Quick A/N : Just so you know, Whize is pronounced Wise, as in wise-guy or
wise potato chips. Penny Whize is funny because that's the name of the evil
clown in Stephen King's novel, IT. J/FYI.
Disclaimer: This line is like the dark mark on the forearm of my story. It's evil, ugly, and pointless. Everyone already knows you're evil, just as everyone knows this story isn't mine. Cheerio.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: The Other Side of Love
"Can we go home now, please?" she begged in a whisper. Draco held Hermione closer for a moment while he apparated back to Hogsmeade. They stayed that way for a few minutes more, then Draco spoke.
"Come on, Hermione. We still have to walk back to the castle." She looked up, not expecting to see the familiar setting of the Hogsmeade path, but glad that it was there. "That is...unless you want me to kidnap you again," Draco said with an uneasy smirk. Hermione smiled, not really in the mood for jokes.
"No, I am perfectly capable of walking, thank you,' she said, not moving from the embrace. Draco frowned a little; he knew she was still upset.
Suddenly, Hermione did something very unexpected; she kissed him. Hermione's kiss was hard and fierce, and Draco felt her unbridled emotion flow through her lips. He let himself fall into the kiss, his newly renewed emotion surging through him. When they broke apart, Hermione came back for seconds, only to be deprived of them. Draco's lips had now moved close to her ear.
"We have to go," he said, sounding utterly disappointed that this must be ended. Hermione bit her lip and nodded, not wanting this to end either. She felt Draco's hot breath on her neck and felt a tingle of anticipation. Draco let go of her and Hermione hugged his side, placing her arms around him and leaning a curly brown head on his shoulder. Draco's hand took hold around Hermione's middle, hugging her back.
The two made their way back down the path and through the almost deserted town. The gate to Hogwarts was already open, presumed by Hagrid, as not to lock them out. Together, the two remained silent as they shuffled through the gate and up the hill to the castle. Draco looked down at Hermione as they neared the large entry doors, noting that she was smiling. Her eyes were closed and she seemed peaceful; Draco wondered briefly if she was asleep. He stopped in front of the large stone steps and kissed her head gently. She made no movement and he smiled; maybe she was.
"Hermione? Hermione, we're home...are you asleep?" he said in a loud whisper, as one does when all around them is quiet. Hermione groaned a little and flutter her eyes partially open.
"Draco? You woke me up early yesterday; can't I sleep a little longer?" she asked, closing her eyes again. Draco smiled.
"As soon as you get to bed, love," he whispered, but Hermione was already asleep on her feet again. He pulled her embrace away from him and scooped her into his arms. Draco brought the sleeping head girl into the castle and up the many flights of stairs to their portrait. The occupants, a small blonde haired girl and her ebony haired father, sat sleeping in their large chair by the fire. "Excuse me," Draco said and the man's eyes popped open.
"Shh, password?" he asked in a whisper. Draco recited the password, then asked the man to keep the door open until he himself closed it. The man nodded and closed his eyes before opening the door.
Draco took Hermione through the common room, briefly noticing the log burning in the fireplace. He made his way to the door of his room and opened it carefully, so as not to wake his sleeping love again. The fire in his own room was lit as well, and provided enough light to safely carry Hermione to her side of the bed and lay her there. He removed her shoes and covered her for warmth, then went back to the common room. He strolled over to his desk and took out a piece of parchment and quill.
"Hermione,
I went to tell Dumbledore that we have returned, as promised. Go back to sleep, I'll be back soon and we can talk in the morning. I love you.
-Draco"
Draco took the note and returned to his room. Walking over to the bed, he noticed the firelight on Hermione's fair skin and wanted nothing more than to jump her and kiss forever. Instead, he leaned in and kissed her gently on the forehead. She smiled in her slumber and Draco felt the warm tingle again. He tore himself away and placed the note on his pillow for her to find if she happened to wake while he was gone.
He left her, then; off to report to Dumbledore. Draco quietly slipped through the common room, depositing his shoes, coat, and scarf near a sofa, and out the portrait, careful not to close it.
As soon as the cold floor of the hallway touched his bare feet, Draco began to run. He was filled with an amazing emotion and needed to do something drastic. He would much rather have snogged the adrenaline away, but Hermione asleep was no help with that, so he ran. Draco ran and ran, as fast as he could, ignoring the complaints of the portraits.
The muffled sound of his feet against the stone floor combined with his ragged breathing were the only things he concentrated on. Not letting himself stop, Draco soon found himself in front of Dumbledore's office. He took a moment to catch his breath before knocking, and entered at Dumbledore's request.
