The Ball.
Notes:
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The corridors were deserted as Hermione replayed the advice that her grandmother and Narcissa had given her. She stopped at the entrance to the main hall. She could hear the buzz of several conversations. Taking a deep breath, she took a step into the main hall where the Champions and their dates were told to stand before entering the Great Hall. She watched as Professor McGonagall directed the other attendees. She saw Fleur with her date, Cedric with Cho and finally, her eyes met Harry's. She saw the surprise flit across his face as well as the softening of his expression. She looked back down immediately. She could tell that he may have regretted his actions the week prior, but she was still a little gun shy and wouldn't make the first overture. She wanted to forgive him, to go back to the way it was before. But that was an impossibility. All she could do was hope for the best.
Inhaling deeply and raising her chin, she took care to make her entrance without stumbling; she looked forward and smiled at Viktor as he held out his arm for her. She blushed as he clicked his heels together and bowed over her hand before kissing it. Butterflies took flight in her stomach and she shakily slipped her arm through his and let him lead her to where the others were waiting as McGonagall gave last-minute instructions.
She hadn't known that the Champions would be escorting their dates in for the first dance and her stomach fluttered with excitement and anxiety. She silently thanked her mother for all those dance lessons that she had forced her to take as a child making her almost confident in her ability not to make a complete fool of herself.
The other Champions, including Fluer, kept glancing at her causing her to fidget before she would force herself to stand still. The words of Narcissa still echoed in her head. She was thankful for Viktor's strong presence, as it helped her to remain steady. 'You can do this, Mia. Don't let them know they're getting to you'. Harry caught her glance once again and he had an indiscernible expression on his face, his eyes lingered on her face a moment before his eyes skated down her body and back up again causing her to blush a deeper red. No, Harry didn't just check her out, did he? It just felt wrong and she immediately tried to think of something else.
She looked away and raised her hand to pat her hair carefully not to destroy the hard work her grandmother and Narcissa had put into making her look the part as the date of Viktor Krum. Someone worthy to be on the arm of a renowned Quidditch Star and Champion. She took a deep breath and it let out slowly trying to calm her nerves. She'd told herself repeatedly that she belonged here, this was her world. She'd been determined to make everyone see that even before she found out she was a pure-blood. She was Hermione Granger; Gryffindor and she would use the traits her house was famous for to her advantage. She would be brave and strong to move forward making her grandmother proud of her, to make herself proud.
Her lip twitched slightly thinking of her grandmother who knew exactly what Hermione needed to stop wallowing in her self-pity. She forced her to comply, yes, but her grandmother did it out of love for her. And Hermione was thankful that Vinda had done what she thought necessary.
Viktor touched her hand that rested on his elbow, giving it a small squeeze. He peered down at her, his eyes sparkling under the torches, "You look very beautiful, my Mia," his breath stirred a wisp of hair near her ear and she shivered. She could see the appreciation in his eyes, and she smiled up at him. Meeting his gaze before she looked forward, tilting her chin high as the doors swung open, "Thank you, Viktor," she whispered as they began to move forward with the others. She wished she had a chance to tell him that he looked handsome in his dress robes, as right at that moment the doors to the Great Hall opened and they began their procession, the Yule ball had begun.
The Champions had their first dance, the Yule Ball was in full swing. She had a moment to take in the Great Hall, the enchantments were beautiful. Snow fell from the high ceilings, the feather-like flakes drifting down to them, melting before they could land. The room was bursting with colours and cheer with all the dresses and robes as they swirled in time with the music. It reminded Hermione of the filmed musicals her mother loved to watch.
Viktor had been such a gentleman, never leaving her side except while going to fetch her something to drink or nibble on. He would tuck her hand in the crook of his elbow paying attention to her even when they were engaged with conversations with others. It was a first for her, being included in conversation without anyone getting that glazed look in their eyes when she spoke. She had been careful not to bore anyone and engaged in light banter with his friends and surprisingly a few of the Slytherins. She was having a fantastic time, so much so, her cheeks were positively sore from all the smiling she was doing. She was glad that her grandmother and Narcissa had insisted that she attend.
It was now after dinner had been served and dancing resumed. She and Viktor had danced many different dances throughout the night, and she felt as if she could be floating in the air. But this dance was different, the music had heavy percussion, almost primal sounding. Hermione's heartbeat matched that of the music, and she licked her lips. Viktor's eyes followed her tongue and his eyes darkened. Hermione felt the heat of his gaze on her, his fingers flexed against her hip as he moved them towards the edge of the dance floor where it was shrouded in shadow.
