Chapter 6
The Boundaries of Right and Wrong
Disclaimer:I do not own anything besides certain characters and settings. All the greatness belongs to the great JK Rowling!
A/N- Read first I'll explain later…Please?! BTW Happy (BELATED) New Year (and other holidays I've missed)!
Last Time:
Both Hermione and Draco were dreaming the exact same dream of each other…
Unfortunately, with a piercing sensation in his left forearm he realized that his life could not go down this path until the war was over.
A/N-I know this might be hard to follow but please bear with me…I am back-tracking just a tad, so hold on! I will try to make this clear as possible…Happy Reading!
It was a beautiful moonlit night, with vibrant twinkling stars among the cerulean skies, just perfect to match the romantic atmosphere. With candles alight and flowers surrounding, the two were glowing with pure happiness. Her hair was down in her natural chestnut curls. She was wearing an off white silky body-fitting flowing gown with subtle emerald green stitching. Across from her was the handsome blonde. He was wearing a black tuxedo with a matching emerald green cummerbund. They were sipping an exquisite white wine toasting to their future together. She got up from her chair and looked him in the eye; he looked up at her getting lost in those beautiful brown eyes. She saw nothing but love and honesty reflected in his eyes, the only eyes she would want to look into forever.
She smiled slightly, held out her delicate hand with out hesitation he took hold of it and brought her hand to his lips caressing it softly. She knew she would smile every moment, as long as those moments were spent with him. She gently tugged at him so he would follow her back inside and he obliged willingly… She sat him down on the bed while she was still standing, turned away from him and torturously began to undo the hidden zip of her gown. As much as he loved this, he knew that their first night of their lives together, should be all about her and about them as being one. He got up and moved closer breathing in her scent of vanilla and cinnamon. He could never get used to her. He often wondered if he deserved a creature such as her self. Indulging in the moment a bit too long and almost forgetting what he intended to do, he quickly
leaned in and ever so gently placed a kiss right on the side of her neck, and delicately dipped her down onto the bed. There was nothing in the world that felt so right that he once believed was so wrong…
Both awoke startled by the vivid dream they just had. Hermione was panting feeling beautifully loved. She wanted to talk to Draco and tell him the absurdity of the situation, because she knew that could never happen. But the more she thought on it, the more she wished it would.
Draco awoke also panting, not believing he could have a dream so vivid and wonderful. He wanted to tell Hermione of the utter impossibility of such a situation but he knew deep down that he truly wanted his future to be just like the one he dreamt. Unfortunately with a piercing sensation in his left forearm he realized his life could not go down this path until the war was over …or he made a choice of his own.
Draco was making his way to Blaise, he was sure the Dark Lord would be calling all members. As soon as he walked a few feet away from his door, he heard the squeaking of Hermione's door being carefully opened. He froze watching her every move. She looked as if she was sneaking out.
"Going somewhere, Granger?" He said expressionless.
Hermione jumped, hearing his voice. Feeling guilty she replied, "Oh! Malfoy, you scared the crap out of me! I was trying not to disturb anyone." More like I was hoping not to see anyone, she thought to herself. "I was going to the library. To you know…"
Being difficult with Hermione, Draco responded, "Actually I don't know Granger!" Irritably carrying on the conversation longer than he knew he should.
"What's your problem? I just needed some space alright?! So if you're done PMS-ing, I would greatly appreciate it if you directed me to where the library is located, so I won't get lost." She said defensively.
With a tense jaw and pursed lips Draco dangerously told Hermione, "End of the hall, the door to the left, walk to the fireplace spin the wizard's globe mantle piece…aHHAhH…" Draco grasped his forearm and felt his mark burning intensely. The Dark Lord was impatient and didn't like being put off.
Hermione looked at Draco in clear understanding of what was going on. He was being summoned and yet he was here arguing with her.
Blaise was walking up the stairs and observes the pair facing each other. He can see the fear and concern written on Hermione's face. Turning to Draco he says, "We must go at once." Seeing Draco's nod he turns and makes his way down the stairs to grab his cloak.