"Ah, Mr. Malfoy," he said, smiling. Then, noticing the flush in his cheeks and his rapid breath, he asked in concern, "Is everything alright? Where is Miss Granger?"
"Everything is perfectly fine, Professor. Hermione's asleep; I just came to check in," he said, trying to calm himself and slow his breathing.
"I believe you are a little behind schedule, Mr. Malfoy," the old man said, smiling. Draco sighed as he remember exactly why they were off schedule.
"Yes, well...both my mother and Mrs. Whize tend to carry on rather long conversations, and Hermione wanted to spend some time with Lucifer," he explained, taking a step into the room. Dumbledore knew all about the Whizes, including Lucifer, and silently agreed with Draco. The headmaster nodded, eyes twinkling as always.
"Perfectly understandable. Now, I won't keep you. It will do you good to get some rest," he said in an almost fatherly tone.
"Thank you Professor, and again; thank you for letting me do this; I know Hermione needed it," he said as he retraced his step to the door. The old man simply nodded and Draco left his office. He closed the door quietly behind him and ran back to the common room, this time because he realized that the portrait was open and anyone could walk in. Not that there was anyone to be frightened of in the castle, but he still felt uneasy.
* * * * * * * * * *
Draco returned to find everything the same as he had left it, including, to his relief, Hermione. Draco closed the portrait slowly, as not to wake its occupants, nor those in his mind. He walked quietly, save his breathing, to his room and closed the door behind him.
Hermione was still in his bed, however was no longer wearing her coat scarf and gloves. Draco felt a strange feeling creep through him as he looked at her; clad in only a slinky black shirt and denim skirt, note clasped in her hand. He smiled and sighed, climbing into bed, not bothering to change.
"Draco?" Hermione said unexpectedly, fluttering her eyes open.
"I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to wake you. Go back to sleep, it's just me," he said softly, coaxing her to sleep again. Hermione slid closer to him, snuggling up to him. Draco tied an arm around her and Hermione sighed blissfully.
"I like it when you call me that," she said and placed her head on his shoulder.
"What?" he asked, wanting terribly to kiss her. Hermione moved her head closer to his, tempting him.
"Love," she whispered and touched her lips to his. It was a soft and gentle kiss, unlike the one in Hogsmeade, but Draco liked it better. To him, it seemed as if every kiss from Hermione was better than the one before it. This kiss was much longer and a lot deeper than the previous one, and when she came back for more, Draco didn't stop her. He leaned in and kissed her deeply, letting his free hand rest on her hip.
Hermione, who was now very much awake, wrapped her arms around his neck and let him climb on top of her. She grunted softly as she felt his hand slide under her shirt and up her side. When their kiss ended and they broke apart, Draco continued to kiss her, along her jaw and around her mouth.
Hermione closed her eyes and called his name softly, giving Draco more confidence. His lips found hers again and they kissed gently. Hermione made a small, high-pitched, sound; suggesting deep pleasure. Draco heard this; like music to his ears. Once again he was over come with a wonderful feeling; he was making her like this. She was deeply enjoying this, and he was inflicting this pleasure on her. She was calling to him, she wanted him, and he loved it. It made Draco feel alive, like everything was new, and he owned it all.
Charged with new confidence, Draco slid his hand farther up her side, fingers gracing the bottom of her breast. Hermione felt this, thinking she should stop him. She didn't however. Caught in the moment, she decided that she trusted Draco, and if it was okay with him, then it was okay with her.
Seeing that she didn't stop him, Draco decided to go a little farther, gently letting his fingers glide up and over her breast while they kissed. Hermione couldn't deny how good it felt, or how much she wanted him to do it, and for a moment she considered not stopping him. If she wanted it and he wanted it, where was the problem?
Then, Hermione realized that the situation was almost out of control; if she let Draco do that, it would only give him the confidence to push her farther, test her boundaries.
Not thinking about anything but pleasing her, Draco did take it one more step; he gently let the whole weight of his hand be supported by her and moved his thumb in a gentle caress. Hermione realized that she had to stop this before something happened that they would both regret, as much as she didn't want it to end. Quickly, Hermione untangled a hand from his messy hair and reached up to his, pushing it down to a safe position nearer to her hip, never breaking the kiss. Draco tried to pull away, but Hermione pulled him closer, replacing the hand behind his head. Draco obeyed her silent request and finished the cosset of their lips.
