Disclaimer: I do not own Harry Potter or anything in his really cool world,
though I wouldn't mind owning Draco.
Summary (Chps. 1-18) A two-week sailing trip has been planned in April. To prepare, the students are taking a sailing class taught by Dr. Branefeld and a regular Hogwarts teacher. Fifth year Slytherins and Gryffindors are paired, with Professor Sinistra as their instructor. Draco and Hermione are to be partners and navigators for their class. They each begin to experience feelings for each other, but fight it. During a moment of unguarded passion at the Astronomy Tower, Ron and Harry burst in. Harry and Ron hex Draco. Draco performs the Cruciatus Curse on Ron. Hermione and Harry tell Dumbledore what happened. Dumbledore talks with Draco. Draco tells about the horrible stuff he dealt with over the summer. Detentions have been served-Draco's to last until December. In the library, Draco tells Hermione about his father and the horrible stuff he dealt with over the summer, much tears. They attempt to kiss twice, both times ending with Draco in pain.
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Chapter 19: The Orb
Hermione gasped as Draco jerked back. She watched him clasp his head, squeezing his eyes tightly shut, and then fall, unconscious, to the ground. For a long moment, she stared. Then she flew into action.
"Draco!" she screamed, rushing to his side. His face, pale and cold, looked like death. She grabbed his shoulder and gave him a gentle shake, calling his name. He moaned and slowly opened his eyes.
"Wh-what happened?" he spoke in a groggy voice.
"I-I don't know. You passed out." She looked at him carefully, and helped him to sit up. "We should get you to Madam Pomfrey."
He gave a weak nod and moved to stand up, almost stumbling again. "I- I think I'm gonna need some help," he said in a near whisper.
Hermione gave a nod and helped him to his feet, pulling his arm around her shoulder as she did so. She pulled her own bag off the ground, tossing the Cloak in it first. Slowly the two made their way to the infirmary.
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Hermione sank onto the bench at the Gryffindor table the next morning, eyes bloodshot from tears and lack of sleep. She stared at her empty plate for a few long moments, her mind still in the library, mulling over all that Draco had told her.
"Herm? You okay?" Ron asked as he stuffed a forkful of waffles into his mouth. He gave a worried look at Harry when Hermione didn't answer.
Harry reached a hand over and placed it on Hermione's arm; she jumped.
"Oh! Sorry, did you say something?" She looked back and forth between the two boys.
"Ron asked if you were okay. You're not looking too well this morning," he said, worry evident in his voice.
"I'm fine. Just a little tired, that's all."
Harry gave her an unconvinced nod. "Did you find what you were looking for last night?"
Hermione felt the blood rush to her face and lowered her head a bit. "No. I didn't. I-I suppose I'll have to go back again."
"Harry and I'd be happy to go help you, Herm. Wouldn't we, Harry?" Ron gulped down some pumpkin juice.
"Yeah, we would."
Hermione gave a sharp shake of her head. "No. I'll manage." She abruptly stood. "I'm gonna go to the library." She shouldered her bag and turned to leave.
"Herm, we have Transfiguration-" Ron began.
"I know. I'll be there." She quickly stepped from the table and flew from the Great Hall and to the Infirmary. Once she reached the door, she paused. She couldn't figure out why she'd come here. Draco may have confided in her last night, but she was afraid of how he might react to her this morning. Taking deep breath, she pushed the doors open and walked in.
"Ms. Granger. I assume you are here to check on Mr. Malfoy?" Madam Pomfrey questioned when she saw the nervous student.
Hermione gave a nod.
"Well, you will be pleased to know he's fine. He left just a few moments ago." She gave Hermione a smile and walked back to her office, mumbling about finding a potion.
Hermione stood uncertainly for a moment. She felt her heart sink and tried to ignore it. She didn't really care that Draco wasn't there; she tried to convince herself. She gave a heavy sigh and pushed the door back open, slowly walking towards Transfiguration.
"Coming to check on me, Gr-Hermione?" Draco, leaning nonchalantly against wall, watched her with a guarded expression.
Hermione halted in her tracks and looked at him. "Why would I do that?"
He pushed himself off the wall and stepped closer to her. "I don't know, why would you?" he asked, his voice laced with tension.
Her eyes flickered over his shoulder and then looked back at him, connecting with his eyes. "Would it be a bad thing for me to be concerned about you? To want to check on you?" she asked, holding her breath slightly as she waited for his answer.
He stepped closer to her and found himself pushing a hand into her hair, softly he answered her, "No, it's not a bad thing."
She released her breath and swallowed as tingles raced down to her toes as he gently leaned in closer to her. His eyes bore into hers, silently asking; silently her eyes gave him the answer he was seeking, her hand reaching up and cupping his cheek. He moved closer to her, his lips a hairbreadth from hers. Her heart beat furiously in her chest as she waited with anticipation for the feel of his lips on hers again.
"Hermione?" A female voice interrupted the moment. As quickly as Draco had approached her, he stepped back. Hermione's head snapped and looked into Ginny's shocked eyes.
"Ginny! It's-what are you doing here?"
Ginny looked between the two and spoke in a slightly quavering voice. "I was heading to my potions class. Is-is everything okay here?" She glanced at Draco again before looking back at Hermione, questions dancing in her eyes. The three stood in an uncomfortable silence.
Hermione looked over at Draco to see that his face and eyes were masked with his typical indifference. A sneer crossed his features and he opened his mouth to answer Ginny. Quickly, Hermione jumped in.
"Yes. Everything's fine. I was just on my way to Transfiguration and you better not be late to Potions, Ginny. Snape will take points." Before Ginny had time to answer, Hermione adjusted her bag, spun on her heel and moved down the hall towards Transfiguration. Draco watched her go, smirked at Ginny and left for his class, leaving a very confused Ginny standing in the hallway.
