A/N I hope you are enjoying the story! Disclaimer is the same: All I own is the plot to this story.
Draco started flipping rocks into the lake. He had been there all morning and would stay there all day and night if it was not for curfew. He didn't plan on coming here. Originally he was going to talk to Blaise see if he could knock some sense into him. But then his feet took him here instead. There has been only one thing on his mind.
Granger.
Hearing Potter's name on her lips destroyed him pieces. Through the dreams Draco saw she was beautiful. He already knew she was smart. Being around her just for a day made him see a laidback Hermione. Not Hermione a third of the Golden Trio. Not Hermione Granger know it all extraordinaire. Not Hermione the mudblood he was taught to hate for the past 6 years. Not Hermione, Weasels girlfriend…
Draco admitted it was nice seeing her that way. Draco was definitely attracted to her but not in love with her yet…There was so much to risk though. Even though Draco hated his father ideals he had a reputation to keep. Plus Potter and Weasel would most definitely Avada him on the spot if they found out. However his conscience was on to something last night. He has something to possibly live for with Granger. Since he has had a taste of what Granger was like, he wanted more. As much as he conscience accepts Hermione, his heart will not be that easy to convinced.
Draco took a long drag from his cigarette. He tore his eyes from the lake to the curly haired temptress of his dreams. Oi. He turned back to collect and put his back his cold exterior.
"Mind if I sit?" Hermione said timidly
No response. She sat down anyway.
"It's a beautiful day isn't it?" She said.
Silence. The giant squid came up for a peek around the lake and then went back in.
"Malfoy talk to me, please?" Hermione was exasperated.
"Nothing to say." He replied.
"Obviously there is, because you looked angry when you left. Was it something I said or did?" Hermione knew exactly what she said but she was not sure if she was ready to know if that was the real cause or not.
'She put out there. Should I mention the dreams? Should I mention I might like her? No it would be weakness. I have a rep and she would most likely does not feel the same. Plus she might think I am barmy and perverted for dreaming of her. No just keep my mouth shut.'
"The world does not revolve around you mudblood."
'There I said it. Stupid conscience.'
He looked at her and her eyes were shining with tears.
"Fine Malfoy. Far be it from me to offer a hand of friendship to a Slytherin. I pity you because you hide behind the cold front , daddy's money and sadistic principles. You are weak Draco Malfoy if that is the platform you stand on. Pathetic and a coward. Forbid the fact you might actually have to act nice to a person who is supposedly beneath you. That you might actually feel some actual emotion other than hate. Yes I pity you because when you are old, there will be no one to love you and care for you. When you die no one will care that you had gone. You will die alone."
At that Hermione got up, she stared at him. He seemed indignant and impervious to her speech. She left.
On the contrary Draco was so affected he was speechless. Because everything she said was true. The last part was what he was afraid of most .
Hermione was furious, that he called her that vile name still. She was also hurt. Thinking that he might of changed. 'Ha! man I was fooled. Well I will not fall for his charm, good looks or anything else he may throw at me. However what I said may have been harsh. So what? he has called me that name since we were 12! I am sick of it.'
Hermione was walking so fast that she had not realized she was in the front of the Heads Portrait. She looked at them, they were glaring at each other….
"Hearts Desire". She walked in and grabbed some of her textbooks and decided to review her Advanced Charms in the school library. The dorm reminded her too much of this morning. All she wanted to was forget this morning and get through this year unscathed.
Leaving the dorm again she was walking until she heard moaning and banging. As she walked further it was getting louder and more nauseating. Being Head Girl she had to prevent this kind of behavior. It rude, disgusting and undignified. She finally reached the source. Opening up the broom cupboard, was a sight Hermione wish to have obliviated as soon as possible. It was Ginny Weasley and Blaise Zabini shagging in a broom closet. Clothes were everywhere and so were limbs. The three froze completely until someone spoke.
"Put your clothes on 25 points each from Slytherin and Gryffindor" said Hermione. She was absolutely disgusted, not by the act but by the culprits. Ginny was cheating and here was full blown evidence right in front of her.
"Hermione you can't seriously take points from this and especially from your own house." Ginny finally spoke as she got dress.
"Don't test me Weasley be glad that is all I am doing." Hermione was livid. Harry did not deserve a girl like this. Everyone who he has cared for was killed or wronged him in some way. Hermione slammed the door in their faces and walked on to the library. She heard footsteps.