"I'm sorry," he whispered, sounding horrified, when the kiss ended. He pulled back dramatically and slid himself off of her. Draco looked pale and scared. Hermione gripped his arm and spoke to him, pleading.
"No, Draco. Don't go, I don't want to end this yet, please...kiss me." Draco was kneeling beside her on the bed now, still looking scared. He kept his eyes off of her, looking at nothing. He took a deep breath and sighed, then made to get out of bed, despite Hermione's plea. "No, Draco!"
"It's alright, just go to sleep, Hermione," he said, sounding un-alive and not meeting her gaze. He stood and walked to the door.
"But..." she called, feeling helpless.
"Just go back to sleep," he said, slipping through the door. He closed his eyes briefly before walking slowly to the bathroom. Draco lit the candle near the door, letting the magically bright light illuminate the room. Then, he stood in front of the sink, looking at himself in the mirror. "How could you?" he asked his reflection, "How dare you claim you love her and then do that to her? She trusted you and you hurt her, you bastard! She deserves so much better than you," he finished, gritting his teeth and saying the word 'you' as if he were speaking about Voldemort. Then, he added as an afterthought, "You disgust even yourself." His words held an amount of malice and hatred Hermione, who was standing near the opened door , unnoticed, thought Draco no longer capable of.
"Draco?" she whispered, unsure if she should speak to him. Draco spun his head toward her with surprised eyes. Then, he dropped his gaze to the sink below him.
"Hermione, go back to bed; it's late," he said, not letting himself look at her. She didn't heed his word, however, and approached him.
"I can't sleep with out you, Draco. Why do you think I woke while you were with Dumbledore? Please come back to bed, I need you," she said and placed a hand on his arm. Draco couldn't say anything for a moment, not with the tingle conflicting with his emotions.
"I can't," he whispered, not looking at her. "I don't trust myself anymore." Hermione wanted badly to comfort him, make everything better, but she wasn't exactly sure how.
"Draco," she started, placing a hand on his cheek opposite her. "Look at me," she said, almost commanding, but still soft. Hermione pushed his face toward her, forcing him to look at her. "Draco, you're overreacting. Do I look hurt or angry? I'm fine; please...come back with me," she assured and pleaded with him.
"Hermione, you don't understand! How can you ever trust me again? Think of what would have happened if you didn't stop me; what I could have done to you," he said, almost in panic.
"Draco, I did stop you. You wouldn't have done anything extreme anyway, I know you wouldn't," she said, trying to work this out.
"I'm not so sure, Hermione. We both know I would have kept going until you stopped me, and we both know you should have stopped me long before you did." Hermione was almost angry; why did he have to be so stubborn? She couldn't be mad at him, though, not really.
"Well," she said, dropping her hands and not looking at him. "Maybe I didn't want to stop you," she said, almost embarrassed. Draco sighed and closed his eyes.
"I know Hermione, that's another thing I'm afraid of. I'll get going, too far and too fast, but you won't stop me. You won't stop me because you like it. We'll be caught up in the moment and end up way across the border line, unable to turn back," he sighed, " I just don't want to hurt you." Hermione wanted to hug him; have him close to her, but she couldn't, he wouldn't; everything was suddenly changed that night.
"Draco, I wouldn't let that happen. I say again, you're overreacting. What hurt me just now wasn't what I let you do, it was what you chose to do afterward. You left, Draco, and you didn't come back. That hurt me more than anything that would ever happen in that bed," she said, pointing in the general direction of the bedroom. Hermione had given up on reassuring him and now just wanted him to understand. "Draco, please... just come back to me. I want to forget that this conversation ever happened. I promise; if something happens again, we can discuss it, but this was my fault, not yours, and I choose to forget it for tonight. Please?" Draco sighed and gave in.
"If that's what you really want, Hermione." Draco looked defeated. Hermione turned and walked out the door, straight for Draco's room, hoping he would follow. She didn't look back, just crawled into his bed, fully clothed, and closed her eyes. Draco didn't come right away; he spoke a few more words of hatred to himself before splashing cold water on his face and following her.
* * * * * * * * * *
When Draco entered the room, Hermione had changed positions. She was now sitting with her back against the headboard, knees to her chest with her arms folded over them and her head down. She looked up when she heard Draco enter.
"I thought you weren't coming," she said quietly as he moved closer to the bed. Draco sat down, looking over to her.