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Hermione sunk into the couch before the fire at the end of the day. She gave a heavy sigh. Images of Draco kept flashing in her mind. She had felt him watching her during Care of Magical Creatures and Potions. It took all her strength to not turn to look at him. Having Harry and Ron next to her during class had been a help, though the two of them had relentlessly tried to find out what was wrong with her.
She masterfully sidestepped their questions each time, but the effort had left her exhausted. Fortunately Harry had Quidditch practice until 5:30 and Ron had gone to watch; she could be alone with her thoughts. But her thoughts kept betraying her. She didn't want to think about Draco, it was too confusing. With a frustrated sigh, she stood and headed up to her dorm.
She breathed a sigh of relief when she entered and found the room empty. She walked over to her bedside table and pulled out the hydrophanous orb, sat cross-legged on her bed and held the cool orb in her hands, staring at it. The subtle shifting black was mesmerizing, and she focused on it, helping her to put Draco from her mind. As she continued to gaze at the orb, she felt herself begin to drift. The room became hazy; she saw herself from a distance sitting on the bed, the orb held in her hands. A misty haze descended upon the seated Hermione.
The walls of the room were replaced by steep hills; the beds morphed into palm trees and dense foliage. No longer did she see herself sitting on the bed. She turned her head, her mouth gaping as she looked about her. It looked like she was on the Island of Malnese. She was standing at the top of the white sandy beach where Captain Solstine had found his wife. Cautiously she took a step forward, the beach wavered in her vision, and disappeared.
Her eyes popped open and she found herself lying on her back on the bed, the orb floating above her. As she looked at it, it fell heavily next to her head. She turned her head, eyes wide and stared at the orb. Swallowing hard, she quickly pushed herself up and away from it. She continued to eye the ball warily before grabbing it quickly and dropping it into her bedside table.
"Herm? You okay?"
She turned her head to see a concerned Lavender looking at her, brow furrowed.
"Um-yeah, I'm fine. I was just-just taking a nap. Why?" She pushed herself up as she spoke, but quickly fell back as her head spun wildly.
"You don't look okay. Let's get you to the infirmary."
She pushed herself up again, fighting to keep from collapsing again as her head tilted the room. "No, Lav, I'm fine. Really. Just trying to wake up all the way."
Lavender shrugged. "Okay, if you say so. I was just heading down for dinner, you want to join me?"
"Dinner's not for another hour, Lav." Hermione said, putting a hand to her head in an effort to make the room right itself.
"Herm, it's 5:50! Are you sure you're okay?" Lavender examined Hermione's face with searching eyes.
She forced herself to ignore the spinning and stood, pulling strength from inside, her hand gripping the bedside table. "I'm fine. But how can it be 5:50. I only came up here a few minutes ago, at 4:30. It can't be 5:50."
"You obviously lost track of time while you slept," Lavender said, shaking her head. "Anyway, let's head down to dinner. I'm hungry," she said, turning and heading towards the door.
Hermione felt confused, but followed after Lavender, still trying to make the room stop spinning. She reached the top of the stairs and began to walk down them. It was too much for her head; she stumbled and fell down the stone steps, landing with a thud at the bottom.
"Hermione!" Lavender shrieked, racing to the bottom of the stairs. She reached Hermione's side and gripped her shoulder, giving her a shake. "Herm? Come on, wake up!"
"Lavender? What happened?"
She stood as Harry, followed closely by Ron, quickly descended the stairs.
"I'm not sure. She looked a little pale upstairs, but you know Hermione, she wouldn't admit it. We were going to head out for dinner, and she fell down the stairs."
Harry kneeled by Hermione and scooped his unconscious friend into his arms. "Guess dinner will have to wait, Ron. Let's get her to Madam Pomfrey."
The two boys, trailed by Lavender, hurried through the corridors to the infirmary. They halted when an unwelcome drawl issued from behind them.
"Well, well, it looks like the mighty Potter and has managed to once again bring harm to his friend. It never ceases to amaze."
Harry turned, cradling the limp girl in his arms. "What do you want, Malfoy?"
Draco raised an eyebrow. "I don't believe I said I wanted anything." He tilted his head towards Hermione. "Just curious as to what failed plot caused Granger to become unconscious."
Harry glanced at Ron and Lavender. "Do I sense concern in your voice, Malfoy? Or are you simply afraid that you'll fail Sailing without Hermione to guarantee you your passing grade?"
Draco advanced on Harry. "Don't assume you know me or anything about me, Potter." He glanced down at Hermione. "You should probably get her to the infirmary, then. After all, if you were without her, you might not survive this next year," he scoffed, turning on his heel and storming off to the Great Hall.
Ron watched Draco disappear and turned to look at Harry. "What the bloody hell was that all about?"
Harry gave a shrug and resumed his walk to the infirmary. "I have no clue."
The three students finished their trek in silence.
"Oh dear, not again. What has happened this time?" Madam Pomfrey asked, as the two entered.
"She fell down the stairs, Madam Pomfrey," Lavender said.
"Dear me, Ms. Granger and stairs." She shook her head. "Well, put her over there." She gestured to a nearby cot.
Harry quickly followed instructions and was joined by Ron and Lavender at the cot. The three stood awkwardly as Madam Pomfrey began her ministrations. Hermione fall caused a broken rib and a bump on her head, both of which Madam Pomfrey healed quickly. When she attempted to awaken Hermione, a fleeting look of worry crossed her features. She turned to the students and dismissed them, telling them that Hermione would need some time and that she would contact them when Hermione was able to have visitors. She brushed off the anticipated questions and ushered the three from the infirmary before contacting Dumbledore.
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"Albus, I just don't know what to make of it. She appears to be perfectly fine, but nothing I do will wake her."
