Author: Pippin
Rating: This Chapter is PG-13 but the R will kick in later in the later Chapters. I'm still working on that.
Pairings: Obvious. Virginia Weasley and Draco Malfoy.
Summary: Virginia Weasley is just a normal teenager, going through what all teenagers go through. She's at Hogwarts again for another year of school and it's her sixth. She has close relationships with her friends but can that all change? Will she feel the same all at the end of the year or will this year change her life? Make a new path for her unsure future? Will this all change when a certain Silver haired boy comes into the picture? Read to find out and not exactly a happy ending.
Note: Story is written through Virginia Weasley's eyes.
Authors Note: HELLO EVERYONE!! Well there weren't any reviews for the last chapter but here is the next Chapter of the story. Enjoy!! *Notices that I'm not speaking much...*
******************
A Struggle for Love
Chapter Seven - Resisting Temptations is not that hard
I woke up early before any of the other girls. I groaned as I felt my eyes flutter open with the little strength I had in me so early in the morning. My eyes took a few moments to adjust to the early morning light that slightly seeped through the medium thick velvet red curtains that all Gryffindor Girls dorm rooms possessed. I wasn't sure about the boys dorm rooms but the curtains seemed darker for their rooms as it looked as though some dressed in the dark. I looked at my small bedside table to see the little red clock of mine sitting on the cherry woods surface. It was six thirty in the morning and I couldn't have woken a moment too soon. I sat up in my bed and the covers moved with my movements. I stretched my legs out as I yawned. Today was looking good with lots of promise. It was the first day back. First day of class. Now in my sixth year, is everything going to be different? I sighed as I swung my legs over the edge of my bed. As my feet touched the smooth surface of the floor, I felt a jolt of energy surge through me. I rolled my head around messaging the muscles that my neck had. My neck seemed stiff. I rolled it to one side and then to the other side trying to relax the muscles. I heard a crack and that's all I needed to hear for me to stop.
"Ow," I said silently rubbing my neck.
I stood up and my nightgown fled down near my ankles. I don't know why I still wore nightgowns, I just did. I always wore nightgowns to my ankles, keeping my body very well hidden not that boys in the house saw what I slept in. I just felt comfortable sleeping in nightgowns that covered my body and my arms. In summer though, I usually just wore a negligee that came up to my knees and had no sleeves. Everyone in my room always asked me constant questions about my sleep wear. I always just gave a wave of my hand saying I couldn't care less.
I rubbed my eyes a bit more trying to get as much sleep out of the corners as I could. I walked over to where my trunk sat on one of the chairs in the room by my bed. It was open from my previous ransack through it's contents. My Gryffindor tie hung on the edge. I picked it up and chucked it onto my bed. I then went rummaging through the trunk looking for a clean uniform. I found one and pulled it out. I took out my usual white blouse, gray knee length skirt, my white knee high socks and my undergarments. I placed each of the items in my arms carefully so I didn't crease the blouse or skirt, even though I could just say a simple spell and take the creases out. I was still yawning. Even though my body felt energised, my body showed different. It was like two different systems which was very weird. My eyes watered slightly from my yawn. I couldn't wipe it away as my hands were full with my clothing for the day so instead, I blinked the water away so my vision wasn't so blurry.
I walked out of the bedroom and walked down the little pathway that lead to the bathroom that all the girls shared. I opened the door and saw it empty but I wasn't expecting anyone any way. It was still early. I walked in and placed my clothes on the counter. I looked around and the bathroom still remained the same from when I started going to Hogwarts. The bathroom was still it's pearly white. It had golden taps for the sink and also the shower. There was a rack that was quite long that held towels for the girl occupants of Gryffindor. They were maroon and had, Gryffindor Girls, sowed into them in a gold thread that shimmered against the maroon colour of the Gryffindor house. It also had the Gryffindor emblem sowed into them in the middle. It was medium sized. My eyes roamed to the cabinets that held different shampoo's and soaps. I sighed heavily. It was great to be back.
I walked over to the towel rack and picked up a towel and then walked back over to the sink. I placed the towel over my left arm while I picked up my clothes with my right arm. Then I walked over to one of the many showers stalls and opened it. There was a little bench that sat right next to the door. I placed my clothes down along with my towel onto of it to keep it dry when I showered just in case I did manage to splash some water in the direction of my clothes. I then walked back out and went over to the cabinet that held the shampoo's and soaps and knelt down in front of it. I opened the doors and saw the various types of shampoo's and soaps on the shelves the cabinet possessed. I picked any one out. They all usually smelt nice. I pick out a bar of soap and then stood up holding the contents within my small hands. I closed the cabinet doors with a small light kick of my foot. The doors shut and made a click sound.
Afterwards, I walked back over to my shower stall and entered. I closed the door and slid the little lock into place. I then removed my nightgown by lifting it up and over my head. I folded my nightgown up and placed it under my towel and on top of my school uniform. I then removed my underwear and placed that aside too. When I had removed my last article of clothing, I moved over to the shower taps and the shower head.
I loved warm showers in the morning. I turned the hot water on first to get the hot water running. I then turned the cold one on when I felt the water heating up. I turned the cold shower tap slowly letting the cold water ease it's way through the now lukewarm water. The I looked up at the shower head and felt its drops of water splash down onto my face. It felt so good. I closed my eyes and lifted my hand that was on the hot water shower tap. I held it out in front of me letting the water hit my hand. My skin took the wetness of the water all the way through my body. After the water started to get a little bit hotter than I preferred, I turned the cold shower tap a little bit more.