She held her breath as he lifted his hand and cupped her cheek still swaying her to the music. His face had lost the playful look he had all night as he looked at her.
Hermione's stomach twisted and she felt she had so many butterflies that she was sure if she opened her mouth they would flutter out. She didn't say anything as her heartbeat picked up, the atmosphere between them shifted slightly. She tried to look around to see if they were being observed but Viktor turned her head back towards him.
She felt warm, her body heating up by his touch. It felt different when anyone else touched her. She was very aware of him at this moment. She felt small and delicate as he pulled her slightly closer. The scent of his expensive cologne wafted against her and she took a deep breath. His scent was clean, he smelled citrusy, a sharp tang against her senses. It reminded her of a warm summer's day when she walked through a botanical garden with her parents. The smell of apples, cherries, and plums that hung heavily in the air. He smelled safe and familiar.
They were no longer moving to the music, instead, he held her gaze and dipped his head closer to her face.
'He's going to kiss me!'
She wasn't sure if she wanted to be kissed, her emotions were all over the place and her magic flared against his. His magic was smooth and dark and tugged at her own coaxing her to relax. Her brows furrowed as their lips met, a small brush against her lips seeking permission. She stopped breathing, her eyes fluttering shut when he pressed against her lips more firmly, his hand sliding to the back of her neck holding her in place.
Viktor's tongue flicked out against her lips and she parted them slightly, Viktor's tongue slowly brushed against her own. He tasted of Firewhiskey and chocolate fitting the feel of his magic.
He kissed her languidly for a moment before she let out a small gasping breath as she started to breathe again. He pulled back before pressing his lips against hers one last time.
He didn't say anything, but she knew she saw a spark of desire in his eyes when he looked at her. She may be inexperienced in that department, but she knew what that look meant. She'd spent years watching her parents, and her father would have that same look whenever he would kiss her mother. They always disappeared upstairs for an hour or so after such a kiss. She wasn't ready for more than a kiss right now. She hardly knew him, but she had to admit, for a first kiss, it was nice, not the ideal she had envisioned of her first kiss though. She thought it would be all-consuming, fire and aching desire; like she'd read in her mother's romance novels. Viktor's kiss wasn't that at all, but it was… nice.
He smiled at her as he moved beside her to escort her back over to the other Durmstrang students who were chatting with their dates. Much to Hermione's chagrin, there were more Slytherin students than before sharing the space. She thought it was strange that some of her fellow students were getting along so well with their foreign counterparts but then shrugged it off; this is what this event was about, international cooperation. Hogwarts she was pleased to note, was leading by example.
She was engrossed in the conversation around her when there was a light tap on her shoulder. She furrowed her brow as she turned around and saw Harry. He bowed before her and held out his hand towards her looking hopeful, "Mr Krum, I was hoping I could steal your date for a dance?"
She looked up at Viktor and he raised a brow at her and then looked at Harry for a moment before he spoke, "Only if my Mia vants to."
Patting Viktor's arms, slightly unsettled by the 'my Mia' statement for the second time that night, she turned to Harry and accepted his hand as he led her out to the dance floor. She was nervous as she remembered vividly what had happened last time they were in close proximity. She wanted to salvage her friendship and was glad that Harry finally took the initiative, instead of her. Now, she just hoped that nothing went wrong.
Small miracles.
A slow song had started, and Harry pulled her into his arms, one hand on her waist, his warm fingers flexing against her corset, his other grabbed her hand and pulled it up in the proper position. He held her gaze as he began to lead her around the dance floor and didn't speak a word at first, his eyes studying her face.
"Hermione," Harry said in a soft voice, his grip tightening on her waist.
Her lips twitched watching him struggle with his words, "I'm sorry," she whispered her fingers curling against his shoulder.
Harry shook his head and let out a small chuckle, "No, you shouldn't apologize, I was out of line. Instead of supporting you, I…," he swallowed before he spoke again. "I hurt you both physically and emotionally, I'm so sorry I let my temper get the best of me. I would understand if you wanted to wash your hands of me. What I did… How I reacted..." he trailed off not knowing how to convey just how remorseful he was.
