Chapter 7
Rating: R
Disclaimer: As you well know, Harry Potter does not belong to me. I wish it did, but it doesn't. Now stop hassling me.
Author's Note: Well! I was all ready to come onto FF.Net and re-upload Chapter 6 of Know Your Enemy. I thought there was some sort of error when I tried to the first time. Apparently, I was wrong. But I'm not complaining. Easier for me.
I have the best reviewers in the world. You're all really awesome. You read new chapters of Know Your Enemy practically the day they get up and then you submit these heart warming reviews that leave me speechless and touched. Because to have people who like my writing truly is amazing. It is something I have dreamed about since I was a very little girl. I will indeed take a career in writing, whatever it may be. Whether I become a journalist, an author, or a freelance writer, I'll always write and want people who like it. To think that I have so many people who enjoy Know Your Enemy, is truly flattering. Which is why I take the time to respond to every review I get in each chapter. I feel connected to every one of you. You're the people who brighten my day. I log on to this site, and you make me feel likea good person. So this next chapter if dedicated to all of you.
Thanks to: Katie of Gryffindor (Thanks. I had hoped people would like the first scene. 8-) Bit of a shame it was just a dream, though. Harry.... realizing he's gay? Another couple chapter I'm afraid. Right now, he's just confused. Blaise as a religious guy. Yeah... a bit weird. But I like to try new things. That's a compliment above all others. Thanks! Don't worry... I will!), Cloud (Your favourite D/H fic? I'm honoured. I truly am. I'm just glad I can live up to the expectations. Moulin Rouge is an awesome movie. Can't find it, though. And I'm very annoyed), Liliku (Happy New Year!), Belle (Wow! A nice, long review! I heard that story about Matthew Shepard. It's actually one of the things that sprouted Draco's condition in the last chapter. I figure no one should get beaten because of their choice in gender. So I'm glad you agree. Happy New Year!), Transcendence (Your review stirred something inside me. I want you to know that homosexuality is close to me as well. I have a LOT of gay and lesbian friends. Draco getting beat up was very hard for me to write. Because when I do that, I imagine my best friend (who is bisexual) getting that torture and it truly scares me. I'm very glad you liked this story and I'm SO glad it got a reaction from you. It tells me I'm not alone in this world. There are other people who agree with me on gay and lesbian rights! So thank you for your review! It touched me and warmed my heart. I I was crying when I read your review), Copocabana (To eb quite honest, I actually like Pansy. There's Pansy in this chapter. And no Pansy bashing. Garbage rox!), Kay (Hehehe. Yeah, the dream was lots of fun to write. Glad you liked Snape. Your friend reads it? Get him to leave a review! Here's the update. Hope you like it!), Luwana-Fluff-Dragon (The Beach Boys are great. You're sad? I don't even know who Take That are. I don't listen to pop music because I find it ruins the true music spirit. I love rock and roll, lite rock and grunge. Punk is all right. Simple Plan and blink-182 are the only bands I like and they'r enot even really punk. I hate people who say trhey're punk. Like Avril Lavigne whom I truly hate, Sum 41 whatnot. The real punk is The Clash (R.I.P. Joe Strummer!) and The Ramones. Not that you care about any of that. But I'm telling you anyway! Thanks! Glad you like it!) Cyber (I'm glad you believe that. It's an important thing to believe in. Harry hasn't realized it yet. He's simply curious. Hehehe. Next chapter), Lady Death (Glad you liked it. Please make your fic D/H!!! Please!!!!) Ladyblondhair (I'm glad! Don't worry! He will. Life in the Fancy is a book I invented that I'm thinking of writing. Would you like to read it? Review and let me know!), Ryan-Sama (So would I. I'd probably beat the shit out of them. No one messes with my friends and gets away with it! I'm glad you like this story!), Jubilee (Firenze. What an awesome dude! You mean his conversation with Draco. Yes... you know Draco needed it. Actually... you faced me with a bit of a dilemma. Cuz I realized that you're right.... the bible does say that. But I think it's a different kind of witchcraft they're talking about. Not the one where people a waving wands about. Because lots of those witches and wizards do believe in God, I'm sure, what with all the muggles mixed with families. The kind of witchcraft I think the bible's talking about is th eone that summons spirits and whatnot. I'm actually not educated on the witchcraft background. But thanks for pointing it out. Well of course Zabini is damned. You're not supposed to hate people. And he hates Draco. Here's the next update!), Icicle (Yeah. Harry's so sweet. Glad it's deep. Exactly what I wanted!) Cloud, a (Dont' worry about it. You still reviewed! Barry Trotter. Hilarious story! Dorco! That's horrible. Just glad I've got good reviewers like you! Thanks! That being said.... your fic is extremely wonderful. Hurry up with the next chapter! I agree... it is far-fetched!)
I'm sorry if that was extremely corny, but I was so touched by all the reviews I got for the sixth chapter of Know Your Enemy in one day. Just thought I'd acknowledge how much you influence my writing!
Do you know what, though? I'm scared of making you guys mad. So I cheat and give you some slash even when I say I'm not going to. Like Harry's dream in the last chapter.
Here comes the slash machine! Slash in this chapter. Turn away now, you homophobes! (But I don't think any homophobes read this, thank God!) For you! Slashy goodness! Hope you like it!
Oh! Guess what I was thinking of doing. When I was reading my reviews, I realized how many people enjoy 'Life in the Fancy' excerpts. And I was thinking that if enough of you wanted it, I could write the actual 'Life in the Fancy'. I'm going to write it for fun anyway, but if you'd like to read it, let me know and perhaps I'll post it up here! 8-)
My keyboard doesn't allow me to put the little accent on the E for French words like fiance. Just visualize the accents where they would normally be.
"Fuck," Ron said with feeling, after reading a roll of parchment that had come with his owl, Pig.
"Ron!" Hermione shrieked.
"What's the problem?" Harry asked.
"It's from Bill and his fiance," Ron explained. I had to search my mind for a moment before I came up with a conclusion as to why this was a horrible thing.
"Ritzy?" I demanded. Ron nodded his head in disgust.
"I hate that bitch!" Hermone spoke suddenly, stunning all of us yet again with her language, and glanced up from her borrowed copy of 'Life in the Fancy'. After Harry had read it for the millionth time, Hermione had "borrowed" it to find out what was so good about it. She'd been reading for the past two days.
"You mentioned her once, didn't you?" I inquired, and Ron nodded.
"I loathe her. She's so.... annoying. She has this horrible speaking voice. She made it a habit of telling me how wrong Hermione and I were for each other."
"Why in the world would Bill date her if she was so bad?" Harry asked curiously.
"Love potions, of course!" Ron said.
"Really? But - wait a second - aren't love potions illegal?" Harry asked. I almost cracked up laughing right then.
"No, not really, Harry. I was joking. I haven't a clue why Bill fancies her, as I am not him. Ask him when he and Ritzy visit."
"They're visiting?" we spluttered, staring at Ron.
"Yup."
"Fuck is right," I said.
"Yes, you swore for a good reason," Hermione agreed.
"So when exactly are they coming?" Harry questioned.
"Friday afternoon. For the Easter weekend. Bill says I should meet him and Ritzy at Hogsmeade Station. D'you want to come along?" We all agreed to. That visit from Bill and Ritzy would be a turning point.
*
"Hermione," Ron whined, fidgeting. He was actually pacing. I'd never seen him so nervous in all the years I'd known him. "Please. Straighten your hair. And - I mean, could you - put it up or something?"
"Ron," Hermione said, "I am not going to change myself for Ritzy. Who needs her consent? We like each other. That's all that matters."
"So," Harry said, turning to me, "How long do you think it'll take them to start an argument. My bet is two minutes."
"One," I replied. I suddenly wished I had a cigarette in my hand so I could toss it on the ground and crush it with my foot.
"One minute? You're on. A galleon says it'll in start two minutes." I smirked, and we shook on it.