"Hermione, after what you said about leaving, how could I not come back?" he said quietly with a slight smile. Hermione smiled too and moved in for a small kiss. For the first time, Draco turned away. "Hermione, I can't," he said softly. Hermione was getting angry now, **He won't even kiss me? What did I do to us?**
"Draco! How can you go straight from what we just did to not even letting me kiss you? What's happening tonight? Whatever it is, I don't like it," she said and slid down on her back, looking angry. "Maybe I shouldn't have stopped you; I wouldn't have if I'd know it would turn into this," she said almost quietly. Draco turned to her sharply, eyes wide with fear.
"No, Hermione! No, don't even think that...promise me that if anything like that happens again, you'll stop me if it goes too far. Please, Hermione. I'm sorry; I'm sorry I did that, sorry I left, and sorry I hurt you. Please promise me that you won't let me do it again," he pleaded, almost desperate. Hermione seemed to think for a moment, then spoke.
"Well, you won't even kiss me; it doesn't look like I have much to worry about, now does it?" she said, sounding angry. Then, for the first time since they had started sleeping in the same bed, Hermione turned away. She rolled on her side to face the window, silent tears running down her face. Draco couldn't leave her now, but he couldn't touch her. He was far too angry with himself. So, for the first time, Hogwarts' most infamous couple were asleep together, but separated. Hermione kept to her side, wishing through tears that Draco would move closer, and Draco kept to his, wishing she would at least turn to him.
"I love you," he whispered, but Hermione couldn't speak through her tears. Nothing more was said, and neither moved an inch, the night dragging as if it enjoyed their misery.
A/N shorter, I know, but it's still like 3,000 words. That's better than the first chapter, I have to admit. This marks the end of my second composition notebook. My third is about halfway written as I finish this, and I'll continue working on it until its' through before I type it. Wow it's hard to type in gloves....hehe
PRF
S-Star - I was wondering where you went! I thought you'd abandoned me! Thank you for being a loyal reader and...well, reading. I really appreciate it. And it's okay if you don't review every chapter. I totally understand how much of a hassle it is. Thanx again, and I'm glad you like it.
Karly- I emailed you my review of your story. It's really not that bad; there isn't enough yet for you to really show your creativity, though. Just keep writing, that's all I ask!
Carla - Haha, that's kinda cool. You've met Clara, haven't you Carla? Wow, I'm way too easily amused. Anyway... on to your PRF; I let them go to Seattle because I absolutely love it, and because Paris is so... overused. Romantic, but overused. Who goes to Seattle? Hardly anyone. THAT makes it romantic in it's own mysterious and subtle way, the solitude standing prominent above all other elements of romance, but you know what I mean.
Dreamer: Thanx, and will-do!
Heather- Thanx, and I always do!
Gwyn- I have good taste in men, I must say that about myself. And Draco is one fine man if I ever saw one... I am so incredibly jealous of Hermione, wow...it like, hurts. Haha.
Starry Skies - Fluff-4-eva! I just love the fluffy fluffiness of every story, and mine MUST include some! Hehe. We all love Seattle... what's not to love? Yes, Hermione IS sensitive and IS paranoid, but look at what she's dealing with here... I mean, how would you feel if your boyfriend started telling you that he had dreams of your demise? Wouldn't that make you cry a little too? Exactly. And all those other parts where she cries... I dunno, I cry a lot, and I sort of modeled her after me (personality wise) so I guess I just rubbed off. I tried to look at each situation as if I were her, then just wrote down my feelings, as in what I would feel like if it were happening to me.... or something. And don't worry; I LOVE your incessant rambling. I'll try to lighten up. Actually; I don't think she cries too much more, so your in luck, lol
Dark Vampire- who told you your story sucks? Your story most certainly does NOT suck, thank you very much. Now... thanx for reviewing and I'm glad you like it. I don't know where the family of house elves idea came from, but it's original and I like it. I mean, can't you just picture it? It's adorable. And Lucifer? Yes, I apologize for the evil name, and the fact that it sounds like they named their only son after their evil master (Lucius) but I simply adore the name Lucifer... I couldn't help myself. I should have had him have a cat or something named that, but oh well... I'm keeping it that way now.
Sakke Yuy - Ohayo miss Sakke! Thanx for your review, and yes I know Hermione cries a lot, but the main reason she does is so I could do that little 'Go ahead and cry if you want to, I've got all night' thing with Draco; I just loved that idea. Anyway, I like Draco in this perspective. It kinda makes you think twice about him, doesn't it? Maybe not, I'm not good at critiquing myself. And, in case you didn't see it at the top, Whize is pronounced like wise, as in wise guy...not wheeze as in 'his breathing was wheezy' Penny Whize, haha... that's funny. Stephen King rules, lol. Thanx for your praise, although I'm not sure if I deserve it! Thanx!