I turned around so the water could touch my back. I could feel the water slip down my back, down to my thighs and then the back of my legs. I shivered feeling the water move over my body. My head leaned back automatically and the water soaked my hair. When my hair sucked up all the water the shower head was feeding it, it felt heavier than usual but that was the price for having long hair. I ran my fingers through my hair to smooth it out with the water still wetting it. The water was good and I felt more awake know. Ready for the new day and the first day back at classes. I was glad I woke up earlier than everyone else did and had the first shower of the day. It was quiet and peaceful in the bathroom with out the chatter of Gryffindor girls not that I didn't care.
After a while of spending some time wetting myself with the water and letting my body loosen and relax with the water gently lashing out onto my skin, I picked up the shampoo and placed some into the palm of my hand. I then started to rub the contents gently into my hair making sure I got every strand of my ruby locks. I rubbed it into my hair till it was a rich lather of foam and then I washed it out. I felt the foam rushing down my back and down my legs. I shifted about trying to wash all of the foam out. Afterwards, I grabbed the bar of soap and started to soap my body.
When I finished cleaning my body, I rinsed myself thoroughly and then turned the shower taps off. When the water stopped and my skin was no longer in contact with it, I shivered again. I stood there for a while letting myself drip uncontrollably. My hair felt more heavier than before. I tilted my head to one side and felt my hair rush to the side my head was tilting at. I grabbed my hair into my hands and started to wring the water out as much as I can. When I did this, I could hear the water hit the ground beneath me with loud cracks.
I then walked over to my towel and picked it up quickly so I didn't drip as much on my uniform. I dried myself and then bent over with my hair rushing to the front of me. I got the towel and placed it around my head and the twisted the towel together with my ruby hair. I then flipped it up and started to dress. I put my undergarments on first and then slipped into my skirt. Then I put my arms through my white blouse when I realised that I forgot my gray vest. Pushing that thought aside seeing I'll put it on once I get back to my room along with my tie, I buttoned up the buttons into their respectful places and then picked up my nightgown and underwear. I put the clothes on one of my arms and then I picked up the shampoo and soap. I unlocked the door and used my knee to open it. Then I just realised about my socks. I was walking around the Gryffindor girls bathroom barefooted which was very unlike me. I then remembered I left my socks on my bed on top of my tie.
I shrugged my shoulders as I walked over to the sink to place my clothes down for a moment till I packed away the shampoo and soap. I knelt down in front of the cabinet and opened the little doors. I placed the shampoo back where I had found it and then grabbed an empty soap container and placed the slippery soap into it. It nearly did slip out of my hands but luckily it didn't slip out successfully. I closed the container and it made a small click. My hands were all soapy from the soap but the foam didn't go all over the container. The container was resistant to water and foam. Every year when you pick out your soap you'd place it into a container, say your name and then a password in which you only knew so only you could use the soap. This was to ensure we didn't share the body soaps and there was enough for everyone.
The container I chose was a black one. I always chose the black soap container for some strange reason. It must of been seeing that there was only one black container. The rest were either maroon or gold. There was always one black and each year, I had been lucky enough to get the black one.
"Virginia Weasley!" I said clearly. Even though everyone knew me as Ginny, I knew they would all know who Virginia was. I liked using my name and it looked good when written down. I watched as my name started to magically appear in a shining gold colour. The curves of the writing made my name stand out. I smiled and then thought of a password for my container. Once it was set, it was set for the whole year.
"Fairy dust!," I said clearly and I heard another little click and I knew that the password had been set. I don't know why I picked a password like that but I did. It really didn't matter to me what the password was. I knew no one would guess that.
I placed the container back on the shelf and the stood up my hands still wet and slippery with the soap. I only did notice then it smelt of roses. I don't know why I didn't notice earlier when I was smothering my body with this scent. I just held my foamy hands out to avoid it getting onto my blouse and shut the cabinet doors with my foot again. I heard the click when I started to walk towards the sink. I turned the tap and cold water came rushing out. I dipped my hands under the rushing water and let the foam be washed away. It didn't take long to remove all the foam off of my hands. With the pressure of the water and the movements of my hands, it only took a minute. I turned the tap off and wiped my hands on the towel that was still wrapped around my head and held my ruby red hair in place.
I picked up my clothes and headed towards the door. I opened it and exited the bathroom feeling refreshed and new. I walked down the little hallway till I reached my sixth year dorm. I opened the door to find that my room mates were still sleeping. I entered as quietly as I could and closed the door quietly so I didn't wake them up. I know they would have to get up sooner or later but seeing it was still early in the morning and their morning moods, it was better later. I tiptoed back to my bed and placed my nightgown down on my bed. I saw my socks laying there ready to be placed on my body as part of my uniform. I sat on the edge of my bed and grabbed one of the socks.
I placed my left foot into the sock and rolled the sock up till it reached just below my knees. Even though I knew they were knee high socks, they came just a little bit under my knees which was lucky seeing my knees just touched the top of my knees. There was a good portion of my flesh shown. Only my knee cap could be seen if any one wanted to look at my legs even though I don't know why they would. I did the same process of my right leg. Then I stood up and walked over to where my black leather shoes were and I bent over to pick them up. I walked back over to my bed and sat down again. I undid the buckles on both shoes and slipped my feet into the right shoe. I did the buckle and the stood up again.
