CHAPTER 2~ Move in for the Kill
He hugged her shaking body closer to him. "Don't cry over him, Hermione. Now you're free to be with a guy who goes to Hogwarts and you're closer in age to and who speaks understandable English."
Hermione laughed a little, but almost choked herself in the process. "Yeah. Having a boyfriend who lives so far away is a major pain."
"So, you got any other guys in mind that you like?" He looked at her hopefully.
She looked at him and said, "There is always Harry and Ron. I'm sure that one of them would go out with me if there's no one else."
"Oh. Oh I see." He looked away from her. His heart felt like it had been ripped viciously out of his chest, torn into millions of tiny pieces, stepped on, then run over by a Mack truck.
"Draco, something bothering you?" Hermione asked.
He feigned a smile. "No, nothing at all. What makes you think that?"
"You look like you've been beaten with a baseball bat and thrown in a cellar without food or water for three months. Not that I know what that person would look like," she added quickly.
"Oh, no, I'm fine. Let's go catch a movie or something. A comedy. Maybe it'll help cheer you up some."
"I'd like that."
They walked to the mall that was near their neighborhood. The music was blaring over the P.A. system as always. "Driven Under" by Seether was on.
"Do you think I'm faking
when I'm lying next to you?
Do you think that I am blind
nothing left for me to lose?
Must be something on your mind
something lost and left behind
Do you know I'm faking now?
Do you know I'm faking
when I'm lying next to you?
Do you know that I am blind to everything you ever do?
Must be something on your mind
something lost for me to find
Do you know I'm faking?
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
I guess you know I'm faking
when I tell you I love you
I guess you know that I am blind
to everything you say and do
Must be something on my mind
there's nothing left for me to hide
Do you know I'm faking?
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
We have to succumb to the feelings we can never face
I need you. I breathe you.
I can't go through this all again.
We have to succumb to
the feelings we can never face I need you.
I breathe you. I can't go through this.
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
Then she told me she had a gun
she says she wants to use it on me now."
That didn't help Draco's mood any. The song just made him realize how much he wanted Hermione. It didn't look like he had much of a chance though. She seemed to be into famous guys.
"Draco, stop telling me you're fine," Hermione hissed. "No one who looks as upset as you can possibly be anywhere close to fine. You better tell me or I will tickle you right here."
His eyes widened and he took a step away from her as he paid for the tickets. "No, please don't. That is the ultimate torture."
"I know. Tell me what's wrong, or I will tickle you," she threatened.
"I can't tell you here. There are too many people around." They had shown up very early and there was no one in the theater with the exception of them.
Hermione raised her eyebrow. "We are the only ones here you dolt."
He took a deep breath and looked into her eyes. "Well, Hermione, it's like this, I love you."
"I know you do, Draco. I love you too. It's been this way for almost sixteen years."
"No, Hermione, not like that. Let me re-phrase what I just said. I'm in love with you, Hermione. I have been for years, but I never said anything. And I was afraid that if I didn't say anything soon, I would lose you to Potthead or Weasel." He closed his eyes and looked away from her. "I'll go sit somewhere else. You probably don't wanna talk to me again."
He stood up, but she pulled him back down into the seat. "Draco, I knew exactly what you were talking about. I've been in love with you since we've learned to talk."
"Really?"
"Yes."
He leaned closer to her and kissed her. Their lips brushed each other's gently, but she pulled him closer and pressed her lips harder against his. Taking this as a good sign, he decided to take things farther. He ran his tongue over her lower lip. She opened her mouth to allow him access. He slid his tongue into her mouth and began to explore every crevice.
When they broke apart ten minutes later, it was simply because of a lack of air. There were more people in the theater now, and the previews were about to start.
Draco put his arm around Hermione. She leaned her head on his shoulder. Never in his life, did Draco think he'd end up with Hermione. He'd loved her for so long, and he'd just found out that she had felt the same way all along.
~
They left the theater with smiles across their faces. Draco decided that he was hungry and asked Hermione if she wanted to go out to eat. She said that she did. They decided to go to the small restaurant in the center of the mall. It was expensive, but Draco had the money.
"Hello. How many?" the young waitress asked smiling at Draco.
"Two," Draco replied dryly.
The waitress looked between Hermione and Draco then grabbed two menus. "Follow me please."
Draco put his hand on the small of Hermione's back as the wound their way through the restaurant to get to their table. They sat in a small booth in the back. Not many people were around.
"My name is Janie," the waitress said handing them their menus. "I will be your waitress today. Can I get you something to drink?"
"I'll have a Pepsi," Hermione said glaring at the waitress, who was still looking down at Draco.
"Same," he said not bothering to look up from his menu. He knew the waitress was watching him, and he didn't like it one bit. Once she had left, he looked up at Hermione and noticed the jealous expression on her face. "Something wrong?"
"I don't like the way she was looking at you. She hasn't taken her eyes off you since we walked in."
"I know. I'm trying my best not to make eye contact. You do realize that when we go back to Hogwarts there will be girls staring at me like that, like they always do. There won't be anything either of us can do about it."
Hermione smiled a little. "Yeah, 'cause I'll just go up to some girl and pick a fight with her when I know what the consequences of that would be."
"Picture that. Hermione Granger, star student, model Gryffindor, perfect prefect, candidate for Head Girl picks a fight with Pansy Parkinson, Slytherin slut, for ogling over Draco Malfoy. The news would be all over the school in minutes."
