Midnight stared at her reflection as a stylist pulled at her hair, all the
while wearing a pleased expression in his beady eyes. "Ah- Miss Riddle.
You indeed have very precious hair." he commented.
She thought back to the other day. It had started like the rest that greeted her each morning at the Malfoy's. She awoke with a start, to be greeted with the warm sultry scent of her daily rose petal and rose water bath. It had always seemed to be her only real time to sit and think while her body gave in to the satin of the water.
She closed her eyes as she breathed deeply, her mind falling into a bed of roses as her thoughts and feeling paraded about. She remembered her ordeal back in Knockturn Alley. She was still shaken by the idea of it and it bothered her to think upon it. However, she had to wonder, "Why were you there... Draco?" she whispered through her half parted lips. She remembered it well- the flight away from those people... then- the kiss. It was amazing- how it was so tentative yet, true. She blushed as she remembered her cry of protest as his lips left hers. Yet- it was much like the one's they had shared the other night as well. Oh how sweet their time together was... She remembered how his lean chest felt to her feathery touch and she wondered how he would look under all his frippery. How his tall and lean figure looked without any obstructions. She sighed slowly as she opened her eyes again to look up at the marble ceiling.
And on the third day of her stay- she recalled with a smile, Draco and her had gone horseback riding in the lightly falling snow. Both of them laughing, talking and joking amidst the bows of the evergreen forest. Yes, she had thoroughly enjoyed her time with him... Midnight whimpered as an extremely painful jolt sent her careening back into reality.
Midnight fought back the tears that were forming in the corner of her eyes. She had been sitting here for the past hour as this idiot teased and pulled at her hair. Narcissa had arranged for her every whim. Tonight, she was to attend the Christmas Ball that the Malfoy's were hosting.
She groaned, her scalp turning numb from the constant pulling of her hair. This man was supposed to be an elite hair dresser with amazing expertise. Midnight just thought he was incompetent and an imbicile. She smiled inwardly, wondering what Draco was doing at the very same moment.
Draco was standing in front of the full-length mirror, admiring the way his tail coat looked, and adjusted his green cummerbund and bow tie. He felt great and could hardly wait to make his appearance. He wondered what Midnight would be wearing. His mother wasn't telling. Maybe she just didn't know.... or maybe she just didn't care. She'd come in to check on him and scoffed at him for wearing cologne Draco moved away from the mirror.
Earlier that morning- Draco leaned his blonde head against the backrest of the arm chair, listening to his mother ramble on her instructions to the houseelves about the family yule ball they would be having that evening - an annual tradition. All the Malfoy family line would be there, to exchange the usual horror tales, drink, eat, and dance until midnight.
His father had managed to slip away from the breakfast table early, but he was forced to endure his mother's tirade of lists for the second day in a row.
The formal clothes had been delivered at the manor, including a large, mysterious box containing the gown Midnight had purchased during their shopping trip. Draco hardly had time to say good morning...and it didn't change. His mother kept him in tow for the rest of the day until it was time to get ready for the party.
Narcissa insisted he use his father's better, larger bathroom to wash up and dress. Draco stepped into the shiny shower and was soon basking in the warm spray as he soaped his body over. He flicked back his pale blonde hair, his mind drifting back to the afternoon the day before-- walking Midnight around the manor grounds, taking his father's horses out for a ride. The entire experience had re-opened all his senses...she was slowly captivating him....her violet eyes, her lips, the way her body moved....
Draco closed his eyes, leaning against the cold black and white tile...his wet, hard nude body responding to the memory of it....
What seemed like hours later, Midnight stood in front of the lengthy mirror, scrutinizing herself in it's reflection. Muttering indistinctly, she sat back down with a frustrated sigh, reaching for the lip gloss. Beginning to work at her appearance, a slight rap at the door startled her. It turned out to be a house elf carrying her dress and everything that she was to have that night.
As Midnight touched up her make-up, she rose, unbuttoning her shirt slowly as she stared at the dress that lay neatly in the bed. It's folds of cloth catching the light and sending it back in beads to crystal. She somehow just knew that it would be a long night.
As Draco strolled toward the ballroom, he was intercepted by his father, who was now clad in a custom tailored black dress robe, wearing a double- breasted tuxedo with a dark green silk shirt underneath. Lucius stepped up to Draco with a crooked smile. "I see you've dressed. Have you forgotten to check on the potion, Draco?"
"I did that earlier this morning."
"We'll both look at it tonight, shall we?" Lucius said eying Draco dully. "And don't make a fool of yourself tonight, son... you don't want to get yourself sucked into female entanglements. You have a mission. Don't forget it."
Midnight adjusted her gloves as she opened the door with a quiet click. Peering around it she noticed Lucius and Draco conversing quietly. Both, she had to admit, handsomely dressed. She grinned and stepped out of her room. Her strappy heels clicking on the cool marble floor as she walked confidently down the hall towards the two.
Midnight blushed as she reached the two, brushing aside a loch of hair. "Hello Mr. Malfoy. Draco." she nodded politely. "Shall we be going?" she said, looking towards the ballroom.
Lucius put his arm out for Midnight to take it, glancing back at Draco with a look that said "Take a number."
Midnight smiled graciously, taking Lucius' arm. "Why thank you Mr. Malfoy." she giggled as she breathed in his deep cologne, both of them disappearing around the corner.