"Come on, " Ron said, fiddling with Hermione's hair, "Just for once... make yourself look pretty." There was silence as Harry and I inclined our heads in unison to see what Hermione's reaction to Ron's horrible remark would be.
"Screw you," Hermione said in a small voice and turned away from Ron. I watched as a tear fell down her cheek, "Bet you didn't have to worry about this kind of thing with Lavender." More tears. I tried to stay where I was, but I couldn't help it. Hermione was my best friend. I didn't want to see her crying. I jogged the five steps it took to get to her and wrapped my arms around Hermione. Then I pulled her away from Ron and Harry's listening ears.
"Hermione," I said lifting her head up, "He's only worried about Ritzy making fun of you. He doesn't want you to get hurt."
"I know," Hermione whispered, "But what does he mean 'Look pretty for once?' "
"Guys never say the right things when they're nervous. You should know that from Longbottom." Hermione almost gave in. I saw a little smile.
"What if he doesn't really think I'm pretty?" she asked.
"Well then he's a loser, because you are pretty. You're beautiful." Hermione's eyes filled with more tears and she hugged me.
"Thank you, Draco," she said, "Harry doesn't know what he's missing." Then she ran over to Ron and hugged him.
"I'm sorry, Hermione!" Ron said, "I really don't know the meaning of the word 'tact'. You're always pretty!"
"Shut it, Ron," Hermione said and she stepped away from him. Then she whispered a spell that made her hair really straight and pulled it up into a ponytail. Then she gave this triumphant grin and Ron gave one back. Then they both sprang together and began... well, making out.
"Where's the lesson learned? You were supposed to realize that you don't need straight hair and ponytails to be pretty!" I shrieked, "Ugh! You people are impossible!" Harry burst out laughing. I watched him. I had to fight the strong urge to kiss him.
"Hey!" Harry said, getting up from the floor, "Watch this, Draco." I watched him. "There's Ritzy!" Ron and Hermione sprang apart. It was my turn to crack up laughing. They walked over to us and then Hermione nudged my shaking body.
"You laugh a lot," Hermione noted.
"I never noticed it, what with all the leering, sneering, smirking and trying to get Hagrid sacked," Ron said thoughtfully. I laughed even harder. I'd been expecting him to say another face gesture.
"It's actually kind of cute," Harry said. I stopped laughing to stare at him, as did Hermione and Ron. "I said kind of."
"Right," I said and needed help to get back up, "Is that their train?" Everyone turned to see the Hogwarts' Express chug-a-lugging (A/N: Chug-a- lug is not a word, as I well know. Private joke between my sister and I) into the station.
"Right!" Ron said, looking even more nervous, "Here they come." The train slowed to a stop and out came several passengers. I didn't know what Bill or Ritzy looked like, so I kept an eye out for red hair. Then I saw them. Bill looked awesome. He had long hair. Probably about the same length as mine! He was wearing leather pants, which were extremely tight on him.
How Ritzy snagged him is a mystery. For the girl he was holding hands with was the opposite of him. She had blonde hair to just past her shoulders. She was clad in a blouse with rolled up sleeves and a short green and red, plaid skirt with little ruffles on the end. (A/N: Think private school uniform).
They looked horrible together! I couldn't believe my eyes. A moment later, the odd couple were making their way over to us.
"Ronny!" Ritzy cried, throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace.
"Ritzy!" Ron said, in barely any of the enthusiasm she'd used with him.
"How are you?" she asked, pulling away.
"Oh, terrific! How are you?"
"Wonderful. Hermione. Still hanging around?" Ritzy asked, turning to her.
"Yes," she replied, "Still with Bill, I see."
"Oh yes," Ritzy said, "We're very happy." Bill slipped his arm around her waist. He let go and him and Ron shared at brotherly type hug, then Bill embraced Hermione and gave her a kiss on the forehead.
"Harry, it's so lovely to see you," Ritzy said in an impossibly fake voice.
"Oh, right back at you, Ritzy," Harry said.
"I don't believe I've met you," she said, turning to me.
"That's right, you haven't." She held out her hand.
"I'm Ritzy," she said.
"Obviously," I drawled, some of the old Draco coming back.
"This is Bill, my fiance," she said.
"Yes," I said, "I was aware of that as well."
"Of course. So you're friends with my future brother-in-law?"
"Er -"
"Goodness. Another person who can never figure out what to say. Harry here always says "er". It's quite funny, actually," she explained, putting her arm around Harry. I was instantly jealous. I was also well aware of that little quirk about my crush. It was one thing I was quick to notice about Harry when I first met him.
"Well of course, that's much worse than saying too much." Hermione gave me a thumbs-up sign behind Ritzy's back.
"You're not one for manners, are you?"
"No. A Malfoy never is," I admitted.
"Malfoy?" she asked and raised her rather large eyebrows at me, "I've heard much about you."
"Oh, I've heard things about *you*," I said.
"Mostly good things, I hope."
"Not really." Harry, Ron and Hermione looked like they were going to die from laughter.
"Well, I haven't heard great stuff about you either," she said, defensively.
"Not surprised. I truly am rather spoiled and snobby."
"Draco, then?" Bill spoke up, stepping between the two of us and holding out his hand for me to shake it. I shook it in a rather formal manner.
"Bill, then?" I echoed. Bill nodded as Ritzy opened her mouth.
"Billthen? That's a funny word!" Ritzy commented. Hermione was holding onto Ron for support. I couldn't help it.
"Excuse me," I said, turned around and burst out laughing. When I'd finished, I turned back around. "Truly sorry. Look, I don't want to start this off in a bad way. I'm Draco." I held out my hand for Ritzy and she took it.
"Nice to meet you, Draco. So you attend Hogwarts?
"Correct."
"That's lovely. Bill and all his younger siblings went. I always thought it would have been great to go to Hogwarts."
"Where'd you go?" Hermione asked. She was standing off to the side, her hand held in Ron's.
"Beauxbatons."
"So you speak French," Harry said. It wasn't even a question. Just an assumption.
"No, actually, not a word." We all gave her odd looks except for Bill, but pushed it aside.
"So Harry," Ritzy began, "Are you and Ginny still dating? I always thought you two were rather good together." Hermione and I locked gazes, before looking to Harry for his response.
"Yes. Ginny and I are to be married." Bill walked right into a tree.
"What!?" he demanded, "You're getting married!?"
"Not to worry, Bill. I've already given him the 'hurt my sister and you die' lecture," Ron announced. Bill nodded.
"How come Ginny didn't say anything?"
"We were going to tell you together. She was so nervous about telling you today, she threw up all over the my bed." I smirked. Bill and Ron's eyes darted to Harry. "We weren't doing anything in the bed. And even if we were, we're engaged, so we should be allowed to do those things."
"Is there something you're trying to tell us, Harry?" Ron demanded.
"Yes.... I'm shagging your sister," Harry said, "Come on... we're a couple. We're allowed. I'm sure you and Hermione have." They suddenly looked uncomfortable.
"You haven't?!" I asked in shock.
"We're waiting until we're married. If it turns out we're not in love, then we won't have made a mistake," Hermione said.
"We discussed it. There's no need to discuss it with you people," Ron said.
"Well that was certainly interesting," Ritzy commented, "Draco... any girls in your life?"
"Draco's gay," Ron said, with the air of one stating the date.
"Really?" Bill and Ritzy asked together.
"Yes," I replied.
"Does your father know?" Bill inquired.
"It's likely. But I haven't got an owl from him yet. Which is beginning to scare me." Hermione looked at me, confusion etched on every line of her face. I gave her a look that said we'd talk about it later.
"Any boys in your life, then?" Ritzy asked after an uncomfortable silence.
"Yes," I replied. Heads snapped to me in curiosity, "There are a few boys. Just flings, really." I didn't dare look at Harry.
"Any names we'd know?" Ron asked.