Hermione was already close to Draco, she unknowingly yet carefully placed her hand on Draco's arm, "Malfoy, will you be, okay?" She said with all sincerity.
Noticing the warmth of her touch, but not making any mention of it he said, "Well, other that the fact my skin is about to burn off! Yes, I am bloody fine!" Each word said was dripping with sarcasm.
"You insufferable git! I did NOT tell you to go and get that horrid mark did I? So don't be cheeky with me! I didn't know. Sorry for caring." Hermione's hand dropped from his arm and was glaring at Draco. A fuming Draco Malfoy turned with out a second glance and made his way to Blaise feeling the sudden cold where her hand just left.
Feeling lonelier than before Hermione stared blankly at the empty hallway. She had to admit that she was truly scared for Draco and Blaise, more than she was pissed at Draco for snapping at her.
The most obvious reason of her being scared was that they were off to see Voldemort. Duh! That was scary enough. But as she thought not only were they meeting Voldemort they were going to see their fathers! Oh Merlin, what if he found out they were keeping her? Panic and worry set in. On top of that she had an overwhelming feeling of anxiousness and hopelessness. After everything that has happened she was reverting back into her old feelings she just wanted to collapse and cry, but what was the point she knew it would do no good. Hermione did the only thing she knew would keep her calm and focused…she hurriedly went in search of the library.
Blaise and Draco quickly apparated to the Malfoy Manor. As soon as they walked into the dungeons the pungent smell of a rotting corpse enraptured their senses. Not wasting anytime Blaise and Draco took their places among the circle.
Within seconds the Dark Lord appeared from the shadows. The room hushed immediately and he proceeded to fill the room with words of hate.
"Many years, I have planned for our time to come and believe me children, it won't be long! You all know the intricate role you play in my plan and I expect that your parts are acted out flawlessly. If you have not noticed yet, I only called upon the younger members to remind you all what it is that you have to do and I am not one to repeat myself so learn quickly." With a slight flick of his wand every member fell on their knees and cringed, screaming out in pain…
Amazed at the enormity of the Malfoy's private library, Hermione immediately lost her feelings of despair and made her way to the nearest book shelf. After looking through the entire collection she couldn't decide what to read first. She sat on the nearest chair and tried to make metal notes of which books she saw that she must read before she left the Georgia manor, like the ones about healing potions she knew would be useful for Harry and Ron, there were just so many. She looked to her left and saw a lonely book on the table that looked awfully familiar. She reached over and picked it up. She couldn't believe it! She had thought that things like this didn't exist for the wizarding world. Low and behold Hermione found the original copy of Frankenstein by Mary Shelly. A classic of course, she had read it before and suddenly remembered her father reading this book to her when she was younger, but she had to admit she had never ever seen it in its original print, in exceptional condition. Hermione sat comfortably in the plush couch and opened the book to read.
It seemed like in a matter of minutes she called to dinner by Ellie. The boys hadn't returned as yet, she was going to eat alone. She took the book with her and made her way to the dining room.
Even though she finished her meal and Frankenstein Hermione wanted something more. She temporarily was lost in the world of Frankenstein but now she was back to reality. She suddenly had an idea, although her better judgment told her not to she thought why not kill them with kindness?
Draco and Blaise made it back to the manor in one (mentally and physically sore) piece. It was very late, rather early nearly 6:00am and they were starved. Luckily, Ellie appeared offering them something to eat. Draco and Blaise ravenously ate in companionable silence they were too tired for words. After eating, Draco excused himself to go sleep and Blaise followed soon after.
Draco made is way to the master bedroom and collapsed right on to the bed not removing any clothes or shoes, closing his eyes taking in a deep sigh. (Draco's POV :) What a great flippin day! Not only did I battle Granger in the morning and she won the bet, by default that is…but the Dark Lord staged a meeting! Thank Merlin the elder members were not present! I am certain I would not be able to avoid a confrontation with Father. I must owl mother right away when I wake up, might as well tell the truth (and leave Granger out of it). I think I'll tell her that Blaise had a row with his folks so we are staying in the Georgia Manor until school starts. That's another thing school shopping! Ugh, why do I think of all this shit before I sleep?