I went over to my trunk to find my gray vest. It didn't take that long. I chucked that article of clothing onto my bed and then leaned over to my bed and picked up my tie.
I walked to the little mirror that I room had. I did my tie and fixed my blouse. I then walked back over to my bed with my shoes lightly clicking on the wooden floor. I placed my vest on and then started on my hair. I took out a comb that was in the drawer of my bedside table. I combed my hair and little water droplets went everywhere. Today I decided to cover the part in the middle of my head. I used the comb to pull the front part of my hair back and I used some plain black pins to pin the hair into place. From combing my hair it turned straight for a few mere minutes before curling to its usual self. It was magical watching my curls slowly curl from the reflection in the mirror. When the curls turned normal, I took a quick once over my facial features and realised I forgot my lip gloss. I look at my lips and saw that they were a rosy red colour today. My usually soft pink lips were a rosy red colour.
"That's odd," I mumbled quietly to myself lifting my hand to touch my lips. They were soft like always. I took my fingers away from my lips and placed them back by my side. I blinked my eyes a few times before I realised that standing in front of the mirror looking at my reflection would look odd as I never took a second glance at myself.
Shaking my head, I smoothed out my vest for no apparent reason but just out of habit. I looked at my feet and saw them shuffle towards the bed. My hands as if on a set of strings, went to making my bed. I know that the elves would fix it but for some reason, I felt a little bit guilty. Plus it added to the fact that we didn't own any house elves and I was used to making my own bed. I fixed my bed reasonably well. Afterwards I heard a groan and noticed out of the corner of my eye that Charlotte woke up.
"Good morning," I whispered looking at her fidgeting in her bed.
"Uh," was the response. After a few more groans and a yawn, she asked, "What time is it?"
My eyes diverted from looking at Charlotte to the clock.
"It's seven thirty," I answered still in a low tone making sure I didn't wake any one else up. I heard Charlotte try to groan quietly but I could hear her still.
"What are you doing up so early?" she asked me slowly getting into a sitting position on her bed. I watched a little as she removed sleep from her eyes by grinding her clenched fists into the sockets of her eyes. Her hair was raffled in the morning like always.
"Nothing," I simply answered before adding, "I just woke up early."
Charlotte nodded her head slowly and another yawn escaped her lips.
"Does it smell like roses to you in here? Or is it just me?" she asked grumbling. She slowly rolled to the edge of the bed her arm hanging off it as she laid down again. Her chin rested on her white bed sheets, her eyes slowly opening and closing.
I smiled knowingly as I bit on my bottom lip.
"Uh, yeah it does smell like roses in here because of me. It's not only you," I said sitting on the edge of my bed and my hands laid in my lap together as I looked at Charlotte.
"Oh okay. It's a nice smell by the way," Charlotte said her eyes closing for a moment before opening again, "I better get ready eh?"
I nodded as I pressed my lips together in a small smile and my eyes too opened and closed.
"I'll meet you down in the Great Hall, okay?" I asked standing up and I ran my hands down my skirt to straighten it out.
"Yeah sure," Charlotte answered yawning.
I waved a quick bye and walked over to the door. Opening the door I heard several of moans and groans erupt in the room. The usual sounds of a Gryffindor Girl dorm upon waking. I turned before fully walking out to see Layla and Calixte roll about in their beds. I didn't even know they had came back last night but then again, I did fall straight into a deep sleep after talking to Charlotte.
Leaving the Girls dorms, I shut the door to my dorm softly. It made a small click of noise notifying me that it was locked into place. I walked down the little hallway quietly. Upon reaching the stairs that descended into the Gryffindor Common Room, I saw that lots of people were actually already up. I stopped at the top of the stairs to scan the room quickly to see if I knew any one. I did know a couple but I wasn't very close to them. I saw some First and Second years by the fire and the couch. I looked more and saw some Third years. Where is everyone? Is everyone in the upper level all still asleep? Oh come on! I rolled my eyes and then heard a chuckle. I turned to see the source of the noise. It came from the Boys dorm room stairs. My eyes connected with another pair of eyes.
"Morning Gin," it was Colin. I smiled.
"Morning Colin. How are you?" I asked starting onto one of the steps. My eyes never left his and my smile never faded away.
"I'm good thank you and yourself my dear friend?" Colin asked as he took the last step coming from the Boys dorms onto the landing I was previously on.
"I'm good. Did you have a good sleep?" I asked taking another few steps down the stairs.
"Sure did! It was wonderful! As soon as my head hit the pillow," Colin said demonstrating his point to me by pointing to his head and then tilting it to one side to say he was sleeping on his side, "I fell asleep!"
"That's great! Same happened for me," I said turning away from Colin this time to properly descend the stairs. When I reached the bottom, I waited for him.
"You want to go down to breakfast? Like I mean, everyone else will be there soon but at the moment... they're all just getting up from my side of the house," Colin said with a smile and I could tell he was slightly amused.
"Sure. I know, everyone is still fast asleep on the Girls side," I said laughing softly as I looked at him.