"And you are positive she's not in a coma, Poppy?"
"Yes, completely positive. Her heartbeat is regular, her brainwaves functioning perfectly, all vital systems are doing their job, she just won't wake up." Poppy nervously wrung her hands as she looked over at the unconscious Hermione. Never in all her years as the Headnurse at Hogwarts had she been unable to solve a medical problem.
Albus gave a heavy sigh and reached a tender hand over to place it on Hermione's forehead. "Dear child." He watched her for a few moments and then turned to look back at Poppy. "Call me immediately when she awakens. I will be in my office." He reached a hand over and gave Poppy's hands a gentle squeeze. "Don't fret so much. She will be fine. You've never failed yet, Poppy. I have no worries that you will this time around."
Poppy gave him a grateful smile and watched him as he left the infirmary before she practically ran back to her office to hunt once more through all her medical books.
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She heard a voice. She couldn't tell where it came from, or whose it was, but she heard it. The words were unintelligible. She furrowed her brow a bit as she tried to focus; the whispered words became clear.
"Hermione, come on, wake up. You can't expect to get out of our homework just because you're not feeling well."
She took a deep breath as she recognized the voice and turned her head, her eyes opening and trying to focus on a fuzzy form. Swallowing, she opened her mouth to speak, a raspy voice issued from her.
"Draco, is that you?"
A warm hand enveloped hers and a face loomed above her. "Yes, Hermione, it is. It is good to see you awake."
"Awake? Wh-what time is it?" Her eyes still tried to focus.
"It is two-thirty in the morning; Monday morning. You've been here since Thursday evening." He brushed her hair back from her face.
She blinked a few times, his face finally coming into focus. "I've been here since when?"
"Since Thursday."
"Why?"
"I don't know. I knew you had been brought here; I ran into Potter and Weasley and some girl who were bringing you here. That's all I know."
She furrowed her brow a bit. "And, how come you are here?"
He cleared his throat a bit, and his voice lowered a little more, his hand tightening his grip on hers. "I-I've been here every night, for an hour. I sneak in, after Pomfrey goes to sleep."
She tried to push herself up into a sitting position, but the room tilted and she collapsed quickly.
"Hermione, don't! I-I should probably go wake Pomfrey?"
She gripped his hand tighter and looked at him. "No. Please, not yet."
He gave a nod and the two sat in silence.
In a quiet voice, Hermione finally spoke. "Draco, what is," she swallowed hard, "what is going on? With us? I mean-" her voice trailed off.
Draco sat looking at her for a few long moments in thought. He wasn't sure why he was there, or what he wanted from her. He just knew, somehow, that he needed her. He could see himself falling in love with her, though it made no sense to him. She intrigued him. He found himself moving from his chair to the edge of the bed, his fingers lacing through hers. He opened his mouth, deciding to tell her what he was thinking.
"Hermione, the last month has been-confusing-for me. I've hated you for so long, and I-"
"Get away from her, Malfoy!" Harry appeared, with a seething Ron, next to Hermione's bed, the Cloak held in Harry's hand.
Draco jerked his head to the side, his eyes automatically narrowing as he saw Harry and Ron. His hand gripped Hermione's tighter.
"What the-"
Before he could continue, Hermione interrupted in a quiet voice. "Harry, Ron, I want him here." She gave Draco's hand a squeeze, causing him to look back at her, surprise on his face. She continued to keep her gaze on Harry and Ron.
Confusion crossed Harry's face, Ron's face turning to a deep shade of red. Their mouths gaped, neither knowing what to say.
In her quiet voice, she continued. "I appreciate the concern you two have for me. You two are, and always will be, my best friends, but I would ask that you leave for now. I want Draco to be here." She looked both of them in the eyes after she finished speaking.
Harry took a step towards her. "Herm? Are you," he glanced at Draco, who was still staring at Hermione, "sure? He's not bothering you?"
A small smile graced her lips. "Harry, I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Now, would you and Ron please leave for now? I will see you two tomorrow and we will talk, okay?"
Harry's gaze shifted from her to Draco and back a few times before he gave a hesitant nod. "If that's what you want, Herm, okay." He turned to Ron, who looked about ready to spit some hexes at Draco, grabbed him, and walked out of the infirmary.
Hermione watched until the two of them left and then turned to look up into Draco's eyes. Hesitantly she reached her other hand up to gently touch his face. She opened her mouth to speak, but found she had no idea what to say, so she closed her mouth quickly.
Draco gave a small smile and reached his free hand up to cup over hers. "Did you mean it?"
"Did I mean what?"
"Did you mean it when you said you wanted me to be here?" His voice cracked the slightest bit as he spoke.
She gave a nod.
"Why?"
"Honestly? I don't really know. I just know that I don't want you to leave yet." She swallowed a bit as he continued to gaze into her eyes.
"I think I understand, Hermione," he whispered.
"Mr. Malfoy? What are you doing out of your dorm at this hour of night?" Madam Pomfrey's voice echoed through the quiet room. She quickly moved over to the cot and looked down at Hermione. "I see you are finally awake, Miss. You have had me quite worried. Now, Mr. Malfoy, why don't you head off to your room. You may come and visit Ms. Granger during regular visiting hours." She immediately pushed Draco from the bed and began to check Hermione over before either student could say a word.
Draco watched Hermione in silence for a few moments and then, with great reluctance, left the infirmary, Hermione's eyes following him as he left.
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I know I have promised this before, but things should pick up a bit pacewise. And, though I say this few times in my shout outs, the whole Draco being in pain thing? BLAME THE MAN WHO I MARRIED!! He came up with, he claims FULL responsibility for it. So, now you've read, please REVIEW. And, if you are NOT on my mailing list for chapter updates, let me know and I will put you on.
