Chapter 14

How did he end up here? One year ago Draco Malfoy would be described as a self-absorbed prat. Only caring about himself along with his Father's opinion. Now, nobody knew what to think of him. The once selfish twat gone on a rebellious streak, which meant for him that he was kind, quiet and had electric blue hair. Was it all an act? Or was it how he always was deep down. Just without the stress of his family's reputation allowing him to show his true personality.

Hermione was confused by the boy. Wanting to truly believe that he was doing better. Becoming something new.

Ron was disturbed by the boy. He wished he could believe he was changing his personality for the better but deep down he feared it was all a part of some evil plot.

Harry could feel his heart in his throat.

Death Eaters.

There is no other explanation. Malfoy valued school so he wouldn't just leave, even with the threat of bad guys. He was never afraid to fight. But Death Eaters? That's something different. They knew spells that could torture and kill wizards. Nothing like a playground bully. The fact that he admitted he wasn't safe in Hogwarts made Harry scared. If Malfoy wasn't safe… What about himself? His friends? Dumbledoor, even? But most importantly, why did they want Draco Malfoy. The son of a Death Eater. Unless…

"He rejected the mark."

Hermione and Ron looked at their friend with shock. Both understanding his conclusion however, something about Malfoy made them paranoid.

"We don't know it's Death Eaters, Harry. Plus, what if he's leaving to take the mark?" Ron spoke, for once sounding smart much to 'Mione's surprise.

"Why would that make any sense? He's had all christmas. And knowing Voldemort, he would be forced into school no matter what happened. To kill someone… Or to spy. Something, I don't know - Just…"

With all the frustration Harry was feeling he clawed at his scalp, making small growling noises under his breath. This holiday had been perfect. Now it was as if all the stress from his life in recent years had pressured him all at once. Falling heavily on top of his shoulders. His friends felt sympathy for him. Wanting to comfort him but they knew that their doubts in him may have tampered his thoughts of them momentarily.

" Then we should find out where he's going…" Hermione spoke softly, trying to calm Harry's panic.

Looking up to her, giving her attention she carefully continued. "I mean. If he's taking the mark he'll be going home. If he's not. Where would he hide? Isn't it important we know either way? If we're giving him the benefit of the doubt and it is Death Eaters coming after him, he'll need help. Whether he deserves it or not. Or wants it."

"How?" Harry said, eyes brimming with tears due to his heartbreak and anxiety. He was so afraid this boy was truly what he feared he was. Even him being in danger made his chest tighten. He didn't know what he was thinking.

"We've still got a week. I say we check the map first, maybe you send him a letter and see if he'll give any new information. Next best thing is to somehow figure out his location and follow him. It may be stalkerish but…"

Ron shook his head, not liking the idea of following some kid. Yet, looking over at Harry. Noticing his worry, how upset he had become over his crush, he wanted to help in any way possible.

"Why not?" Harry now looked at Ron in shock. Ron had hated anything to do with Malfoy since the beginning of all this mess. Even during their heart to heart. The fact that Ron was willing to spy on his enemy for best friend made him smile.

"Fine. Fine whatever. We stalk Malfoy. Figure out what's going on. And hopefully I don't look like a total creep." He laughed.

"He'll understand," Hermione told him, placing a hand on his back.

"Okay then… What do I send him? In the letter I mean."

"Proclaim your love, mate. That'll get him to talk!" The three teens laughed together at Ron's idea. Tension leaving suddenly, covering itself with the excitement of their plan.

Although Harry was still anxious, deep down he knew Draco was good. Just trying to escape something bad. Something he was at one point going to become.