They started laughing as the waitress returned with the drinks. She placed the two Pepsis down in front of them. "What will you have to eat?" Her eyes immediately turned to Draco, who still had a smile on his face.
"A cheeseburger and fries," he answered, trying to calm himself.
"And you?" Janie sneered as she looked at Hermione.
"A hamburger and fries. And I'd like to make a request," Hermione said putting on her sweetest smile.
"What's that?"
"I would like you to keep you eyes off my boyfriend, if that's not too much trouble."
Janie glared at her then stalked off toward the kitchens.
Draco raised an eyebrow as he looked up at Hermione.
"Might as well say something now while I still can," she shrugged casually as if it were nothing.
Draco laughed again, but soon stopped. "Hermione, I was just wondering, what will my father think? You know how he is- proud to be a pureblood and all."
She looked at him nervously. "Well, do we really have to tell him now? I mean, we've still got the whole summer ahead of us.right? We can tell him before we leave for King's Cross Station."
He shook his head. "I don't know. He'll probably be even madder if we keep it a secret. I'll wait awhile before I tell him. He's still in Azkaban anyway."
Hermione nodded and reached across the table to take his hand. "I'm sure you'll think of something. After all, you are quick on your feet." Draco just smirked.
The food came shortly after. Janie didn't even glance at Draco. She just placed the food and gave them the check and walked away.
~
After they finished eating, they walked back toward their street hand-in- hand. A warm summer's breeze was blowing. Draco's hair fell across his stormy eyes. During the summer he never bothered to gel it back. He preferred when it was in his eyes anyway. The way he did his hair for school was to keep up his image, the way Lucius instructed him to.
They went into Draco's house. His parents, both Narcissa and Lucius were in the family room sipping tea. It appeared as if they were waiting for the two to walk in. It was apparent that Lucius had escaped from Azkaban. Neither of them said anything about it though.
Draco quickly let go of Hermione's hand and shoved both of his hands in his pockets.
Lucius looked up when they walked in. "Draco, Hermione, sit down. There is something we need to discuss."
"Even me?" Hermione questioned. She wasn't used to being involved in some of the more important Malfoy conversations.
"Yes, even you, Hermione. I'm afraid this will affect both of you."
Hermione and Draco sat on the couch across from Lucius and Narcissa. Once they were settled Lucius began, "Now I know this will probably be hard on the both of you as you have been friends your entire lives, but I feel that it is time that we move back to our house. The house that I inherited from my father. It's not too far from here, but you won't see each other as often as you do now."
Hermione felt tears welling up in her eyes. Draco stared down at the floor. "No, Father. You can't be serious. I won't go. I want to stay here."
"It is not a question of what you want, Draco. This is your destiny. You will finally take your place among the ranks of the Death Eaters as we have always planned."
Draco shook his head and looked up. His grey eyes met his father's. "No, Father," he said softly, but with a great force. "It is you who planned that for me. You never asked me what I wanted to do with my life. I may very well want to work around this neighborhood for all you know. I am not moving. I refuse to leave the woman I love." He immediately stopped talking when he realized what he had said.
Hermione's head snapped up along with Narcissa's. Lucius' eyes grew wide in shock. "Do you mean what I think you mean, Draco, or did I just hear you wrong?"
He knew he couldn't go back and change what he had said, so he continued with his original thought, "You heard me perfectly well, Father. I have loved Hermione for years. I don't know how you didn't see it. She has always been there for me. She has always made me feel like a better person. It's because of her that I am who I am now. I'm in love with Hermione Granger, my best friend of nearly sixteen years."
Narcissa glanced furtively at her husband. She knew that although Lucius like Hermione, he wouldn't approve of Draco dating her.
"Then I think it better that we move as soon as possible so we can get these childish images out of your head. You are fifteen, Draco. You don't even know the definition of love. Obviously you are very confused. No Malfoy ever falls in love with a Mudblood," Lucius sneered.
The tears that were threatening to fall from Hermione's eyes finally slid down her cheeks.
"What happened to you in Azkaban, Father?" Draco questioned with anger in his voice. "You weren't there for a month and you return and are demanding that we move and you're calling my best friend, whom you've always claimed to like the most horrible name you can think of." He put his arm around her and let her cry on his shoulder. "I will not go anywhere with you, and I refuse to become a Death Eater. They are nothing but cruel, heartless bastards. Just like you." He stood roughly and pulled Hermione with him. "Come on. We're leaving."
Lucius stood as well. "Where do you think you're going? Get back here now!" he roared.
Draco didn't pay attention as he slammed the front door forcefully closed. Hermione's body was shaking as they began to walk toward London once more. Draco had his arm protectively around Hermione's shoulders. Tears were still falling from her eyes.
The hot summer sun was still beaming down on them. No one else was walking the streets. Everyone else was at home in their air-conditioned houses.
After only walking a few blocks, Hermione's legs had stopped moving. She could no longer walk, and it was becoming harder for her to see out of her eyes. Her hands were shaking violently. When Draco called her Mudblood at school, he didn't mean it, but Lucius had. She could see it in his eyes that he had meant every word he said.
Draco pulled Hermione into a hug. He let her cry into his chest. After only seconds, he could feel her tears soak through his thin shirt, but he didn't care. He wanted to be Hermione's support always.
"What did I ever do, Draco?" she sobbed. "What did I ever do to deserve this?"
"You didn't do anything, Hermione, except be the most wonderful person I have ever met. Azkaban turned my father crazy. He wasn't in there a month, and there weren't even dementors. Don't listen to a word he says. I'll figure something out. I'm not moving anywhere unless you come with me, okay?"