There was a sudden creak of the door. By the sound of it someone was exiting the room. I looked over.
"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING IN HERE? I yelled at her.
"I didn't mean to disturb you…I was…I was just--" She looked terrified stumbling over her words.
"Spit it out Granger! Spying on me after all I've done?" I glared at her. I guess things never change…she was holding a vile filled with some sort of potions. "Trying to poison me, now? Are we?
"No that's not it at all!" Her eyes wide with regret.
"Then get the hell out! You've no right to be in here. Have you no morals or respect, Granger? I questioned her furiously.
"As a matter of fact I do! It seems you're the one lacking in that department." She retorted hotly.
"Yet you're the one in a place where you don't belong, Granger."
"With good cause, Malfoy. If you'd shut your god damn mouth for a second maybe I can get a word in and explain!"
"What, so you can lie?" I said not believing in her.
"What reason do I have for lying to you?" She said sincerely.
"I don't know you tell me." I finally caved in giving her a chance. She muttered something under her breath that was sounded oddly like a string of profanities and so she started on her self-righteous rant.
"FYI Malfoy I was waiting for you!—"
My eyes shot up at this piece of information. "Well Granger that's all you had to say." I scooted over and patted the bed beckoning her to come over."
"NO! Not for that!" She said blushing. "Merlin, is that what all boys think about? Anyway as I was saying: I was waiting for your return so I can help you. Malfoy SILENCIO."
Damn witch silenced me!
"Hmm I think I like it better this way…you being seen and not heard!"
I heard the double meaning in her words and I inwardly smirked. She was making her way closer to me. She sat Indian style on the spot I had previously invited her to. She continued with some drab story about how much she liked the library. She said she read a book about healing potions and she made one to ease the pain of the dark mark as well as extra so I will have them on hand. How very…Gryfindor of her.
She gave me one of the potions and said "drink!" She was very demanding, I kinda liked it. "This one will help you sleep. I also have others that are a non-drowsy formula as well. I marked the bottles accordingly. Oh! Give me your hand please."
I was hesitant about all this but I knew she was telling the truth. I showed her my forarm and she lightly touched my mark. She took some nice smelling ointment and gently rubbed it over the dark mark tattoo. It felt good to have her soft hand on my arm. The ointment felt good it was tingly at first but it cooled and soothed the burn. She lifted my silence charm and I was speechless but some how managed a coherent thank you. I was already feeling my body relax itself I wanted to sleep.
"Draco? I decided what I want as payment for my bet." She said eyes cast down. I was almost asleep nearly not hearing her but I was interested in what she had to say now.
"Okay, what is it?" I replied.
"Just this…"
"The next thing I know she was moving closer to me. Her breathing was hitched and she climbed on top of me straddling my waist as I lay on my back. She looked to my lips and moved ever so slowly (I really could have fallen asleep at this point! She was hesitant) toward my lips. She hovered over my lips looking back and forth from my eyes to lips. She closed the distance between us and kissed me. I didn't pull back but when our lips connected there was a raw energy that sparked catching me off guard. I was amazed. She departed her lips and then her body from on top of mine and just lay next to me. She brushed a stray hair from my face and said "Now sleep."
With her command my eyes shut and I fell into oblivion with my lips warm and tingly from our first kiss. I really had to fight the potion to attempt what I did next. I moved closer to her body and combed my fingers through her hair. I let my hand fall to her cheek and held it in place and quickly and passionately kissed her tasting every part of her mouth. When we broke contact I left her breathless. "Now I can sleep. No one puts the moves on me and has that last say, in this case kiss. And Hermione? The next time you do that I am not responsible for what happens afterwards. Just a friendly warning." With that I relaxed, catching a glimpse of a shocked expression, turned over and slept like a baby.
Hermiones POV:
That arrogant ass! Who does he think he is? It was my bet to collect on and he makes it all about him. And what was with that bit at the end? 'The next time you do that I am not responsible for what happens afterwards.' Ugh oh we'll see. Typical Malfoy! I lay there staring at him infuriated yet I knew I liked it too much. I probably should go help Blaise too.
I knocked lightly on the door where Blaise was staying.
