Cold air rushed passed Hermione as she fell from the window. Her stomach flew to her chest, her lungs gasped for air and her arms flailed a bit, as though she was trying to fly. All the while, the ground was rushing up to meet her. When she'd fallen from trees, she hadn't done anything to save herself, it had just sort of happened. She screwed her eyes shut against the rush of wind and hoped more than she ever had before, that her magic would save her.

She hit the ground with a thud. There was a crunch and searing pain shot up her legs. Her chest hit the ground and the wind was driven from her. Crack. Her head hit the floor and the world went black.

"Now that was a very silly thing to do." It was Draco's voice that she heard as the darkness cleared from her head. She didn't open her eyes however.

"Where…?" she whispered. Her voice was hoarse, even to her ears.

"Not the same room I had you in before, it seems the window is a bit faulty in there," he replied. She became aware of a cool towel being placed on her forehead, the twisting ache that was developing receded and she smiled a little. "I've put you in a little room on the ground floor of the house. Yes, there is a window, no, it doesn't open very far. Not that you'll be doing much with your current injuries," he added.

"How bad is it?" she asked.

"Broken leg, fractured rib and some severe bruising as well, especially on your arms." Draco said. "And I believe my father would like to see you as well."

"Fuck!" Hermione said. Draco sniggered at her curse.

"He wants to know all about your attempts over the last few days. I am sure he'll be thrilled to know that the spell he devised has worked to thoroughly." Draco said. The tone of his voice implied that he did not approve of such a spell.

"How did he do it?" Hermione asked. She opened her eyes finally and caught the look on Draco's face. "Oh come on, it's not like I can do anything about it is it?" she said. Draco sighed and turned away.

"I've already helped you enough Hermione. I don't like seeing you slapped and held captive like this but there are only certain things I can do. I can assist you in small ways where I know I'm not going to be caught but if…" he trailed off, letting her finish the thought instead. She knew he'd already but him at great risk but there was so much more she needed to know. Draco stood. "I'll send one of the house elves to see to you. You should be clean and in fresh clothes when my father arrives. Don't do anything to upset him, I'd hate for you to get hurt anymore." With that, he turned and left.

Hermione instantly began to think about her upcoming encounter with Mr. Malfoy. The last hadn't been the best meeting she'd ever had and the thought of seeing his sneering countenance again chilled her. Still, it was inevitable. She was in his house after all. Moments later, the house elf appeared and began preparing her for the coming interview.