Shifting slightly closer to him she smiled at him, "Thank you for that, but I should be apologizing as well. As one of my closest friends, I should've told you, but I didn't know how especially with everything you're going through right now. I hated not having the courage to tell you. When we saw each other this summer we didn't have any time alone and I felt like what I needed to tell you would take longer than a few stolen moments."
Harry looked around and noted that the song had ended and frowned, "One more won't hurt," Hermione said with a small laugh wanting a little more time with him.
"Right," Harry said and started to move them once again.
"Are you going to see Pads over the hols?"
"I'm going to the Burrow, I think he'll show up there, or we may go to his place," Harry explained.
"Do you think…" Hermione started and bit her lip; she became aware that he was distracted. She saw Harry's eyes looking at her lips and then they moved down to her chest where they were almost touching.
Hermione snapped her fingers next to his face and scowled at him, "Honestly, Harry," she suspected that he was trying to distract her from the heavy subject matter of the tournament. She thought she saw his green eyes flash mischievously.
Harry had the decency to blush and then cleared his throat, "Sorry, but I'm a bloke you know, even if the Prophet insists, I'm only a mere boy of twelve, I can't help but notice that you've… erm… grown up. I don't ever remember seeing those before."
Hermione rolled her eyes at him, however, Harry continued, "Where have you been hiding those things, anyway? Did they come with the dress?" he laughed looking down once again before wagging his eyebrows.
"I swear to Merlin, Harry James Potter!" she growled at him pinching his shoulder. He whined slightly at the sting of her pinching fingers. Now she knew he was just trying to distract her. He'd never normally talk like this. In a way she was thankful, but he could have used a bit more tact.
"Ron shouldn't be so confused now," he smiled cheekily at her, "You're most definitely a girl."
Hermione shook her head, fighting a smile. Her heart warmed seeing him teasing her like nothing had changed, even though it was far from the truth. "Gits, you both are monumental gits," she mumbled while stifling a laugh. She sobered before saying, "Back to the point. I was wondering if you could come over to my home during the holiday so we could speak, there is more I need to tell you. You can even bring Pads and even Ron if you must."
Harry was about to answer when there was a tap on his shoulder and Hermione looked up and met the smirking face of Draco Malfoy.
Draco milled around with the other students waiting for the Champions to make their processional. His body thrummed with anticipation of seeing Granger or was she going by Grindelwald now? No matter, he hoped she would arrive soon. His cousin, Kai assured him that she would be there.
He was still trying to reconcile the fact that Granger was a pure-blood, just like him. He'd fought with himself for so long in regard to his feelings for her. He constantly complained to his parents how she always seemed to excel, and her being a lowly Mudblood. That no longer mattered. What mattered to him was that now he could finally accept the feelings he'd been fighting for her, without fear of retribution from his father for sullying their lines by fancying someone unworthy.
He should have known there was more to her than what meets the eye. She was extremely intelligent and powerful. Being Slytherin he was drawn to power and Granger had in spades. This year he could tell that she was even more powerful than before.
He knew she had done the Rite after reading the letter from her grandfather. He'd been shocked to learn that she was an elemental, and a Life elemental to boot. It was dangerous for anyone to know that fact and after seeing Kai's fear when he spoke to him and Theo about the letter's contents he could understand why. It was bad enough that Skeeter had outed Granger about her heritage. Having read the small passage about Life elementals in the book his mother sent him, he knew the danger it posed for her.
He still didn't understand how that parasitic woman, Skeeter managed to find out about Granger's blood ties, he certainly didn't see her when he was tossing hexes and curses at Potter in the corridor. She'd made it seem as if she had been a witness to the whole episode. But how? Of course, he wasn't really paying attention to who was there at the time, he was brassed off at scar head and wanted to knock him down a few pegs. The tosser.
When the curse had left his lips and he had made the slashing motion his heart stopped for a moment when he'd caught sight of Granger stepping in front of Potter not watching where she was going. He'd been furious with her for being in the way, but if he were being honest with himself, he was more furious with himself for hurting her.
He was wrenched from his thoughts when the doors to the Great Hall swung open with a loud creak and his head swivelled to the right craning his neck to see if he could spot Granger. He'd heard from Kai that Krum had asked her to the ball. When he'd learned that his body had a visceral reaction to the news. His body had begun to heat up and he felt as if his blood was boiling. It didn't help that his heart thrummed wildly in his chest and his gut twisted as images of Granger on the arm of someone else assailed his mind.