MoonTrail
~Misty: CONGRATULATIONS TO MY 200th REVIEWER!!! I feel loved. And, for your prize-well, Chocolate Frogs and Buttebeers are always a good choice-so here's to you. I hope my new chapter was worth the wait. It has been a battle through writer's block to get this one up and well written. As far as the kiss goes? Well, there is a problem-just hold on. It will come out in the next few chapters.
~Christine: What happened, and will happen to Draco is ALL my husband's fault entirely. You may blame him.
~yuuyaku: Thank you so much for your kind review. I have worked hard to make my story well written and have paid much attention to detail to keep both plot and character development as realistic as is possible.
~QiNg: I thought it was VERY Draco to ask for another kiss, as well. My plot has taken a difficult turn in events. I hope you will enjoy the twist. I hope I will be able to tackle the twist. It is becoming complex, but that's what makes it all the more fun.
~erica: Wow, you're review was very nice. I am glad you enjoy my story so much. I hope that I can continue to live up to your expectations.
~SnapesMistress2002: MUFASA!! So, I'm glad you are enjoying my story. I don't know which Draco I like more, mine or MINE! You figure out which is which, cuz I don't know. But at least I get to kiss MINE!
~Margot: No worries, my dear. I have NO plans on starting another story until this is done. It's getting more complex by the minute, so how could I, in good faith, begin another? Poems? Yes. Story? No. This particular hurdle, well, it may take a while. As I said earlier up above, IT IS NOT MY FAULT ALL BLAME IS ON MY HUSBAND.
~HouAreYouToday: One of my BIGGEST fears is the pacing. I mean, 19 chapters and we are only on the 23 of October? Yikes! However, I am pleased that you like the pacing. Draco is a REALLY tough character to write and I am glad that you find that he is in character. The sailing is REALLY what I am looking forward to as well, but it may take a number of chapters before we hit the ocean. Although you can be looking forward to the two man sailing boats coming up soon. It should be fun.
~CrazyCat: Thank you!! I hope that Hermione and Draco will do well, also.
~Glenda the owl: It is really a challenge sometimes to get the amount of words up that I do, but I don't want to cheat my readers. Thank you for being a faithful reviewer.
~draconas: I'm glad they made up, too. As far as what is happening to Draco? Well, that's for me to know and for Draco and Hermione to find out- thus letting all of you find out as well.
~CatalinaRose: You let something get in the way of reading and reviewing MY story? I'm hurt. I'm gonna set Draco on you! *glares* Well, I guess he'd never hurt his Hananana, would he? *grins* Anyway, hey *points up* Look! They're in the infirmary! Hehe-don't tell MY Draco that my Draco was in there. He might freak out.
~MidnightSun: EEP! Sorry about the whole sobbing Draco thing. He just really lost it. It will never happen again, unless he decides to do so. And, yes, evil cliffie. I like those!
~LadyMione: A Lavender/Draco story? Hmmm-I don't know. Never quite pictured those two together. *grins* I'm humbled by your review. Thank you for the wonderful praise! Sorry for the LONG wait, but, well-Draco's been getting in the way! And, truly, writer's block is a curse! See ya around.
~Princess Ruby: Thank you for your review. Hope that test went well. I hope to update the next chapter a bit sooner than this last one took, but we will see.
~elijahsbaby1981: Well, I can't tell you what is happening to poor Draco, cuz that would ruin it. Just trust me. It will be good.
~Mistress Desdemona: You may be closer to the truth than you realize. Keep tuned in.
~tom felton's babe: I'm glad you like. And, sorry to disappoint, but Lucius may very possibly show up. No promises, or anything, but it is a possibility.
~Adelaine: A good story takes so long to update, because, well, that's what makes it good. Lots of hard work by the writer.
~Mara-Potter: Just curious, is Mara like Mara Jade from Star Wars? Just wondering. I'm glad that you are scared about what is happening to Draco. You should be. It's not a happy thing in the least.
~whimsical_nymph: I have broken into tears as I have written much of the stuff in this story. I'm glad you have been touched by it as well. I hope that you will bear with the problems Draco and Hermione must face before the end of this story. It will be good, I promise.
~CedricDiggory: Do I have your email? Cuz I send out an email to all when I update. Sorry for the wait, but I really struggled with this chapter. I hope you will continue to read and enjoy. I do feel very special that you are so excited about my story.
~CrystallineLily: *sighs* Because, if something didn't go wrong everytime, there wouldn't be much angst, would there? *grins*
~Fiery-chan: Well, I didn't update REALLY soon, but at least I have updated. I hope it was another chapter worth waiting for.
~Rebecca: Thank you for acknowledging my spelling and grammar. I work hard to make sure I post my best proofread work. Yes, I do have much up my sleeve, and *looks up sleeve* there is much more up there. Hold on, the ride is going to get a little tougher before it gets better.
~SophieBabe: Yes, cliffies are not fun. I'm HORRIBLE! But, it keeps you coming back, right? Well, Lucius will become even worse, so keep your eyes open for it.
~Sage of Darkness: I hope this one was worth the wait. Much more is going to happen before the two of them will experience any happiness together. Just hold on, it will get wonderful after it gets worse.
~Rachel: Well, this was not soon, but hopefully you enjoyed it. The strange passing out thing will be explained in a few chapters. Watch for it.
~Kiyoko: As I written above, things will not be easy for these two. Something is wrong and will need to be solved. The solution will be painful, but worth it.
~Felicity: Thank you.
~Akuma Kanada no Tenchi: I hope your Drama competition went well! And I hope this chapter was worth the wait as well.
~Joan: Well, it may be a few more chapters, but when it happens-it will be well worth the wait.
~zoogerbas1: Draco is feeling pain because---and you thought I'd tell you? You'll have to read to find out. It will come out in the next few chapters, that I can promise. As for the solution? Well, that will take much more time.