Draco's lips did a downward curve as he followed them into the ornate ballroom. He looked around at the holiday decor his mother ordered and the beautiful gleaming floor. He rarely visited this room and it was a treat every time. Suddenly there was a clattering at the door as four girls Draco's age came forth, three his cousins... one a guest -- none other than Blaise Zambini from Hogwarts. "DRACOOO!" Odessa, Kiza and Carlina came bounding up to hug Draco's neck.
Midnight attention snapped away from the beautiful room as high pitched voices rang through the room. She chuckled as three pretty girls suddenly surrounded Draco. However, her eyes also narrowed though, when she saw Blaise. Looking stunning in a very slinky dress that looked like it had had a run in with a lawnmower.
Blaise sniffed daintily as Draco was being pounced by his cousins. She crossed her arms over her ample chest as she looked around the room, her raven hair loose. She stopped dead. Was that Midnight-Primrose Riddle?! She waltzed towards Midnight, her expression furious. "What in blazes are you doing here." she snapped, her fingers wrapping like a vice around Midnight's jeweled wrist.
Midnight's eyes widened from the pain of her wrist. "Blaise... Blaise, let me go now." she hissed, looking around to see if anyone was watching.
Draco yanked himself from Carlina's embrace and hurried after Blaise. "Wait just a minute, Zambini..." he glared, "You're in my house, and Midnight is a our guest for the yule break."
Midnight looked ready to die, when Draco came after Blaise. After his lecture she mouthed a "thank you" and glanced towards her wrist.
Draco pointed a finger at Blaise's well-made-up face. "Leave her alone!" He started to pull her back but noticed his mother staring at him... and his father standing a short distance away, his arms crossed. He didn't want to cause trouble.
Blaise looked absolutely disgusted. She put on her best pout, releasing Midnight like she was something disgusting. "But Dracey!!" she moaned aloud.
Kiza's hand suddenly slipped in Draco's as she tried to pull him out on the dance floor. "Oh stop being so Gryffy, Draco... and come out and dance to some music with us!"
Draco gave Blaise a hateful glare. She had caused enough trouble for him at Hogwarts... she'd told everyone that she and Draco had shagged all night on the common room sofa one night last fall...
Blaise pouted again, but this time she didn't say anything. Storming off, she quickly disappeared into the crowd.
Midnight sighed in relief as she backed away slowly, visibly shaking in rage and nerves. Looking around, she found a secluded corner where she took up watching Draco carefully.
Malfoy shook his finger at Kiza "You invited Blaise! What were you thinking??" Carlina grinned at Draco. "Well, we didn't know you had your eye on Voldemort's daughter, Draco...." Draco rolled his eyes at the ceiling. He saw Midnight standing in a corner by herself and winced.
Midnight stepped forward, after she had hung up her handbag and her scarf. She smiled at the sea of people around her, and walked slowly up to Draco, hesitant to speak. She smiled at the three girls still around him and smiled again. "Hello." was all she could think of and silently she scolded herself for it.
Odessa flung back her sandy blonde hair and gave Midnight the once-over. "So you're the infamous Midnight Riddle..."
Midnight flushed visibly. "Errrhm.... yes. Midnight-Primrose Riddle..." she said nervously, though she struggled to maintain her cool.
Carlina, with her tight curly black hair grinned at her cousins. "A tramp wearing her sexy red dress..." she giggled. "Wonder what the great Dark Wizards would say to *that*!"
Draco tugged on Carlina's arm. They used to play together as children and he didn't like her catty approach toward Midnight. "Stop it. Right now..." he said darkly.
"Excuse me- what was that?" Midnight said, cold fury in every syllable. Her eyes flashed, her body tensed as she watched Carlina, her glossy black hair reflecting the pale light that was being shone.
Midnight still was giving Carlina a death glare as Draco tugged on her, not looking too happy. She sucked her breath in. 'I am Lord Voldemort's daughter... I will not be treated like this...' her mind hissed.
Suddenly an elderly couple approached their circle. "Aunt Lusu, Uncle Baines... hello." Draco said, trying to act as if nothing had happened. His aunt looked like she wanted introductions, when the music started and Draco heaved a sigh of relief. "Um... why don't we dance?" he said, offering his arm to Midnight. "Please..."
Midnight still glared at Draco, eyeing him suspiciously. Giving in, she shrugged and accepted his arm coldly as the two walked onto the dance floor. "How nice..." she hissed into his ear.
"I didn't invite Blaise, she got herself invited-" he hissed... "And I can't help it if my cousins don't know you."
"Don't know me... they didn't even give me a chance..." she said, her voice laced with hurt as they both revolved slowly on the spot.
"Blaise complicated things, that's all... she'd heard you were coming here... she's a bit of a troublemaker..." The music swelled into a slow waltz and Draco found himself holding Midnight up against him, their bodies molded as his hands encircled her waist and moved with the rhythm of the music...
Midnight loosened up as she rested her head on Draco's shoulder as a slow murmur began to rise as they danced in each other's arms.
She didn't care.
"Blaise... Blaise has always been that way Draco. I know that at least." she said with a smile, melting into his arms.