"Mione wait!" Ginny was calling for her. She stopped turned around and tapped her foot as Ginny caught up.
"Mione you cannot tell Harry, it would devastate him."
"You should have thought of that before you started shagging Zabini"
"You are not my mother or brother so where do you come of?
"No I am not, I am your friend and you cheated on my other best friend. How am I suppose to feel? If you did not want to be with Harry anymore you should have broke it off instead of sneaking around. How long have you guys been doing this?"
"A year."
"Brilliant Gin. How long were you going to keep this up? We have a war coming. How do you know he is not using you for secrets from our side?"
"He loves me and would never use me, we don't even talk about the upcoming war anyway."
"Are you sure he is not reading your mind, that is a dark art. Beside Harry loves you too and he would never even dream of using you or cheat on you. You know I can't deal with you right now or even look at you. I won't say anything now but if Harry questions me or I catch you again, I will not be so forgiving." Hermione turned on her heel, marching her way to the library.
Upon reaching the library she found a big comfy chair to sit in. Opening her Charms text and began reviewing for the hundredth time. Her mind began to wander though since she knew the material like the back of her hand. What she said to Ginny was a little close to home. She was in a relationship that she is kind of hesitant about. Plus this morning she kissed Harry. Making her and Harry major hypocrites. Hermione and Harry have been slipping and thought of being with Malfoy only recently. However Malfoy isn't someone she can forget and those stupid dreams won't let her. Even if she was free from Ron, she can't because of the world her and Draco come from. She's good and he is a sadistic, evil bastard. Plus he just called her a mudblood.
'No I will just suck it up, Ron is my everything.' Both Hermione's conscience and heart were not convinced at all.
As if on cue Ron strode into the library.
"I knew I would find you here, classes have not even started and you are in the library" Ron smiled goofily.
"You know me, I like reading my textbooks over and over…".
"Yeah I know, that's why I love you so much, beautiful and smart." Ron said meaningfully. Hermione froze. He said I love you. She was torn between elation and nausea. Sensing he must want a response. "And I love you for your humor and charm." She said hoping to pacify him. Hermione just dug herself a nice hole by saying those stupid words. 'Damn principles.'
Ron smiled. "How about we walk to dinner together?"
"Sure." Hermione grabbed her stuff and left with Ron, wishing someone would kill her now.
Ron and Hermione had reached the Great Hall at the same as silver blonde and his dark haired best friend. Hermione looking anywhere but step aside to let them go ahead.
"Good the mudblood is learning her place." Draco sneered.
"Shut your face ferret, Hermione is worth more galleons than you and slime ball father could dream of. She could also kick your arse." Ron was angry at how Malfoy insulted his girl. Hermione was struggling to hold Ron back being he is so tall.
"Ron calm down, Malfoy is not worth it, never was" Hermione said glaring at Draco.
Draco looked the pair up and down and went into the Hall.
Hermione and Ron soon followed as Ron calmed down. They sat next to each other waiting for Harry. The hall was beginning to fill and just about full when Harry and Ginny came in giggling and all over each other. The hall looked at the pair strangely and then returned to their conversations. Hermione had to check herself because Ron doesn't know and obviously Gin hasn't told Harry. However she felt like she would not be able to eat tonight. Everything was nauseating. Ginny and Harry finally sat down.
"Did you two have fire whiskey and did not share?" Ron asked
"What never seen two people in love? Gin asked. Hermione glared at her, because now Ron is going question why they are not like that.
"Yes but you are my sister and Harry is my best mate, it is still a little gross to see you together."
"Well its gross having you for a brother period but I never complain." Gin smiled sweetly.
"Shut up."
"Great comeback."
"Ok you two no fighting, because well Ron you know how scary Gin could get when she is angry." Harry interjected.
Hermione remained quiet throughout dinner not eating. Harry eyed her all evening cautiously. As well as a blonde Slytherin.
When it was time for the students to head to their dormitories. Ron hugged and kissed Hermione goodnight. For the first time she did not pull back, Harry noticed. Harry, Ron and Ginny went to Gryffindor Tower while Hermione went to the Heads tower.
Hermione went straight to her room and grabbed her bath stuff. She turned on the tap and undress. When the bath was filled with bubbles and water Hermione dove into large pool.
She leaned against the wall of it letting the scents of lavender and sandalwood fill her. Trying to drain all that has happened in the past twenty-four hours.