Whispers began around him as the music began to swell and then he spotted her, and he forgot how to breathe. She was beautiful, everything a pure-blood should be. He shifted forward slightly when she passed him trying to catch her eye, but her head was tilted high and her eyes remained focused ahead of her not even sparing him a glance.
"Holy shit," Theo whispered as he leaned forward as Granger passed watching her hips sway as she walked beside Krum. "Where the hell was she hiding that body?"
Pansy clasped Draco's arm harder, her eyes focused on Granger as well, "I can't believe that's her," she whispered awed at the change.
Draco looked down at his date and back at Granger as she was expertly led around the dance floor with an elegance, he hadn't known she possessed. It was as if she had been taught from the cradle how to be a pure-blood witch.
"We need to support her," Draco said in a low voice. "You saw how Potter reacted to the news. We need to show her that she's not alone."
Pansy hummed in agreement, "We will," she said in a soft voice. "I never hated her, not truly. In fact, I've admired her and if it had been possible before now to call her a friend, I would have."
Draco nodded. Blood politics shouldn't matter; he was finally learning. Before Granger's ancestry came to light, she was looked at as an anomaly, and he wanted to know more about her. He had to wonder how her muggle upbringing would affect her worldview on pure-blood society. He was pretty sure she would turn it on its ear.
"Shall we?" Draco asked Pansy when others began to crowd the dance floor. He wanted to be near Granger just so he could look at her. His body had come to life as soon as she entered the room, her magic caressing against his own. He knew she was calling out for him and he suspected that she didn't even realize she was doing it.
Not that it mattered to Draco. He would answer her call willingly. He had to try to get her alone tonight so he could speak to her. He knew from attending the many parties his parents hosted that the best way to speak to someone was during a large function; because everyone was too preoccupied with their own activities to notice what others were doing.
Draco watched her throughout the night waiting for his chance. Pansy and Daphne had crowded next to Hermione and they spoke to her at length which he appreciated. Though he could tell that she'd been leary to begin with, as the night progressed, she became more comfortable. His body would feel flushed whenever he heard her tinkling laughter, sending shivers down his spine. He was amazed that something so simple as a laugh could evoke such a response from him. It was both infuriating and intriguing.
He couldn't help but notice how the males in the Great Hall and even a few females kept sending Granger appreciative looks, they made him want to hex their eyes out. Everyone was used to seeing her dressed in her school robes that were far baggier on her hiding her figure and most of her muggle clothes were as well. They were simply shocked to see the bookish swot look so...so...elegant.
He felt a slight pang of sympathy for her as he watched her throughout the night. She laughed and smiled, but there was still a sadness that lingered around her. Kai had told him that her parents' memory had been wiped away, during a manifestation of her power. She was now essentially orphaned, living with Kai and their grandmother. At the time he tried not to care about having witnessed her being carried from Dumbledore's office by his godfather last year, unconscious. From what he knew now, it was her parents who were being levitated soon after in the same state.
He couldn't bear to think about losing his mother or father, never to see them again. But here she was putting on a brave front for everyone. She was strong and fierce which he could appreciate.
The Rite had changed her looks as well. He noticed it immediately when she returned from her visit from her grandmother's. Her hair was tamer, darker and longer. Her eyes, Salazar, her eyes, how could he have missed those eyes right away when she had come back? They sparkled and had a life of their own. She was even more enchanting with her eyes swirling with different colours, her emotions were easier to read, her joy and her displeasure.
After dancing several songs, it was decided everyone in his party would sit the next few songs out, Draco and his friends found an empty table to sit, rest and drink refreshments. Pansy leaned on his shoulder and sighed, "She does look beautiful out there tonight."
Draco chuckled and raised his drink to his lips and took a generous gulp and shivered at the sweetness of the butterbeer. He hoped that someone had decided to spike it but it appeared that was not the case much to his disappointment.
"Who, Granger?" Draco asked feigning boredom.
Pansy lifted her head and looked at him for a moment before she rolled her eyes at him, resting her head on his shoulder once again, "Yes, Granger. You're not hiding your interest in her very well, Draco. You're one of my closest friends and I know how to read you easily."
"I'm not the only one easy to read, Pans. I can see that you appreciate how much she's changed over this past year; don't think I didn't notice how your eyes linger on her either."