She nodded and looked up into his grey eyes. The eyes she had come to adore over the years. "Where are we going for now though? We need to stay somewhere tonight."
"Well if it's all right with you, I was thinking that maybe we could stay in a hotel tonight. We'll call your parents of course; let them know you're okay. I can't stay in the neighborhood right now, and I don't want you near my father until I know he's back to a normal state of sanity."
Hermione nodded again, still tightly clutching to Draco. "What if my parents are mad at me, Draco?"
"I'll explain everything to them. They should be able to understand. You're parents are bright people."
"How come you're never like this in school? Here you've got a whole plan made out for what you're gunna do, but there you just let things happen."
Draco smirked a little. "You said yourself that I'm quick on my feet."
Hermione managed a small smile. "I did say that, didn't I?"
He wiped her tears away with his thumb as he kissed her. He loved the feel of her lips against his. It was like nothing he had ever felt before. He felt like the part of him that had been missing was there. What he had always felt was missing from his life had been right there in front of him. All he had to do was open his eyes and his heart.
He massaged her tongue gently with his. He wanted to taste every part of her, but he knew he'd have to wait until they were alone. He pulled back gently so that his lips were barely touching hers. "We should get going," he whispered. She nodded and opened her eyes once again.
They laced their fingers together and continued their journey toward the hotel.
"Draco, I just thought of something. We don't have clothes, and we can't use magic."
"Yeah, I thought of that too. I figured we'll go to the mall tonight and at least buy some stuff for tomorrow."
"I never could beat you when it came to things like this. I'm just book- smart."
"Hermione, you're the smartest witch in our year. With everything you've done with Potter and Weasley, how can you say you're just book-smart? You've actually gotten experience fighting against the Dark Arts already, and you always made it out okay. I'm worried sick every time you go missing of course, but you, Potthead, and Weasel know what we're up against once we get out of Hogwarts. No one else does."
"It's not all it's kicked up to be. I've almost been killed and expelled a few times, come to think of it."
"Yeah, well I'm you didn't."
She smiled up at him as he held the hotel door open for her. They walked up to the front desk, where a man in about his forties was standing.
"Hello, how may I help you?" he asked with a smile.
"We need a room please," Draco responded.
"Double or single?"
Draco looked down at Hermione. He would leave the choice up to her. "Single," she said.
"How long will you be staying?"
"Um, I'm not sure. I think just one night, possibly two."
Draco paid the man and took the room keys. They would be staying in room 643. The room was gigantic. The bed was king-sized and there was a large window that gave a beautiful view of the city. "I think I can see our street from here," Draco joked.
"You probably can. I wouldn't be surprised. We should probably go to the mall then. I'm already starting to get tired and it's only seven."
Draco turned from the window. "Good idea. Then we can get back here and call your parents. The office closes at eight, right?"
"Yup. And it only takes them like five minutes to get home."
They left the large hotel and headed toward the mall. Draco knew that Hermione was still upset, but he also knew that she wouldn't show it. Once she had said she had gotten over something, she didn't like to talk about it, even if it was bothering her. Draco had learned that the hard way when they were kids.
The mall was very crowded. There were groups of teenagers all over. Draco and Hermione passed by most of them until they reached their favorite store. It was very dark inside, lit with a few black lights. The walls were adorned with t-shirts of different bands, and large pants hung on the racks.
Draco picked out black pants with fire shooting up from the bottoms to about the knees, and a black t-shirt that had "Seether" written across it. Hermione chose big, blue jeans we green pockets and a black shirt that had "System of a Down" on it.
They stepped up to the counter. A boy, who was about sixteen, was the cashier. He had his eyebrow, tongue, and both ears pierced. His hair was dyed blue. "You're Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger, right?" he asked as he began ringing up the clothes.
"Uh yeah," Draco answered. "Why?"
"I'm Jake Davis. I went to primary school with you guys."
"Oh, I remember you," Hermione said. "It's nice to see you again."
"Yeah," Draco agreed. "How've you been?"
"A lot less sore since the two of you left. I haven't gotten my ass kicked in years. I rather enjoy the lack of pain actually."
"Ooh, yeah, sorry about that," Draco muttered handing Jake enough money to pay for everything.
"Don't worry about it. So I hear you guys go to a boarding school or something now. Is that right?"
"Yeah," Hermione said as she and Draco moved aside so Jake could help the next customer. "Yeah we do."
"You guys together now or something?"
"I guess you can say that," Draco responded. "Took us only what, sixteen years?"
"You've been friends for sixteen years? Don't you get sick of each other or have fights or stuff like that? Not many people can be friends that long and make something out of it."
"Well I guess we're just different then," Hermione said with a smile.
Jake nodded. "You must really have something special then. Listen, me and some of the old crew are getting together tonight to hang out. Wanna come along?"
"We'd really love to, Jake, but we can't tonight. There's a bunch of shit going on right now, and I don't think it'll be such a good idea. Maybe we can get together later on this summer," Draco said.
"Yeah, all right. That'd be cool."
"See ya around," Draco called as they headed out of the store.
"Bye."
Draco and Hermione began to walk back to the hotel. They were both very tired. So much had happened in one day, and they still had to contact Hermione's parents.
The sun had begun to set. The pinks and oranges and yellows blended together as the sun lowered itself on the horizon. It was beautiful that night. If they hadn't been so tired, they would have gone to the park and watched until there was no light left in the sky.
They went up to their room and flopped down on the large bed. Draco was about to close his eyes when he remembered he still had to call the Grangers.
