Chapter Three
Next morning Hermione sat down to breakfast grumpy. She'd spent hours with Malfoy last night, going threw the ingredients and jotting down what was to be done to them, prior to the making of the potion. It was an incredibly complex brew, and would honestly take weeks. Hermione had said less than 10 words to Malfoy, and he even less to her. They were awkward around each other, but at least, Hermione thought he wasn't insulting her, that had to be a plus.
Still it would have been nice if they'd talked a little. Insults had to be better than the silence, the down cast eyes, and his mask like face. Hermione had been curt and short with him. Spitting instructions and not waiting for a reply. It was her way of dealing with what he had said earlier.
Not wanting to think of that yet again she hacked into eggs and bacon, attacking them much like Ron and Harry on a normal day.
" Evrting alsrigh mione?" Ron tried to ask kindly but it was difficult with runny egg yolk dripping out the side of his mouth.
Harry swallowed and asked more politely. "Everything alright Mione"
Hermione contemplated telling them what Malfoy has said and his coldness last night. But that would mean revealing what she had felt being with Malfoy and as close as she was to them, that was something she would never, ever reveal.
"Oh nothing I suppose. Just had a really crappy time with Malfoy and didn't get to bed till 1.00. I wanted to sleep in, since its Saturday but Lavender and Parvati had gotten up early to do Pilates or something. Then they started Bum squats right next to my bed. A very pleasant thing to wake up too" She rolled her eyes in their direction and the two giggled when they saw Harry and Ron glance over, Hermione blew a stray hair in annoyment, those two were soooo girly!
"Don't worry Mione, Hogsmeade today and than later tonight..."
"And then later tonight" she cut him off abruptly." I'll be working with Malfoy again!"
"Oh sorry" said Ron, wishing he hadn't said anything
"It's okay, sorry guys, I suppose I'll just have to get used to it!" she looked skyward and smiled at the blue soft clouds. "What a beautiful day! Hogsmeade will be so much fun!" Hermione mood improved dramatically.
"Ah little Ms Optimism are we?" Hermione froze at the sound of the familiar voice, by the look on both Harry and Ron's faces; it was obvious who it was.
Hermione turned around, praying for her temper to stay at bay, a fake smile on her face. "Malfoy. How can I help you?" She stared up at him, wishing she was standing.
"Well Mione "he mimicked. " Prof. Snape has requested we get buy some lizards kidneys, whilst in Hogmeade, so that means, a meeting! Yes?" he fained a look of absolute delight. "What fun we'll have" his voice was stone cold, telling truly what he felt.
"Oh whatever Malfoy, I'll meet you in Oxfam St at 2.00 okay? That will leave me plenty of time to shop with Harry and Ron" Hermione turned back to her breakfast, loving being the one to push Malfoy around, but he wasn't done.
"Shop Granger? I didn't know Hogsmeade catered for plus sizes!" He smirked at Ron and walked back to the delighted Slytherin table.
"His insults are truly getting worse." Said Hermione shaking her head.
Ron and Harry could not understand how she seemed so un affected by his words. Any other girl would have fled the hall crying, it seemed to puzzle Draco also, as he continued staring at Hermione, waiting for the tears to flow.
But Hermione was unaware of all the stares. She aloofly buttered her toast, making a mental check list of all the things she needed to buy in Hogmeade. At a quarter past nine large magical carriages appeared outside Hogwarts and the anxious students piled in.
"So Hermione" Started Ron, glancing at Harry hopefully. "We..." Harry glared at Ron. "Okay I was thinking we could start at Zonka's. Then we could move on the Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, then Zorbas and maybe a butter beer or two later we could." Ron's face grew downcast at Hermione's frown he knew she wasn't pleased with his suggestions.
"RON! Can't we ever go anywhere I like? Every single time we go to Hogsmeade my shops are always last, we usually don't even go because we run out of time! For once can we please start with my favourites, please Ron?" She looked hopefully up at him, he was now 6 foot, while Hermione stood at a respectable 5.7.
"Please "she asked widening her eyes.
"Hermione! Don't do the eyes and the little girly voice and the. and umm. "He looked nervously at Harry. " Alright! But no underwear shopping okay? That is definitely much too girly for us; stick with just clothes and books okay?"