Blaise watched the pair dance, her eyes like slits of silver fire. It was that Riddle girl who had brainwashed her Dracey. Draco would be hers tonight- no matter what. She slammed her fist on the table, standing up abruptly. She knew exactly what to do...
She waltzed over to Draco's three cousins and began whispering fervently with them, a wicked grin plastered on her features. "You say he still remembers?" she said, her mouth twisted into a snarl. Carlina nodded without much interest. "Very well..."
Midnight saw Blaise conversing darkly to the three girls that were all over Draco and grimaced. "Look- Blaise seems to be busying herself with something..." she said weakly, still remembering how mad Blaise had looked earlier on.
Draco shifted his hands on Midnight's waist and looked back at his father standing on the sidelines next to several of his wizard uncles, drinking from his goblet, frowning at him. "Let's not talk about Zambini... I wish she had never come...." He looked into her eyes and swallowed, hoping she wouldn't see how nervous he was in this situation. "Whatever she tells you... don't believe her. Zambini is a sharp little liar." he murmured.
Midnight chuckled softly, resting her head again on his shoulder. "I know Draco... I know." she murmured as she let the music guide them.
He put one hand out and lightly grazed her neck, wishing they were alone like last night... so he could kiss her.
Midnight murmured softly in approval as her hair was gently tucked away. "Draco- the song's ending..." she said with a soft smile, pulling away slightly.
"I didn't notice... I-I guess it did," he said quietly... then lifted his head and turned to look at his cousin's reactions, with Blaise standing by, a smirk on her face. They didn't look happy. He didn't care. A faster tune was beginning to play, but Draco took Midnight's hand and pulled her toward the opposite side of the room where other members of his father's family were lounging, eating hor'derves. "Let me introduce you to some decent relatives tonight, okay?"
Midnight nodded as she followed Draco to some relatives all talking happily. "I'm gonna trust you on this." she giggled quietly as she smoothed out her dress.
A very stout woman stood up as they approached. "Young Draco dear...you've grown! I didn't approve of your mother putting you in Hogwarts but it seems to have been good for you-- Durmstrang's loss, of course. Who is this vision? It couldn't be the infamous Miss Riddle??"
Midnight stifled a laugh as she curtsied fluently, smiling. "Midnight- Primrose Riddle." she said calmly.
"Aunt Swanna... she gave the Gryffindor's a surprise when she arrived at Hogwarts... and she can fly a broom as well as the quiddich team.." Draco told her, smiling. *among other things*... he thought, still imagining the kisses she gave him last evening.
Midnight blushed slightly at Draco's compliments and cleared her throat quietly. "But I still haven't beat Draco in a race yet." she added with a smile in Draco's direction.
His Uncle Dalmas waved her away with a raspy chuckle. "If the lad's smart, he won't challenge you. Agility and speed isn't exactly prominent in the Malfoy genepool.." Draco gave the old man a startled look when his aunt poked her husband in the arm. "Stop it, Delmas!" she snapped. "Speak for yourself... I saw Draco fly in a game last year- he's quick compared to *some*!"
Draco laughed. "Thanks...well, I'm going to dance with my lady now..." he said, hurrying away, pulling on Midnight's hand. "Malfoy genepool..." he muttered under his breath.
Midnight laughed at Draco's comment under his breath as they again walked towards the dance floor. "So Malfoy- can you tango?" she said with a grin as a heavy tango beat was struck up.
'Oh baby...*yeah* I can tango' he thought to himself... if only she knew how good he was at it...his mother made him take lessons from an expert. But instead of revealing this, he said "Tango? Uh-- sure, Midnight." with an innocent face.
"Good." she said. Obviously she didn't believe him. "Hit me with what you got." she hissed gently in his ear as she took up her starting position at the wavering of the soulful strings and guitars.
Draco moved her slowly around the room, interchanging their positions around in unpredictable circles... his footing percise- careful not to step on her toes. Midnight's body moved rhythmically to the beat as they swung each other, her hips swaying sexily back and forth, and then he dipped her to a credendo of notes, slower and slower, her head nearly touching the glossy floor beneath them. He felt the persperation going down his neck and the desire started building in him for that soulful second...and he wanted her. All of her. The dance ended and he slowly pulled her toward him, vertical again... and looked around at the staring bystanders... including his mother, who could have snorted fire and sliced him to pieces from the daggers in her eyes.
Midnight felt her breath catch in her throat she she gazed up at Draco, only his arms stopping her from hitting the ground. She looked into his grey eyes, remember the kisses they had exchanged the other night. She held back the flood of emotions that threatened to engulf her. Midnight sighed as Draco pulled her up again with a smile. "Not bad Draco..." she said, slightly slurred as she brushed aside her hands that had come out of her coif.
However, suddenly Midnight was roughly thrown backwards, stumbling but still standing. "DRACEY!!! What was *that*?!" Blaise whined as she latched into Draco's arm.
"You still here Zambini?" Draco snorted, his arm reaching out to help steady Midnight and keep her from falling.
Midnight glared heavily as she grabbed onto Draco's hand, steadying herself.
"Dracey!! Come on! I want to dance with you now! Get away from this wench." and with that she pulled Draco onto the dancefloor as a very slow song was played.
Draco felt his stomach turn at the thought of having to play out this scenerio in order to keep his parents pacified.