Disclaimer: This line is like the dark mark on the forearm of my story. It's evil, ugly, and pointless. Everyone already knows you're evil, just as everyone knows this story isn't mine. Cheerio.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: The Other Side of Love
"Can we go home now, please?" she begged in a whisper. Draco held Hermione closer for a moment while he apparated back to Hogsmeade. They stayed that way for a few minutes more, then Draco spoke.
"Come on, Hermione. We still have to walk back to the castle." She looked up, not expecting to see the familiar setting of the Hogsmeade path, but glad that it was there. "That is...unless you want me to kidnap you again," Draco said with an uneasy smirk. Hermione smiled, not really in the mood for jokes.
"No, I am perfectly capable of walking, thank you,' she said, not moving from the embrace. Draco frowned a little; he knew she was still upset.
Suddenly, Hermione did something very unexpected; she kissed him. Hermione's kiss was hard and fierce, and Draco felt her unbridled emotion flow through her lips. He let himself fall into the kiss, his newly renewed emotion surging through him. When they broke apart, Hermione came back for seconds, only to be deprived of them. Draco's lips had now moved close to her ear.
"We have to go," he said, sounding utterly disappointed that this must be ended. Hermione bit her lip and nodded, not wanting this to end either. She felt Draco's hot breath on her neck and felt a tingle of anticipation. Draco let go of her and Hermione hugged his side, placing her arms around him and leaning a curly brown head on his shoulder. Draco's hand took hold around Hermione's middle, hugging her back.
The two made their way back down the path and through the almost deserted town. The gate to Hogwarts was already open, presumed by Hagrid, as not to lock them out. Together, the two remained silent as they shuffled through the gate and up the hill to the castle. Draco looked down at Hermione as they neared the large entry doors, noting that she was smiling. Her eyes were closed and she seemed peaceful; Draco wondered briefly if she was asleep. He stopped in front of the large stone steps and kissed her head gently. She made no movement and he smiled; maybe she was.
"Hermione? Hermione, we're home...are you asleep?" he said in a loud whisper, as one does when all around them is quiet. Hermione groaned a little and flutter her eyes partially open.
"Draco? You woke me up early yesterday; can't I sleep a little longer?" she asked, closing her eyes again. Draco smiled.
"As soon as you get to bed, love," he whispered, but Hermione was already asleep on her feet again. He pulled her embrace away from him and scooped her into his arms. Draco brought the sleeping head girl into the castle and up the many flights of stairs to their portrait. The occupants, a small blonde haired girl and her ebony haired father, sat sleeping in their large chair by the fire. "Excuse me," Draco said and the man's eyes popped open.
"Shh, password?" he asked in a whisper. Draco recited the password, then asked the man to keep the door open until he himself closed it. The man nodded and closed his eyes before opening the door.
Draco took Hermione through the common room, briefly noticing the log burning in the fireplace. He made his way to the door of his room and opened it carefully, so as not to wake his sleeping love again. The fire in his own room was lit as well, and provided enough light to safely carry Hermione to her side of the bed and lay her there. He removed her shoes and covered her for warmth, then went back to the common room. He strolled over to his desk and took out a piece of parchment and quill.
"Hermione,
I went to tell Dumbledore that we have returned, as promised. Go back to sleep, I'll be back soon and we can talk in the morning. I love you.
-Draco"
Draco took the note and returned to his room. Walking over to the bed, he noticed the firelight on Hermione's fair skin and wanted nothing more than to jump her and kiss forever. Instead, he leaned in and kissed her gently on the forehead. She smiled in her slumber and Draco felt the warm tingle again. He tore himself away and placed the note on his pillow for her to find if she happened to wake while he was gone.
He left her, then; off to report to Dumbledore. Draco quietly slipped through the common room, depositing his shoes, coat, and scarf near a sofa, and out the portrait, careful not to close it.
As soon as the cold floor of the hallway touched his bare feet, Draco began to run. He was filled with an amazing emotion and needed to do something drastic. He would much rather have snogged the adrenaline away, but Hermione asleep was no help with that, so he ran. Draco ran and ran, as fast as he could, ignoring the complaints of the portraits.
The muffled sound of his feet against the stone floor combined with his ragged breathing were the only things he concentrated on. Not letting himself stop, Draco soon found himself in front of Dumbledore's office. He took a moment to catch his breath before knocking, and entered at Dumbledore's request.