He sat up, picked up the receiver and dialed the Granger's number. After two rings, Mrs. Granger picked up the phone. "Hello?"
"Hi, Annabelle, it's Draco."
"Oh, Draco dear, how are you? Is everything all right? Is Hermione with you?"
"Yes, Hermione is with me, but no, everything's not all right."
"What do you mean?"
"My father, as I'm sure Hermione has told you, is a Death Eater. He wants us to move back to the Malfoy Manor, the large estate that he inherited from his father. I told him that I refuse to leave because I love Hermione and we're going together then he called her a Mudblood and we left and we're staying at a hotel for the night 'cause neither of us want to be anywhere near my father," he said very quickly.
"That is all very sudden. Why did he decide that he just wants to move back now?"
Draco was thankful that she hadn't picked up on the whole him loving Hermione bit yet. "I don't know why he wants to move back. I guess he wants to be in the wizarding world so he can be closer to the Dark Lord and all. I didn't question his motives. I was too pissed off to really think before."
"Hold on a minute. Did you say that you and my daughter are going together and that you're spending the night in a hotel?!" she yelled.
He winced at the shrill sound of her voice. "Um yes. You see," he said slowly, "I've loved Hermione for a while now, but I've never really mentioned it till today. And about the hotel thing, nothing is going to happen because we go two twin sized beds."
Hermione looked at him disbelievingly. She couldn't remember when he had lied to her mother. He made slashing movements across his throat so that she would get the hint and not say anything until he hung up the phone.
"Draco, I normally trust your judgment, but this is ludicrous!"
"Annabelle, please try to understand that Hermione and I being there puts us in danger. My father is acting like a crazed madman. I cannot, in my right mind, let Hermione anywhere near him right now. I am just trying to do what's best." He sounded defeated. There was a note of desperation held in his voice.
"All right, Draco," Annabelle sighed. "But I do want to see you and my daughter tomorrow. We have some things to discuss."
"Right. We'll meet you at your office around noon or so."
"Thank you, Draco."
"It's no problem. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye."
"Goodnight."
Annabelle hung up the phone. As soon as she placed the receiver down on the hook the doorbell rang. She opened the door and was greeted by a very angry-looking Lucius Malfoy.
"Lucius, what are you doing here? It's nearly ten pm."
"I know what time it is you foolish Muggle!" he roared. "Where is my son? I know you know."
"I don't know where Draco is. I haven't seen him at all today."
Lucius pushed passed her and into the house. "You lie! I know you've heard from him today. Where the fuck is my son?"
"I told you, I don't know!" she cried. She wasn't lying. Draco had never stated what hotel he was staying at.
Greg Granger came running down the stairs. "What's going on here?" he asked, his voice sounding panicked.
Lucius whipped out his wand and pointed it at Greg. "Avanda Kedavra!"
Greg fell to the floor, the life sucked out of him. Annabelle ran to her husband's side. "Draco was right, you have changed!" Tears rolled down her cheeks as she cradled her dead husband's head in her lap. "What happen to the Lucius Malfoy I've known for the past sixteen years?"
Lucius sneered. "You think you know Lucius Malfoy? Nobody knows Lucius Malfoy. That was all an act to please Narcissa, but I disposed of her as well. No matter. Your daughter has corrupted my son's mind. Draco has the heart of a dragon. He is stronger than even I. He should not be around Muggle filth. This world would be a better place if ass Muggles and Mudbloods were disposed of. I started with your husband and I now move on to you." He grabbed her hair and pulled her to her feet. She winced, but didn't cry out as he shoved her into the family room.
"You bastard!" She spat on his foot.
His eyes burned dangerously as he smacked her hard across the face. She clutched her cheek as more tears slid down her face.
"No one, especially not a lowly Muggle such as yourself talks to Lucius Malfoy that way." He shoved her to the floor and pinned her down between his legs. "Now you will pay."
He tore her blouse open. Buttons flew everywhere. He proceeded to rip her bra from her chest and he moved down to suck her breasts roughly. She tried desperately to get him off, but her attempts were futile for her was much too strong. She punched and scratched, but to no avail.
"Let go of me you wizard scum!"
Lucius smacked her again then proceeded to pull her jeans and panties off her long, slender legs.
"Leave me alone!" she cried out as she pounded his chest.
"Oh, no my dear. We are far from finished."
He slid two fingers inside of her and pushed them in and out roughly. Tears leaked out of her eyes as she arched her back toward him. He had hit a sensitive spot.
"Get off me, you bastard," she said. Her voice was weak and a moan escaped the back of her throat.
Lucius slid his fingers out of her then moved his fingers to his mouth. He sucked her juices off them then proceeded to pull his pants and boxers down to his knees.
Annabelle squeezed her legs shut, but Lucius put his hands on the inside of her thighs and forced them open. He slammed into her and thrust in and out of her as hard as he could. She was screaming out in pain as she punched his chest ferociously.
"STOP! STOP!" she yelled.
Lucius just smirked as he kept slamming into her harder and harder. She grabbed onto his shirt and started moaning mostly in pain but partially from pleasure. It hurt so much, yet felt good.
He reached his climax then pulled out of her and zipped his pants. She was writhing on the floor, broken and crying.
"I think I will put you out of your misery also. Goodbye, Muggle bitch." He reached for his wand. "Avanda Kedavra!"
Annabelle Granger stopped moving immediately as the curse hit her. Lucius smirked triumphantly then walked out of the Granger residence, closing the door quietly.