Colin motioned his hand in the direction we were going towards the portrait hole.
"After you," he said, bowing a little bit.
Giggling, I walked passed him and towards the portrait hole.
Colin and I made our way downstairs to the Great Hall. Colin was talking about something and I only picked up pieces of information here and there. I really wasn't in the mood to hear about brooms at that moment. I nodded my head now and then and I'd also look at him when I thought it was the right time. Other than that, my eyes roamed all around the halls we went down and through. I looked at the curious paintings that hung on the smooth walls of Hogwarts and I'd briefly think what their about. We were nearing the Great Hall when Colin finally picked up on the absence of my hearing. I must've nodded at the wrong time.
Colin stopped walking and I only noticed after I took a few steps after his still body. I whipped around quickly, my skirt swishing about near my knees. I think my eyes were popping out as I watched in shock at Colin laughing. I wanted to say something but the words just wouldn't form. Luckily he spoke first.
"You weren't listening to me, weren't you?" Colin asked, a look of amusement on his face finding out about me not listening.
"Um... Colin... I," I started. Why was this hard? All I had to do was say I wasn't listening, like he'd get mad at me! I hope not, "Okay, okay. I wasn't really paying attention. Sorry, must be too early in the morning but if you'd like to tell me some other time, when I'm listening and wide awake and fully functioning, I'll listen. Maybe after breakfast before class?" I suggested. I did feel bad for not listening. I'm usually not like this. What was wrong with today? And could anything else go wrong?
My cheeks must be some reddish-pink colour as they felt a little warmer than usual. My eyes blinked a couple of times and within that time, Colin walked closer to me.
"It's all right. I understand it about being too early in the morning. No don't worry about it. It was only about brooms!" Colin said slightly laughing. Lucky he did understand but I knew he would.
I could feel my lips position themselves into a weak smile.
"Thanks," I said.
I looked at Colin as his arm unglued itself from his side.
He turned me back around to the direction we were walking in, with the arm he removed by his side. He placed the arm over my shoulders and held me close to him for a little while as we started walking. I could feel him shake my shoulders and then he released them with one last pat on my right shoulder. I could feel his arm drop back by his side as it brushed against my left arm. I smiled as I walked with him to the Great Hall without another word.
Colin opened the doors to the Great Hall for the both of us to enter through. We both stood there looking at the people already in the Great Hall. I looked at my right side first and saw some Ravenclaw's, some Hufflepuffs, there was Hermione sitting at the Gryffindor table and then there was the Slytherin table. There was only one person occupying the table and that was Draco Malfoy.
He had his head bent over a piece of parchment and I saw his quill move forwards and backwards on the parchment. Its feather waving in the air. He looked busy with his piece of parchment. I looked and noticed that he was dressed in his usual self. His silver hair hung down covering his steely grey eyes.
When I realised my staring at Malfoy was odd, I tore my eyes way and looked straight ahead to the High table . There were no Professors there yet. I felt a soft nudge on my left side. I turned my eyes and they met up with Colin's.
"Let's eat," he said motioning to our house table.
I could only nod my head. We made our way to our table and I slid the chair out so I could sit down. That was when I felt a pair of intense eyes look at me. I knew perfectly well they belonged to Malfoy. He had this eerie effect when he stared at you. You could always feel his gaze no matter what. It was some special effect he had on people. Like he always knew what you were up to and it was some warning that you were being watched. I hated the feeling.
I ignored his gaze, well actually more like, tried to ignore his gaze. When I was going to take my seat, I looked up at him. Our eyes clicked in an instant. It was his eyes I could feel on me. Malfoy sat over at his table, his quill held loosely in the palm of his hand, his hair got caught in his eyes but he made no motion to remove the thick strands of hair. I could still feel his heated gaze even if part of his eyes was hidden by his silver hair. I could feel my palms become sweaty and I was sure a pink tinge was shown on my cheeks.
"Ginny, are you going to sit down or what?" I heard the voice of Hermione say for the first time for the day.
My eyes diverted to the sitting figure that was Hermione. She sat there her teeth chewing her bottom lip. Her face looked concerned mixed with curiosity. Her forehead was bunched together like it was trying to avoid a headache or she was simply concentrating hard. Her big brown eyes shone with kindness. My eyes stayed glued to the seventh year Gryffindor girl who happened to be Head Girl. Along side with Malfoy, the Head Boy. I gulped and I didn't even notice my rude staring at Hermione. It took Hermione to shift a bit in her seat to bring me out of my thoughts.
"Oh I'm sorry Hermione," I said finally taking a seat. That was embarrassing. Why did I do that? I stared at Hermione again and I was sure a even more pink colour was seeping out of my cheeks.
"That's quite all right Gin. Forget about it. How are you?" she asked me turning back to her work. She set the quill down and started to pick up the pieces of parchment.
"I'm good thank you and yourself?" I asked being polite. I looked over at Colin quickly to see him already start on breakfast. He was picking at some scrambled eggs with his fork.
"Don't ask," Hermione answered me with a grunt of annoyance. I turned my attention back to her.
"Oh," I simply said, not understanding what was going on.
"Well, you see, I had to come down early this morning to start work on Halloween and I didn't get enough rest last night with Harry and Ron telling me precautions when around the Head Boy," she said sighing slightly but the way she mentioned 'Head Boy', you could clearly hear her hatred towards the boy.