In the blink of an eye, Blaise was all over Draco. She kissed him very harshly as she pressed herself against him, all the while making sure Midnight was watching.
"Blaise... you are getting on my nerves..." Draco growled, as he managed to catch his breath between her wet kisses. He pushed her away slightly as they continued to dance to the music. "Just so you know... your tongue is forked, girl... you and I never shagged that night on the couch in front of the fire... you don't kiss any better now than you did back then." he sneered.
Blaise just chuckled darkly. "Does Riddle over there know about our escapade?" she said inncoently. "I wonder how she would take it- to know we shagged that night." she finished before she began to lick at his ear- shooting Midnight a contemptuos look.
"*Shut it Zambini!* You're DELUSIONAL..." Draco hissed. "I've never asked a Slytherin to leave my house- I'd hate to start now, but I will unless you keep your naughty lies to yourself... Midnight has no family. She's here to enjoy herself...!"
"Oh... tell that to Midnight, Draco... tell that to her..." she hissed before she stopped dancing and walked towards Midnight, ill nature etched on her every feature.
Midnight had seen everything. Seen how Blaise kissed Draco, seen how she licked at him. She felt like she was going to be sick.
Draco eyes quickly darted toward his father and their gaze locked for a moment-- he knew he needed to get this mess straightened out in a private area... "Wait. Let's go into the alcove..." he said, grabbing Midnight's hand desperately.
As Blaise started towards her- thoughts raced through her mind. Should she just storm away? Whip out her wand and curse her? Scream and cry? No... No. She would stand her ground and let Blaise have her fun... she knew Draco... she did... And as Draco pulled her out- she saw Blaise follow them stealthily. Midnight felt her stomach slip several notches as Blaise continued to follow not far behind. Her expression like an enraged bird of prey.
Draco looked over his shoulder at Blaise's approach and cringed. His eyes darted to the door as he saw his three cousins standing there, looking afraid to approach closer. Like true Malfoys, they could see a disaster when it loomed their way....
He stepped into the tiled alcove, and walked around the fountain to the window and sat on the ledge facing Midnight, hoping she wouldn't believe what she heard. Blaise was quite the storyteller...she'd captivated the entire Slytherin House and managed to change his reputation as a ladies man in one day.
"You shagged BLAISE?!" she said, her voice a mix of roughly concealed dispair as well as unfiltered anger. Her hair was now coming out if it's up-do as she shook her head gruffly. "I can't believe this! You SLEPT WITH BLAISE!!" she screeched again, stamping her foot with a loud click.
"No--wait, I-uh..." Draco was about to admit he'd never shagged ANYONE... but he was nervous about revealing his virginity to her. He shut his eyes and shook his head. "Not with Blaise..." he said instead. "She's a bloody LIAR!" he hissed.
"Oh yeah, mmhmm..." she snapped angrily, her voice slicing through the air. "It didn't LOOK like a lie Draco!"
"I TOLD you not to believe everything she tells you, Midnight...!" Draco chided. "What the hell does a lie LOOK like anyway hmm?"
"It looks like an attractive woman slobbering over you!" she screamed, her hair had now come all the way down as it hung loosely around her back.
Draco reached out to touch the tentrils of white blonde as it came undone and he shook his head vigorously. "No-no-no... comon Midnight! I thought you were brighter than that-- you looked like you didn't believe her earlier... why are you doing this? Don't you TRUST me??!!"
"Don't touch me you bastard!" she hissed, snapping at Draco's fingers. "I *did* Draco, I did. But you know what?! You took that trust and stepped on it you fucking elitist!"
Draco's eyebrows raised at her attack... he hated that. He glared at her, his gray pupils stormy as he backed away and turned around on his heel. He paused as his hands gripped the door handle and pulled it down, yanking the door open. His cousins and Blaise were leaning forward in a listening postion. Draco looked at Midnight over his shoulder, his eyes slits. "Your loss, Midnight." he growled and strode down the hall and disappeared around the corner.
Midnight glared sharply at the four staring at her with open mouths. "Fuck off!" she hissed as she too stormed out, but this time, straight to her room.
Draco went into his father's study and kicked the wall that held the hidden panel. He didn't count on this happening... Midnight was acting like she did at Hogwarts... moody and mean. He opened the panel and down into the basement and stared down into the cauldron. The red color had darkened, showing the potion was maturing properly. He sat down on the stool, his jaw tight with rage. How could she not believe him after all they'd done together. His eyes were wet and he brushed the forbidden tears away... at that moment he looked up to see Lucius watching him. Draco looked away with humiliation.
"Whatever is the matter with you Draco. I specifically TOLD you to not allow this girl to affect you... love will only interfere...." his pale eyes glittered dangerously at Draco. "You haven't gone so far as to fall in love with this creature, have you??" he slurred.
Midnight flung open the doors to Draco's room as she sprinted towards the bed, tears flying off her face and glittering in the moonlight. She flung herself on the bed, sobbing uncontrollably into the pillows as she punched the bed. "How could you..." she hissed between breaths.
'You thought he would... love you? Love Midnight-Primrose Riddle?' her mind laughed at her. Midnight wailed again as she cried herself to sleep, her hair ruined and her dress still on, bathed in moonlight with a little voice in her ear- resonating. "Midnightttt darling girllll...." the dark wizard's low hiss premeated her slumbering mind, "My eye is on your welfarrrre....*don'ttt* let them controlllll youuu."