Summary (Chps. 1-18) A two-week sailing trip has been planned in April. To prepare, the students are taking a sailing class taught by Dr. Branefeld and a regular Hogwarts teacher. Fifth year Slytherins and Gryffindors are paired, with Professor Sinistra as their instructor. Draco and Hermione are to be partners and navigators for their class. They each begin to experience feelings for each other, but fight it. During a moment of unguarded passion at the Astronomy Tower, Ron and Harry burst in. Harry and Ron hex Draco. Draco performs the Cruciatus Curse on Ron. Hermione and Harry tell Dumbledore what happened. Dumbledore talks with Draco. Draco tells about the horrible stuff he dealt with over the summer. Detentions have been served-Draco's to last until December. In the library, Draco tells Hermione about his father and the horrible stuff he dealt with over the summer, much tears. They attempt to kiss twice, both times ending with Draco in pain.
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Chapter 19: The Orb
Hermione gasped as Draco jerked back. She watched him clasp his head, squeezing his eyes tightly shut, and then fall, unconscious, to the ground. For a long moment, she stared. Then she flew into action.
"Draco!" she screamed, rushing to his side. His face, pale and cold, looked like death. She grabbed his shoulder and gave him a gentle shake, calling his name. He moaned and slowly opened his eyes.
"Wh-what happened?" he spoke in a groggy voice.
"I-I don't know. You passed out." She looked at him carefully, and helped him to sit up. "We should get you to Madam Pomfrey."
He gave a weak nod and moved to stand up, almost stumbling again. "I- I think I'm gonna need some help," he said in a near whisper.
Hermione gave a nod and helped him to his feet, pulling his arm around her shoulder as she did so. She pulled her own bag off the ground, tossing the Cloak in it first. Slowly the two made their way to the infirmary.
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Hermione sank onto the bench at the Gryffindor table the next morning, eyes bloodshot from tears and lack of sleep. She stared at her empty plate for a few long moments, her mind still in the library, mulling over all that Draco had told her.
"Herm? You okay?" Ron asked as he stuffed a forkful of waffles into his mouth. He gave a worried look at Harry when Hermione didn't answer.
Harry reached a hand over and placed it on Hermione's arm; she jumped.
"Oh! Sorry, did you say something?" She looked back and forth between the two boys.
"Ron asked if you were okay. You're not looking too well this morning," he said, worry evident in his voice.
"I'm fine. Just a little tired, that's all."
Harry gave her an unconvinced nod. "Did you find what you were looking for last night?"
Hermione felt the blood rush to her face and lowered her head a bit. "No. I didn't. I-I suppose I'll have to go back again."
"Harry and I'd be happy to go help you, Herm. Wouldn't we, Harry?" Ron gulped down some pumpkin juice.
"Yeah, we would."
Hermione gave a sharp shake of her head. "No. I'll manage." She abruptly stood. "I'm gonna go to the library." She shouldered her bag and turned to leave.
"Herm, we have Transfiguration-" Ron began.
"I know. I'll be there." She quickly stepped from the table and flew from the Great Hall and to the Infirmary. Once she reached the door, she paused. She couldn't figure out why she'd come here. Draco may have confided in her last night, but she was afraid of how he might react to her this morning. Taking deep breath, she pushed the doors open and walked in.
"Ms. Granger. I assume you are here to check on Mr. Malfoy?" Madam Pomfrey questioned when she saw the nervous student.
Hermione gave a nod.
"Well, you will be pleased to know he's fine. He left just a few moments ago." She gave Hermione a smile and walked back to her office, mumbling about finding a potion.
Hermione stood uncertainly for a moment. She felt her heart sink and tried to ignore it. She didn't really care that Draco wasn't there; she tried to convince herself. She gave a heavy sigh and pushed the door back open, slowly walking towards Transfiguration.
"Coming to check on me, Gr-Hermione?" Draco, leaning nonchalantly against wall, watched her with a guarded expression.
Hermione halted in her tracks and looked at him. "Why would I do that?"
He pushed himself off the wall and stepped closer to her. "I don't know, why would you?" he asked, his voice laced with tension.
Her eyes flickered over his shoulder and then looked back at him, connecting with his eyes. "Would it be a bad thing for me to be concerned about you? To want to check on you?" she asked, holding her breath slightly as she waited for his answer.
He stepped closer to her and found himself pushing a hand into her hair, softly he answered her, "No, it's not a bad thing."
She released her breath and swallowed as tingles raced down to her toes as he gently leaned in closer to her. His eyes bore into hers, silently asking; silently her eyes gave him the answer he was seeking, her hand reaching up and cupping his cheek. He moved closer to her, his lips a hairbreadth from hers. Her heart beat furiously in her chest as she waited with anticipation for the feel of his lips on hers again.
"Hermione?" A female voice interrupted the moment. As quickly as Draco had approached her, he stepped back. Hermione's head snapped and looked into Ginny's shocked eyes.
"Ginny! It's-what are you doing here?"
Ginny looked between the two and spoke in a slightly quavering voice. "I was heading to my potions class. Is-is everything okay here?" She glanced at Draco again before looking back at Hermione, questions dancing in her eyes. The three stood in an uncomfortable silence.
Hermione looked over at Draco to see that his face and eyes were masked with his typical indifference. A sneer crossed his features and he opened his mouth to answer Ginny. Quickly, Hermione jumped in.
"Yes. Everything's fine. I was just on my way to Transfiguration and you better not be late to Potions, Ginny. Snape will take points." Before Ginny had time to answer, Hermione adjusted her bag, spun on her heel and moved down the hall towards Transfiguration. Draco watched her go, smirked at Ginny and left for his class, leaving a very confused Ginny standing in the hallway.