'How did I get here? I am in a unhealthy and loveless relationship. I kissed my best friend. My other best friend cheated on the latter. To top it off I may like Draco Malfoy, my sworn enemy.'
Hermione tried drowning herself in her bath hoping to solve some part of her life but she chickened out and came up. She heard the portrait door. She got out and ran into her room. The last person she wanted to see right now was Draco Malfoy.
Putting on some comfy pajamas, she snuck out in the common room to the kitchen. She grabbed some butterbeer and walked into the library. Perusing the various titles seeing if there was anything worth reading. There were some muggle titles in there as well. Seeing that she has read most of these books, she almost gives up when she sees the book Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy. Immediately grabbing it and walked back out to her room. There she saw Malfoy reading the same Charms books. She stared at him seeing how relaxed and unthreatening he was. Wanting to see this side more often. She stopped and went into her room.
The rest of the weekend came and went. Soon Hogwarts was facing the brightness of a Monday morning. However there were those who did not feel so cheery.
It's Monday already… I am not ready to face him. I had successfully avoided him all day yesterday. But in classes I am sure that will be a little harder to do.
Yesterday when Hermione woke she quickly dressed and went to find her friends. Immediately avoiding any contact with Malfoy. She stayed with her friends all day albeit she was quiet and somber. Harry even tried to get her to talk but she brushed him off. Plus anytime Ginny was around she got even quieter if possible. The only one who did not noticed was Ron. He was too happy that Hermione seemed enthusiastic about them. Little did he know she was only doing so quell her lonely heart.
'Oh well must get it over with then I suppose.'
Hermione got up and went into the bathroom with very sleepy eyes. Brushing her teeth she failed to notice Malfoy slip in. He too was drained and was unaware of Hermione's presence. Therefore when the two looked in the mirror and caught each other's eye, it was like they had been hit with a body bind curse.
Hermione immediately finished and left the bathroom, leaving Draco quite ashamed of himself.
Draco came out first from his room dressed. He went into the kitchen to get some coffee and treacle tart. 'Man that look she gave me was fierce. She obviously is mad with me but I should talk to her. Everything she said was right on target. I am a coward.'
Damn bloody right you are.
Oh it's you again
Hey I am agreeing with you. You should talk to her. Maybe explain yourself a bit.
Tell her about the dreams perhaps.
NO
Why not you just bloody suggested it yourself?
Because it is easier said than done.
Well I think that is one of the first actual things we agree on. Now tell her
No…there is so many complications that is not worth it.
She is most definite worth it Draco Malfoy. Do not be even more of a coward then she is making you out to be. Prove her wrong.
No
So you are you just going to let go, forget her. Marry a pureblood daft witch, Pansy perhaps. Fine go be mad at her for calling you out for what you truly are. A coward hiding behind daddy's money.
'Even my bloody conscience agrees with her … the whole world is just plain blimey.'
Just then Hermione came from her room dressed in her uniform. Draco stared at her wishing to be able to see what was under her outfit. Hermione was pointedly not looking at Malfoy. She just walked in the kitchen and conjured a thermos with tea and grabbed a muffin. Completely ignoring him, which was making him mad. He is Draco Malfoy how dare someone ignore him. Hermione grabbed her school bag and left Malfoy to stew in his anger.
Hermione was walking along the Transfiguration corridor. Seeing the time she decided to sit in the courtyard and go over some notes she took when she first read her textbook.
"Hey" Harry just showed up looking again like he rolled out of bed.
"Hey yourself" Hermione replied.
"Are you alright?" Harry was concerned since she was not at breakfast and was extremely quiet this weekend.
"Yeah I'm fine"
Harry gave her a pointed look.
"I am…please Harry".
"Mione, I was just concern, you look so unhappy and the school year just started. Does it have to do with Me or Ron, Ginny or Ferret?"
Hermione thought about it for a moment about all the problems surrounding her
Harry - She is beginning feel old stirrings. Questioning whether she is lying to herself again… maybe she does like him.
Ron- She loves and cares for him like a sister. Nothing can change that at all.
Ginny- She caught her cheating, should she tell Harry. He did express that he suspected something and Hermione has seen evidence. But she cheated as well…
Malfoy- He is arrogant, charming, hateful, pain in the arse. But with those dreams she saw a whole new side. She can't help but wonder if that side actually exist in him. Plus there is the whole thing that he is Death Eater. Was in a plan to kill Dumbledore. Has made Hermione's life living hell with her friends. She is unsure that someone who has hated her can switch loyalties like that or if they are even capable of love. Plus unsure of her own feelings towards him.