I just sat there watching her pack everything away into her bag. She then turned to me trying to place a smile on her lips.
"You'll be okay Hermione. I know those boys can be too much at times but they are just trying to make sure nothing bad happens. They are just preventing it, that's all. You know how much my brother loves you and it shows everyday," I said smiling brightly trying to cheer Hogwarts Head Girl. At that moment I remembered about Malfoy and his little crush on Hermione. No wonder Ron went into hysterics last night in protecting his girlfriend.
"Yeah I know," she answered with a little defeated sigh as she stared at the table like she found it interesting, "I just don't know Gin. What if I can't handle this job? What if Malfoy does play some horrible trick on me and humiliates me in front of everyone? That would be terrible and I'd never be able to show my face again! What if he leads me into some Dark Art magic without me knowing? What if-"
"Stop with the 'What if's' please Hermione. You'll be fine. Come on, you know you can handle this job! You were born to do it!" I said smiling at the brown haired girl who seemed lost at this very moment which was very strange. I saw Hermione look up and smile weakly, her eyes big and frightful at the possibility of getting hurt, "you'll do your job brilliantly and you know it! Don't lie. You also know that you are very smart and can beat Malfoy any day!"
We both laughed slightly.
"You worried about Malfoy Herm?" Colin asked, joining our conversation. He leaned on me as he spoke. I could feel his hot breath brush my skin.
"Well..." Hermione said trailing off as she looked at the table.
"Herm?" I asked. I wasn't going to let Malfoy wreck one of the best witches in Hogwarts of all time. I felt proud actually knowing her and knowing that my brother was dating her and I was his sister. Plus the fact of Hermione being my friend and she was not born to be put down by some arrogant, rich snob. No way. I normally don't like pushing people to their decisions but Hermione had to be shown she was fit for the job.
She looked up her brown eyes still holding fear. My eyes locked onto her. It looked as though we were trying to speak through our eyes. Hermione's eyes moved side to side frantically till she finally answered.
"No... not any more," Hermione said softly and slowly. What made this girl turn like this shocked me. Hermione scared of Malfoy? It's a miracle. Every time he was around she seemed strong and confident. Was it my brother and Harry who made her strong? Oh rubbish. It couldn't be. Hermione was strong all by herself and all she needed was to be shown this and I was going to be the one who did, hopefully.
"That's the way. Now say it more forcefully," I said.
She turned to me. The eyes that held fright only moments ago disappeared and was now filled with a little assurance and confidence. I watched as her face turned into a determined one.
"Your right. No, I'm not worried about Malfoy. I don't care about him!" Hermione said strongly as she nodded her head once.
"That's it Hermione. You know you can beat him."
I smiled and Colin did a little cheer. Hermione turned to her look at her plate. She said some words and the food magically appeared on her plate. I was meant to turn to look at my plate but instead my eyes fixed onto another pair of eyes. Malfoy's again. I sat there, stiff. Was he watching the whole scene? I dear hope not but then again if he did, good for him. He needed to know he wasn't all that scary. Yes he may have muscles and he may be strong but that didn't mean everyone had to be afraid of him.
We sat there. Our eyes having their own life and fighting against each other. What is with me lately? I'm not normally like this! Even so, I still had to stand my ground. Before turning away, seeing I didn't care if I did, I saw him smirk and his eyebrow pop up. Usually I wouldn't have given him the satisfaction of seeing me turn away but then again, I wouldn't have got myself involved into a staring competition with that idiot. I would've normally ignored the pair of eyes and act like I didn't notice them. Everything so far today is strange. What else could happen?
I turned to my plate quickly before letting a pink colour rise to my cheeks.
"Gin, eat!" Colin cried while he slapped my back playfully. My hair rushed forward from the little slap and touched the plate slightly, "Oh sorry about that!"
"It's all right Colin," I said looking at him, "Breakfasto - pronto!"
My plate filled with delicious food and I could feel my mouth water slightly. I didn't notice how hungry I was till I saw the food. Feeling like I was about to dribble, I picked up my fork and started to eat.
Breakfast passed quite quickly. I finished eating my breakfast and as soon as I did, Charlotte came down with Layla, Calixte, Harry, Ron and Amber. Ron took his seat immediately next to his girlfriend with Harry and Amber sitting across from the couple. Charlotte took her seat next to Amber which was directly in front of me and Layla and Calixte took the two seats next to her. Hugh sat himself next to Colin and they started their conversation.
Everyone was in the Great Hall a few minutes after some of the Gryffindor troop arrived. I sat and watched everyone eat. I joined some conversations here and there. Hermione was more happier and lively now that Ron and the rest were down in the Great Hall with us. Layla and Calixte were yawning while Charlotte talked to Amber.
This was it. I was always left out of everything. Yes, I would join the conversations now and then but I always felt out of place. I never felt out of place more than ever when eating down in the Great Hall with everyone. In a way I liked the feeling of being invisible at times but sometimes, I'd feel lonely and wonder why I deserved this treatment. Maybe it was me. The way I am. All I try to do is be friends with everyone. I just want to fit in. Is that a lot to ask for?
I excused myself after everyone started getting into their breakfast. They questioned where I was going and all but I didn't even know where myself.
"I just need to organise a few things before class," I finally said standing up and pushing my chair in, "I'll see you all later."