"Ah, Mr. Malfoy," he said, smiling. Then, noticing the flush in his cheeks and his rapid breath, he asked in concern, "Is everything alright? Where is Miss Granger?"
"Everything is perfectly fine, Professor. Hermione's asleep; I just came to check in," he said, trying to calm himself and slow his breathing.
"I believe you are a little behind schedule, Mr. Malfoy," the old man said, smiling. Draco sighed as he remember exactly why they were off schedule.
"Yes, well...both my mother and Mrs. Whize tend to carry on rather long conversations, and Hermione wanted to spend some time with Lucifer," he explained, taking a step into the room. Dumbledore knew all about the Whizes, including Lucifer, and silently agreed with Draco. The headmaster nodded, eyes twinkling as always.
"Perfectly understandable. Now, I won't keep you. It will do you good to get some rest," he said in an almost fatherly tone.
"Thank you Professor, and again; thank you for letting me do this; I know Hermione needed it," he said as he retraced his step to the door. The old man simply nodded and Draco left his office. He closed the door quietly behind him and ran back to the common room, this time because he realized that the portrait was open and anyone could walk in. Not that there was anyone to be frightened of in the castle, but he still felt uneasy.
* * * * * * * * * *
Draco returned to find everything the same as he had left it, including, to his relief, Hermione. Draco closed the portrait slowly, as not to wake its occupants, nor those in his mind. He walked quietly, save his breathing, to his room and closed the door behind him.
Hermione was still in his bed, however was no longer wearing her coat scarf and gloves. Draco felt a strange feeling creep through him as he looked at her; clad in only a slinky black shirt and denim skirt, note clasped in her hand. He smiled and sighed, climbing into bed, not bothering to change.
"Draco?" Hermione said unexpectedly, fluttering her eyes open.
"I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to wake you. Go back to sleep, it's just me," he said softly, coaxing her to sleep again. Hermione slid closer to him, snuggling up to him. Draco tied an arm around her and Hermione sighed blissfully.
"I like it when you call me that," she said and placed her head on his shoulder.
"What?" he asked, wanting terribly to kiss her. Hermione moved her head closer to his, tempting him.
"Love," she whispered and touched her lips to his. It was a soft and gentle kiss, unlike the one in Hogsmeade, but Draco liked it better. To him, it seemed as if every kiss from Hermione was better than the one before it. This kiss was much longer and a lot deeper than the previous one, and when she came back for more, Draco didn't stop her. He leaned in and kissed her deeply, letting his free hand rest on her hip.
Hermione, who was now very much awake, wrapped her arms around his neck and let him climb on top of her. She grunted softly as she felt his hand slide under her shirt and up her side. When their kiss ended and they broke apart, Draco continued to kiss her, along her jaw and around her mouth.
Hermione closed her eyes and called his name softly, giving Draco more confidence. His lips found hers again and they kissed gently. Hermione made a small, high-pitched, sound; suggesting deep pleasure. Draco heard this; like music to his ears. Once again he was over come with a wonderful feeling; he was making her like this. She was deeply enjoying this, and he was inflicting this pleasure on her. She was calling to him, she wanted him, and he loved it. It made Draco feel alive, like everything was new, and he owned it all.
Charged with new confidence, Draco slid his hand farther up her side, fingers gracing the bottom of her breast. Hermione felt this, thinking she should stop him. She didn't however. Caught in the moment, she decided that she trusted Draco, and if it was okay with him, then it was okay with her.
Seeing that she didn't stop him, Draco decided to go a little farther, gently letting his fingers glide up and over her breast while they kissed. Hermione couldn't deny how good it felt, or how much she wanted him to do it, and for a moment she considered not stopping him. If she wanted it and he wanted it, where was the problem?
Then, Hermione realized that the situation was almost out of control; if she let Draco do that, it would only give him the confidence to push her farther, test her boundaries.
Not thinking about anything but pleasing her, Draco did take it one more step; he gently let the whole weight of his hand be supported by her and moved his thumb in a gentle caress. Hermione realized that she had to stop this before something happened that they would both regret, as much as she didn't want it to end. Quickly, Hermione untangled a hand from his messy hair and reached up to his, pushing it down to a safe position nearer to her hip, never breaking the kiss. Draco tried to pull away, but Hermione pulled him closer, replacing the hand behind his head. Draco obeyed her silent request and finished the cosset of their lips.
"I'm sorry," he whispered, sounding horrified, when the kiss ended. He pulled back dramatically and slid himself off of her. Draco looked pale and scared. Hermione gripped his arm and spoke to him, pleading.