He hugged her shaking body closer to him. "Don't cry over him, Hermione. Now you're free to be with a guy who goes to Hogwarts and you're closer in age to and who speaks understandable English."
Hermione laughed a little, but almost choked herself in the process. "Yeah. Having a boyfriend who lives so far away is a major pain."
"So, you got any other guys in mind that you like?" He looked at her hopefully.
She looked at him and said, "There is always Harry and Ron. I'm sure that one of them would go out with me if there's no one else."
"Oh. Oh I see." He looked away from her. His heart felt like it had been ripped viciously out of his chest, torn into millions of tiny pieces, stepped on, then run over by a Mack truck.
"Draco, something bothering you?" Hermione asked.
He feigned a smile. "No, nothing at all. What makes you think that?"
"You look like you've been beaten with a baseball bat and thrown in a cellar without food or water for three months. Not that I know what that person would look like," she added quickly.
"Oh, no, I'm fine. Let's go catch a movie or something. A comedy. Maybe it'll help cheer you up some."
"I'd like that."
They walked to the mall that was near their neighborhood. The music was blaring over the P.A. system as always. "Driven Under" by Seether was on.
"Do you think I'm faking
when I'm lying next to you?
Do you think that I am blind
nothing left for me to lose?
Must be something on your mind
something lost and left behind
Do you know I'm faking now?
Do you know I'm faking
when I'm lying next to you?
Do you know that I am blind to everything you ever do?
Must be something on your mind
something lost for me to find
Do you know I'm faking?
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
I guess you know I'm faking
when I tell you I love you
I guess you know that I am blind
to everything you say and do
Must be something on my mind
there's nothing left for me to hide
Do you know I'm faking?
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
We have to succumb to the feelings we can never face
I need you. I breathe you.
I can't go through this all again.
We have to succumb to
the feelings we can never face I need you.
I breathe you. I can't go through this.
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before on him
Then she told me she had a gun
it sounded like she'd used it once before, oh man
Then she told me she had a gun
she says she wants to use it on me now."
That didn't help Draco's mood any. The song just made him realize how much he wanted Hermione. It didn't look like he had much of a chance though. She seemed to be into famous guys.
"Draco, stop telling me you're fine," Hermione hissed. "No one who looks as upset as you can possibly be anywhere close to fine. You better tell me or I will tickle you right here."
His eyes widened and he took a step away from her as he paid for the tickets. "No, please don't. That is the ultimate torture."
"I know. Tell me what's wrong, or I will tickle you," she threatened.
"I can't tell you here. There are too many people around." They had shown up very early and there was no one in the theater with the exception of them.
Hermione raised her eyebrow. "We are the only ones here you dolt."
He took a deep breath and looked into her eyes. "Well, Hermione, it's like this, I love you."
"I know you do, Draco. I love you too. It's been this way for almost sixteen years."
"No, Hermione, not like that. Let me re-phrase what I just said. I'm in love with you, Hermione. I have been for years, but I never said anything. And I was afraid that if I didn't say anything soon, I would lose you to Potthead or Weasel." He closed his eyes and looked away from her. "I'll go sit somewhere else. You probably don't wanna talk to me again."
He stood up, but she pulled him back down into the seat. "Draco, I knew exactly what you were talking about. I've been in love with you since we've learned to talk."
"Really?"
"Yes."
He leaned closer to her and kissed her. Their lips brushed each other's gently, but she pulled him closer and pressed her lips harder against his. Taking this as a good sign, he decided to take things farther. He ran his tongue over her lower lip. She opened her mouth to allow him access. He slid his tongue into her mouth and began to explore every crevice.
When they broke apart ten minutes later, it was simply because of a lack of air. There were more people in the theater now, and the previews were about to start.
Draco put his arm around Hermione. She leaned her head on his shoulder. Never in his life, did Draco think he'd end up with Hermione. He'd loved her for so long, and he'd just found out that she had felt the same way all along.
~
They left the theater with smiles across their faces. Draco decided that he was hungry and asked Hermione if she wanted to go out to eat. She said that she did. They decided to go to the small restaurant in the center of the mall. It was expensive, but Draco had the money.
"Hello. How many?" the young waitress asked smiling at Draco.
"Two," Draco replied dryly.
The waitress looked between Hermione and Draco then grabbed two menus. "Follow me please."
Draco put his hand on the small of Hermione's back as the wound their way through the restaurant to get to their table. They sat in a small booth in the back. Not many people were around.
"My name is Janie," the waitress said handing them their menus. "I will be your waitress today. Can I get you something to drink?"
"I'll have a Pepsi," Hermione said glaring at the waitress, who was still looking down at Draco.
"Same," he said not bothering to look up from his menu. He knew the waitress was watching him, and he didn't like it one bit. Once she had left, he looked up at Hermione and noticed the jealous expression on her face. "Something wrong?"
"I don't like the way she was looking at you. She hasn't taken her eyes off you since we walked in."
"I know. I'm trying my best not to make eye contact. You do realize that when we go back to Hogwarts there will be girls staring at me like that, like they always do. There won't be anything either of us can do about it."
Hermione smiled a little. "Yeah, 'cause I'll just go up to some girl and pick a fight with her when I know what the consequences of that would be."
"Picture that. Hermione Granger, star student, model Gryffindor, perfect prefect, candidate for Head Girl picks a fight with Pansy Parkinson, Slytherin slut, for ogling over Draco Malfoy. The news would be all over the school in minutes."