Pansy let out a small giggle and nodded before sobering, "You're right, I do think she looks beautiful and I appreciate that. But I very much doubt that her eyes would ever land on me. And let's not forget, that even though I can appreciate her, we could never be together, even if she were interested."
Draco picked up her hand and interlaced their fingers giving her hand a small squeeze. It was true that he and Pansy had grown up together from nappies. He also knew that she didn't really fancy blokes, that she preferred witches. He hated that she would have to marry and produce an heir for someone. He just wanted her to be happy. At least, for now, she had no heavy expectations on her while at Hogwarts and he hoped that she could enjoy her time here at least before the weight of her family's expectations caught up with her.
He stiffened in his seat when he saw out of the corner of his eye, Viktor leading Granger towards the shadows on the dance floor. His breathing picked up as Viktor cupped Granger's cheek. He knew what was coming next and he felt anger burn through him as their lips met.
Theo nudged him twice getting his attention, "What?" Draco hissed as he reluctantly tore his eyes off the couple.
Theo nodded down to his hand that was clenched in his lap. Looking down Draco growled under his breath and calmed himself extinguishing the small flames that licked against his knuckles and checked on Pansy who looked at him with a surprised expression and followed his gaze.
Of course, Pansy knew he was an elemental, she knew everything about him. She and Theo were his closest confidants, and he knew that his secrets were safe with them as theirs were with him. Pansy's mouth made a small 'O' as she watched Viktor kiss Granger. She looked at him nervously and sat up straight and held his hand tight in support.
He wasn't sure if she was holding onto his hand so tightly because she knew if she let go he may make a scene and rip the couple apart or if she too, needed the support.
He quickly averted his eyes as if he were bored and relaxed when no one else noticed his little outburst. Not that being an elemental was a bad thing in his estimation, he just knew that he had to be careful until he had his own Rite in June so he could unlock his full potential and learn to control his gift. He couldn't wait since Granger had hers, she did look slightly older than him even though he still towered over her.
It didn't help his ire when he saw The-Boy-Who-Should-Leave-His-Possessions-Alone escorting Granger to the dance floor. He just hoped that the outburst the entire school witnessed a week ago wouldn't be repeated. He then saw Viktor standing before them. Viktor plucked a flask from his robes and took a deep pull. Draco could smell the Firewhiskey from where he sat as Viktor took another large gulp while watching Granger and Potter on the dance floor. Draco's attention was taken away from the two on the dance floor when he saw Kai storm over, he looked angry and worried.
Kai growled under his breath and he nudged Viktor in the arm, "What did he want with Mia?"
Viktor's gaze slid over to Kai's for a moment before he looked back at the pair, "he asked for a dance."
Kai folded his arms across his chest and glared at Potter, "He better not hurt her, I'll kill him."
Draco stood up and let go of Pansy's hand, "Krum, do you mind if I interrupt them? I would like to speak to Granger and apologize for cursing her in the hallway last week."
Viktor raised a brow at him and looked at Kai who nodded his head, "I see no veason not to," Viktor answered him before taking another drink.
Straightening his tie, Draco stalked across the floor determined to speak to Granger and let her know how their relationship had changed and he was answering her call.
Draco had to hide his pleasure when he tapped Potter on the shoulder interrupting his dance with Granger. Potter held Granger tighter, pulling her against him as he hissed at him, "What do you want, Malfoy?"
"I was simply coming over to ask Granger for the pleasure of a dance," he paused for a moment meeting Granger's eyes before moving closer to her, "She is family after all, and I would like to make amends with her."
"It's alright, Harry. We can finish this conversation later," Granger's voice was soft, and Draco's body tightened in anticipation.
Potter looked at Draco for a moment and narrowed his eyes before reluctantly releasing Hermione, "We can sit on the train together and talk, yeah?"
"Of course," Granger responded squeezing his shoulder for a moment before she placed her hand in Draco's waiting hand. A thrill raced down his spine and he tightened his hand reflexively. He took in her scent; it was cedar and pine smoke. It reminded him of a blazing fire on Christmas. She felt like… Home.
Having Granger in his arms finally seemed to calm the uneasiness that flared inside Draco when she was in the arms of another. He knew that Theo fancied her as well, and that didn't bother him for some reason. He knew he was a possessive prick and hated to share anything he considered his. After reading the letter he knew that she would have to join with four elementals and while it did bother him slightly at the thought of her giving attention to anyone but him, it didn't flare his rage as it normally would, surprisingly.