She thought back to the other day. It had started like the rest that greeted her each morning at the Malfoy's. She awoke with a start, to be greeted with the warm sultry scent of her daily rose petal and rose water bath. It had always seemed to be her only real time to sit and think while her body gave in to the satin of the water.
She closed her eyes as she breathed deeply, her mind falling into a bed of roses as her thoughts and feeling paraded about. She remembered her ordeal back in Knockturn Alley. She was still shaken by the idea of it and it bothered her to think upon it. However, she had to wonder, "Why were you there... Draco?" she whispered through her half parted lips. She remembered it well- the flight away from those people... then- the kiss. It was amazing- how it was so tentative yet, true. She blushed as she remembered her cry of protest as his lips left hers. Yet- it was much like the one's they had shared the other night as well. Oh how sweet their time together was... She remembered how his lean chest felt to her feathery touch and she wondered how he would look under all his frippery. How his tall and lean figure looked without any obstructions. She sighed slowly as she opened her eyes again to look up at the marble ceiling.
And on the third day of her stay- she recalled with a smile, Draco and her had gone horseback riding in the lightly falling snow. Both of them laughing, talking and joking amidst the bows of the evergreen forest. Yes, she had thoroughly enjoyed her time with him... Midnight whimpered as an extremely painful jolt sent her careening back into reality.
Midnight fought back the tears that were forming in the corner of her eyes. She had been sitting here for the past hour as this idiot teased and pulled at her hair. Narcissa had arranged for her every whim. Tonight, she was to attend the Christmas Ball that the Malfoy's were hosting.
She groaned, her scalp turning numb from the constant pulling of her hair. This man was supposed to be an elite hair dresser with amazing expertise. Midnight just thought he was incompetent and an imbicile. She smiled inwardly, wondering what Draco was doing at the very same moment.
Draco was standing in front of the full-length mirror, admiring the way his tail coat looked, and adjusted his green cummerbund and bow tie. He felt great and could hardly wait to make his appearance. He wondered what Midnight would be wearing. His mother wasn't telling. Maybe she just didn't know.... or maybe she just didn't care. She'd come in to check on him and scoffed at him for wearing cologne Draco moved away from the mirror.
Earlier that morning- Draco leaned his blonde head against the backrest of the arm chair, listening to his mother ramble on her instructions to the houseelves about the family yule ball they would be having that evening - an annual tradition. All the Malfoy family line would be there, to exchange the usual horror tales, drink, eat, and dance until midnight.
His father had managed to slip away from the breakfast table early, but he was forced to endure his mother's tirade of lists for the second day in a row.
The formal clothes had been delivered at the manor, including a large, mysterious box containing the gown Midnight had purchased during their shopping trip. Draco hardly had time to say good morning...and it didn't change. His mother kept him in tow for the rest of the day until it was time to get ready for the party.
Narcissa insisted he use his father's better, larger bathroom to wash up and dress. Draco stepped into the shiny shower and was soon basking in the warm spray as he soaped his body over. He flicked back his pale blonde hair, his mind drifting back to the afternoon the day before-- walking Midnight around the manor grounds, taking his father's horses out for a ride. The entire experience had re-opened all his senses...she was slowly captivating him....her violet eyes, her lips, the way her body moved....
Draco closed his eyes, leaning against the cold black and white tile...his wet, hard nude body responding to the memory of it....
What seemed like hours later, Midnight stood in front of the lengthy mirror, scrutinizing herself in it's reflection. Muttering indistinctly, she sat back down with a frustrated sigh, reaching for the lip gloss. Beginning to work at her appearance, a slight rap at the door startled her. It turned out to be a house elf carrying her dress and everything that she was to have that night.
As Midnight touched up her make-up, she rose, unbuttoning her shirt slowly as she stared at the dress that lay neatly in the bed. It's folds of cloth catching the light and sending it back in beads to crystal. She somehow just knew that it would be a long night.
As Draco strolled toward the ballroom, he was intercepted by his father, who was now clad in a custom tailored black dress robe, wearing a double- breasted tuxedo with a dark green silk shirt underneath. Lucius stepped up to Draco with a crooked smile. "I see you've dressed. Have you forgotten to check on the potion, Draco?"
"I did that earlier this morning."
"We'll both look at it tonight, shall we?" Lucius said eying Draco dully. "And don't make a fool of yourself tonight, son... you don't want to get yourself sucked into female entanglements. You have a mission. Don't forget it."
Midnight adjusted her gloves as she opened the door with a quiet click. Peering around it she noticed Lucius and Draco conversing quietly. Both, she had to admit, handsomely dressed. She grinned and stepped out of her room. Her strappy heels clicking on the cool marble floor as she walked confidently down the hall towards the two.
Midnight blushed as she reached the two, brushing aside a loch of hair. "Hello Mr. Malfoy. Draco." she nodded politely. "Shall we be going?" she said, looking towards the ballroom.
Lucius put his arm out for Midnight to take it, glancing back at Draco with a look that said "Take a number."
Midnight smiled graciously, taking Lucius' arm. "Why thank you Mr. Malfoy." she giggled as she breathed in his deep cologne, both of them disappearing around the corner.