"Oh... well I rather like Seamus. And Colin's fun to be around. You're not so bad yourself," I admitted, swiftly looking at Bill.
"Well, sorry mate. I'm straight as a post."
"Those pants say otherwise," I drawled. His hands flew to the zipper of his pants.
"Take off those sexy pants and the little guy they cover won't be getting some for awhile," Ritzy warned. Silence. I couldn't help it. I burst out laughing. Another thing I couldn't help was grabbing onto Harry. He was closest and if I hadn't grabbed him, I would have fallen over. He didn't seem to notice, as he was laughing hysterically as well. I was aware that Ron and Hermione were laughing too. But I think I laughed the hardest and longest. We continued walking until we got on to the Hogwarts Grounds.
"Well, we're going to Hagrid's," Ron said, "Want to come, Draco?"
"No. I'm going to take a nap. See you at dinner!" I said and went back up to the school. I went through the front doors and into the Entrance Hall. Suddenly Pansy turned the corner. She saw me.
"Draco!" she cried, running over. She grabbed my arm, "I was thinking. This must just be a phase. If you find the right girl, perhaps you won't think about men anymore. So I thought, I'm the closest thing to a woman around here. I'll show you that girls can be just as much fun as boys." Then she pressed her lips to mine. It wasn't that horrible. But seeing as it was a girl, I was rather uninterested. But I was too shocked to do anything. So she stood there kissing me for about ten seconds until I finally realized what we were doing, and pushed her away.
"Pansy..." I said, giving her my worst glare, "Don't touch me!" She whipped her hands away from me. "Don't try and convert me, accept me for who I am! I'm only human, Pansy, I can't help being gay!"
I could feel tears stinging my eyes. I didn't want to cry in front of her, but I was getting emotional. This was the one thing I'd been worried about when the school found out I was gay.
I wasn't worried about people beating me up, or muttering about me, or making fun of me. They can do that if they want to. But I didn't want people telling me that how I felt was wrong, and try to change who I am. It can't be changed. I'm just not attracted to females. I know I never will be. So I grabbed Pansy by each side of her face.
"Why can't you accept that I'm gay?" I demanded, "I'm not any different. I'd just rather be with men. Why can't you just understand that I'd rather be with my own gender?" Pansy's blue eyes spilled over with tears, and she bit her lip.
"Because I love you," she whispered, just loud enough for me to hear it. Nothing she could have said would have suprised me more. She could have told me Snape was wearing a tutu, dancing around the halls of Hogwarts. She could have told me Voldemort was sipping tea with Dumbledore. She could have told me Mcgonagall was pregnant by Harry, and I still wouldn't have been as suprised as I was now.
It had occured to me Pansy might fancy me, but I always figured it was a silly infatuation. But I realized by the look in her eyes, and the sincerity in her voice, that she loved me like I loved Harry. And I pitied her for it. She couldn't have me, just as I couldn't have Harry. I felt horrible about treating her like trash this year. She'd been in love with me, and I hadn't even picked up on it. I knew exactly how she felt.
"Pansy," I said, much calmer than the last time I'd spoken her name, "I'm so sorry." Tears were streaking down her face like currents of running water. I felt so bad. A huge sob escaped her throat and suddenly I was crying too.
"I've loved you since we were six!" she cried. Our parents had been friends when we were younger. We'd been good friends until our sixth year, when Hermione and I had become friends, and she'd decided to insult Hermione in front of me. Now I realized she might have been jealous of Hermione. I felt rotten.
"I swear if I'd known..."
"What?" she asked, her voice cold, "You wouldn't have turned gay?"
"Well of course not. I can't help being gay. But we could have at least.... I don't know. I'm sorry. I had no idea." Pansy stared into my eyes.
"You don't know how gorgeous you are. How kind, thoughtful, smart, funny, amazing, and wonderful you are. You're perfect, Draco. And I love you for it."
I put my face close to hers.
"Pansy...." I started, "I don't know what to tell you. I wish things had turned out differently."
"It doesn't matter," she said in a rather tiny voice.
"Yes it does. I feel horrible! This is the kind of thing I've been fretting over for the past year. I've been obsessed with a guy, and he doesn't like me back." Pansy's eyes searched mine.
"Well he doesn't know what he's missing. If you liked me, I'd give you everything you wanted," Pansy said. I smiled sadly.
"Pansy..." I started.
"Who is it?" she asked.
"What?"
"Who do you like. Who's the guy idiotic enough to pass you up?" she demanded. I knew I couldn't lie to her.
"Harry."
"Potter has a chance with you?" she said and before I could explain the situation she continued, "Well that's more than I've got. I hope it works out. I hope Potter understands how special you are." A tear that had been hanging from her eyelashes finally fell. "I love you, Draco. I always will." I kissed her on the top of her head, and a few stray tears dropped onto her hair.
"I apologize...." I whispered, "I've been utterly unfair to you."
"Enough." A small laugh emerged from her throat. She kissed the corner of my mouth. "You didn't know," she said and began to back away from me, "Maybe next time I'll take the hints in front of me. The looks you gave Potter.... the ones you never gave me.... I love you...." She fled the hall, back toward the dungeons.
I stood there, staring after her. I heard voices behind me and turned to see who they belonged to. Harry, Ron and Hermione were walking into the school. They stopped when they saw me there.
"Draco?" Hermione said, "Hagrid wanted to catch up with Bill and Ritzy. So we came back and - are you all right?" I shook my head. She gave me a concerned look.
"What's wrong?" Ron asked.
"I am so blind...." Hermione stepped forward.
"What are you talking about?"
"I'm horrible."
"No you're not," she said, rushing forward, "What in the world happened to you?" My next words were drowned out by my tears, so I doubt they were discernable.
"She loved me!"
"I'll see you two later. Draco and I need to have a talk. Bye!" Hermione said and she steered me away from Ron and Harry, pushing me off to somewhere else. And I didn't care where. I just clutched to Hermione as she dragged me off.
I was aaware of wetness on my forehead. I opened my eyes and groaned. Hermione was pressing a washcloth to my head.
"Oh good...." she said, "You're awake. You blacked out. I think it was stress or something. What happened to you?" I sat up, because I'd been lying on the floor of the Potions classroom.
"I was going to the Slytherin common room, and Pansy came over. She told me that she's loved me since we were really little. I told her that I was gay and couldn't be with her. I told her that I love Harry...." Hermione was sitting cross-legged in front of me.
"Pansy loves you?" she asked.
"Apparently. At least, that's what she said. The way she said it.... I know it's true. It's horrible because I feel the same way about Harry."
"What did you tell her?"
"That I was sorry... and that I wished things had gone better. Then she said she hoped I got Harry."
"Well that was very big of her," Hermione noted, "I always thought of Pansy as a sort of succubus. But I guess after I discovered your crush on Harry, I shoudl have realized all Slytherins are capable of love. Now I feel bad for her. She must have been heartbroken."
"I hope we can still be friends."
"So do I, Draco."
"I mean.... I know exactly how she feels. I adore Harry and he doesn't even like me back -"
"As to that," Hermione interrupted, "Don't be so sure. When you mentioned the other guys you're interested in, he didn't seem to pleased. And when you flirted with Bill -"
"I wasn't flirting with Bill!"
"Suit yourself. When you were talking to Bill about his pants and saying you fancied him, Harry looked somewhat annoyed. I wouldn't give up quite yet, Draco. Don't get your hopes up, but don't let your hopes down. Anything can happen at Hogwarts. If you don't figure that out while you're here, you won't be living properly." I smiled at Hermione.
"Your intelligence never ceases to amaze me, Hermione."
"Yes... that's about right," she said and we smiled.
"Mind telling me why we're here of all places?" I inquired.
"Well, it was the closest thing to us when you fainted."
"Right. What time is it?"
"Probably sometimes between four and half-past."
"Okay," I said, nodding my head, "Want to get some tea? I need something to drink."