Hermione nodded happily and quickly hugged Ron, for once a Hogsmeade trip she was truly excited about. The trio entered snowy hogsmeade around 10.00, icicles had formed on the carriage doors and Hermione had to perform a fire charm to melt the icicles away. She hurriedly rushed around; melting others doors open, until she reached Draco Malfoys. She saw him inside with Pansy, Blasé, Crabbe and Goyle. Crabbe was smoking and Pansy was applying a tenth layer of Passion Punch Lipstick. She giggled at Draco's pale skin; he must be freezing she thought. He noticed her and turned, motioning for her to open the door. She gave him a cheeky wink.
"See you at two Malfoy!" then she skipped off, her long hair swinging much to Malfoy's annoyance.
"Okay guys, let's shop!" said Hermione grabbing her friends hands and leading them towards her favourite store "Chapters BOOKSTORE". They pushed open the heavy oak door and let themselves into the quite interior. There were lanterns lit and the aroma of hot chocolate. Warm coloured couches were manoeuvred around the vast shells and a small tinkling bell announced their arrival. There were already a few Hogwarts students there keen to claim the comfiest couches. Most were Ravenclaws and Harry's heart sped up as he noticed Cho, perched delicately on a blue beanbag. She looked up at the sound of the bell and smiled at Harry, motioning him over. He pulled up a red beanbag, promptly falling into conversation. Ron looked slightly put out until he climbed the winding staircase at the back of the store. Above there was a great ruckus, however a silencing charm prevented the noise from floating downstairs. The Chudley Cannons were lecturing on Quiditch manoeuvres and Ron felt as if he had climbed the staircase to heaven. He took a seat, grabbed parchment and a quill from his bag and happily began taking hurried notes.
Hermione downstairs was browsing in the Advanced Potions section. Looking for a book to speed up the process of making a sleep potion. After failing to find such a book, she headed towards the fiction section, browsing aimlessly. One title caught her attention "The Forsyth Saga" it was set in 1930's England, but what intrigued her most was that it was set where her family owned a holiday house. It was beautiful countryside and Hermione had always been captivated by its beauty. She bought the book and decided to continue her shopping alone, the boys were obviously having a good time here. She interrupted Harry's conversation tentivly, not wishing to embarrass him. He nodded absently to what she said, but Hermione was certain he had forgotten before her hand touched the door.
Hermione continued her shopping at a Muggle clothes shop Dotty. She bought a denim skirt and a cute pastel pink t-shirt with "The Dog Ate My Homework" stamped across the front. They fitted her perfectly and she felt good in them. She wouldn't be able to wear them until summer, it was problay silly buying them now. Out of guilt Hermione bought a woollen white jumper, which clung to her body and kept her beautifully warm. Next Hermione went to the The Body Shop, a definite favourite of hers. Pansy and Blasé were there, no surprises in the make up section, Blasé pondering on whether or not to buy water proof mascara, Hermione sincerely hoped she would.
Hermione loved this shop, but knew not to stay too long; she always bought far too much here. Browsing through the milk bath products she could not resist buying a milky bath lotion and a small tube of Nut Butter. Leaving before she spent all her money she rushed across the road and into a quaint jewellery store. It was tiny and musty, the whole place a tip. Although the jewellery was in tip top condition, shining luminously. Hermione knew it must be a wizarding store as rings and bracelets were hanging in midair above her head. Something caught Hermione's eye and she turned around quickly, catching sight of a beautiful Opal. It was set in an oval shape, hanging from a thin silver chain. It was delicate and feminine and so not Hermione, she fell in love with it instantly. Holding it against her skin it glowed warm and Hermione let out a gasp of surprise. Since when did rocks heat up at skin touch?
"Since my dear, they found their master" A small women approached Hermione, adorned in masses of jewels. She herself looked a glowing necklace, made up of every beautiful stone known to mankind. She eyes were white, a shiny brilliant white, like the glow of diamonds. She was incredibly short and fat and all her teeth were fakes, gold none the less.
"My dear, when one finds its jewel; they must not again be separated. That Opal is yours now, take it, and please no charge." She pushed a ringed hand at Hermione gently, urging her out of the shop.
"But. I don't. understand!" Hermione spluttered, clutching the opal.