~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~
Hermione sunk into the couch before the fire at the end of the day. She gave a heavy sigh. Images of Draco kept flashing in her mind. She had felt him watching her during Care of Magical Creatures and Potions. It took all her strength to not turn to look at him. Having Harry and Ron next to her during class had been a help, though the two of them had relentlessly tried to find out what was wrong with her.
She masterfully sidestepped their questions each time, but the effort had left her exhausted. Fortunately Harry had Quidditch practice until 5:30 and Ron had gone to watch; she could be alone with her thoughts. But her thoughts kept betraying her. She didn't want to think about Draco, it was too confusing. With a frustrated sigh, she stood and headed up to her dorm.
She breathed a sigh of relief when she entered and found the room empty. She walked over to her bedside table and pulled out the hydrophanous orb, sat cross-legged on her bed and held the cool orb in her hands, staring at it. The subtle shifting black was mesmerizing, and she focused on it, helping her to put Draco from her mind. As she continued to gaze at the orb, she felt herself begin to drift. The room became hazy; she saw herself from a distance sitting on the bed, the orb held in her hands. A misty haze descended upon the seated Hermione.
The walls of the room were replaced by steep hills; the beds morphed into palm trees and dense foliage. No longer did she see herself sitting on the bed. She turned her head, her mouth gaping as she looked about her. It looked like she was on the Island of Malnese. She was standing at the top of the white sandy beach where Captain Solstine had found his wife. Cautiously she took a step forward, the beach wavered in her vision, and disappeared.
Her eyes popped open and she found herself lying on her back on the bed, the orb floating above her. As she looked at it, it fell heavily next to her head. She turned her head, eyes wide and stared at the orb. Swallowing hard, she quickly pushed herself up and away from it. She continued to eye the ball warily before grabbing it quickly and dropping it into her bedside table.
"Herm? You okay?"
She turned her head to see a concerned Lavender looking at her, brow furrowed.
"Um-yeah, I'm fine. I was just-just taking a nap. Why?" She pushed herself up as she spoke, but quickly fell back as her head spun wildly.
"You don't look okay. Let's get you to the infirmary."
She pushed herself up again, fighting to keep from collapsing again as her head tilted the room. "No, Lav, I'm fine. Really. Just trying to wake up all the way."
Lavender shrugged. "Okay, if you say so. I was just heading down for dinner, you want to join me?"
"Dinner's not for another hour, Lav." Hermione said, putting a hand to her head in an effort to make the room right itself.
"Herm, it's 5:50! Are you sure you're okay?" Lavender examined Hermione's face with searching eyes.
She forced herself to ignore the spinning and stood, pulling strength from inside, her hand gripping the bedside table. "I'm fine. But how can it be 5:50. I only came up here a few minutes ago, at 4:30. It can't be 5:50."
"You obviously lost track of time while you slept," Lavender said, shaking her head. "Anyway, let's head down to dinner. I'm hungry," she said, turning and heading towards the door.
Hermione felt confused, but followed after Lavender, still trying to make the room stop spinning. She reached the top of the stairs and began to walk down them. It was too much for her head; she stumbled and fell down the stone steps, landing with a thud at the bottom.
"Hermione!" Lavender shrieked, racing to the bottom of the stairs. She reached Hermione's side and gripped her shoulder, giving her a shake. "Herm? Come on, wake up!"
"Lavender? What happened?"
She stood as Harry, followed closely by Ron, quickly descended the stairs.
"I'm not sure. She looked a little pale upstairs, but you know Hermione, she wouldn't admit it. We were going to head out for dinner, and she fell down the stairs."
Harry kneeled by Hermione and scooped his unconscious friend into his arms. "Guess dinner will have to wait, Ron. Let's get her to Madam Pomfrey."
The two boys, trailed by Lavender, hurried through the corridors to the infirmary. They halted when an unwelcome drawl issued from behind them.
"Well, well, it looks like the mighty Potter and has managed to once again bring harm to his friend. It never ceases to amaze."
Harry turned, cradling the limp girl in his arms. "What do you want, Malfoy?"
Draco raised an eyebrow. "I don't believe I said I wanted anything." He tilted his head towards Hermione. "Just curious as to what failed plot caused Granger to become unconscious."
Harry glanced at Ron and Lavender. "Do I sense concern in your voice, Malfoy? Or are you simply afraid that you'll fail Sailing without Hermione to guarantee you your passing grade?"
Draco advanced on Harry. "Don't assume you know me or anything about me, Potter." He glanced down at Hermione. "You should probably get her to the infirmary, then. After all, if you were without her, you might not survive this next year," he scoffed, turning on his heel and storming off to the Great Hall.
Ron watched Draco disappear and turned to look at Harry. "What the bloody hell was that all about?"
Harry gave a shrug and resumed his walk to the infirmary. "I have no clue."
The three students finished their trek in silence.
"Oh dear, not again. What has happened this time?" Madam Pomfrey asked, as the two entered.
"She fell down the stairs, Madam Pomfrey," Lavender said.
"Dear me, Ms. Granger and stairs." She shook her head. "Well, put her over there." She gestured to a nearby cot.
Harry quickly followed instructions and was joined by Ron and Lavender at the cot. The three stood awkwardly as Madam Pomfrey began her ministrations. Hermione fall caused a broken rib and a bump on her head, both of which Madam Pomfrey healed quickly. When she attempted to awaken Hermione, a fleeting look of worry crossed her features. She turned to the students and dismissed them, telling them that Hermione would need some time and that she would contact them when Hermione was able to have visitors. She brushed off the anticipated questions and ushered the three from the infirmary before contacting Dumbledore.
~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~
"Albus, I just don't know what to make of it. She appears to be perfectly fine, but nothing I do will wake her."
"And you are positive she's not in a coma, Poppy?"