"Sure." We set off together.
*
"Here," I said, holding up a grape, "Try and catch it in your mouth." Colin opened his mouth. I threw it and it bounced off his teeth. He laughed.
"It'a too hard," he said in resignation.
"Not it's not." I tossed one up and the air and caught it cleanly in my mouth.
"Practice makes perfect, right?" he said and tried again, as Harry and Hermione sat in front of us. I'd taken to sitting at the Gryffindor table, as my only friends sat there.
"How are you?" Hermione asked groggily.
"Good," Colin and I said in unison. We looked at each other and giggled.
"You sound cheerful," Harry said grumpily, pouring himself a mug of coffee. He sipped it and his face became brighter, "Coffee... the source of every good day. Did you know, there are over a hundred and fifty different kinds of coffee beans?" (A/N: Too lazy to see if that's true).
"Isn't that lovely.... a little bird is rambling incessantly," Colin said brightly, looking around the room. Hermione hid her smile behind a pear.
"The difference between you and I, Colin, is that I've got a little thing called maturity," Harry said.
"That, and even he's taller than you," I said, tossing another grape in my mouth.
"Shut it, you," he said, scowling at me. I grinned, half a grape stuck between my teeth.
"So... think any more wild and crazy things could happen right at this moment?" Colin asked. He'd heard about the Pansy situation from me.
"Never say things like that, Colin," I warned, "Life is out to prove you wrong. I don't want to be the tool life uses to teach you that lesson."
"I'll just direct it to Harry."
"Ha ha," he said, gulping down some more coffee.
"So... what's this Ritzy like?" Colin asked.
"Don't say anything!" I shouted quickly at Hermione and Harry. They'd both opened their mouths to begin a rant. But lately, all I'd heard was complaints about Ritzy. I didn't want to hear more. "I don't care if Ritzy stuffs her bra and her hair is a wig. I don't give a damn if she talks in her sleep. And I really don't want to hear about her sex talks." I picked up a grape.
"But -"
"No!" I warned. There was silence for a minute, while I popped a couple grapes in my mouth, Harry drank more coffee, Hermione read more 'Life in the Fancy' and Colin ate a hash brown.
"But yesterday Ritzy told me -" Harry didn't get any further before I chucked the bowl of grapes at his head. Thankfully, he ducked. Instead of colliding with his large head, it crashed against the floor.
"Draco!" Hermione shouted, looking up from her book, "Oh forget it. I can't be bothered to deal with you now. I have to finish this book!"
"Isn't it such a good book?" I said.
"Quite," Hermione agreed, "Here, listen to this." Harry, Colin and I listened as she read a passage from the book. " 'Many people thought of Jake and Doug as the model couple. They walked from shop to shop, hand in hand, never worrying what the rest of the world thought. They window shopped mostly. But once in awhile, Jake would see something cute and fluffy, and he'd be forced to buy it.' "
"That's cute," the three of us said together. Hermione grinned.
"I love that he's got a soft spot for stuffed animals!" I said, "To be quite honest, so do I." Hermione, Colin and Harry stared at me, shocked.
"You like stuffed animals?" Colin demanded.
"Sort of," I replied, realizing that I'd said way too much.
"*That's* cute," Hermione said, pointing a stick of bacon at me.
"What kind of stuffed animals?" Harry asked, mouth full of eggs.
"Oh... bunnies, kittens, puppies, teddy bears, but my favourite is the stuffed whale I got for my birthday when I was nine. Pansy got it for me, actually." It went silent, except for the other people in the hall, and it seemed to get uncomfortable. "So Colin," I said, reciting the lines we'd planned, "Any new guys in your life?" See Colin and I were joining together to put a stop to Ginny and Harry's relationship. So we planned to do some flirting in front of Harry. See if it got a reaction.
"Well..." Colin said, pulling his hand through my hair. I froze, "You'll do just fine." Then he started kissing me. *That* wasn't part of the plan! But I was enjoying his tongue probing my mouth (and this was *Colin* probing my mouth!), digging into little crevices and running it along my bottom teeeth.
Even if it wasn't Harry kissing me, it was a guy. So it was fun anyway, and it did indeed get me aroused. Not When-I-Look-At-Harry aroused, but the Get-Kissed-By-A-Guy aroused. I actually moaned. Softly, though, and I'm sure no one except Colin heard it. Merde! I couldn't believe Colin was kissing me in front of Harry and Hermione. *And he was good at it!*
"Get a room," Harry, not Hermione, said. Harry, who was ALWAYS snogging Ginny. Colin and I pulled away, and Colin smirked at me.
"Wow!" I said, drinking half a cup of water, "You're amazing, Colin! Where'd you learn to snog like that?"
"Oh.... practice."
"On people?"
"No on dolls. Yes people." I grinned, and snickered a bit.
"I think you're my best kisser ever!" I lied. Harry muttered something I didn't hear, and Hermione gave him a skeptical look, "Even better than Alex. He was amazing. And not just at kissing."
Hermione looked amused, "Our Draco isn't a virgin! Well Jesus, Mary, Joseph! Was this Alex your first?"
"No. My first was with a girl named Belinda. We were neighbours. She was hot! Well.... actually, I'm not one to judge, since I'm gay. But I wasn't gay at the time so....." I stopped, and started again, "What I mean is, she made me realize that I wasn't attracted to girls. Sex with girls just didn't excite me."
"But sex with men did?" Harry asked curiously.
"Um, yes."
"So you've slept with this Alex?" he asked.
"I didn't sleep with him. I had sex with him. Two very different things," I said.
"I see. So you and Colin really are dating, then? No joke?"
"That's right, we're dating," I said, hooking my arm with Colin's. Hermione smirked.
"Um...." Harry said, getting to his feet, "I should go wake up Ron. Or he'll never get some breakfast in him. Cheers." He walked away.
"He stole 'cheers' from me!" I said indignantly.
"Forget about that! Did you see that!? Harry was seething with anger when you two kissed. You guys are so good at acting. It was rather fun to watch as well. You were really going at it. And that moan! Oh Draco, Harry's expression was priceless. I thought Harry was going to sock you, Colin." Hermione was practically bouncing with happiness.
"And that's a good thing?" Colin inquired, smiling.
"Was that planned?" she demanded, ignoring his question.
"No. But I threw it in for a litte spice," said the kid I suddenly felt I'd truly underestimated. Colin beamed. "Were you serious about me being your best kiss?"
"No. Sorry mate," I said, "Harry's the best." Hermione's eyes grew wide.
"You know what he said when you told us Colin was your best kisser!? He said, 'What about me?' That's a good sign, Draco!" I found myself fighting an uncontrollable smile.
"Well... that does sound good. But nothing's set in stone. He still has to figure it for himself. That's going to be tough. I'm not sure he wants to figure it out. Until then.... Colin, buddy! Up for a bit of snogging?"
All right!!!!! Finally! That took for ever!!!! Well, what did you think?!?!? Mwahahahahaha! Colin and Draco's slashy kiss! Hey! It was slash! I did promise you slash! I'm going to do some running before you all kill me. Thanks again for all the wonderful reviews. Now go ahead and leave one for this chapter! And don't ever let the H/D spirit die!!! Never!!!
So... what did you think of the Pansy/Draco issue? I had absolutely NO idea that was going to be written. I got to the part before she says she loves him and I thought it was perfect for the story. So I'm sorry if I disgusted you all with that horrid Pansy/Draco kiss. It had to be done.
Please excuse any spelling mistakes I may have in this chapter. I'm sick today and don't feel like reading it over. My head hurts muchos and I'm taking a huge risk sitting in front of my computer. I just hope I don't throw up all over it! Anyways! Next chapter should be up in awhile. And I'm not kidding here.... NO SLASH!!! Hope you can deal with that!
Um.... I forgot to do this last time, so.... Happy New Year!!!!!