"My dearest, few come in here without buying anything. But fewer come in here without buying anything, but leave with something. It is very rare but occasionally a lady will come in and a piece will shine for her, it must be hers. You are one of the lucky few; your jewel will make you more beautiful, to others and to yourself. Your magic will improve, but only through confidence. The jewel, this opal it yours, was made for you, has for ever been waiting for you. With it, you will be a far greater person. Now go my dear, leave now and do not return to this shop. Do not speak of how you acquired your jewel. Can you imagine the outrage if ladies were to find out I randomly gave out precious stones? No me lass, leave now, keep it safe, keep it secret"
Hermione slipped the thin chain around her neck and left the shop for the snowy streets of Hogsmeade. Glancing at her watch, she realised it was almost time to meet Malfoy. The thought did not scare her; perhaps the stone seriously did improve her confidence? Impossible thought Hermione, she was never one to believe a fairy tale. She'd hardly even believed in Santa Claus when she was a child. Hermione swung her bags as she walked, her black shoes soon becoming wet and slippery. Everyone seemed to be indoors, sensible of them, the weather had turned ghastly! It was only a few short streets to the Potions Shop, but those few streets took Hermione forever in the thick snow. When she finally reached the shop it was 2.20 and she was surprised to see Malfoy still waiting. She thought he would have left ages ago and she would be left to buy all the ingredients. He saw her coming and opened the door, thankfully she rushed forward. She didn't notice the wet puddle near the door, and predictably slipped and slid on the wet concrete. She fell into the shop, breaking two glass viles near the door. They smashed loudly and everyone turned towards her. Shaking their heads at the clumsy girl.
"Bloody Mudblood' she heard Malfoy mutter and she turned fiery eyes on him.
"Excuse me, what did you say? I think I missed it, what with nearly killing myself!"
She knew she was overreacting, but she was tired. Tired from the walk, confused by the old women and her jewels and embarrassed about her slip, it was so classic of her! Malfoy grabbed her arm and led her toward the back of the shop.
"Be quite would you!" he spoke in a hushed whisper." Don't embarrass me again, we'll get our stuff and then go our separate ways. You're too much trouble!"
She nodded glumly and he hurriedly walked off, collecting different items from the stocked shelves. They met at the counter and stood in line. Malfoy looked utterly bored, while Hermione was shivering slightly; the wet had gone straight to her bones. They approached the counter and paid for the supplies with school money. Hermione turned to leave.
"Excuse me, Miss?" the shop owner was staring down at Hermione, his black furrowed eyes glaring. "And the other stuff? The potions you broke? They'll be an extra $50" he held out his hand expectantly.
"What? I have to pay for those? But it was an accident! I don't have $50!" she could hear the whine in her voice but all she wanted to do was get home and crawl into bed.
"Well you can stay here and make another two then young lady. Are you a Hogwarts student?" he glanced at her clothes "I'll be contacting the school about you, they'll be most displeased"
Hermione could feel the tears building, but she blinked them back angrily, she would never let Malfoy see her cry.
"Please sir; there will be no need for all of that. I have the money here; it was an accident as I'm sure you could see. She's very sorry, look, I'll give you an extra $20, and how does that sound?" Malfoy was being most polite to the owner, and he smiled warmly, a smile Hermione had never seen. The owner looked pleased and snatched the money with a thankful nod at Malfoy and a glare towards Hermione.
"You should teach ya girl some manners young lad. It wont do to have a young lady acting like she does!" he was staring at Hermione but she kept her head bent, knowing if she looked up she would surely explode.
"And you can be sure I will kind sir. Thankyou again." He reached for Hermione's arm gently leading her out." Come along then Hermione" he kept up his polite act till they were long outside the shop, then he pushed her roughly away from him.
"You bloody stupid bitch, you know he's in with the Dark Lord?" he shook Hermione slightly, waiting for a reaction.
"Oh and you'd know wouldn't you!" She spat back angrily, she of course hadn't known about the man.
"What is that supposed to mean?" he asked questionably.
She shrugged stupidly and scuffed her toe into the snow; she wouldn't ever say it to his face, especially not now, with him so angry. She shivered involuntarily and he sighed, all anger leaving him.
"You better get back to Hogwarts, walk quickly, it's getting dark" He shrugged his cloak off and placed it roughly in her hands.
"Take this" he turned without a backward glance and disappeared again into the shop.