"You wanted to speak to me?" Granger asked, trying to keep Draco at arm's length.
Letting out a small huff, Draco pulled her closer than what was less than socially acceptable and glided across the floor with her tight against him towards the double doors to the Great Hall. He knew there was a small alcove just outside the door where he could speak to her alone. "Yes, I did," he responded, meeting her eyes, never looking away as he continued to move her expertly, "In a moment, love."
Dark eyes watched as Draco steered Miss Gran-Grindelwald out of the Great Hall. He didn't know what his godson was about but suspected it had to do with his element. When he'd shown Draco that he too was an elemental, he felt their kinship deepen. There was a bond between them that hadn't existed until just recently and Severus thought it all had to do with Hermione. He felt some of the same stirrings when he was near Theo Nott.
Being an elemental was both a blessing and a curse, but the same could be said with being a wizard growing up muggle. Life was a series of checks and balances, being something more, magically just added a new dimension.
He'd watched avidly as Hermione made her first appearance in the Great Hall. She was… there were no words to accurately describe her. Beautiful, gorgeous, exquisite were running through his mind and on the tip of his tongue. But they still felt flat. He'd felt when she smiled at Viktor Krum, like a knife to the chest. He'd wanted that smile to be his. He knew it was wrong to desire his student and he cursed himself in a thousand different ways.
He'd felt that first connection when he braved the ley lines that day last June in Dumbledore's office. He felt whenever her magic would swell, and she would unsuccessfully try to rein it in. All he would have to do is lightly touch her and she would calm. At first, he thought he could keep their interactions on the same level of mentorship, but as time went on, he realized it would be impossible.
Suddenly, he was ripped from his thoughts by a hand on his shoulder. He mentally groaned, he knew of only one person that could find him anywhere.
"Severus, my boy! I see you're being as broody as ever, skulking in the shadows," Albus said jovially, his blue eyes twinkling madly.
"How else am I to catch the horny little blighters if I can't conceal myself, Headmaster?" he returned snarkily. Albus just 'hmm'd' before commenting.
"Miss Granger is looking quite grown-up tonight, isn't she? If it hadn't been known that she grew up in the muggle world, most would assume she was raised pure-blood, don't you think, Severus? I also couldn't help but notice that you are near whenever there is a need. Why is that?"
Severus could feel Albus trying to press on his mind, but his shields remained firm. There was no way that he would allow the old fool more ammunition against him. It was bad enough he took and used his vow to Lily for his own ends. He refused to allow Hermione to become tangled any deeper in Albus' web. Though she was already a piece on Albus' giant chessboard, her moves would remain a mystery for as long as possible.
"I'm sorry, Headmaster. But you must excuse me, I need to patrol the corridors for delinquents."
"Ah, yes. Mustn't let the students have any fun. What's the harm in a little kiss beneath the mistletoe?" Albus murmured.
"Your and my idea of fun are as vastly different as the Arctic and Sahara Desert, Albus. And it's not the kiss itself that's harmful, it's what that little kiss could lead too, that I'm trying to prevent. Good evening, sir." Severus whirled about, his cloak billowing as he left the ball. He thought he saw Albus' eyes flash with some unknown emotion but dismissed it. He needed to make sure nothing happened to Hermione.
Hermione bristled at Draco as he led her out of the ball and opened her mouth to speak but thought better of it, her eyes roaming over the crowd of people before they settled back to his and narrowed. Her hand curled around his shoulder, gripping him with force.
Draco was no fool, he knew if he weren't wearing his dress robes, she would have left claw marks. Images of Granger writhing beneath him flitted in his mind, her small hands would grip his back and her nails would dig into his flesh as he moved in her. Pleasure and pain rocked through him as his hips worked at a furious pace wringing her pleasure out of her, her cries of his name on her lips as he worked them to completion. He shook his head, as pleasant as that thought was, it wasn't what he needed to think about right now. Maybe when he was in the shower, he would indulge in his little fantasy.
He gently shoved Granger into the alcove and put a little distance between them blocking her escape. He wanted nothing more than to pin her to the wall and snog the daylights out of her, making her forget Viktor, but he knew he would have to wait. They would be counterproductive for what he had in mind.
He leaned down using his greater height as an advantage and whispered, "I know what you are, Granger."
Her scent surrounded him and he wanted to groan in pleasure. She smelled so sweet and inviting like cedar and pine, overlain by the freesia perfume she'd used for the evening. He knew he could become lost in her scent.