Completely lost in her problems she forgot Harry was sitting next to her
"Hermione!!"
"Yes oh…I'm sorry Harry, I just blanked out."
"Do you need to go the hospital, lie down ?"
"No I am quite alright Harry. Lets get to Transfiguration."
Hermione got up and began walking. Harry followed but he was completely unconvinced. He believed something was wrong with his best friend, and was trying to hide it from him.
Draco got to Advanced Transfiguration an hour early because he skipped breakfast in the Great Hall. He did not feel like seeing Hermione with Potty, Weasel and Weaselette. Also the thought of sitting with Crabbe, Goyle and Pansy wasn't very thrilling. So he went to class. He even picked a seat up front instead of his usual sitting in the back with his cronies. He looked at the clock and saw it was 5 minutes to 9. Students will be coming in soon then.
Just as he finished that thought, Hermione and Harry walked in. One was looking very somber and depressed while the other looked concerned and pensive. 'Trouble in Golden Paradise I suppose. Wonder what's up with Hermione though… You know bloody well what's up you ferret.'
"SHUT UP!!" Draco Malfoy bursted out loud. Hermione ignored him while Harry looked at him questioningly.
"Turn around Pottyhead" .
Harry stood up and had his wand out. "Make me".
Hermione put her hand on his shoulder and brought him down to his seat. She whispered in his ear and Harry relaxed…a bit.
Students were now pouring in with chatter from breakfast. Ron had come in and sat on the other side of Hermione. He gave her a good-morning kiss and put his arm around her waist. Harry had noticed that gesture… 'Well I guess it's not Ron. Although I thought she was dumping him. Must have changed her mind.' Normally Harry would have been happy that Hermione was finally warming up to Ron. However he was starting to feel slight jealousy. Harry's mood was darkening by each passing minute
Hermione was fiercely taking notes, taking down every word from McGonagall's mouth. At the same time she was thinking of Malfoy, Harry and Ron.
'My heart belongs with one but which one? Not Ronald, although he is sweet and treats me so well. But I am leading him on? especially now that I am actually acting like a girlfriend. Harry he is just as sweet and loving as Ron. That relationship stint we had was so amazing but I am not so sure if he is someone I could spend the rest of my life with. Being the fact we have lives to spend with…And Malfoy well I don't know how he actually fits in this mess, except I think I like him but he obviously doesn't like me . Plus after that "righteous" speech I gave he will never like me. What boy would like a girl who chastises him for his beliefs and behavior?'
The kind that knows you are right.
Who is speaking? Have I gone mental….?
No you bloody chit, I am your conscience. We haven't spoken in so long you have forgotten me haven't you?
Well I did not mean to. You know how I get sometimes, just so busy that I forget to just breathe and think things through.
Yes I know dear. Now how do you know this um Draco fellow will never fancy you?
Because he has made my life hell!! He is has been bred upon evilness!!
So even the evil need love…
"OH BUGGER OFF!!" Hermione screamed out. Everyone including McGonagall stopped and looked at Hermione who was turning bright red.
"Ms.Granger I will not have you screaming in my class. Now go outside and collect yourself until you feel fit to return." McGonagall said sternly.
"Yes. Professor McGonagall." Hermione replied and got up to do as she was told.
"Mr. Malfoy, please check on Ms.Granger."
"Me Professor?" Draco asked.
"Is there someone else in this classroom named Malfoy?" some of the other student snickered at this.
"No. Professor McGonagall." Malfoy got up and left.
"Uh, Professor, shouldn't me and Harry go and check on Hermione and not Malfoy?" Ron piped up. He was slightly peeved that Ferret face was sent to check on his girlfriend.
"No Mr. Weasley, Mr.Malfoy is Head Boy and is capable of the job. Plus maybe there is something Ms. Granger does not want to tell you and Mr. Potter." The last part she said in undertone so only Harry and Ron heard. Both looked perplexed at the thought of Hermione hiding secrets from them.
"Now Human Transfigurations are one of the hardest things we will cover this year." McGonagall continued the lesson.
Draco walked out side and saw Hermione pacing vehemently.
"If you go any faster the ground will wear out." Draco said chuckling
Hermione just threw him a fierce look . 'Ok…I think better have a guard or something she looks pissed. And she is muttering to herself.'
"10, 9 , 8, 7, 6, 5..." Hermione was counting backwards as Draco walked to her.