"Yes, completely positive. Her heartbeat is regular, her brainwaves functioning perfectly, all vital systems are doing their job, she just won't wake up." Poppy nervously wrung her hands as she looked over at the unconscious Hermione. Never in all her years as the Headnurse at Hogwarts had she been unable to solve a medical problem.
Albus gave a heavy sigh and reached a tender hand over to place it on Hermione's forehead. "Dear child." He watched her for a few moments and then turned to look back at Poppy. "Call me immediately when she awakens. I will be in my office." He reached a hand over and gave Poppy's hands a gentle squeeze. "Don't fret so much. She will be fine. You've never failed yet, Poppy. I have no worries that you will this time around."
Poppy gave him a grateful smile and watched him as he left the infirmary before she practically ran back to her office to hunt once more through all her medical books.
~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~**~
She heard a voice. She couldn't tell where it came from, or whose it was, but she heard it. The words were unintelligible. She furrowed her brow a bit as she tried to focus; the whispered words became clear.
"Hermione, come on, wake up. You can't expect to get out of our homework just because you're not feeling well."
She took a deep breath as she recognized the voice and turned her head, her eyes opening and trying to focus on a fuzzy form. Swallowing, she opened her mouth to speak, a raspy voice issued from her.
"Draco, is that you?"
A warm hand enveloped hers and a face loomed above her. "Yes, Hermione, it is. It is good to see you awake."
"Awake? Wh-what time is it?" Her eyes still tried to focus.
"It is two-thirty in the morning; Monday morning. You've been here since Thursday evening." He brushed her hair back from her face.
She blinked a few times, his face finally coming into focus. "I've been here since when?"
"Since Thursday."
"Why?"
"I don't know. I knew you had been brought here; I ran into Potter and Weasley and some girl who were bringing you here. That's all I know."
She furrowed her brow a bit. "And, how come you are here?"
He cleared his throat a bit, and his voice lowered a little more, his hand tightening his grip on hers. "I-I've been here every night, for an hour. I sneak in, after Pomfrey goes to sleep."
She tried to push herself up into a sitting position, but the room tilted and she collapsed quickly.
"Hermione, don't! I-I should probably go wake Pomfrey?"
She gripped his hand tighter and looked at him. "No. Please, not yet."
He gave a nod and the two sat in silence.
In a quiet voice, Hermione finally spoke. "Draco, what is," she swallowed hard, "what is going on? With us? I mean-" her voice trailed off.
Draco sat looking at her for a few long moments in thought. He wasn't sure why he was there, or what he wanted from her. He just knew, somehow, that he needed her. He could see himself falling in love with her, though it made no sense to him. She intrigued him. He found himself moving from his chair to the edge of the bed, his fingers lacing through hers. He opened his mouth, deciding to tell her what he was thinking.
"Hermione, the last month has been-confusing-for me. I've hated you for so long, and I-"
"Get away from her, Malfoy!" Harry appeared, with a seething Ron, next to Hermione's bed, the Cloak held in Harry's hand.
Draco jerked his head to the side, his eyes automatically narrowing as he saw Harry and Ron. His hand gripped Hermione's tighter.
"What the-"
Before he could continue, Hermione interrupted in a quiet voice. "Harry, Ron, I want him here." She gave Draco's hand a squeeze, causing him to look back at her, surprise on his face. She continued to keep her gaze on Harry and Ron.
Confusion crossed Harry's face, Ron's face turning to a deep shade of red. Their mouths gaped, neither knowing what to say.
In her quiet voice, she continued. "I appreciate the concern you two have for me. You two are, and always will be, my best friends, but I would ask that you leave for now. I want Draco to be here." She looked both of them in the eyes after she finished speaking.
Harry took a step towards her. "Herm? Are you," he glanced at Draco, who was still staring at Hermione, "sure? He's not bothering you?"
A small smile graced her lips. "Harry, I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself. Now, would you and Ron please leave for now? I will see you two tomorrow and we will talk, okay?"
Harry's gaze shifted from her to Draco and back a few times before he gave a hesitant nod. "If that's what you want, Herm, okay." He turned to Ron, who looked about ready to spit some hexes at Draco, grabbed him, and walked out of the infirmary.
Hermione watched until the two of them left and then turned to look up into Draco's eyes. Hesitantly she reached her other hand up to gently touch his face. She opened her mouth to speak, but found she had no idea what to say, so she closed her mouth quickly.
Draco gave a small smile and reached his free hand up to cup over hers. "Did you mean it?"
"Did I mean what?"
"Did you mean it when you said you wanted me to be here?" His voice cracked the slightest bit as he spoke.
She gave a nod.
"Why?"
"Honestly? I don't really know. I just know that I don't want you to leave yet." She swallowed a bit as he continued to gaze into her eyes.
"I think I understand, Hermione," he whispered.
"Mr. Malfoy? What are you doing out of your dorm at this hour of night?" Madam Pomfrey's voice echoed through the quiet room. She quickly moved over to the cot and looked down at Hermione. "I see you are finally awake, Miss. You have had me quite worried. Now, Mr. Malfoy, why don't you head off to your room. You may come and visit Ms. Granger during regular visiting hours." She immediately pushed Draco from the bed and began to check Hermione over before either student could say a word.
Draco watched Hermione in silence for a few moments and then, with great reluctance, left the infirmary, Hermione's eyes following him as he left.
_____________________________________________________________
I know I have promised this before, but things should pick up a bit pacewise. And, though I say this few times in my shout outs, the whole Draco being in pain thing? BLAME THE MAN WHO I MARRIED!! He came up with, he claims FULL responsibility for it. So, now you've read, please REVIEW. And, if you are NOT on my mailing list for chapter updates, let me know and I will put you on.