"No, Draco. Don't go, I don't want to end this yet, please...kiss me." Draco was kneeling beside her on the bed now, still looking scared. He kept his eyes off of her, looking at nothing. He took a deep breath and sighed, then made to get out of bed, despite Hermione's plea. "No, Draco!"
"It's alright, just go to sleep, Hermione," he said, sounding un-alive and not meeting her gaze. He stood and walked to the door.
"But..." she called, feeling helpless.
"Just go back to sleep," he said, slipping through the door. He closed his eyes briefly before walking slowly to the bathroom. Draco lit the candle near the door, letting the magically bright light illuminate the room. Then, he stood in front of the sink, looking at himself in the mirror. "How could you?" he asked his reflection, "How dare you claim you love her and then do that to her? She trusted you and you hurt her, you bastard! She deserves so much better than you," he finished, gritting his teeth and saying the word 'you' as if he were speaking about Voldemort. Then, he added as an afterthought, "You disgust even yourself." His words held an amount of malice and hatred Hermione, who was standing near the opened door , unnoticed, thought Draco no longer capable of.
"Draco?" she whispered, unsure if she should speak to him. Draco spun his head toward her with surprised eyes. Then, he dropped his gaze to the sink below him.
"Hermione, go back to bed; it's late," he said, not letting himself look at her. She didn't heed his word, however, and approached him.
"I can't sleep with out you, Draco. Why do you think I woke while you were with Dumbledore? Please come back to bed, I need you," she said and placed a hand on his arm. Draco couldn't say anything for a moment, not with the tingle conflicting with his emotions.
"I can't," he whispered, not looking at her. "I don't trust myself anymore." Hermione wanted badly to comfort him, make everything better, but she wasn't exactly sure how.
"Draco," she started, placing a hand on his cheek opposite her. "Look at me," she said, almost commanding, but still soft. Hermione pushed his face toward her, forcing him to look at her. "Draco, you're overreacting. Do I look hurt or angry? I'm fine; please...come back with me," she assured and pleaded with him.
"Hermione, you don't understand! How can you ever trust me again? Think of what would have happened if you didn't stop me; what I could have done to you," he said, almost in panic.
"Draco, I did stop you. You wouldn't have done anything extreme anyway, I know you wouldn't," she said, trying to work this out.
"I'm not so sure, Hermione. We both know I would have kept going until you stopped me, and we both know you should have stopped me long before you did." Hermione was almost angry; why did he have to be so stubborn? She couldn't be mad at him, though, not really.
"Well," she said, dropping her hands and not looking at him. "Maybe I didn't want to stop you," she said, almost embarrassed. Draco sighed and closed his eyes.
"I know Hermione, that's another thing I'm afraid of. I'll get going, too far and too fast, but you won't stop me. You won't stop me because you like it. We'll be caught up in the moment and end up way across the border line, unable to turn back," he sighed, " I just don't want to hurt you." Hermione wanted to hug him; have him close to her, but she couldn't, he wouldn't; everything was suddenly changed that night.
"Draco, I wouldn't let that happen. I say again, you're overreacting. What hurt me just now wasn't what I let you do, it was what you chose to do afterward. You left, Draco, and you didn't come back. That hurt me more than anything that would ever happen in that bed," she said, pointing in the general direction of the bedroom. Hermione had given up on reassuring him and now just wanted him to understand. "Draco, please... just come back to me. I want to forget that this conversation ever happened. I promise; if something happens again, we can discuss it, but this was my fault, not yours, and I choose to forget it for tonight. Please?" Draco sighed and gave in.
"If that's what you really want, Hermione." Draco looked defeated. Hermione turned and walked out the door, straight for Draco's room, hoping he would follow. She didn't look back, just crawled into his bed, fully clothed, and closed her eyes. Draco didn't come right away; he spoke a few more words of hatred to himself before splashing cold water on his face and following her.
* * * * * * * * * *
When Draco entered the room, Hermione had changed positions. She was now sitting with her back against the headboard, knees to her chest with her arms folded over them and her head down. She looked up when she heard Draco enter.
"I thought you weren't coming," she said quietly as he moved closer to the bed. Draco sat down, looking over to her.
"Hermione, after what you said about leaving, how could I not come back?" he said quietly with a slight smile. Hermione smiled too and moved in for a small kiss. For the first time, Draco turned away. "Hermione, I can't," he said softly. Hermione was getting angry now, **He won't even kiss me? What did I do to us?**
"Draco! How can you go straight from what we just did to not even letting me kiss you? What's happening tonight? Whatever it is, I don't like it," she said and slid down on her back, looking angry. "Maybe I shouldn't have stopped you; I wouldn't have if I'd know it would turn into this," she said almost quietly. Draco turned to her sharply, eyes wide with fear.