Draco's lips did a downward curve as he followed them into the ornate ballroom. He looked around at the holiday decor his mother ordered and the beautiful gleaming floor. He rarely visited this room and it was a treat every time. Suddenly there was a clattering at the door as four girls Draco's age came forth, three his cousins... one a guest -- none other than Blaise Zambini from Hogwarts. "DRACOOO!" Odessa, Kiza and Carlina came bounding up to hug Draco's neck.
Midnight attention snapped away from the beautiful room as high pitched voices rang through the room. She chuckled as three pretty girls suddenly surrounded Draco. However, her eyes also narrowed though, when she saw Blaise. Looking stunning in a very slinky dress that looked like it had had a run in with a lawnmower.
Blaise sniffed daintily as Draco was being pounced by his cousins. She crossed her arms over her ample chest as she looked around the room, her raven hair loose. She stopped dead. Was that Midnight-Primrose Riddle?! She waltzed towards Midnight, her expression furious. "What in blazes are you doing here." she snapped, her fingers wrapping like a vice around Midnight's jeweled wrist.
Midnight's eyes widened from the pain of her wrist. "Blaise... Blaise, let me go now." she hissed, looking around to see if anyone was watching.
Draco yanked himself from Carlina's embrace and hurried after Blaise. "Wait just a minute, Zambini..." he glared, "You're in my house, and Midnight is a our guest for the yule break."
Midnight looked ready to die, when Draco came after Blaise. After his lecture she mouthed a "thank you" and glanced towards her wrist.
Draco pointed a finger at Blaise's well-made-up face. "Leave her alone!" He started to pull her back but noticed his mother staring at him... and his father standing a short distance away, his arms crossed. He didn't want to cause trouble.
Blaise looked absolutely disgusted. She put on her best pout, releasing Midnight like she was something disgusting. "But Dracey!!" she moaned aloud.
Kiza's hand suddenly slipped in Draco's as she tried to pull him out on the dance floor. "Oh stop being so Gryffy, Draco... and come out and dance to some music with us!"
Draco gave Blaise a hateful glare. She had caused enough trouble for him at Hogwarts... she'd told everyone that she and Draco had shagged all night on the common room sofa one night last fall...
Blaise pouted again, but this time she didn't say anything. Storming off, she quickly disappeared into the crowd.
Midnight sighed in relief as she backed away slowly, visibly shaking in rage and nerves. Looking around, she found a secluded corner where she took up watching Draco carefully.
Malfoy shook his finger at Kiza "You invited Blaise! What were you thinking??" Carlina grinned at Draco. "Well, we didn't know you had your eye on Voldemort's daughter, Draco...." Draco rolled his eyes at the ceiling. He saw Midnight standing in a corner by herself and winced.
Midnight stepped forward, after she had hung up her handbag and her scarf. She smiled at the sea of people around her, and walked slowly up to Draco, hesitant to speak. She smiled at the three girls still around him and smiled again. "Hello." was all she could think of and silently she scolded herself for it.
Odessa flung back her sandy blonde hair and gave Midnight the once-over. "So you're the infamous Midnight Riddle..."
Midnight flushed visibly. "Errrhm.... yes. Midnight-Primrose Riddle..." she said nervously, though she struggled to maintain her cool.
Carlina, with her tight curly black hair grinned at her cousins. "A tramp wearing her sexy red dress..." she giggled. "Wonder what the great Dark Wizards would say to *that*!"
Draco tugged on Carlina's arm. They used to play together as children and he didn't like her catty approach toward Midnight. "Stop it. Right now..." he said darkly.
"Excuse me- what was that?" Midnight said, cold fury in every syllable. Her eyes flashed, her body tensed as she watched Carlina, her glossy black hair reflecting the pale light that was being shone.
Midnight still was giving Carlina a death glare as Draco tugged on her, not looking too happy. She sucked her breath in. 'I am Lord Voldemort's daughter... I will not be treated like this...' her mind hissed.
Suddenly an elderly couple approached their circle. "Aunt Lusu, Uncle Baines... hello." Draco said, trying to act as if nothing had happened. His aunt looked like she wanted introductions, when the music started and Draco heaved a sigh of relief. "Um... why don't we dance?" he said, offering his arm to Midnight. "Please..."
Midnight still glared at Draco, eyeing him suspiciously. Giving in, she shrugged and accepted his arm coldly as the two walked onto the dance floor. "How nice..." she hissed into his ear.
"I didn't invite Blaise, she got herself invited-" he hissed... "And I can't help it if my cousins don't know you."
"Don't know me... they didn't even give me a chance..." she said, her voice laced with hurt as they both revolved slowly on the spot.
"Blaise complicated things, that's all... she'd heard you were coming here... she's a bit of a troublemaker..." The music swelled into a slow waltz and Draco found himself holding Midnight up against him, their bodies molded as his hands encircled her waist and moved with the rhythm of the music...
Midnight loosened up as she rested her head on Draco's shoulder as a slow murmur began to rise as they danced in each other's arms.
She didn't care.
"Blaise... Blaise has always been that way Draco. I know that at least." she said with a smile, melting into his arms.
Blaise watched the pair dance, her eyes like slits of silver fire. It was that Riddle girl who had brainwashed her Dracey. Draco would be hers tonight- no matter what. She slammed her fist on the table, standing up abruptly. She knew exactly what to do...