They all nodded their heads and then just continued to eat as if I said nothing. I looked at them all individually and then I started to make my way out of the Great Hall.
Where am I going? I don't even know the answer to that. Anywhere but the Great Hall I guess. I wandered through the Halls thinking about life. Life was truly amazing. I loved my life even when I was facing the hard times and going downhill. I loved my family and I loved my friends. I was in bliss living my life. I may not have the riches or the finer things in life but all that didn't matter to me. What mattered to me was that I was healthy and happy and everyone else around was too.
I walked all the way back up to Gryffindor Tower pondering these thoughts. I walked over to my room and got ready for classes. I got my old battered bag that was on the verge of falling apart at any second. It was basically hanging by the seams but with a little magic charm, my bag stayed together and was able to handle the weight of everything I put in it.
Sighing, I packed the things for class and then wrapped myself in my Hogwarts robe. It was old too, along with everything I own but hey, it still was good. As long as it served a purpose, it was good. I did up the clasp that closed the robe and it only showed a little of my uniform. I quickly ran a brush through my hair and then grabbed my bag.
I headed out of Gryffindor Tower, on my way to my first class. It was History of Magic with one of the most interesting but also boring Professors of all time. I walked slowly, taking each step with equal thought. Not that there was anything to think about walking. I walked down numerous staircases till I reached the room. I placed my bag down by my feet as I folded my arms waiting for class. I'd be waiting for a while but that didn't mattered.
I began to tap my foot on the cold stone floor softly. I looked around me and saw lots of cobwebs hanging in the darkest corners. What ever insects lurked those hidden spots, I didn't want to know about them. I didn't mind spiders as such but I just didn't like to know little facts about them. That would scare me more.
I wasn't as bad as Ron. I could stand there with those, 'creepy-good-for-nothing- insects', as my brother put would put it, by my feet and not move. I wouldn't squash them like Ron or run for my life. The way I saw it, was that insects deserve a life too even though butterflies only lived for a day or so, they deserve life. Everything and everyone did, even the meanest, cruelest animals and human beings did. I thought about being a butterfly and flying in the clear air living life freely. Away from all the chaos the world was possessed with as a birthright.
Flying away from pain, away from hunger, away from heartache and everything else hurtful. That would be wonderful. Something caught my eye and that was a figure. I turned to see Charlotte walking down the Hall to our class. Smiling and waving, I greeted her as usual even though I was just talking to her before.
"Hello," I said.
"Hi," Charlotte responded walking up to stand next to me, "Colin and Hugh are coming soon along with Layla and Calixte."
"Oh okay," I said nodding my head.
I saw Charlotte move her mouth to say something but at that very moment, a loud creak interrupted her from doing so. I turned to see the most hated Professor of all Hogwarts. Professor Snape stood solidly in the middle frame of the old wooden doors that were heavy to push but seemed easy seeing Professor Snape pushed them forcefully, that sent them flying wide open with no trouble.
I stared at the Professor wide eyes. What was he doing in Professor Binns classroom? He usually stayed in the dungeons where it was a few degrees colder than the entire school. However him being there was answered by the look on his face.
If looks could kill, Charlotte and me would be six feet under. Professor Snape was furious by the looks of it. His eyes were darker than usual and his pupils seemed like little black dots surrounded by the whiteness of the eye. His lips were formed into a think line and it looked like he didn't have lips at all. I had to swallow a handful of laughs that would've surely erupted if I didn't. Just seeing the Potions Master stand there looking madder than usual made me laugh. Maybe it was the way he was standing or the fact that he never seemed to be really happy which in reality, was really sad.
I could feel Charlotte inch closer to me while the Professor glared at us. Just when the Potions Master was about to say something, more like question or accuse us of something we didn't do, our faithful yet boring History Professor came floating into view. He looked cheerful as always with his ghostly appearance. Even though he was a ghost, he was nice, friendly and not to mention, boring.
"Hello there Miss. Weasley and Miss. Gray. How are you both young, lovely ladies? Early for my class I see," the ghost Professor commented, floating up and down beside Professor Snape.
I smiled looking at the Professor for his kind words. I was about to answer him politely till Professor Snape cut in front.
"Ah, yes, Miss. Weasley and Miss. Gray. How nice to see you both here and both early for you History class. Both of you's never turn up for my class early, why is that? Do you both love History and despise my subject Potions? Do you get better grades here than in my class and that is the only reason for favouring this class?" the Potions Master asked scornfully. He practically spat his words at us.
Do I despise his class? Answer to that, yes because of him. If he didn't act all hateful towards all Gryffindors such as myself, maybe I would enjoy the art of Potion making. Maybe if he didn't breath down my back and scare me half to death, I'd like the subject Potions. Or just maybe if he acted a bit more cheerful than his usual self and didn't say lots of snide remarks, I'd like Potions but no.
I didn't hate the Professor per say but I don't exactly like him either. To me he seemed evil and hateful but that was him and there was nothing I could do to change that. Even if I did gain the power to do so, I wouldn't cause then where would be the beloved Professor that most of the school detested and had fun picking on. Not that I did. I usually left him alone and had my own thoughts about the Potions Master.
My eyes felt like they were about to pop out from the remark made by the Professor. I forgot to breath due to shock but it wore off hearing the voice of the History Professor.