They started laughing as the waitress returned with the drinks. She placed the two Pepsis down in front of them. "What will you have to eat?" Her eyes immediately turned to Draco, who still had a smile on his face.
"A cheeseburger and fries," he answered, trying to calm himself.
"And you?" Janie sneered as she looked at Hermione.
"A hamburger and fries. And I'd like to make a request," Hermione said putting on her sweetest smile.
"What's that?"
"I would like you to keep you eyes off my boyfriend, if that's not too much trouble."
Janie glared at her then stalked off toward the kitchens.
Draco raised an eyebrow as he looked up at Hermione.
"Might as well say something now while I still can," she shrugged casually as if it were nothing.
Draco laughed again, but soon stopped. "Hermione, I was just wondering, what will my father think? You know how he is- proud to be a pureblood and all."
She looked at him nervously. "Well, do we really have to tell him now? I mean, we've still got the whole summer ahead of us.right? We can tell him before we leave for King's Cross Station."
He shook his head. "I don't know. He'll probably be even madder if we keep it a secret. I'll wait awhile before I tell him. He's still in Azkaban anyway."
Hermione nodded and reached across the table to take his hand. "I'm sure you'll think of something. After all, you are quick on your feet." Draco just smirked.
The food came shortly after. Janie didn't even glance at Draco. She just placed the food and gave them the check and walked away.
~
After they finished eating, they walked back toward their street hand-in- hand. A warm summer's breeze was blowing. Draco's hair fell across his stormy eyes. During the summer he never bothered to gel it back. He preferred when it was in his eyes anyway. The way he did his hair for school was to keep up his image, the way Lucius instructed him to.
They went into Draco's house. His parents, both Narcissa and Lucius were in the family room sipping tea. It appeared as if they were waiting for the two to walk in. It was apparent that Lucius had escaped from Azkaban. Neither of them said anything about it though.
Draco quickly let go of Hermione's hand and shoved both of his hands in his pockets.
Lucius looked up when they walked in. "Draco, Hermione, sit down. There is something we need to discuss."
"Even me?" Hermione questioned. She wasn't used to being involved in some of the more important Malfoy conversations.
"Yes, even you, Hermione. I'm afraid this will affect both of you."
Hermione and Draco sat on the couch across from Lucius and Narcissa. Once they were settled Lucius began, "Now I know this will probably be hard on the both of you as you have been friends your entire lives, but I feel that it is time that we move back to our house. The house that I inherited from my father. It's not too far from here, but you won't see each other as often as you do now."
Hermione felt tears welling up in her eyes. Draco stared down at the floor. "No, Father. You can't be serious. I won't go. I want to stay here."
"It is not a question of what you want, Draco. This is your destiny. You will finally take your place among the ranks of the Death Eaters as we have always planned."
Draco shook his head and looked up. His grey eyes met his father's. "No, Father," he said softly, but with a great force. "It is you who planned that for me. You never asked me what I wanted to do with my life. I may very well want to work around this neighborhood for all you know. I am not moving. I refuse to leave the woman I love." He immediately stopped talking when he realized what he had said.
Hermione's head snapped up along with Narcissa's. Lucius' eyes grew wide in shock. "Do you mean what I think you mean, Draco, or did I just hear you wrong?"
He knew he couldn't go back and change what he had said, so he continued with his original thought, "You heard me perfectly well, Father. I have loved Hermione for years. I don't know how you didn't see it. She has always been there for me. She has always made me feel like a better person. It's because of her that I am who I am now. I'm in love with Hermione Granger, my best friend of nearly sixteen years."
Narcissa glanced furtively at her husband. She knew that although Lucius like Hermione, he wouldn't approve of Draco dating her.
"Then I think it better that we move as soon as possible so we can get these childish images out of your head. You are fifteen, Draco. You don't even know the definition of love. Obviously you are very confused. No Malfoy ever falls in love with a Mudblood," Lucius sneered.
The tears that were threatening to fall from Hermione's eyes finally slid down her cheeks.
"What happened to you in Azkaban, Father?" Draco questioned with anger in his voice. "You weren't there for a month and you return and are demanding that we move and you're calling my best friend, whom you've always claimed to like the most horrible name you can think of." He put his arm around her and let her cry on his shoulder. "I will not go anywhere with you, and I refuse to become a Death Eater. They are nothing but cruel, heartless bastards. Just like you." He stood roughly and pulled Hermione with him. "Come on. We're leaving."
Lucius stood as well. "Where do you think you're going? Get back here now!" he roared.
Draco didn't pay attention as he slammed the front door forcefully closed. Hermione's body was shaking as they began to walk toward London once more. Draco had his arm protectively around Hermione's shoulders. Tears were still falling from her eyes.
The hot summer sun was still beaming down on them. No one else was walking the streets. Everyone else was at home in their air-conditioned houses.
After only walking a few blocks, Hermione's legs had stopped moving. She could no longer walk, and it was becoming harder for her to see out of her eyes. Her hands were shaking violently. When Draco called her Mudblood at school, he didn't mean it, but Lucius had. She could see it in his eyes that he had meant every word he said.
Draco pulled Hermione into a hug. He let her cry into his chest. After only seconds, he could feel her tears soak through his thin shirt, but he didn't care. He wanted to be Hermione's support always.
"What did I ever do, Draco?" she sobbed. "What did I ever do to deserve this?"
"You didn't do anything, Hermione, except be the most wonderful person I have ever met. Azkaban turned my father crazy. He wasn't in there a month, and there weren't even dementors. Don't listen to a word he says. I'll figure something out. I'm not moving anywhere unless you come with me, okay?"