Next morning Hermione sat down to breakfast grumpy. She'd spent hours with Malfoy last night, going threw the ingredients and jotting down what was to be done to them, prior to the making of the potion. It was an incredibly complex brew, and would honestly take weeks. Hermione had said less than 10 words to Malfoy, and he even less to her. They were awkward around each other, but at least, Hermione thought he wasn't insulting her, that had to be a plus.
Still it would have been nice if they'd talked a little. Insults had to be better than the silence, the down cast eyes, and his mask like face. Hermione had been curt and short with him. Spitting instructions and not waiting for a reply. It was her way of dealing with what he had said earlier.
Not wanting to think of that yet again she hacked into eggs and bacon, attacking them much like Ron and Harry on a normal day.
" Evrting alsrigh mione?" Ron tried to ask kindly but it was difficult with runny egg yolk dripping out the side of his mouth.
Harry swallowed and asked more politely. "Everything alright Mione"
Hermione contemplated telling them what Malfoy has said and his coldness last night. But that would mean revealing what she had felt being with Malfoy and as close as she was to them, that was something she would never, ever reveal.
"Oh nothing I suppose. Just had a really crappy time with Malfoy and didn't get to bed till 1.00. I wanted to sleep in, since its Saturday but Lavender and Parvati had gotten up early to do Pilates or something. Then they started Bum squats right next to my bed. A very pleasant thing to wake up too" She rolled her eyes in their direction and the two giggled when they saw Harry and Ron glance over, Hermione blew a stray hair in annoyment, those two were soooo girly!
"Don't worry Mione, Hogsmeade today and than later tonight..."
"And then later tonight" she cut him off abruptly." I'll be working with Malfoy again!"
"Oh sorry" said Ron, wishing he hadn't said anything
"It's okay, sorry guys, I suppose I'll just have to get used to it!" she looked skyward and smiled at the blue soft clouds. "What a beautiful day! Hogsmeade will be so much fun!" Hermione mood improved dramatically.
"Ah little Ms Optimism are we?" Hermione froze at the sound of the familiar voice, by the look on both Harry and Ron's faces; it was obvious who it was.
Hermione turned around, praying for her temper to stay at bay, a fake smile on her face. "Malfoy. How can I help you?" She stared up at him, wishing she was standing.
"Well Mione "he mimicked. " Prof. Snape has requested we get buy some lizards kidneys, whilst in Hogmeade, so that means, a meeting! Yes?" he fained a look of absolute delight. "What fun we'll have" his voice was stone cold, telling truly what he felt.
"Oh whatever Malfoy, I'll meet you in Oxfam St at 2.00 okay? That will leave me plenty of time to shop with Harry and Ron" Hermione turned back to her breakfast, loving being the one to push Malfoy around, but he wasn't done.
"Shop Granger? I didn't know Hogsmeade catered for plus sizes!" He smirked at Ron and walked back to the delighted Slytherin table.
"His insults are truly getting worse." Said Hermione shaking her head.
Ron and Harry could not understand how she seemed so un affected by his words. Any other girl would have fled the hall crying, it seemed to puzzle Draco also, as he continued staring at Hermione, waiting for the tears to flow.
But Hermione was unaware of all the stares. She aloofly buttered her toast, making a mental check list of all the things she needed to buy in Hogmeade. At a quarter past nine large magical carriages appeared outside Hogwarts and the anxious students piled in.
"So Hermione" Started Ron, glancing at Harry hopefully. "We..." Harry glared at Ron. "Okay I was thinking we could start at Zonka's. Then we could move on the Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes, then Zorbas and maybe a butter beer or two later we could." Ron's face grew downcast at Hermione's frown he knew she wasn't pleased with his suggestions.
"RON! Can't we ever go anywhere I like? Every single time we go to Hogsmeade my shops are always last, we usually don't even go because we run out of time! For once can we please start with my favourites, please Ron?" She looked hopefully up at him, he was now 6 foot, while Hermione stood at a respectable 5.7.
"Please "she asked widening her eyes.
"Hermione! Don't do the eyes and the little girly voice and the. and umm. "He looked nervously at Harry. " Alright! But no underwear shopping okay? That is definitely much too girly for us; stick with just clothes and books okay?"