"Yes they are lovely Severus. Quite a delight to teach and ready and willing to learn everything and any thing new," the Professor said totally ignoring the hatred that was directed to us by the Potions Master.
How this Professor ignored or didn't notice the mean words, amazed me. I gulped as I saw Professor Snape's face twitch slightly. His eyebrow popped up surprised.
"They're not willing and never are ready to learn Potions," Professor Snape said low in a deathly tone as he stared me in square in the eyes, "Never mind."
The Potions Master stood there for a few moments recollecting his cold demeanour before he passed Charlotte and me. He walked swiftly, his pitch black robes bellowing behind him with each powerful stride he took. His head held high with his face its normal cruel self. He looked like he was on a war path to destruction and anyone on that path or in his way, beware.
I looked at Charlotte to see her just as shocked as me. Her mouth was hanging open and her eyes were wide with shock. I smiled weakly not knowing what to do. Just as I was about to say something to snap her out of her little faze, Professor Binns spoke up.
"Nice chap he is. Very good fellow. Always looking forward to the future," Professor Binns said sighing slightly, "Well come on in girls," he said floating back into the classroom.
Nice chap? Good fellow? Something is not right. No offensive but when has Professor Snape been a 'nice chap' or a 'good fellow'? I'm I misinformed? Oh well, it's not good to dwell on such things I have no understanding in. I shrugged my shoulders and turned to go into the classroom. I took a few steps when I felt Charlotte rush beside me. I felt her shoulder and arm brush against mine. She nudged me softly and I turned to look at her.
"What's up with him?" she asked whispering into my ear as we took our seats. Middle row, three seats from the left.
"With who?" I asked stupidly even though I knew who she meant. I looked at her face and it would've been the best camera pose. Her eyes were on the verge of popping out but they were held back by the attachments of her veins and other muscles.
I giggled softly as Charlotte's eyes inched outwards even more, if possible.
"I'm only kidding Charl!" I said still having little fits of laughter, "I know who you mean and no, I don't know and I don't ever want to know."
Charlotte hit my arm as she too took her seat.
"Ow," I said jokingly at her soft punch.
"Shut up Gin," Charlotte said defensively as she set out parchment and quills on her desk.
"Fine," I answered as I too got ready for class.
"I'm only kidding Gin," Charlotte said patting my shoulder.
I looked at her and smiled. I shrugged my shoulders and shook my head at her.
"Gin," she whined shaking my arm.
I just smiled at her as I placed my quill in my black ink bottle, ready and set.
"Fine be that way," Charlotte said crossing her arms over her chest. She leaned back in her chair as she turned her head the other way.
Laughing silently, I took a piece of parchment and started to scribble on it to waste time till class started. Professor Binns was setting up in front of the classroom. I knew Charlotte won't talk until after a while. Things like these never last. Not with us. After a few minutes of sitting there, scribbling on a piece of parchment and listening to the soft sounds of Charlotte's breathing, the rest of the class showed up. They all filed into the classroom, took their usual seats and then got ready for class. After everything was set, Professor Binns came floating back and he started the class. The first class of the new year at Hogwarts.
History of Magic passed quickly. Professor Binns ended up only getting half of the class's attention during one of his many, boring but factual lectures. Charlotte did attempt a few times of trying to talk to me but I ignored her fully making her more annoyed with me. When she did try, I'd turn to my notes and busy myself. She stopped trying after half an hour. Other than that, I took down the necessary notes and tried not to fall asleep during class.
As soon as class was dismissed, Charlotte bolted out of the doors not even bothering to wait for me. I didn't mind. I was used to walking to classes myself and only sometimes did I walk with my friends. The way I saw it, walking by myself helped me think of the previous class and what my next class was. It was like peace before an hour or so of learning one particular subject.
Everyone seemed to have the same idea as most of the class left as soon as the words, "Class dismissed", left the Professor's mouth.
I was taking long as usual to pack my things. Another reason why I didn't walk with my friends. They usually was packed up and ready to leave while I was still half way through packing. I often wonder why I take so long. I placed everything in my bag correctly before swinging it over my shoulder.
The class had left and so did the Professor. I was the last one left. My feet dragged towards the doors till I realised I had Transfiguration next with the house Hufflepuff.
Picking up my pace, I started to power walk down the halls not wanting to be late for class even though I was running late already.
I wasn't looking where I was going as I kept my head down. In between thinking about what would happen if I was late and walking at super-speed or as fast as my legs would take me, I bumped into something, more specific, someone. I looked up and again my eyes connect to something cruel and cold. Only one thing that could ever be, Draco Malfoy's eyes.
"Look where your going Weasley, that's the second time you've bumped into me. If you asked me, I'd say you need your eyes checked but then again, having poor parents, you can't afford it so I guess you'll have to make do with what you've got," Malfoy drawled fixing his robes. His teeth were showing and his eyes clearly showed annoyance. His silver hair hung down covering parts of his eyes but only a small portion and not enough to cover me from his view or cover my eyes from viewing his.
"As I remember it Malfoy, I never asked what you thought and nor will I ever. You think your all superior, don't you? Well your not," I spat out. I didn't want to waste time with little chitchat.
"I do think of myself highly, well more highly than you or your stupid Muggle-born loving family will ever be," he answered bearing more of his gleaming white teeth.