"Granger what are you doing.?"
"If you must know I am counting from 10 backwards it suppose to help people relax!!" Hermione said slightly yelling.
"Why don't you just use a Cheering Charm and be done with it?"
"Because Malfoy, unlike you I know that not every little problem can be solved with a wave of a wand. Sometimes it take ingenuity and practice or just plain thinking!" Again yelling.
Draco watched her as she paced. Her cheeks were flushed and tendril of chocolate curls was coming out of her already messy bun. He loved how her eyebrows would go up and down. Her hands were on her hips. When her back was turned he stood in her path. When she was pacing facing him he stopped her. Putting his hands on her shoulders.
"Malfoy remove your ferret hands from my person please."
"No."
"What? What do you mean "no"?
"I mean that I will not do as you ask because one you will wear out the ground. Two obviously your counting is not working. Three I have a much better idea of relaxing. However this requires you to trust me."
Hermione finally looked into his eyes. They seemed honest and genuine. The looked like giant pools to swim in. She thought about it, seeing no harm or foul. She grabbed her things because she knew she was not going to return to class because she would be too paranoid.
"Fine what is it?" She said.
Draco smiled. "Some air and wind should loosen you up, however we need to go the dormitory. I need to get something and you will want to drop your things off."
Hermione looked wary at him but followed as he already started making his was back to the common room.
"No bloody way!" Hermione screamed.
Hermione and Draco were in the middle of the Quidditch Pitch. Draco was already on his Firebolt. Holding out a hand for Hermione.
"Hey, you obviously trust me if you came in the first place." Draco responded.
"I am terrified of heights Malfoy. Plus if we get caught we could loose our positions as Heads."
"We will be done before lunch is even half over. We won't get caught if they can't see us. Plus will be taking care of two things today. Your fear of heights and getting you relaxed. That is what you want right? Trust me I would never let you fall." Draco smiled, not smirk not grin, an actual smile.
"Promise?"
"I promise."
"Fine"
Hermione took his hand and climbed on the back and wrapped her small arms around his waist. Her chin was resting on his shoulder. Draco was loving this, that she needed him for something. Plus her holding on to him is something he never really experienced with a girl before.
"Ok hold on, just not too tight I have to breathe."
They took off at the speed of light since Draco now had a Firebolt. Hermione tightened her grip on Malfoy and her eyes were close. They seemed to traveling at unearthly speeds.
Draco turned and looked at Hermione and saw her eyes were closed. "Open your eyes you are missing the view…"
Hermione opened her eyes and took a sharp intake of breath, that it was stuck in her throat. The picture before her seemed unimaginable, even in the magical world. There was vast landscape of mountains. There was a water that filled out into a stream. Hermione saw there was a group of unicorns off to the side drinking water. Everything was beautiful and alive.
While Hermione was taking in the view, Draco began to descend. They were all the way to the ground before she noticed. She saw all kinds of wild life, like pygmy puffs and Fwoopfs. Also gnomes were running after some faeries.
"Wow this is amazing Draco…" Hermione
Draco stopped because he just realized she said his first name. He heard her say it before but it did not register until now. He guessed because of the way she said it and the location.
"Say my name again. Please"
"Draco" She smiled.
"Hermione could you call me that when we are alone. I am guessing we have to keep up appearances."
"Unfortunately we do…" she murmured
Draco conjured a blanket to lay on and sat down, patting a spot next to him for Hermione.
"How did you find this place?, it absolutely breath-taking."
"By pure accident of course. I was flying around trying to work some things that had been going on, about sixth year. Well I was just flying and all of sudden I hear sound of rushing water. I go to investigate and I was hearing the waterfall. I was completely amazed by this place, it was like an Eden. Something I know my mother would have liked. You are the first person I brought here. Now I come here to be alone, think, relax. I too believe wands are only instruments, not miracle workers."
Hermione smiled. "Thank you for bringing me to your special place. For even helping me, I am guessing McGonagall sent you right? "
"Yeah, I was bit surprised, I thought she would send your watch dogs." Hermione looked at him reproachfully.
"Sorry. I didn't necessarily plan to really bring you here, it just seemed you were having a tough time and need a breather."
"Thanks again, I can't believe I had meltdown already and today is the first day."
"Well people breakdown for all sorts of reasons, no one plans them. So you freaked out a bit, you are allowed to do that it is human nature. Obviously you have something going on that has been going on for awhile and you reached your breaking point."