MoonTrail
~Misty: CONGRATULATIONS TO MY 200th REVIEWER!!! I feel loved. And, for your prize-well, Chocolate Frogs and Buttebeers are always a good choice-so here's to you. I hope my new chapter was worth the wait. It has been a battle through writer's block to get this one up and well written. As far as the kiss goes? Well, there is a problem-just hold on. It will come out in the next few chapters.
~Christine: What happened, and will happen to Draco is ALL my husband's fault entirely. You may blame him.
~yuuyaku: Thank you so much for your kind review. I have worked hard to make my story well written and have paid much attention to detail to keep both plot and character development as realistic as is possible.
~QiNg: I thought it was VERY Draco to ask for another kiss, as well. My plot has taken a difficult turn in events. I hope you will enjoy the twist. I hope I will be able to tackle the twist. It is becoming complex, but that's what makes it all the more fun.
~erica: Wow, you're review was very nice. I am glad you enjoy my story so much. I hope that I can continue to live up to your expectations.
~SnapesMistress2002: MUFASA!! So, I'm glad you are enjoying my story. I don't know which Draco I like more, mine or MINE! You figure out which is which, cuz I don't know. But at least I get to kiss MINE!
~Margot: No worries, my dear. I have NO plans on starting another story until this is done. It's getting more complex by the minute, so how could I, in good faith, begin another? Poems? Yes. Story? No. This particular hurdle, well, it may take a while. As I said earlier up above, IT IS NOT MY FAULT ALL BLAME IS ON MY HUSBAND.
~HouAreYouToday: One of my BIGGEST fears is the pacing. I mean, 19 chapters and we are only on the 23 of October? Yikes! However, I am pleased that you like the pacing. Draco is a REALLY tough character to write and I am glad that you find that he is in character. The sailing is REALLY what I am looking forward to as well, but it may take a number of chapters before we hit the ocean. Although you can be looking forward to the two man sailing boats coming up soon. It should be fun.
~CrazyCat: Thank you!! I hope that Hermione and Draco will do well, also.
~Glenda the owl: It is really a challenge sometimes to get the amount of words up that I do, but I don't want to cheat my readers. Thank you for being a faithful reviewer.
~draconas: I'm glad they made up, too. As far as what is happening to Draco? Well, that's for me to know and for Draco and Hermione to find out- thus letting all of you find out as well.
~CatalinaRose: You let something get in the way of reading and reviewing MY story? I'm hurt. I'm gonna set Draco on you! *glares* Well, I guess he'd never hurt his Hananana, would he? *grins* Anyway, hey *points up* Look! They're in the infirmary! Hehe-don't tell MY Draco that my Draco was in there. He might freak out.
~MidnightSun: EEP! Sorry about the whole sobbing Draco thing. He just really lost it. It will never happen again, unless he decides to do so. And, yes, evil cliffie. I like those!
~LadyMione: A Lavender/Draco story? Hmmm-I don't know. Never quite pictured those two together. *grins* I'm humbled by your review. Thank you for the wonderful praise! Sorry for the LONG wait, but, well-Draco's been getting in the way! And, truly, writer's block is a curse! See ya around.
~Princess Ruby: Thank you for your review. Hope that test went well. I hope to update the next chapter a bit sooner than this last one took, but we will see.
~elijahsbaby1981: Well, I can't tell you what is happening to poor Draco, cuz that would ruin it. Just trust me. It will be good.
~Mistress Desdemona: You may be closer to the truth than you realize. Keep tuned in.
~tom felton's babe: I'm glad you like. And, sorry to disappoint, but Lucius may very possibly show up. No promises, or anything, but it is a possibility.
~Adelaine: A good story takes so long to update, because, well, that's what makes it good. Lots of hard work by the writer.
~Mara-Potter: Just curious, is Mara like Mara Jade from Star Wars? Just wondering. I'm glad that you are scared about what is happening to Draco. You should be. It's not a happy thing in the least.
~whimsical_nymph: I have broken into tears as I have written much of the stuff in this story. I'm glad you have been touched by it as well. I hope that you will bear with the problems Draco and Hermione must face before the end of this story. It will be good, I promise.
~CedricDiggory: Do I have your email? Cuz I send out an email to all when I update. Sorry for the wait, but I really struggled with this chapter. I hope you will continue to read and enjoy. I do feel very special that you are so excited about my story.
~CrystallineLily: *sighs* Because, if something didn't go wrong everytime, there wouldn't be much angst, would there? *grins*
~Fiery-chan: Well, I didn't update REALLY soon, but at least I have updated. I hope it was another chapter worth waiting for.
~Rebecca: Thank you for acknowledging my spelling and grammar. I work hard to make sure I post my best proofread work. Yes, I do have much up my sleeve, and *looks up sleeve* there is much more up there. Hold on, the ride is going to get a little tougher before it gets better.
~SophieBabe: Yes, cliffies are not fun. I'm HORRIBLE! But, it keeps you coming back, right? Well, Lucius will become even worse, so keep your eyes open for it.
~Sage of Darkness: I hope this one was worth the wait. Much more is going to happen before the two of them will experience any happiness together. Just hold on, it will get wonderful after it gets worse.
~Rachel: Well, this was not soon, but hopefully you enjoyed it. The strange passing out thing will be explained in a few chapters. Watch for it.
~Kiyoko: As I written above, things will not be easy for these two. Something is wrong and will need to be solved. The solution will be painful, but worth it.
~Felicity: Thank you.
~Akuma Kanada no Tenchi: I hope your Drama competition went well! And I hope this chapter was worth the wait as well.
~Joan: Well, it may be a few more chapters, but when it happens-it will be well worth the wait.
~zoogerbas1: Draco is feeling pain because---and you thought I'd tell you? You'll have to read to find out. It will come out in the next few chapters, that I can promise. As for the solution? Well, that will take much more time.