She waltzed over to Draco's three cousins and began whispering fervently with them, a wicked grin plastered on her features. "You say he still remembers?" she said, her mouth twisted into a snarl. Carlina nodded without much interest. "Very well..."
Midnight saw Blaise conversing darkly to the three girls that were all over Draco and grimaced. "Look- Blaise seems to be busying herself with something..." she said weakly, still remembering how mad Blaise had looked earlier on.
Draco shifted his hands on Midnight's waist and looked back at his father standing on the sidelines next to several of his wizard uncles, drinking from his goblet, frowning at him. "Let's not talk about Zambini... I wish she had never come...." He looked into her eyes and swallowed, hoping she wouldn't see how nervous he was in this situation. "Whatever she tells you... don't believe her. Zambini is a sharp little liar." he murmured.
Midnight chuckled softly, resting her head again on his shoulder. "I know Draco... I know." she murmured as she let the music guide them.
He put one hand out and lightly grazed her neck, wishing they were alone like last night... so he could kiss her.
Midnight murmured softly in approval as her hair was gently tucked away. "Draco- the song's ending..." she said with a soft smile, pulling away slightly.
"I didn't notice... I-I guess it did," he said quietly... then lifted his head and turned to look at his cousin's reactions, with Blaise standing by, a smirk on her face. They didn't look happy. He didn't care. A faster tune was beginning to play, but Draco took Midnight's hand and pulled her toward the opposite side of the room where other members of his father's family were lounging, eating hor'derves. "Let me introduce you to some decent relatives tonight, okay?"
Midnight nodded as she followed Draco to some relatives all talking happily. "I'm gonna trust you on this." she giggled quietly as she smoothed out her dress.
A very stout woman stood up as they approached. "Young Draco dear...you've grown! I didn't approve of your mother putting you in Hogwarts but it seems to have been good for you-- Durmstrang's loss, of course. Who is this vision? It couldn't be the infamous Miss Riddle??"
Midnight stifled a laugh as she curtsied fluently, smiling. "Midnight- Primrose Riddle." she said calmly.
"Aunt Swanna... she gave the Gryffindor's a surprise when she arrived at Hogwarts... and she can fly a broom as well as the quiddich team.." Draco told her, smiling. *among other things*... he thought, still imagining the kisses she gave him last evening.
Midnight blushed slightly at Draco's compliments and cleared her throat quietly. "But I still haven't beat Draco in a race yet." she added with a smile in Draco's direction.
His Uncle Dalmas waved her away with a raspy chuckle. "If the lad's smart, he won't challenge you. Agility and speed isn't exactly prominent in the Malfoy genepool.." Draco gave the old man a startled look when his aunt poked her husband in the arm. "Stop it, Delmas!" she snapped. "Speak for yourself... I saw Draco fly in a game last year- he's quick compared to *some*!"
Draco laughed. "Thanks...well, I'm going to dance with my lady now..." he said, hurrying away, pulling on Midnight's hand. "Malfoy genepool..." he muttered under his breath.
Midnight laughed at Draco's comment under his breath as they again walked towards the dance floor. "So Malfoy- can you tango?" she said with a grin as a heavy tango beat was struck up.
'Oh baby...*yeah* I can tango' he thought to himself... if only she knew how good he was at it...his mother made him take lessons from an expert. But instead of revealing this, he said "Tango? Uh-- sure, Midnight." with an innocent face.
"Good." she said. Obviously she didn't believe him. "Hit me with what you got." she hissed gently in his ear as she took up her starting position at the wavering of the soulful strings and guitars.
Draco moved her slowly around the room, interchanging their positions around in unpredictable circles... his footing percise- careful not to step on her toes. Midnight's body moved rhythmically to the beat as they swung each other, her hips swaying sexily back and forth, and then he dipped her to a credendo of notes, slower and slower, her head nearly touching the glossy floor beneath them. He felt the persperation going down his neck and the desire started building in him for that soulful second...and he wanted her. All of her. The dance ended and he slowly pulled her toward him, vertical again... and looked around at the staring bystanders... including his mother, who could have snorted fire and sliced him to pieces from the daggers in her eyes.
Midnight felt her breath catch in her throat she she gazed up at Draco, only his arms stopping her from hitting the ground. She looked into his grey eyes, remember the kisses they had exchanged the other night. She held back the flood of emotions that threatened to engulf her. Midnight sighed as Draco pulled her up again with a smile. "Not bad Draco..." she said, slightly slurred as she brushed aside her hands that had come out of her coif.
However, suddenly Midnight was roughly thrown backwards, stumbling but still standing. "DRACEY!!! What was *that*?!" Blaise whined as she latched into Draco's arm.
"You still here Zambini?" Draco snorted, his arm reaching out to help steady Midnight and keep her from falling.
Midnight glared heavily as she grabbed onto Draco's hand, steadying herself.
"Dracey!! Come on! I want to dance with you now! Get away from this wench." and with that she pulled Draco onto the dancefloor as a very slow song was played.
Draco felt his stomach turn at the thought of having to play out this scenerio in order to keep his parents pacified.
In the blink of an eye, Blaise was all over Draco. She kissed him very harshly as she pressed herself against him, all the while making sure Midnight was watching.