Tine
Rating: R
Disclaimer: As you well know, Harry Potter does not belong to me. I wish it did, but it doesn't. Now stop hassling me.
Author's Note: Well! I was all ready to come onto FF.Net and re-upload Chapter 6 of Know Your Enemy. I thought there was some sort of error when I tried to the first time. Apparently, I was wrong. But I'm not complaining. Easier for me.
I have the best reviewers in the world. You're all really awesome. You read new chapters of Know Your Enemy practically the day they get up and then you submit these heart warming reviews that leave me speechless and touched. Because to have people who like my writing truly is amazing. It is something I have dreamed about since I was a very little girl. I will indeed take a career in writing, whatever it may be. Whether I become a journalist, an author, or a freelance writer, I'll always write and want people who like it. To think that I have so many people who enjoy Know Your Enemy, is truly flattering. Which is why I take the time to respond to every review I get in each chapter. I feel connected to every one of you. You're the people who brighten my day. I log on to this site, and you make me feel likea good person. So this next chapter if dedicated to all of you.
Thanks to: Katie of Gryffindor (Thanks. I had hoped people would like the first scene. 8-) Bit of a shame it was just a dream, though. Harry.... realizing he's gay? Another couple chapter I'm afraid. Right now, he's just confused. Blaise as a religious guy. Yeah... a bit weird. But I like to try new things. That's a compliment above all others. Thanks! Don't worry... I will!), Cloud (Your favourite D/H fic? I'm honoured. I truly am. I'm just glad I can live up to the expectations. Moulin Rouge is an awesome movie. Can't find it, though. And I'm very annoyed), Liliku (Happy New Year!), Belle (Wow! A nice, long review! I heard that story about Matthew Shepard. It's actually one of the things that sprouted Draco's condition in the last chapter. I figure no one should get beaten because of their choice in gender. So I'm glad you agree. Happy New Year!), Transcendence (Your review stirred something inside me. I want you to know that homosexuality is close to me as well. I have a LOT of gay and lesbian friends. Draco getting beat up was very hard for me to write. Because when I do that, I imagine my best friend (who is bisexual) getting that torture and it truly scares me. I'm very glad you liked this story and I'm SO glad it got a reaction from you. It tells me I'm not alone in this world. There are other people who agree with me on gay and lesbian rights! So thank you for your review! It touched me and warmed my heart. I I was crying when I read your review), Copocabana (To eb quite honest, I actually like Pansy. There's Pansy in this chapter. And no Pansy bashing. Garbage rox!), Kay (Hehehe. Yeah, the dream was lots of fun to write. Glad you liked Snape. Your friend reads it? Get him to leave a review! Here's the update. Hope you like it!), Luwana-Fluff-Dragon (The Beach Boys are great. You're sad? I don't even know who Take That are. I don't listen to pop music because I find it ruins the true music spirit. I love rock and roll, lite rock and grunge. Punk is all right. Simple Plan and blink-182 are the only bands I like and they'r enot even really punk. I hate people who say trhey're punk. Like Avril Lavigne whom I truly hate, Sum 41 whatnot. The real punk is The Clash (R.I.P. Joe Strummer!) and The Ramones. Not that you care about any of that. But I'm telling you anyway! Thanks! Glad you like it!) Cyber (I'm glad you believe that. It's an important thing to believe in. Harry hasn't realized it yet. He's simply curious. Hehehe. Next chapter), Lady Death (Glad you liked it. Please make your fic D/H!!! Please!!!!) Ladyblondhair (I'm glad! Don't worry! He will. Life in the Fancy is a book I invented that I'm thinking of writing. Would you like to read it? Review and let me know!), Ryan-Sama (So would I. I'd probably beat the shit out of them. No one messes with my friends and gets away with it! I'm glad you like this story!), Jubilee (Firenze. What an awesome dude! You mean his conversation with Draco. Yes... you know Draco needed it. Actually... you faced me with a bit of a dilemma. Cuz I realized that you're right.... the bible does say that. But I think it's a different kind of witchcraft they're talking about. Not the one where people a waving wands about. Because lots of those witches and wizards do believe in God, I'm sure, what with all the muggles mixed with families. The kind of witchcraft I think the bible's talking about is th eone that summons spirits and whatnot. I'm actually not educated on the witchcraft background. But thanks for pointing it out. Well of course Zabini is damned. You're not supposed to hate people. And he hates Draco. Here's the next update!), Icicle (Yeah. Harry's so sweet. Glad it's deep. Exactly what I wanted!) Cloud, a (Dont' worry about it. You still reviewed! Barry Trotter. Hilarious story! Dorco! That's horrible. Just glad I've got good reviewers like you! Thanks! That being said.... your fic is extremely wonderful. Hurry up with the next chapter! I agree... it is far-fetched!)
I'm sorry if that was extremely corny, but I was so touched by all the reviews I got for the sixth chapter of Know Your Enemy in one day. Just thought I'd acknowledge how much you influence my writing!
Do you know what, though? I'm scared of making you guys mad. So I cheat and give you some slash even when I say I'm not going to. Like Harry's dream in the last chapter.
Here comes the slash machine! Slash in this chapter. Turn away now, you homophobes! (But I don't think any homophobes read this, thank God!) For you! Slashy goodness! Hope you like it!
Oh! Guess what I was thinking of doing. When I was reading my reviews, I realized how many people enjoy 'Life in the Fancy' excerpts. And I was thinking that if enough of you wanted it, I could write the actual 'Life in the Fancy'. I'm going to write it for fun anyway, but if you'd like to read it, let me know and perhaps I'll post it up here! 8-)
My keyboard doesn't allow me to put the little accent on the E for French words like fiance. Just visualize the accents where they would normally be.
"Fuck," Ron said with feeling, after reading a roll of parchment that had come with his owl, Pig.
"Ron!" Hermione shrieked.
"What's the problem?" Harry asked.
"It's from Bill and his fiance," Ron explained. I had to search my mind for a moment before I came up with a conclusion as to why this was a horrible thing.
"Ritzy?" I demanded. Ron nodded his head in disgust.
"I hate that bitch!" Hermone spoke suddenly, stunning all of us yet again with her language, and glanced up from her borrowed copy of 'Life in the Fancy'. After Harry had read it for the millionth time, Hermione had "borrowed" it to find out what was so good about it. She'd been reading for the past two days.
"You mentioned her once, didn't you?" I inquired, and Ron nodded.
"I loathe her. She's so.... annoying. She has this horrible speaking voice. She made it a habit of telling me how wrong Hermione and I were for each other."
"Why in the world would Bill date her if she was so bad?" Harry asked curiously.
"Love potions, of course!" Ron said.
"Really? But - wait a second - aren't love potions illegal?" Harry asked. I almost cracked up laughing right then.
"No, not really, Harry. I was joking. I haven't a clue why Bill fancies her, as I am not him. Ask him when he and Ritzy visit."
"They're visiting?" we spluttered, staring at Ron.
"Yup."
"Fuck is right," I said.
"Yes, you swore for a good reason," Hermione agreed.
"So when exactly are they coming?" Harry questioned.
"Friday afternoon. For the Easter weekend. Bill says I should meet him and Ritzy at Hogsmeade Station. D'you want to come along?" We all agreed to. That visit from Bill and Ritzy would be a turning point.
*
"Hermione," Ron whined, fidgeting. He was actually pacing. I'd never seen him so nervous in all the years I'd known him. "Please. Straighten your hair. And - I mean, could you - put it up or something?"
"Ron," Hermione said, "I am not going to change myself for Ritzy. Who needs her consent? We like each other. That's all that matters."
"So," Harry said, turning to me, "How long do you think it'll take them to start an argument. My bet is two minutes."
"One," I replied. I suddenly wished I had a cigarette in my hand so I could toss it on the ground and crush it with my foot.
"One minute? You're on. A galleon says it'll in start two minutes." I smirked, and we shook on it.