Hermione looked at Draco amazed at how understanding he is being. It was surreal almost.
"Well I am sorry for my speech the other day."
Catching Draco off guard, he had completely forgotten about that or that he was mad with her. 'I guess this is as good a time as any…'
"Oh that, well don't worry about that. You were absolutely right."
"Well I still had no right to chastise you."
"Yeah you did and I respect that you did. I do want to clear some things up though."
Hermione turned and gave Draco her full attention.
"Ok well after my father's imprisonment because of the Ministry debacle. My mother went a little loopy. I thought I could handle it own my taking care of her. While trying to complete my task assigned to me by Voldermort. But it was beginning to take a toll on me. I started coming here more often. Picked up smoking from my friend Blaise. I was complete mess my sixth year. Snape was trying to help even though I thought he was try to sabotage me. Now I regret it because he is on the run because of me. I never really wanted kill Dumbledore, I never had any concrete reason to hate him. Since my dad and Voldermort did I thought I was obligated to do so. Just like I never had any real reason to hate you. I was taught to hate muggle-borns not you specifically. That they were beneath me and have no real magical abilities. But I never had a personal reason to dislike you other than your heritage. I did not know you so I could not possibly have a real reason. I know I can't change the past but hopefully I can make the future better. This past summer the estate and money turned over to me since I turned 17 over the summer. My father is in line for the Dementor's kiss. Had to put my mother in St. Mungo's, she barely recognizes me at all. I have been living alone for this whole summer and plan to probably the rest of my life. Also I am death eater however it was forced because during Christmas break during fifth year. I saw my mother beaten by my own father. He had crucioed me before and beaten me so I did not care for myself. However my mother was my only weakness. My father knew that so he abused it. Just before the ministry thing my father forced me to get the mark. Using my mother as bait. I knew I could not have her be subject to what I was, so I gave in. I stopped believing in those principles, but my name requires me to act a certain way and believe in things I don't necessarily believe." Draco finished he was so happy to let all that out. Even though it came out kind of rush.
"Wow, I'm sorry I judged you." Hermione finally said
"No, you were right that I am coward, I still do hide behind daddy's money"
"Well that may take time for you grow out of. At least you acknowledged it."
"Yeah, well do you feel relaxed?"
"Yes, I do. Oh my god look at the time! I have already missed Advanced Charms and Defense Against the Dark Arts!."
"Relax Hermione everything will be ok. We will get to you classes on time. You will not have missed a thing and we will not get in trouble."
"How are you so calm we could loose our positions!"
Draco held up something round and it had an hour glass in the middle of it.
"I thought the time-turners were all destroyed at the Ministry?"
"Well yes, I know my dad is evil however his influence at the Ministry were able to get us items that are pretty hard to get. He got it for me before the whole thing at the ministry. The ministry knows we have this but can't take it because of some agreement my dad made."
"Oh well lets go."
Draco draped the time-turner over himself and Hermione. He turned it about three times
Hermione looked around as time changed. She looked at her magicked watch and saw the hands fly. When it stopped they saw what time it was. "Well I guess we can stand to be a little late to Charms rather than completely missing it."
They got on Draco's Firebolt and zoomed to their balcony. They waited until they saw themselves leave. They entered their rooms getting their stuff. They met in common room where they dashed to Charms.
Hermione tried to fix her hair and clothes before walking in. Draco tried to collect himself and putting his cold exterior. Both walked in and had all student stare straight at them. Despite their ministrations to fix themselves outside, their flushed cheeks and heavy breathing gave them away.
"Welcome Mr. Malfoy and Ms.Granger. Nice of you to join us." Flitwick the first to speak.
"Well we were….um…" Hermione was loosing her nerve and words.
"We had to get our books Professor, both of us left them in our rooms." Malfoy saved Hermione.
"Hmmm both of you?" Flitwick looked at them in disbelief. "Well take your seats in the back since they are the only available ones. Also you two will be partners for the whole year and those are your assigned seats."
Draco and Hermione sat down quietly without complaint. Meanwhile Lavender Brown and Parvarti Patil started whispering. This led both to believe that they will be hearing rumors about themselves by dinner.
Harry watched the whole thing from when Malfoy and Hermione came in and throughout the class. They seemed pleasant and they looked flushed. Now Harry was really mad and he wanted to know what was going on right now with Hermione. While Harry got angry, Ron was livid. He could not believe Hermione would hurt him intentionally.