Granger let out a scoff and pressed her back against the wall, "That's old news, Malfoy. Everyone knows who I am now, and the name isn't Granger, it's Grindelwald," her hands came up and pressed against his chest trying to get him to move back. Her belly fluttered, though she couldn't really tell if it was in pleasure or dread that he was so close. She looked at his lips and thought, ' I wonder what his kiss is like?'
Draco grabbed her wrist in one hand, his other trailing down her arm, he felt his fingertips buzz as he touched her and he saw her shiver, her eyes becoming unfocused as they stared at his face, his lips specifically. He fought the smirk that wanted to bloom, she could feel the same pull he did.
Granger blinked and shook her head, "Let me go, Malfoy. My date is waiting for me."
Draco didn't budge as she shoved against him harder. He squeezed her wrist gently and smirked down at her, "I didn't say who, I said what."
That got her attention. She pursed her lips as she glared up at him. He thought she looked adorable. "I don't know what you're talking about Malfoy, but this dance is over!" she snarled in a low voice as she tried once again to shove her way past him.
"I'll say when this dance is over, Hermione. If you give me a moment, I can prove it to you," Draco hissed, walking her backward until her back once again pressed against the wall. "Stop fighting me witch, can't you tell I'm trying to help you? Be an ally?"
Draco looked frustrated at Hermione's continued obstinance. He could feel his temper spike and his skin feel hot. He looked down at his hand and saw small flames begin to dance along his flesh. "Would you just listen to me? I'm trying to say that I'm one too! I'm an elemental! Look!" and he raised his hand in front of her face showing the flames dancing on, but not burning his hand.
Granger's mouth parted for a moment and then snapped shut. She looked from his hand and then back at him with a glare, "It was you, you're the one who outed me!"
"What? No, no I did no such thing!" he hissed fiercely back at her and grabbed her chin with his free hand, his flames flicking out. "I admit that Theo and I found your letter from your grandfather, but I swear on my magic, that we didn't speak to that rabid woman about anything. We were alone in a hidden passageway while we read it."
"If you didn't tell her, then tell me who did, Malfoy?"
"You forget that there was other information in that letter that bitch didn't report on. I swear on my Life that we didn't tell anyone and that we were alone when we did. If I outed you, why would I leave that important fact out?"
"It's true, Granger," Theo said joining the couple in the alcove. He looked at her with a guarded expression and tried to move beside Draco so he could speak to Granger without anyone overhearing them. "I'm the one who found your letter. I had thought it was an assignment when I found it," he lied smoothly. He would never tell her that he saw her grandfather's name on the letter. He didn't want her to hex his bollocks off, thank you very much.
"Fine," she snapped at the pair, "I believe you, but I want my letter back."
"Kai has it," Draco said, smoothly releasing her wrists now that she had stopped struggling.
Tilting her chin up she gave them both a once over and gave them a curt nod, "If you'll excuse me, I need to get back to my date."
Theo and Draco stepped to each side and let their little witch through. As she passed Draco grabbed her hand and gave it a small tug, "Just remember Hermione that both Theo and I have heard your call and we plan on answering it and soon so be prepared."
Draco laughed as Granger yanked her hand free, fury in her eyes as she left them standing there. He was going to enjoy the chase, but she had been warned and there was no escaping him and Theo, not when her call was so strong.
Hermione, frazzled from her dance with Draco made her way back into the Great hall but froze for a moment at seeing who was waiting for her. She wanted to walk by the person who was waiting, leaning against the wall with Harry.
Ron looked up when she stepped out from the shadows and frowned at her as she neared them, "Everything alright, Mione? Harry told me you were dancing with Malfoy one minute and then you were gone the next. So, we came to try and find you."
Hermione stopped in front of the pair and looked to her left as Theo and Draco stepped out of the alcove and gave her a meaningful look. She wanted to roll her eyes at them, she could feel a headache begin to form. This was the last thing she wanted to deal with.
"Everything alright here, Granger?" Malfoy asked, giving her a smug look, his brow arched high and a smirk on his lips. He even had the audacity to lick those lips as if tasting something. But she could also see the concern in his and Theo's eyes.
Narrowing her eyes, she answered in a clipped tone, her wand hand itching to hex him, "Perfectly fine, Malfoy. I'm speaking to my best friends. You've said what you wanted to say, please move along."