"Come on, " Ron said, fiddling with Hermione's hair, "Just for once... make yourself look pretty." There was silence as Harry and I inclined our heads in unison to see what Hermione's reaction to Ron's horrible remark would be.
"Screw you," Hermione said in a small voice and turned away from Ron. I watched as a tear fell down her cheek, "Bet you didn't have to worry about this kind of thing with Lavender." More tears. I tried to stay where I was, but I couldn't help it. Hermione was my best friend. I didn't want to see her crying. I jogged the five steps it took to get to her and wrapped my arms around Hermione. Then I pulled her away from Ron and Harry's listening ears.
"Hermione," I said lifting her head up, "He's only worried about Ritzy making fun of you. He doesn't want you to get hurt."
"I know," Hermione whispered, "But what does he mean 'Look pretty for once?' "
"Guys never say the right things when they're nervous. You should know that from Longbottom." Hermione almost gave in. I saw a little smile.
"What if he doesn't really think I'm pretty?" she asked.
"Well then he's a loser, because you are pretty. You're beautiful." Hermione's eyes filled with more tears and she hugged me.
"Thank you, Draco," she said, "Harry doesn't know what he's missing." Then she ran over to Ron and hugged him.
"I'm sorry, Hermione!" Ron said, "I really don't know the meaning of the word 'tact'. You're always pretty!"
"Shut it, Ron," Hermione said and she stepped away from him. Then she whispered a spell that made her hair really straight and pulled it up into a ponytail. Then she gave this triumphant grin and Ron gave one back. Then they both sprang together and began... well, making out.
"Where's the lesson learned? You were supposed to realize that you don't need straight hair and ponytails to be pretty!" I shrieked, "Ugh! You people are impossible!" Harry burst out laughing. I watched him. I had to fight the strong urge to kiss him.
"Hey!" Harry said, getting up from the floor, "Watch this, Draco." I watched him. "There's Ritzy!" Ron and Hermione sprang apart. It was my turn to crack up laughing. They walked over to us and then Hermione nudged my shaking body.
"You laugh a lot," Hermione noted.
"I never noticed it, what with all the leering, sneering, smirking and trying to get Hagrid sacked," Ron said thoughtfully. I laughed even harder. I'd been expecting him to say another face gesture.
"It's actually kind of cute," Harry said. I stopped laughing to stare at him, as did Hermione and Ron. "I said kind of."
"Right," I said and needed help to get back up, "Is that their train?" Everyone turned to see the Hogwarts' Express chug-a-lugging (A/N: Chug-a- lug is not a word, as I well know. Private joke between my sister and I) into the station.
"Right!" Ron said, looking even more nervous, "Here they come." The train slowed to a stop and out came several passengers. I didn't know what Bill or Ritzy looked like, so I kept an eye out for red hair. Then I saw them. Bill looked awesome. He had long hair. Probably about the same length as mine! He was wearing leather pants, which were extremely tight on him.
How Ritzy snagged him is a mystery. For the girl he was holding hands with was the opposite of him. She had blonde hair to just past her shoulders. She was clad in a blouse with rolled up sleeves and a short green and red, plaid skirt with little ruffles on the end. (A/N: Think private school uniform).
They looked horrible together! I couldn't believe my eyes. A moment later, the odd couple were making their way over to us.
"Ronny!" Ritzy cried, throwing her arms around him in a tight embrace.
"Ritzy!" Ron said, in barely any of the enthusiasm she'd used with him.
"How are you?" she asked, pulling away.
"Oh, terrific! How are you?"
"Wonderful. Hermione. Still hanging around?" Ritzy asked, turning to her.
"Yes," she replied, "Still with Bill, I see."
"Oh yes," Ritzy said, "We're very happy." Bill slipped his arm around her waist. He let go and him and Ron shared at brotherly type hug, then Bill embraced Hermione and gave her a kiss on the forehead.
"Harry, it's so lovely to see you," Ritzy said in an impossibly fake voice.
"Oh, right back at you, Ritzy," Harry said.
"I don't believe I've met you," she said, turning to me.
"That's right, you haven't." She held out her hand.
"I'm Ritzy," she said.
"Obviously," I drawled, some of the old Draco coming back.
"This is Bill, my fiance," she said.
"Yes," I said, "I was aware of that as well."
"Of course. So you're friends with my future brother-in-law?"
"Er -"
"Goodness. Another person who can never figure out what to say. Harry here always says "er". It's quite funny, actually," she explained, putting her arm around Harry. I was instantly jealous. I was also well aware of that little quirk about my crush. It was one thing I was quick to notice about Harry when I first met him.
"Well of course, that's much worse than saying too much." Hermione gave me a thumbs-up sign behind Ritzy's back.
"You're not one for manners, are you?"
"No. A Malfoy never is," I admitted.
"Malfoy?" she asked and raised her rather large eyebrows at me, "I've heard much about you."
"Oh, I've heard things about *you*," I said.
"Mostly good things, I hope."
"Not really." Harry, Ron and Hermione looked like they were going to die from laughter.
"Well, I haven't heard great stuff about you either," she said, defensively.
"Not surprised. I truly am rather spoiled and snobby."
"Draco, then?" Bill spoke up, stepping between the two of us and holding out his hand for me to shake it. I shook it in a rather formal manner.
"Bill, then?" I echoed. Bill nodded as Ritzy opened her mouth.
"Billthen? That's a funny word!" Ritzy commented. Hermione was holding onto Ron for support. I couldn't help it.
"Excuse me," I said, turned around and burst out laughing. When I'd finished, I turned back around. "Truly sorry. Look, I don't want to start this off in a bad way. I'm Draco." I held out my hand for Ritzy and she took it.
"Nice to meet you, Draco. So you attend Hogwarts?
"Correct."
"That's lovely. Bill and all his younger siblings went. I always thought it would have been great to go to Hogwarts."
"Where'd you go?" Hermione asked. She was standing off to the side, her hand held in Ron's.
"Beauxbatons."
"So you speak French," Harry said. It wasn't even a question. Just an assumption.
"No, actually, not a word." We all gave her odd looks except for Bill, but pushed it aside.
"So Harry," Ritzy began, "Are you and Ginny still dating? I always thought you two were rather good together." Hermione and I locked gazes, before looking to Harry for his response.
"Yes. Ginny and I are to be married." Bill walked right into a tree.
"What!?" he demanded, "You're getting married!?"
"Not to worry, Bill. I've already given him the 'hurt my sister and you die' lecture," Ron announced. Bill nodded.
"How come Ginny didn't say anything?"
"We were going to tell you together. She was so nervous about telling you today, she threw up all over the my bed." I smirked. Bill and Ron's eyes darted to Harry. "We weren't doing anything in the bed. And even if we were, we're engaged, so we should be allowed to do those things."
"Is there something you're trying to tell us, Harry?" Ron demanded.
"Yes.... I'm shagging your sister," Harry said, "Come on... we're a couple. We're allowed. I'm sure you and Hermione have." They suddenly looked uncomfortable.
"You haven't?!" I asked in shock.
"We're waiting until we're married. If it turns out we're not in love, then we won't have made a mistake," Hermione said.
"We discussed it. There's no need to discuss it with you people," Ron said.
"Well that was certainly interesting," Ritzy commented, "Draco... any girls in your life?"
"Draco's gay," Ron said, with the air of one stating the date.
"Really?" Bill and Ritzy asked together.
"Yes," I replied.
"Does your father know?" Bill inquired.
"It's likely. But I haven't got an owl from him yet. Which is beginning to scare me." Hermione looked at me, confusion etched on every line of her face. I gave her a look that said we'd talk about it later.
"Any boys in your life, then?" Ritzy asked after an uncomfortable silence.
"Yes," I replied. Heads snapped to me in curiosity, "There are a few boys. Just flings, really." I didn't dare look at Harry.
"Any names we'd know?" Ron asked.