Hermione chanced a look across the room to see Harry and Ron's faces and she had never seen them this angry. 'Why doesn't someone Avada Kedavra me now?.'
Class continued on for another hour and then Flitwick released them for their next class. Malfoy had left as soon as possible to head off any questions from curious students. However Hermione was not as lucky. As soon as Flitwick dismissed the class, everyone bombarded Hermione with questions. Mainly were asking if her and Draco were dating. The two people she wanted to avoid however were kept at bay because there was such a crowd that they could not get to her.
Hermione dashed off to Defense Against the Dark Arts because she really was not up to dealing with the boys. When she got there she saw Draco sitting there already stiff as a board. She took a seat on the other side of the room. They smiled at each other as both were thinking about earlier.
"Hermione Jean Granger, you have some explaining to do right now!"
Hermione froze she knew that yell, and she really did not want to see the source. "Granger!" bellowed the infamous Harry Potter with a red Ronald Weasley. Even Malfoy turned around. He thought only he used Hermione's surname.
Hermione braced herself and turned around.
"Harry this is a classroom you should not be screaming and since when do you call me by my last name?."
"I do not care where we are, you are hiding something from the both of us and it has to do with ferret and since when have you kept things from me and Ron?." Draco turned at the sound of his aforementioned nickname was said.
"Potter please refrain from dragging me into your trivial spats." Draco sneered.
"I have no idea what you did to Hermione but fix her right now."
"I haven't not done a thing to Granger."
"Harry there is nothing wrong with me, Malfoy did nothing to me. Plus if I want to keep things private, to myself I have the BLOODY FREE WILL TO DO SO!!. I AM SURE YOU DO NOT TELL ME EVERYTHING, OR RON OR GINNY DO YOU?? Some things just need to be kept secret. That however does not mean I am hiding or that I distrust you or Ron. Plus you of all people should not be chastising me for keeping secrets." Hermione was mad, plus her and Harry were keeping their biggest secrets from their significant others.
" Now that I'm completely unhinged because I had to yell at my best friend and boyfriend, I'm leaving. There is no possible way I can concentrate because I am furious with you, because you two are still the those immature babies from FIRST YEAR!
At that Hermione grabbed her stuff and ran out. All three boys were stunned. Leave it to Hermione to scare someone when they are angry at her.
Hermione was so angry with those boys. She can't keep stuff from them at all anymore. Of course Draco did not poison me! I am way too good for that. I 'm not stupid!
They know that but they are boys what can I say?
Oh Merlin you again? How about you go away
Avoiding me again?
No I am just not in the mood for it
Excuses.
PISS OFF!!
Hermione had it with everyone and everything. It is the first day and she is already tired.
She reached the Heads rooms and went in. Running into her room she quickly changed into pajamas. Climbing into bed she closed the window and bed curtains and covered herself as if to block out the world.
Draco was sitting at dinner in a daze. Today was one of the best days he had in a long time. Surprisingly it was because of Hermione.
I guess she is growing on you
You
Hello to you too.
Yeah I guess you are right
Wait, what did you say? Have I gone deaf?
No, I said you were right…about her and everything else.
….
Aren't you going to say anything?
I am shocked I thought I would never hear that from the Great Draco Malfoy.
I guess this means you are going to try for her. No matter what heartaches or obstacles comes your way.
Yes.
Good Boy
"Thanks"
"Malfoy are you talking to yourself?" One of Draco's security guards Crabbe spoke.
"No Crabbe just thinking, something you should try." Draco replied
"Right Boss"
All of a sudden there is a loud thud on the table next to Draco. He sees that his Advanced Trangsfiguration text and his notebook lying next to him
"You forgot these." Blaise Zabini said. Blaise is Draco's longest and oldest friend. Their families are great friends since the beginning. Him and Draco have been through the tortures, absence of a kind father figure. They even got the mark together. They are the same in everything, even beliefs. Blaise and Draco are the only Slytherins they know of that want Voldemort dead.
"Hey thanks."
"No problem, did Granger "collect herself?"
Draco chuckled. "Yeah and then Potty and Weasel undid all my work just before DADA. She ran out before class started, haven't seen her since."
"Ah, well Saturday she caught me with Red."
"What!? well what did she do or say?"
"She took points and then Red went to go talk with her. I don't know much pass that."
"Wow, what you going to do?"
"I can't give up Red, I think I am falling for her. However it is her choice if she wants to stop or take a break."