She nodded and looked up into his grey eyes. The eyes she had come to adore over the years. "Where are we going for now though? We need to stay somewhere tonight."
"Well if it's all right with you, I was thinking that maybe we could stay in a hotel tonight. We'll call your parents of course; let them know you're okay. I can't stay in the neighborhood right now, and I don't want you near my father until I know he's back to a normal state of sanity."
Hermione nodded again, still tightly clutching to Draco. "What if my parents are mad at me, Draco?"
"I'll explain everything to them. They should be able to understand. You're parents are bright people."
"How come you're never like this in school? Here you've got a whole plan made out for what you're gunna do, but there you just let things happen."
Draco smirked a little. "You said yourself that I'm quick on my feet."
Hermione managed a small smile. "I did say that, didn't I?"
He wiped her tears away with his thumb as he kissed her. He loved the feel of her lips against his. It was like nothing he had ever felt before. He felt like the part of him that had been missing was there. What he had always felt was missing from his life had been right there in front of him. All he had to do was open his eyes and his heart.
He massaged her tongue gently with his. He wanted to taste every part of her, but he knew he'd have to wait until they were alone. He pulled back gently so that his lips were barely touching hers. "We should get going," he whispered. She nodded and opened her eyes once again.
They laced their fingers together and continued their journey toward the hotel.
"Draco, I just thought of something. We don't have clothes, and we can't use magic."
"Yeah, I thought of that too. I figured we'll go to the mall tonight and at least buy some stuff for tomorrow."
"I never could beat you when it came to things like this. I'm just book- smart."
"Hermione, you're the smartest witch in our year. With everything you've done with Potter and Weasley, how can you say you're just book-smart? You've actually gotten experience fighting against the Dark Arts already, and you always made it out okay. I'm worried sick every time you go missing of course, but you, Potthead, and Weasel know what we're up against once we get out of Hogwarts. No one else does."
"It's not all it's kicked up to be. I've almost been killed and expelled a few times, come to think of it."
"Yeah, well I'm you didn't."
She smiled up at him as he held the hotel door open for her. They walked up to the front desk, where a man in about his forties was standing.
"Hello, how may I help you?" he asked with a smile.
"We need a room please," Draco responded.
"Double or single?"
Draco looked down at Hermione. He would leave the choice up to her. "Single," she said.
"How long will you be staying?"
"Um, I'm not sure. I think just one night, possibly two."
Draco paid the man and took the room keys. They would be staying in room 643. The room was gigantic. The bed was king-sized and there was a large window that gave a beautiful view of the city. "I think I can see our street from here," Draco joked.
"You probably can. I wouldn't be surprised. We should probably go to the mall then. I'm already starting to get tired and it's only seven."
Draco turned from the window. "Good idea. Then we can get back here and call your parents. The office closes at eight, right?"
"Yup. And it only takes them like five minutes to get home."
They left the large hotel and headed toward the mall. Draco knew that Hermione was still upset, but he also knew that she wouldn't show it. Once she had said she had gotten over something, she didn't like to talk about it, even if it was bothering her. Draco had learned that the hard way when they were kids.
The mall was very crowded. There were groups of teenagers all over. Draco and Hermione passed by most of them until they reached their favorite store. It was very dark inside, lit with a few black lights. The walls were adorned with t-shirts of different bands, and large pants hung on the racks.
Draco picked out black pants with fire shooting up from the bottoms to about the knees, and a black t-shirt that had "Seether" written across it. Hermione chose big, blue jeans we green pockets and a black shirt that had "System of a Down" on it.
They stepped up to the counter. A boy, who was about sixteen, was the cashier. He had his eyebrow, tongue, and both ears pierced. His hair was dyed blue. "You're Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger, right?" he asked as he began ringing up the clothes.
"Uh yeah," Draco answered. "Why?"
"I'm Jake Davis. I went to primary school with you guys."
"Oh, I remember you," Hermione said. "It's nice to see you again."
"Yeah," Draco agreed. "How've you been?"
"A lot less sore since the two of you left. I haven't gotten my ass kicked in years. I rather enjoy the lack of pain actually."
"Ooh, yeah, sorry about that," Draco muttered handing Jake enough money to pay for everything.
"Don't worry about it. So I hear you guys go to a boarding school or something now. Is that right?"
"Yeah," Hermione said as she and Draco moved aside so Jake could help the next customer. "Yeah we do."
"You guys together now or something?"
"I guess you can say that," Draco responded. "Took us only what, sixteen years?"
"You've been friends for sixteen years? Don't you get sick of each other or have fights or stuff like that? Not many people can be friends that long and make something out of it."
"Well I guess we're just different then," Hermione said with a smile.
Jake nodded. "You must really have something special then. Listen, me and some of the old crew are getting together tonight to hang out. Wanna come along?"
"We'd really love to, Jake, but we can't tonight. There's a bunch of shit going on right now, and I don't think it'll be such a good idea. Maybe we can get together later on this summer," Draco said.
"Yeah, all right. That'd be cool."
"See ya around," Draco called as they headed out of the store.
"Bye."
Draco and Hermione began to walk back to the hotel. They were both very tired. So much had happened in one day, and they still had to contact Hermione's parents.
The sun had begun to set. The pinks and oranges and yellows blended together as the sun lowered itself on the horizon. It was beautiful that night. If they hadn't been so tired, they would have gone to the park and watched until there was no light left in the sky.
They went up to their room and flopped down on the large bed. Draco was about to close his eyes when he remembered he still had to call the Grangers.