"Come in" He replied
I say him writing a letter. "Hello, I came to call a truce. Since we'll be living with each other for the next few days and it won't be bad if we are civil at school either. So what do you say? I proposed.
"Granger, please don't take this the wrong way but you have to understand that I am from a pure blood family. And you know prfetly well how we feel about your kind." He began to explain.
"But that doesn't mean we have to!" I argued back.
"Granger, just hear me out first before you judge me. My family may feel that way however I personally don't agree. I am sure by now that you know Draco and I are in allegiance with the Dark Lord, it is imperative that I keep appearances that is why I treat you the way I do. It's all I have ever known. You are the brightest witch of our age and I am damn near shocked that it is a mud- I mean muggle born could achieve it. If there is any thing that my parents endorse is education and to be honest I revere it as well. I appreciate any knowledge that I can gain. What I am trying to say is that I don't hate you! In fact if you weren't muggle born I would probably pursue you. I am a creature of tradition and habit therefore I am biased in my views even though I would never doubt your character. So yes Granger, or shall I say Hermione? I would like to call a truce. I just thought you might like to know where I am coming from.
"Blaise, wow! I think that's the most I've ever heard you say. I half expected to come in here doing all the talking. I can understand where you are coming from and I respect and appreciate your honesty with me. So I accept and to show I came in good faith I've something to help heal you.
With that he nodded and smiled accepting what I came to do. I pulled the chair from the desk over to the side of his bed where he was and worked quietly. I could feel his eyes intent on my face he broke the silence saying, "You're falling for him aren't you?" I looked up and said nothing then continued clumsily working. He continued saying, "Hermione, you won't be the first and surely won't be the last to fall for Draco. To be frank I think he fancies you as well. I've never seen him so protective over someone before. But as a new friend to you I must warn you that he is a heartbreaker and he has the biggest ego ever." I laughed at this because I know what he said is true.
"I kissed him tonight, Blaise." I looked at him to gage his reaction but he said nothing. I continued, "I feel so confused it's only been one week and I've fallen for him. I'm afraid to let anything happen because I know how he was but I've seen his change and I am happy that he has in such a short time. Blaise, I am confused because he's supposed to be my enemy! What will everyone think? I have everything to lose pursing a probably small passing fancy. Yet I can tell you that I will regret this if I don't give him a try."
"Hermione, the only thing holding you back is you! If you want to go for this then go for it. Throw caution to the wind. I have a feeling that this is more than just a fleeting fancy. If you really want this it won't be easy. Both you and Draco will lose from this match but will have much to gain from it in the future. You both can change the wizarding world!"
"Wow, I never thought so much about this, but you are right. It will change a lot of things I'm not sure I can handle it though." I began doubting that this relationship could work.
"Look at it this way Hermione: you won't be going through it alone, you will have Draco and …you have me."
"Blaise, what about Voldemort? If his followers find out both you and Draco will…could…"
"That is no concern of yours. Draco and I can handle it, we will be fine because no one will know until the war is over."
Felling hysterical, "But how long will that be? It could be two days from now or it could be twenty years from now!"
"Hermione, it will be a risk you have to take. I personally would want to live my life knowing that it didn't work out that never knowing I didn't try at all."
I sat and pondered what Blaise said he was right if I wanted something I had to grab the opportunity and not let it pass me by. I thanked Blaise for the talk after I finished healing the Dark mark. I gave him the sleeping potion and I left the room. I had a lot to think about but all I could think of doing was sleeping. I made my way to my room and lay on the bed. I didn't want to think anymore all I wanted to do was sleep so I took some of the potion myself and let it take over my body healing not only my soreness from my battle with Draco but also healing my emotions from the night when Brian tried to rape me, the day Draco saved me forever changing my life, and the possible love that I could give Draco if he only let me try.
A/N - I hoped that you enjoyed the update. I am not making anymore empty promises. But I would appreciate if you reviewed the chapter. I havn't updated because I was un-inspired and really lazy, that not only did I not update my story but I let my grades slip. I am doing better now and hope that I can be and continue becoming a better writer for everyone to enjoy. So thanks and I do apologize for the wait.