"Mmm, well good luck mate."
"Thanks"
"Drakie poo!!" squealed a pug-faced girl by the name of Pansy. " Oh no…."
"Draco I haven't seen you in forever!! We should get together." Pansy Parkinson was also someone Draco has known almost as long as Blaise. However their parents have been forcing each other together that Pansy actually believes Draco likes her. He just keeps her for a quick shags. He never had any feelings except disgust towards Pansy.
She began running her hands down his leg, slightly brushing her hand over his member.
"Pansy please stop. I think that we should stop and never see each other except in class, corridors or the Great Hall." Draco said. He saw tears coming out from her eyes. "Drakie you don't want me anymore? Why so you can go an be with a mudblood?"
"Me? With a mudblood, you must be barmy. Now get away from me you are crowding my personal space."
"Fine Draco Malfoy, but you are going to be sorry." Pansy got up and stalked away.
"Why do girls always say that Blaise?" " I have no idea mate, if men knew what went on in the female mind we wouldn't have any problems at all."
All the males at the table just nodded in agreement.
Over at the Gryffindor table there was a whole new story.
"We should go apologize to Hermione, Harry." Ron said.
"You can but I am not."
"You cannot be mad at her forever mate, she is right you know , she does have the right to keep things from us. Selectively tells us what she wants. As long they are not secrets that could put us in imminent danger."
"No, Ron. I think something is up and it is bigger than just privacy. And how can you be so calm. She is hiding things from you too."
"I know but our relationship and your friendship with Hermione is more important than a few insignificant secrets."
"I don't think they are as insignificant as you think".
Ron just shook his head at his friend. He had already forgiven Hermione because it had taken him way too long ask her out. However he felt a new feeling and that maybe they are not working out as he planned. Things were not as he saw them and for sometime he felt like he forced her into the whole charade.
Harry knew he should apologize too but he could not bring himself to do it. He no longer believes Hermione was cursed or poisoned. He actually would have preferred that method to what he was thinking. He thinks Hermione is becoming friends with Malfoy and telling him things that she isn't telling him. Plus Malfoy was a death eater, how could she possibly think he is not using her. An even worse thought was Hermione and Malfoy being intimate. 'No she would not go that far….or would she?'
Draco was walking back to the dormitory because he was tired. He was randomly thinking that they needed to have meeting with Prefects soon to make up rounds schedules.
He stopped at the portrait to see what mood it was in now. Portrait Hermione was sleeping looking angelic. His was just calm looking at Hermione. Draco chuckled at the portraits, they really were accurate.
"Hearts Desire" Draco walked in. He went to change in his room into green flannel bottoms and snug white t-shirt. He took his notes from DADA took his wand and pointed it at the papers. "Copius" He made a duplicate of his notes for Hermione. He knocked on the door, no answer. He knocked again and heard someone wrestling with the knob.
"Yes Draco?" Hermione Granger opened the door. Her hair was in a messy bun, she was wearing red flannel pj pants with a green t-shirt.
"I copied the notes from DADA for you."
"Oh how sweet of you thank you so much."
"How are you? Are you hungry? I didn't see you at dinner."
"Yeah I am actually."
The pair went down stairs to the kitchen. Draco opened the fridge and saw exactly what they had for dinner. He took out a variety of things and warmed them with his wand. Hermione was already at the table waiting. He put it front of her and she immediately took to it. He grabbed a couple of butterbeers and handed one to Hermione.
"Aren't you going to eat?"
"No, I am quite full."
"Oh right."
Draco was loving this. She needed him twice today and he gave her what she needed. He was happy that he could help. Just watching her eat was more gratifying than anything at the moment. He was smiling ear to ear.
"What, do I have stain on me?"
"No, you are perfect"
Hermione smiled at that. "Well thank you for dinner."
Draco picked up the plates and sat them on the counter. They immediately disappeared.
"How about we go sit on the couch?" Hermione suggested.
"Sure."
They both sat on the couch, not saying a word. Both were content with silence between them, it was more comforting then awkward.
Draco was soon fast asleep. Hermione conjured a blanket and curled up next Draco. She covered them both up and went back to sleep. Draco kind of looked and saw that she was next to him.
He went back to sleep smiling…
A/n:Well the end of another chapter...I will try to get chapter 4 up this week, even though it will be a crazy week for me. So send all of your creative juices to me so I will be inspired. I will also be inspired if you review!