He sat up, picked up the receiver and dialed the Granger's number. After two rings, Mrs. Granger picked up the phone. "Hello?"
"Hi, Annabelle, it's Draco."
"Oh, Draco dear, how are you? Is everything all right? Is Hermione with you?"
"Yes, Hermione is with me, but no, everything's not all right."
"What do you mean?"
"My father, as I'm sure Hermione has told you, is a Death Eater. He wants us to move back to the Malfoy Manor, the large estate that he inherited from his father. I told him that I refuse to leave because I love Hermione and we're going together then he called her a Mudblood and we left and we're staying at a hotel for the night 'cause neither of us want to be anywhere near my father," he said very quickly.
"That is all very sudden. Why did he decide that he just wants to move back now?"
Draco was thankful that she hadn't picked up on the whole him loving Hermione bit yet. "I don't know why he wants to move back. I guess he wants to be in the wizarding world so he can be closer to the Dark Lord and all. I didn't question his motives. I was too pissed off to really think before."
"Hold on a minute. Did you say that you and my daughter are going together and that you're spending the night in a hotel?!" she yelled.
He winced at the shrill sound of her voice. "Um yes. You see," he said slowly, "I've loved Hermione for a while now, but I've never really mentioned it till today. And about the hotel thing, nothing is going to happen because we go two twin sized beds."
Hermione looked at him disbelievingly. She couldn't remember when he had lied to her mother. He made slashing movements across his throat so that she would get the hint and not say anything until he hung up the phone.
"Draco, I normally trust your judgment, but this is ludicrous!"
"Annabelle, please try to understand that Hermione and I being there puts us in danger. My father is acting like a crazed madman. I cannot, in my right mind, let Hermione anywhere near him right now. I am just trying to do what's best." He sounded defeated. There was a note of desperation held in his voice.
"All right, Draco," Annabelle sighed. "But I do want to see you and my daughter tomorrow. We have some things to discuss."
"Right. We'll meet you at your office around noon or so."
"Thank you, Draco."
"It's no problem. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye."
"Goodnight."
Annabelle hung up the phone. As soon as she placed the receiver down on the hook the doorbell rang. She opened the door and was greeted by a very angry-looking Lucius Malfoy.
"Lucius, what are you doing here? It's nearly ten pm."
"I know what time it is you foolish Muggle!" he roared. "Where is my son? I know you know."
"I don't know where Draco is. I haven't seen him at all today."
Lucius pushed passed her and into the house. "You lie! I know you've heard from him today. Where the fuck is my son?"
"I told you, I don't know!" she cried. She wasn't lying. Draco had never stated what hotel he was staying at.
Greg Granger came running down the stairs. "What's going on here?" he asked, his voice sounding panicked.
Lucius whipped out his wand and pointed it at Greg. "Avanda Kedavra!"
Greg fell to the floor, the life sucked out of him. Annabelle ran to her husband's side. "Draco was right, you have changed!" Tears rolled down her cheeks as she cradled her dead husband's head in her lap. "What happen to the Lucius Malfoy I've known for the past sixteen years?"
Lucius sneered. "You think you know Lucius Malfoy? Nobody knows Lucius Malfoy. That was all an act to please Narcissa, but I disposed of her as well. No matter. Your daughter has corrupted my son's mind. Draco has the heart of a dragon. He is stronger than even I. He should not be around Muggle filth. This world would be a better place if ass Muggles and Mudbloods were disposed of. I started with your husband and I now move on to you." He grabbed her hair and pulled her to her feet. She winced, but didn't cry out as he shoved her into the family room.
"You bastard!" She spat on his foot.
His eyes burned dangerously as he smacked her hard across the face. She clutched her cheek as more tears slid down her face.
"No one, especially not a lowly Muggle such as yourself talks to Lucius Malfoy that way." He shoved her to the floor and pinned her down between his legs. "Now you will pay."
He tore her blouse open. Buttons flew everywhere. He proceeded to rip her bra from her chest and he moved down to suck her breasts roughly. She tried desperately to get him off, but her attempts were futile for her was much too strong. She punched and scratched, but to no avail.
"Let go of me you wizard scum!"
Lucius smacked her again then proceeded to pull her jeans and panties off her long, slender legs.
"Leave me alone!" she cried out as she pounded his chest.
"Oh, no my dear. We are far from finished."
He slid two fingers inside of her and pushed them in and out roughly. Tears leaked out of her eyes as she arched her back toward him. He had hit a sensitive spot.
"Get off me, you bastard," she said. Her voice was weak and a moan escaped the back of her throat.
Lucius slid his fingers out of her then moved his fingers to his mouth. He sucked her juices off them then proceeded to pull his pants and boxers down to his knees.
Annabelle squeezed her legs shut, but Lucius put his hands on the inside of her thighs and forced them open. He slammed into her and thrust in and out of her as hard as he could. She was screaming out in pain as she punched his chest ferociously.
"STOP! STOP!" she yelled.
Lucius just smirked as he kept slamming into her harder and harder. She grabbed onto his shirt and started moaning mostly in pain but partially from pleasure. It hurt so much, yet felt good.
He reached his climax then pulled out of her and zipped his pants. She was writhing on the floor, broken and crying.
"I think I will put you out of your misery also. Goodbye, Muggle bitch." He reached for his wand. "Avanda Kedavra!"
Annabelle Granger stopped moving immediately as the curse hit her. Lucius smirked triumphantly then walked out of the Granger residence, closing the door quietly.