Hermione nodded happily and quickly hugged Ron, for once a Hogsmeade trip she was truly excited about. The trio entered snowy hogsmeade around 10.00, icicles had formed on the carriage doors and Hermione had to perform a fire charm to melt the icicles away. She hurriedly rushed around; melting others doors open, until she reached Draco Malfoys. She saw him inside with Pansy, Blasé, Crabbe and Goyle. Crabbe was smoking and Pansy was applying a tenth layer of Passion Punch Lipstick. She giggled at Draco's pale skin; he must be freezing she thought. He noticed her and turned, motioning for her to open the door. She gave him a cheeky wink.
"See you at two Malfoy!" then she skipped off, her long hair swinging much to Malfoy's annoyance.
"Okay guys, let's shop!" said Hermione grabbing her friends hands and leading them towards her favourite store "Chapters BOOKSTORE". They pushed open the heavy oak door and let themselves into the quite interior. There were lanterns lit and the aroma of hot chocolate. Warm coloured couches were manoeuvred around the vast shells and a small tinkling bell announced their arrival. There were already a few Hogwarts students there keen to claim the comfiest couches. Most were Ravenclaws and Harry's heart sped up as he noticed Cho, perched delicately on a blue beanbag. She looked up at the sound of the bell and smiled at Harry, motioning him over. He pulled up a red beanbag, promptly falling into conversation. Ron looked slightly put out until he climbed the winding staircase at the back of the store. Above there was a great ruckus, however a silencing charm prevented the noise from floating downstairs. The Chudley Cannons were lecturing on Quiditch manoeuvres and Ron felt as if he had climbed the staircase to heaven. He took a seat, grabbed parchment and a quill from his bag and happily began taking hurried notes.
Hermione downstairs was browsing in the Advanced Potions section. Looking for a book to speed up the process of making a sleep potion. After failing to find such a book, she headed towards the fiction section, browsing aimlessly. One title caught her attention "The Forsyth Saga" it was set in 1930's England, but what intrigued her most was that it was set where her family owned a holiday house. It was beautiful countryside and Hermione had always been captivated by its beauty. She bought the book and decided to continue her shopping alone, the boys were obviously having a good time here. She interrupted Harry's conversation tentivly, not wishing to embarrass him. He nodded absently to what she said, but Hermione was certain he had forgotten before her hand touched the door.
Hermione continued her shopping at a Muggle clothes shop Dotty. She bought a denim skirt and a cute pastel pink t-shirt with "The Dog Ate My Homework" stamped across the front. They fitted her perfectly and she felt good in them. She wouldn't be able to wear them until summer, it was problay silly buying them now. Out of guilt Hermione bought a woollen white jumper, which clung to her body and kept her beautifully warm. Next Hermione went to the The Body Shop, a definite favourite of hers. Pansy and Blasé were there, no surprises in the make up section, Blasé pondering on whether or not to buy water proof mascara, Hermione sincerely hoped she would.
Hermione loved this shop, but knew not to stay too long; she always bought far too much here. Browsing through the milk bath products she could not resist buying a milky bath lotion and a small tube of Nut Butter. Leaving before she spent all her money she rushed across the road and into a quaint jewellery store. It was tiny and musty, the whole place a tip. Although the jewellery was in tip top condition, shining luminously. Hermione knew it must be a wizarding store as rings and bracelets were hanging in midair above her head. Something caught Hermione's eye and she turned around quickly, catching sight of a beautiful Opal. It was set in an oval shape, hanging from a thin silver chain. It was delicate and feminine and so not Hermione, she fell in love with it instantly. Holding it against her skin it glowed warm and Hermione let out a gasp of surprise. Since when did rocks heat up at skin touch?
"Since my dear, they found their master" A small women approached Hermione, adorned in masses of jewels. She herself looked a glowing necklace, made up of every beautiful stone known to mankind. She eyes were white, a shiny brilliant white, like the glow of diamonds. She was incredibly short and fat and all her teeth were fakes, gold none the less.
"My dear, when one finds its jewel; they must not again be separated. That Opal is yours now, take it, and please no charge." She pushed a ringed hand at Hermione gently, urging her out of the shop.
"But. I don't. understand!" Hermione spluttered, clutching the opal.