"Oh... well I rather like Seamus. And Colin's fun to be around. You're not so bad yourself," I admitted, swiftly looking at Bill.
"Well, sorry mate. I'm straight as a post."
"Those pants say otherwise," I drawled. His hands flew to the zipper of his pants.
"Take off those sexy pants and the little guy they cover won't be getting some for awhile," Ritzy warned. Silence. I couldn't help it. I burst out laughing. Another thing I couldn't help was grabbing onto Harry. He was closest and if I hadn't grabbed him, I would have fallen over. He didn't seem to notice, as he was laughing hysterically as well. I was aware that Ron and Hermione were laughing too. But I think I laughed the hardest and longest. We continued walking until we got on to the Hogwarts Grounds.
"Well, we're going to Hagrid's," Ron said, "Want to come, Draco?"
"No. I'm going to take a nap. See you at dinner!" I said and went back up to the school. I went through the front doors and into the Entrance Hall. Suddenly Pansy turned the corner. She saw me.
"Draco!" she cried, running over. She grabbed my arm, "I was thinking. This must just be a phase. If you find the right girl, perhaps you won't think about men anymore. So I thought, I'm the closest thing to a woman around here. I'll show you that girls can be just as much fun as boys." Then she pressed her lips to mine. It wasn't that horrible. But seeing as it was a girl, I was rather uninterested. But I was too shocked to do anything. So she stood there kissing me for about ten seconds until I finally realized what we were doing, and pushed her away.
"Pansy..." I said, giving her my worst glare, "Don't touch me!" She whipped her hands away from me. "Don't try and convert me, accept me for who I am! I'm only human, Pansy, I can't help being gay!"
I could feel tears stinging my eyes. I didn't want to cry in front of her, but I was getting emotional. This was the one thing I'd been worried about when the school found out I was gay.
I wasn't worried about people beating me up, or muttering about me, or making fun of me. They can do that if they want to. But I didn't want people telling me that how I felt was wrong, and try to change who I am. It can't be changed. I'm just not attracted to females. I know I never will be. So I grabbed Pansy by each side of her face.
"Why can't you accept that I'm gay?" I demanded, "I'm not any different. I'd just rather be with men. Why can't you just understand that I'd rather be with my own gender?" Pansy's blue eyes spilled over with tears, and she bit her lip.
"Because I love you," she whispered, just loud enough for me to hear it. Nothing she could have said would have suprised me more. She could have told me Snape was wearing a tutu, dancing around the halls of Hogwarts. She could have told me Voldemort was sipping tea with Dumbledore. She could have told me Mcgonagall was pregnant by Harry, and I still wouldn't have been as suprised as I was now.
It had occured to me Pansy might fancy me, but I always figured it was a silly infatuation. But I realized by the look in her eyes, and the sincerity in her voice, that she loved me like I loved Harry. And I pitied her for it. She couldn't have me, just as I couldn't have Harry. I felt horrible about treating her like trash this year. She'd been in love with me, and I hadn't even picked up on it. I knew exactly how she felt.
"Pansy," I said, much calmer than the last time I'd spoken her name, "I'm so sorry." Tears were streaking down her face like currents of running water. I felt so bad. A huge sob escaped her throat and suddenly I was crying too.
"I've loved you since we were six!" she cried. Our parents had been friends when we were younger. We'd been good friends until our sixth year, when Hermione and I had become friends, and she'd decided to insult Hermione in front of me. Now I realized she might have been jealous of Hermione. I felt rotten.
"I swear if I'd known..."
"What?" she asked, her voice cold, "You wouldn't have turned gay?"
"Well of course not. I can't help being gay. But we could have at least.... I don't know. I'm sorry. I had no idea." Pansy stared into my eyes.
"You don't know how gorgeous you are. How kind, thoughtful, smart, funny, amazing, and wonderful you are. You're perfect, Draco. And I love you for it."
I put my face close to hers.
"Pansy...." I started, "I don't know what to tell you. I wish things had turned out differently."
"It doesn't matter," she said in a rather tiny voice.
"Yes it does. I feel horrible! This is the kind of thing I've been fretting over for the past year. I've been obsessed with a guy, and he doesn't like me back." Pansy's eyes searched mine.
"Well he doesn't know what he's missing. If you liked me, I'd give you everything you wanted," Pansy said. I smiled sadly.
"Pansy..." I started.
"Who is it?" she asked.
"What?"
"Who do you like. Who's the guy idiotic enough to pass you up?" she demanded. I knew I couldn't lie to her.
"Harry."
"Potter has a chance with you?" she said and before I could explain the situation she continued, "Well that's more than I've got. I hope it works out. I hope Potter understands how special you are." A tear that had been hanging from her eyelashes finally fell. "I love you, Draco. I always will." I kissed her on the top of her head, and a few stray tears dropped onto her hair.
"I apologize...." I whispered, "I've been utterly unfair to you."
"Enough." A small laugh emerged from her throat. She kissed the corner of my mouth. "You didn't know," she said and began to back away from me, "Maybe next time I'll take the hints in front of me. The looks you gave Potter.... the ones you never gave me.... I love you...." She fled the hall, back toward the dungeons.
I stood there, staring after her. I heard voices behind me and turned to see who they belonged to. Harry, Ron and Hermione were walking into the school. They stopped when they saw me there.
"Draco?" Hermione said, "Hagrid wanted to catch up with Bill and Ritzy. So we came back and - are you all right?" I shook my head. She gave me a concerned look.
"What's wrong?" Ron asked.
"I am so blind...." Hermione stepped forward.
"What are you talking about?"
"I'm horrible."
"No you're not," she said, rushing forward, "What in the world happened to you?" My next words were drowned out by my tears, so I doubt they were discernable.
"She loved me!"
"I'll see you two later. Draco and I need to have a talk. Bye!" Hermione said and she steered me away from Ron and Harry, pushing me off to somewhere else. And I didn't care where. I just clutched to Hermione as she dragged me off.
I was aaware of wetness on my forehead. I opened my eyes and groaned. Hermione was pressing a washcloth to my head.
"Oh good...." she said, "You're awake. You blacked out. I think it was stress or something. What happened to you?" I sat up, because I'd been lying on the floor of the Potions classroom.
"I was going to the Slytherin common room, and Pansy came over. She told me that she's loved me since we were really little. I told her that I was gay and couldn't be with her. I told her that I love Harry...." Hermione was sitting cross-legged in front of me.
"Pansy loves you?" she asked.
"Apparently. At least, that's what she said. The way she said it.... I know it's true. It's horrible because I feel the same way about Harry."
"What did you tell her?"
"That I was sorry... and that I wished things had gone better. Then she said she hoped I got Harry."
"Well that was very big of her," Hermione noted, "I always thought of Pansy as a sort of succubus. But I guess after I discovered your crush on Harry, I shoudl have realized all Slytherins are capable of love. Now I feel bad for her. She must have been heartbroken."
"I hope we can still be friends."
"So do I, Draco."
"I mean.... I know exactly how she feels. I adore Harry and he doesn't even like me back -"
"As to that," Hermione interrupted, "Don't be so sure. When you mentioned the other guys you're interested in, he didn't seem to pleased. And when you flirted with Bill -"
"I wasn't flirting with Bill!"
"Suit yourself. When you were talking to Bill about his pants and saying you fancied him, Harry looked somewhat annoyed. I wouldn't give up quite yet, Draco. Don't get your hopes up, but don't let your hopes down. Anything can happen at Hogwarts. If you don't figure that out while you're here, you won't be living properly." I smiled at Hermione.
"Your intelligence never ceases to amaze me, Hermione."
"Yes... that's about right," she said and we smiled.
"Mind telling me why we're here of all places?" I inquired.
"Well, it was the closest thing to us when you fainted."
"Right. What time is it?"
"Probably sometimes between four and half-past."