Draco glared at Harry and Ron before looking back at her, "They didn't seem all that supportive before, are you sure they're still your best friends?"
"Sod off, Malfoy!" Ron had his wand out pointing it at him and stepped closer to him, tugging on Hermione's arm moving her behind him.
"Enough," Hermione snapped, shrugging off Ron's hold. She was sick of all the posturing. She was at her wit's end with all this testosterone flying about. She turned to Draco saying, "You and Nott can leave, I'm perfectly fine speaking to them. I don't need your protection."
Malfoy gave a warning glare toward Harry and Ron before he gave her a small nod and nodded for Theo to follow him.
Hermione leaned her head against the wall looking up at the high ceilings wishing this night would end already. She was having a perfectly fine evening before Malfoy had to go ruin it, and then there was Ron who was watching Malfoy walk away, his wand still in his hand.
"I could have handled that, Ron, but thank you."
Ron turned slowly, his arms falling to his side, "Harry said I should speak to you and…" his words trailed off looking uncomfortable.
Shaking her head, she stepped into Ron and embraced him, "I'm sorry, I should have told you," she whispered in a low voice.
He patted her back stiffly and Hermione stepped back feeling like she hugged a dead fish. He remained stiff and his eyes were constantly shifting about, not meeting hers. She was aware there was a possible blow-up coming with Ron, she just wished he would've saved it for a different day other than tonight. Maybe on the ride back to London, but no, it wasn't to be as she saw his face begin to redden.
"Why didn't you tell us? Why all the secrecy? I thought we were your best friends?" Ron asked, his voice getting louder and louder with each word.
Looking around and seeing that no one was paying attention to them Hermione shushed him, "I know, I know I should've told you. I tried, I really did, but this year has been...difficult. Someone put Harry's name in the Goblet, and I've been trying to adjust, and I just couldn't find the words."
"We said no more secrets," Ron huffed, looking down fiddling with the Chudley Cannons badge she purchased him for Christmas. With each twist of the badge, his robes would change colour and style. She thought it a brilliant gift considering Ron has been mortified with his dress robes his mother had sent.
Raising her hand, she placed it over Ron's, and he stilled and looked slowly at her, "I know. I can only say sorry so many times, Ronald. I love you; I love you and Harry with everything I am. You two are my best friends, and just because my lineage has changed, I hoped that wouldn't change everything," she bit her lip, removed her hand, and took a step back. "I was just afraid that you would think...I know my grandfather is not a good man. I-I was afraid that people would look at me like I was just like him. That his actions would become my actions. I know it's stupid when said aloud, but it was how I felt."
Ron let out a snort and Harry elbowed him sharply.
"I just don't want you to think it would change me! I'm still the same Hermione that you know and depend on. The one that will make you do your homework or tell you how silly your hare-brained schemes are."
"Yeah, well, you look awfully chummy with that Rosier guy and Krum," Ron groused, his face wrinkling in disgust. "And don't even get me started on you talkin' to a bunch of slimy Slytherins. Speaking of, why were you hiding in the shadows with Malfoy and Nott?"
Hermione ignored his second question and answered the first, "That Rosier guy is my cousin, and if you must know he's Viktor's best friend. I'm sure that's the only reason he asked me to the ball."
Ron rolled his eyes at her, "I don't think that was the only reason. You two looked awfully cosy earlier," he said in a low growl, his face turning a florid red. "He didn't kiss you, did he?"
Hermione let out an angry huff and stomped her foot, "That, Ronald Weasley, is none of your business. We're talking about keeping secrets from each other, not about my date. Yes, my grandfather is Gellert Grindelwald. Yes, I spoke to some Slytherins tonight. Why can't I just let loose and have fun for a change? Why do I always have to be the voice of reason? Why do I always have to be transparent, to only be spoken to when there is a problem in an essay?
"I didn't choose any of this, Ron. I'm trying my best to keep my head afloat with all these changes, and I would think that you would be a bit more supportive. But maybe that's asking too much," she took a shaky breath, willing herself not to cry again in front of either of them. He, especially, didn't deserve her tears. "This right here is why I didn't have the nerve to tell you, knowing you would start laying accusations at my feet. Do you honestly think that I wanted all of this? When you can grow up and be a real supportive friend, you know where to find me."
Not waiting for an answer, she stormed off not wanting to get into a more heated argument with Ronald Billius Weasley. He would accept her, or he wouldn't.