"No, Hermione! No, don't even think that...promise me that if anything like that happens again, you'll stop me if it goes too far. Please, Hermione. I'm sorry; I'm sorry I did that, sorry I left, and sorry I hurt you. Please promise me that you won't let me do it again," he pleaded, almost desperate. Hermione seemed to think for a moment, then spoke.
"Well, you won't even kiss me; it doesn't look like I have much to worry about, now does it?" she said, sounding angry. Then, for the first time since they had started sleeping in the same bed, Hermione turned away. She rolled on her side to face the window, silent tears running down her face. Draco couldn't leave her now, but he couldn't touch her. He was far too angry with himself. So, for the first time, Hogwarts' most infamous couple were asleep together, but separated. Hermione kept to her side, wishing through tears that Draco would move closer, and Draco kept to his, wishing she would at least turn to him.
"I love you," he whispered, but Hermione couldn't speak through her tears. Nothing more was said, and neither moved an inch, the night dragging as if it enjoyed their misery.
A/N shorter, I know, but it's still like 3,000 words. That's better than the first chapter, I have to admit. This marks the end of my second composition notebook. My third is about halfway written as I finish this, and I'll continue working on it until its' through before I type it. Wow it's hard to type in gloves....hehe
PRF
S-Star - I was wondering where you went! I thought you'd abandoned me! Thank you for being a loyal reader and...well, reading. I really appreciate it. And it's okay if you don't review every chapter. I totally understand how much of a hassle it is. Thanx again, and I'm glad you like it.
Karly- I emailed you my review of your story. It's really not that bad; there isn't enough yet for you to really show your creativity, though. Just keep writing, that's all I ask!
Carla - Haha, that's kinda cool. You've met Clara, haven't you Carla? Wow, I'm way too easily amused. Anyway... on to your PRF; I let them go to Seattle because I absolutely love it, and because Paris is so... overused. Romantic, but overused. Who goes to Seattle? Hardly anyone. THAT makes it romantic in it's own mysterious and subtle way, the solitude standing prominent above all other elements of romance, but you know what I mean.
Dreamer: Thanx, and will-do!
Heather- Thanx, and I always do!
Gwyn- I have good taste in men, I must say that about myself. And Draco is one fine man if I ever saw one... I am so incredibly jealous of Hermione, wow...it like, hurts. Haha.
Starry Skies - Fluff-4-eva! I just love the fluffy fluffiness of every story, and mine MUST include some! Hehe. We all love Seattle... what's not to love? Yes, Hermione IS sensitive and IS paranoid, but look at what she's dealing with here... I mean, how would you feel if your boyfriend started telling you that he had dreams of your demise? Wouldn't that make you cry a little too? Exactly. And all those other parts where she cries... I dunno, I cry a lot, and I sort of modeled her after me (personality wise) so I guess I just rubbed off. I tried to look at each situation as if I were her, then just wrote down my feelings, as in what I would feel like if it were happening to me.... or something. And don't worry; I LOVE your incessant rambling. I'll try to lighten up. Actually; I don't think she cries too much more, so your in luck, lol
Dark Vampire- who told you your story sucks? Your story most certainly does NOT suck, thank you very much. Now... thanx for reviewing and I'm glad you like it. I don't know where the family of house elves idea came from, but it's original and I like it. I mean, can't you just picture it? It's adorable. And Lucifer? Yes, I apologize for the evil name, and the fact that it sounds like they named their only son after their evil master (Lucius) but I simply adore the name Lucifer... I couldn't help myself. I should have had him have a cat or something named that, but oh well... I'm keeping it that way now.
Sakke Yuy - Ohayo miss Sakke! Thanx for your review, and yes I know Hermione cries a lot, but the main reason she does is so I could do that little 'Go ahead and cry if you want to, I've got all night' thing with Draco; I just loved that idea. Anyway, I like Draco in this perspective. It kinda makes you think twice about him, doesn't it? Maybe not, I'm not good at critiquing myself. And, in case you didn't see it at the top, Whize is pronounced like wise, as in wise guy...not wheeze as in 'his breathing was wheezy' Penny Whize, haha... that's funny. Stephen King rules, lol. Thanx for your praise, although I'm not sure if I deserve it! Thanx!