"My dearest, few come in here without buying anything. But fewer come in here without buying anything, but leave with something. It is very rare but occasionally a lady will come in and a piece will shine for her, it must be hers. You are one of the lucky few; your jewel will make you more beautiful, to others and to yourself. Your magic will improve, but only through confidence. The jewel, this opal it yours, was made for you, has for ever been waiting for you. With it, you will be a far greater person. Now go my dear, leave now and do not return to this shop. Do not speak of how you acquired your jewel. Can you imagine the outrage if ladies were to find out I randomly gave out precious stones? No me lass, leave now, keep it safe, keep it secret"
Hermione slipped the thin chain around her neck and left the shop for the snowy streets of Hogsmeade. Glancing at her watch, she realised it was almost time to meet Malfoy. The thought did not scare her; perhaps the stone seriously did improve her confidence? Impossible thought Hermione, she was never one to believe a fairy tale. She'd hardly even believed in Santa Claus when she was a child. Hermione swung her bags as she walked, her black shoes soon becoming wet and slippery. Everyone seemed to be indoors, sensible of them, the weather had turned ghastly! It was only a few short streets to the Potions Shop, but those few streets took Hermione forever in the thick snow. When she finally reached the shop it was 2.20 and she was surprised to see Malfoy still waiting. She thought he would have left ages ago and she would be left to buy all the ingredients. He saw her coming and opened the door, thankfully she rushed forward. She didn't notice the wet puddle near the door, and predictably slipped and slid on the wet concrete. She fell into the shop, breaking two glass viles near the door. They smashed loudly and everyone turned towards her. Shaking their heads at the clumsy girl.
"Bloody Mudblood' she heard Malfoy mutter and she turned fiery eyes on him.
"Excuse me, what did you say? I think I missed it, what with nearly killing myself!"
She knew she was overreacting, but she was tired. Tired from the walk, confused by the old women and her jewels and embarrassed about her slip, it was so classic of her! Malfoy grabbed her arm and led her toward the back of the shop.
"Be quite would you!" he spoke in a hushed whisper." Don't embarrass me again, we'll get our stuff and then go our separate ways. You're too much trouble!"
She nodded glumly and he hurriedly walked off, collecting different items from the stocked shelves. They met at the counter and stood in line. Malfoy looked utterly bored, while Hermione was shivering slightly; the wet had gone straight to her bones. They approached the counter and paid for the supplies with school money. Hermione turned to leave.
"Excuse me, Miss?" the shop owner was staring down at Hermione, his black furrowed eyes glaring. "And the other stuff? The potions you broke? They'll be an extra $50" he held out his hand expectantly.
"What? I have to pay for those? But it was an accident! I don't have $50!" she could hear the whine in her voice but all she wanted to do was get home and crawl into bed.
"Well you can stay here and make another two then young lady. Are you a Hogwarts student?" he glanced at her clothes "I'll be contacting the school about you, they'll be most displeased"
Hermione could feel the tears building, but she blinked them back angrily, she would never let Malfoy see her cry.
"Please sir; there will be no need for all of that. I have the money here; it was an accident as I'm sure you could see. She's very sorry, look, I'll give you an extra $20, and how does that sound?" Malfoy was being most polite to the owner, and he smiled warmly, a smile Hermione had never seen. The owner looked pleased and snatched the money with a thankful nod at Malfoy and a glare towards Hermione.
"You should teach ya girl some manners young lad. It wont do to have a young lady acting like she does!" he was staring at Hermione but she kept her head bent, knowing if she looked up she would surely explode.
"And you can be sure I will kind sir. Thankyou again." He reached for Hermione's arm gently leading her out." Come along then Hermione" he kept up his polite act till they were long outside the shop, then he pushed her roughly away from him.
"You bloody stupid bitch, you know he's in with the Dark Lord?" he shook Hermione slightly, waiting for a reaction.
"Oh and you'd know wouldn't you!" She spat back angrily, she of course hadn't known about the man.
"What is that supposed to mean?" he asked questionably.
She shrugged stupidly and scuffed her toe into the snow; she wouldn't ever say it to his face, especially not now, with him so angry. She shivered involuntarily and he sighed, all anger leaving him.
"You better get back to Hogwarts, walk quickly, it's getting dark" He shrugged his cloak off and placed it roughly in her hands.
"Take this" he turned without a backward glance and disappeared again into the shop.