder.
"Everything will work out, Ginny, I'm sure. I have faith in you. And I have hope for what you're trying to do, even if it's not my idea of a pleasant way to spend a day."
She smirked. "I could say the same about you."
He grinned.
"WHAT ARE YOU STILL DOING HERE, POTTER?"
Ginny turned from him, rising to her feet in surprise. Draco was standing on the path in front of the porch, his cloak and clothes bundled haphazardly in his hands, staring from her to Harry with a dark expression. Someone upstairs in The Burrow stirred; boards creaked and a door slammed.
"Draco?"
Harry moved in front of her, his green eyes narrowing. "What are you doing back here, Malfoy? I thought you'd gone for good."
Hermione and Ron emerged from the doorway.
"Harry!" Hermione cried, ignoring Malfoy and nearly knocking him over, "are you back?"
"Back?" hissed Draco. "You mean you left, and then you came back? What, are you mental?" Harry dislodged himself gently from Hermione's grasp.
"I could ask the same about you, Draco," said Ginny coldly, cutting Harry off before he could reply. "What are you doing here?"
Draco glanced between her and Harry confusedly, "I…I…came…I came to…"
"She already told you to leave once, Malfoy" said Ron.
"I came to speak with Ginny, not you, Weaselbeak," Malfoy snapped. "I didn't expect to find Potter still here, putting everyone in danger yet again. Didn't I warn you earlier, Scarhead? The Death Eaters know you're here!"
"So that's why you decided to leave," said Hermione, raising an eyebrow.
"And for your own good, mud—"
"DRACO!" Ginny yelled.
"I've had about enough of you today, Malfoy!" yelled Ron, bolting from the porch and withdrawing his wand. Draco tossed his cloak aside, pulling his own wand from his robes.
"STOP!" Ginny said, placing herself between them as Harry grasped the neck of Ron's robes, yanking him back. Hermione was eyeing the goblet Draco had dropped warily.
Ginny grabbed Draco by the arms. "Why do you always make everything worse than it already is?" she cried
He stopped glaring at Ron for a moment, and turned to her, startled. "What?"
"I...I mean that you seem to want to make things more difficult for yourself..."
He lowered his wand. Ron and Harry stared at him in surprise.
"I came here to apologize for today," he said softly, yanking his arm from her grasp, "but I see that was a waste of my time."
"Draco..."
"Goodbye, Ginny."
"Draco, wait..."
"Good riddance...and take this with you," said Ron, bending over towards the cup. Harry and Hermione both jumped.
"RON! NO!" they cried in unison.
"Don't touch that!" Draco said, shoving Ginny aside and bolting for the cup just as Ron touched the stem. "Weasley, you moron!" His fingers closed over Ron's, trying to wrench the cup from her brother's grasp.
"What the bloody—" cried Ron, as the Portkey lit up. Ginny, Harry and Hermione watched in horror as it swallowed Draco and Ron together, their twisted forms disappearing slowly, hands still locked over the stem.
Within moments, they were gone.
"Where…where did they go?" said Hermione.
Harry glanced over at her. "My best guess? Malfoy carrying it with him would mean…Malfoy Manor."
Hermione's hand rose to her mouth. "Oh, no…"
"But…they have a Floo Network there, right, Ginny?" asked Harry quickly. "He should be able to come right back."
She turned to him. "He should…but…Narcissa Malfoy's coming home tonight. Who knows who's going to be there. If the other Death Eaters…"
"Ron," Hermione whimpered.
"I'm sure he'll be fine," said Harry. "Malfoy is no more eager to be seen with a Weasley by his Mum than Ron is to be seen with him. I'm sure he'll be back as soon as he can."
Ginny swallowed. Draco had left before she'd had the chance to apologize. And now, he was stuck with her brother, in the last place her brother had ever wanted to see. She shuddered.
"If he doesn't get himself killed first."
Thanks to all those who wrote reviews of "In the Shadows"…it was those reviews that inspired me to begin the sequel to it. I hope this meets with expectations: I am still trying to remain close to canon, but, of course, it becomes more difficult the less we know of what is going to happen. I'm going to introduce a few characters that I neglected to do much with in the first story—moving away from her story a bit, but, hey, it is a D/G fic, isn't it?
Chapter 2 brings, of course, Ron's introduction to Malfoy Manor (thanks to all who pointed out in their reviews that Ron needs work as a character—I plan to give him some much needed "air time" in this story), as well as a scene I've already written—an interesting interaction between Lucius and Draco, as father and son see each other for the first time since Draco's Patronus saved Hogwarts…