"Okay," I said, nodding my head, "Want to get some tea? I need something to drink."
"Sure." We set off together.
*
"Here," I said, holding up a grape, "Try and catch it in your mouth." Colin opened his mouth. I threw it and it bounced off his teeth. He laughed.
"It'a too hard," he said in resignation.
"Not it's not." I tossed one up and the air and caught it cleanly in my mouth.
"Practice makes perfect, right?" he said and tried again, as Harry and Hermione sat in front of us. I'd taken to sitting at the Gryffindor table, as my only friends sat there.
"How are you?" Hermione asked groggily.
"Good," Colin and I said in unison. We looked at each other and giggled.
"You sound cheerful," Harry said grumpily, pouring himself a mug of coffee. He sipped it and his face became brighter, "Coffee... the source of every good day. Did you know, there are over a hundred and fifty different kinds of coffee beans?" (A/N: Too lazy to see if that's true).
"Isn't that lovely.... a little bird is rambling incessantly," Colin said brightly, looking around the room. Hermione hid her smile behind a pear.
"The difference between you and I, Colin, is that I've got a little thing called maturity," Harry said.
"That, and even he's taller than you," I said, tossing another grape in my mouth.
"Shut it, you," he said, scowling at me. I grinned, half a grape stuck between my teeth.
"So... think any more wild and crazy things could happen right at this moment?" Colin asked. He'd heard about the Pansy situation from me.
"Never say things like that, Colin," I warned, "Life is out to prove you wrong. I don't want to be the tool life uses to teach you that lesson."
"I'll just direct it to Harry."
"Ha ha," he said, gulping down some more coffee.
"So... what's this Ritzy like?" Colin asked.
"Don't say anything!" I shouted quickly at Hermione and Harry. They'd both opened their mouths to begin a rant. But lately, all I'd heard was complaints about Ritzy. I didn't want to hear more. "I don't care if Ritzy stuffs her bra and her hair is a wig. I don't give a damn if she talks in her sleep. And I really don't want to hear about her sex talks." I picked up a grape.
"But -"
"No!" I warned. There was silence for a minute, while I popped a couple grapes in my mouth, Harry drank more coffee, Hermione read more 'Life in the Fancy' and Colin ate a hash brown.
"But yesterday Ritzy told me -" Harry didn't get any further before I chucked the bowl of grapes at his head. Thankfully, he ducked. Instead of colliding with his large head, it crashed against the floor.
"Draco!" Hermione shouted, looking up from her book, "Oh forget it. I can't be bothered to deal with you now. I have to finish this book!"
"Isn't it such a good book?" I said.
"Quite," Hermione agreed, "Here, listen to this." Harry, Colin and I listened as she read a passage from the book. " 'Many people thought of Jake and Doug as the model couple. They walked from shop to shop, hand in hand, never worrying what the rest of the world thought. They window shopped mostly. But once in awhile, Jake would see something cute and fluffy, and he'd be forced to buy it.' "
"That's cute," the three of us said together. Hermione grinned.
"I love that he's got a soft spot for stuffed animals!" I said, "To be quite honest, so do I." Hermione, Colin and Harry stared at me, shocked.
"You like stuffed animals?" Colin demanded.
"Sort of," I replied, realizing that I'd said way too much.
"*That's* cute," Hermione said, pointing a stick of bacon at me.
"What kind of stuffed animals?" Harry asked, mouth full of eggs.
"Oh... bunnies, kittens, puppies, teddy bears, but my favourite is the stuffed whale I got for my birthday when I was nine. Pansy got it for me, actually." It went silent, except for the other people in the hall, and it seemed to get uncomfortable. "So Colin," I said, reciting the lines we'd planned, "Any new guys in your life?" See Colin and I were joining together to put a stop to Ginny and Harry's relationship. So we planned to do some flirting in front of Harry. See if it got a reaction.
"Well..." Colin said, pulling his hand through my hair. I froze, "You'll do just fine." Then he started kissing me. *That* wasn't part of the plan! But I was enjoying his tongue probing my mouth (and this was *Colin* probing my mouth!), digging into little crevices and running it along my bottom teeeth.
Even if it wasn't Harry kissing me, it was a guy. So it was fun anyway, and it did indeed get me aroused. Not When-I-Look-At-Harry aroused, but the Get-Kissed-By-A-Guy aroused. I actually moaned. Softly, though, and I'm sure no one except Colin heard it. Merde! I couldn't believe Colin was kissing me in front of Harry and Hermione. *And he was good at it!*
"Get a room," Harry, not Hermione, said. Harry, who was ALWAYS snogging Ginny. Colin and I pulled away, and Colin smirked at me.
"Wow!" I said, drinking half a cup of water, "You're amazing, Colin! Where'd you learn to snog like that?"
"Oh.... practice."
"On people?"
"No on dolls. Yes people." I grinned, and snickered a bit.
"I think you're my best kisser ever!" I lied. Harry muttered something I didn't hear, and Hermione gave him a skeptical look, "Even better than Alex. He was amazing. And not just at kissing."
Hermione looked amused, "Our Draco isn't a virgin! Well Jesus, Mary, Joseph! Was this Alex your first?"
"No. My first was with a girl named Belinda. We were neighbours. She was hot! Well.... actually, I'm not one to judge, since I'm gay. But I wasn't gay at the time so....." I stopped, and started again, "What I mean is, she made me realize that I wasn't attracted to girls. Sex with girls just didn't excite me."
"But sex with men did?" Harry asked curiously.
"Um, yes."
"So you've slept with this Alex?" he asked.
"I didn't sleep with him. I had sex with him. Two very different things," I said.
"I see. So you and Colin really are dating, then? No joke?"
"That's right, we're dating," I said, hooking my arm with Colin's. Hermione smirked.
"Um...." Harry said, getting to his feet, "I should go wake up Ron. Or he'll never get some breakfast in him. Cheers." He walked away.
"He stole 'cheers' from me!" I said indignantly.
"Forget about that! Did you see that!? Harry was seething with anger when you two kissed. You guys are so good at acting. It was rather fun to watch as well. You were really going at it. And that moan! Oh Draco, Harry's expression was priceless. I thought Harry was going to sock you, Colin." Hermione was practically bouncing with happiness.
"And that's a good thing?" Colin inquired, smiling.
"Was that planned?" she demanded, ignoring his question.
"No. But I threw it in for a litte spice," said the kid I suddenly felt I'd truly underestimated. Colin beamed. "Were you serious about me being your best kiss?"
"No. Sorry mate," I said, "Harry's the best." Hermione's eyes grew wide.
"You know what he said when you told us Colin was your best kisser!? He said, 'What about me?' That's a good sign, Draco!" I found myself fighting an uncontrollable smile.
"Well... that does sound good. But nothing's set in stone. He still has to figure it for himself. That's going to be tough. I'm not sure he wants to figure it out. Until then.... Colin, buddy! Up for a bit of snogging?"
All right!!!!! Finally! That took for ever!!!! Well, what did you think?!?!? Mwahahahahaha! Colin and Draco's slashy kiss! Hey! It was slash! I did promise you slash! I'm going to do some running before you all kill me. Thanks again for all the wonderful reviews. Now go ahead and leave one for this chapter! And don't ever let the H/D spirit die!!! Never!!!
So... what did you think of the Pansy/Draco issue? I had absolutely NO idea that was going to be written. I got to the part before she says she loves him and I thought it was perfect for the story. So I'm sorry if I disgusted you all with that horrid Pansy/Draco kiss. It had to be done.
Please excuse any spelling mistakes I may have in this chapter. I'm sick today and don't feel like reading it over. My head hurts muchos and I'm taking a huge risk sitting in front of my computer. I just hope I don't throw up all over it! Anyways! Next chapter should be up in awhile. And I'm not kidding here.... NO SLASH!!! Hope you can deal with that!
Um.... I forgot to do this last time, so.... Happy New Year!!!!!
Tine