"Blaise... you are getting on my nerves..." Draco growled, as he managed to catch his breath between her wet kisses. He pushed her away slightly as they continued to dance to the music. "Just so you know... your tongue is forked, girl... you and I never shagged that night on the couch in front of the fire... you don't kiss any better now than you did back then." he sneered.
Blaise just chuckled darkly. "Does Riddle over there know about our escapade?" she said inncoently. "I wonder how she would take it- to know we shagged that night." she finished before she began to lick at his ear- shooting Midnight a contemptuos look.
"*Shut it Zambini!* You're DELUSIONAL..." Draco hissed. "I've never asked a Slytherin to leave my house- I'd hate to start now, but I will unless you keep your naughty lies to yourself... Midnight has no family. She's here to enjoy herself...!"
"Oh... tell that to Midnight, Draco... tell that to her..." she hissed before she stopped dancing and walked towards Midnight, ill nature etched on her every feature.
Midnight had seen everything. Seen how Blaise kissed Draco, seen how she licked at him. She felt like she was going to be sick.
Draco eyes quickly darted toward his father and their gaze locked for a moment-- he knew he needed to get this mess straightened out in a private area... "Wait. Let's go into the alcove..." he said, grabbing Midnight's hand desperately.
As Blaise started towards her- thoughts raced through her mind. Should she just storm away? Whip out her wand and curse her? Scream and cry? No... No. She would stand her ground and let Blaise have her fun... she knew Draco... she did... And as Draco pulled her out- she saw Blaise follow them stealthily. Midnight felt her stomach slip several notches as Blaise continued to follow not far behind. Her expression like an enraged bird of prey.
Draco looked over his shoulder at Blaise's approach and cringed. His eyes darted to the door as he saw his three cousins standing there, looking afraid to approach closer. Like true Malfoys, they could see a disaster when it loomed their way....
He stepped into the tiled alcove, and walked around the fountain to the window and sat on the ledge facing Midnight, hoping she wouldn't believe what she heard. Blaise was quite the storyteller...she'd captivated the entire Slytherin House and managed to change his reputation as a ladies man in one day.
"You shagged BLAISE?!" she said, her voice a mix of roughly concealed dispair as well as unfiltered anger. Her hair was now coming out if it's up-do as she shook her head gruffly. "I can't believe this! You SLEPT WITH BLAISE!!" she screeched again, stamping her foot with a loud click.
"No--wait, I-uh..." Draco was about to admit he'd never shagged ANYONE... but he was nervous about revealing his virginity to her. He shut his eyes and shook his head. "Not with Blaise..." he said instead. "She's a bloody LIAR!" he hissed.
"Oh yeah, mmhmm..." she snapped angrily, her voice slicing through the air. "It didn't LOOK like a lie Draco!"
"I TOLD you not to believe everything she tells you, Midnight...!" Draco chided. "What the hell does a lie LOOK like anyway hmm?"
"It looks like an attractive woman slobbering over you!" she screamed, her hair had now come all the way down as it hung loosely around her back.
Draco reached out to touch the tentrils of white blonde as it came undone and he shook his head vigorously. "No-no-no... comon Midnight! I thought you were brighter than that-- you looked like you didn't believe her earlier... why are you doing this? Don't you TRUST me??!!"
"Don't touch me you bastard!" she hissed, snapping at Draco's fingers. "I *did* Draco, I did. But you know what?! You took that trust and stepped on it you fucking elitist!"
Draco's eyebrows raised at her attack... he hated that. He glared at her, his gray pupils stormy as he backed away and turned around on his heel. He paused as his hands gripped the door handle and pulled it down, yanking the door open. His cousins and Blaise were leaning forward in a listening postion. Draco looked at Midnight over his shoulder, his eyes slits. "Your loss, Midnight." he growled and strode down the hall and disappeared around the corner.
Midnight glared sharply at the four staring at her with open mouths. "Fuck off!" she hissed as she too stormed out, but this time, straight to her room.
Draco went into his father's study and kicked the wall that held the hidden panel. He didn't count on this happening... Midnight was acting like she did at Hogwarts... moody and mean. He opened the panel and down into the basement and stared down into the cauldron. The red color had darkened, showing the potion was maturing properly. He sat down on the stool, his jaw tight with rage. How could she not believe him after all they'd done together. His eyes were wet and he brushed the forbidden tears away... at that moment he looked up to see Lucius watching him. Draco looked away with humiliation.
"Whatever is the matter with you Draco. I specifically TOLD you to not allow this girl to affect you... love will only interfere...." his pale eyes glittered dangerously at Draco. "You haven't gone so far as to fall in love with this creature, have you??" he slurred.
Midnight flung open the doors to Draco's room as she sprinted towards the bed, tears flying off her face and glittering in the moonlight. She flung herself on the bed, sobbing uncontrollably into the pillows as she punched the bed. "How could you..." she hissed between breaths.
'You thought he would... love you? Love Midnight-Primrose Riddle?' her mind laughed at her. Midnight wailed again as she cried herself to sleep, her hair ruined and her dress still on, bathed in moonlight with a little voice in her ear- resonating. "Midnightttt darling girllll...." the dark wizard's low hiss premeated her slumbering mind, "My eye is on your welfarrrre....*don'ttt* let them controlllll youuu."