"At least I come from a loving family which is more than you can ever say about yours," I retorted, taking a step forward for some unknown reason.
"Harsh Weasley, really harsh. You hurt my heart with that so-called comeback," he mocked placing a hand over the left side of his chest as he too took a step forward.
"And why are you patting your so-called heart Malfoy? I didn't think you owned one," I said still locking eyes with him.
"Shows how dense you are then Weasley, doesn't it? Not only can't your family afford for medical checkups, along with everything else they can't afford but they seem that they can afford stupidity over basic needs. Your just like your brother and I pity you and your poor family," Malfoy snarled hatefully as his tone went lower and lower.
I really wanted to slap him and that's what I tried to do but he caught my hand in midair.
He gripped onto my wrist, cutting all blood movements to my hand totally off. I winced a bit in pain as he squeezed my wrist harder. I stared daggers at him even though I knew that would do nothing. Staring at him wasn't going to help me get out of this. My brow came together showing my pain to the outside world as it usually did when I was hurt. I could feel that my sense of touch in my fingers was dying slowly.
"Let go of me Malfoy," I spat dangerously at his face. Our eyes were locked on one another.
"You don't use this hand to ever and I mean, EVER hit a Malfoy. Especially me, understand Weasley?" he asked snarling. He totally ignored my comment as he dug his nails deeper into the flesh of my skin.
"Let go," I stated again with a yelp of pain. His nails would be drawing blood soon.
"No," he said slowly as he kept digging his nails into my living flesh.
I tried to remove my hand but his grip just tighten. I used my other hand to detach his strong hand grip on my wrist. It failed miserably.
Tears were springing to my eyes as he continued to hold a firm grasp on my wrist. I tried scratching his hand but as usual, my nails were cut. I held back my tears with all my power. I didn't want to show how vulnerable or weak I really was in front of Malfoy. You'd think that living with six brothers, two of which kept out of line, it would make me stronger or maybe even smarter but it didn't. It just taught me to stay out of my brother's ways. If Malfoy was to find out my vulnerability, he'd use it against me in every possible way and anytime he wanted to.
"Come on Weasley, show me what the little pip-squeak of the infamous Weasley family has got to prove to me, a Malfoy," Malfoy said in a low, dangerous tone as he forcefully pulled me closer to him. Closer to his body.
I felt my body come up against his. As soon as my body collided with his, I pulled back to put as much space as possible between us. His grip on my wrist never ceased or loosen.
Our eyes were still connected by an invisible thread of string. Tears were threatening to spill as his nails dug deeper. Soon there would be nothing left, if he kept going at this rate. I saw a smirk play at his lips and worked out this was some sick game of his and I wasn't going or willing to be a player, a vulnerable player at that.
There was only a small space separating us but both of our body's heat radiated from our bodies and mingled with on another. If I don't get out of this situation soon, I might not and it would be too late.
"Going to cry?" Malfoy asked smirking.
I swallowed my batch of tears as I stared at him.
"No," I said choking slightly on my tears.
He smiled evilly as he closed the gap between us and I tried to jump back but he sunk his nails deeper into my skin. I yelped in pain as he sadistically laughed at my pain that was inflicted by his hand.
I stood there, our bodies just touching, my eyes ready to spill, my hand dying slowly and Malfoy smirking at the whole scene.
"Your sick," I said in a low tone but loud enough for him to hear. He laughed.
"No, I'm not but you Weasley, are sad and poor," he said, "You can't even get out of this situation and I see only one way out."
I saw some evil smirk cover his face as his eyes showed mischief. It finally clicked what I had to do in order to get out of this and there was no way I was going to do that.
"Worked it out Weasley?" he asked digging deeper.
"Yes and no way I'm I going to do that," I said as I showed hints of pain and I yelped at the end.
"Oh really now," he said in a statement more than posing a question to me. He pressed his body to mine.
"No way in hell, Malfoy. Do you understand? Or are you too slow?" I asked him.
"And why not? Your in no position to say so," he said matter-of-factly. He ignored my comment of him not understanding and being too slow.
"You want to know why?" I asked. He nodded his head and I continued on, "Simply because there is no way you are going to tempt me into believing that, THAT is the only way out. Reason being is, resisting temptations is not that hard especially when they come from some piece of worthless trash as yourself."
Just when I thought all hell was going to break loose or me getting into a more sticky situation or before I passed out, I was saved.
"Gin what are you-" I heard a voice say as he paused and then his voice raised, "MALFOY!"
The voice of Daniel Ents, a sixth year Hufflepuff, classmate and boyfriend to one of my close friends saved my life. Even if it was by a little bit. A few more moments and I most likely would have been gone.
I felt the grip finally loosen and I took that chance to rip my hand away before more damage was done. I took several steps back, wanting to get away from him as soon as possible. I raised my wrist and connected it with my warm hand and I started to rub my wounded wrist furiously to get back the blood in my hand and to my fingertips. My hand felt dead. It looked rather white as well. As my fingers rubbed my wrist, I felt the puncture holes made by his nails. He did dig deep and a small amount of blood actually had been drawn. I twisted my wrist to rub every area around my wrist.
I felt a tingle in my fingertips telling me that blood finally reached the destination of my fingertips and blood could now circulate. Before Malfoy or I spoke, Daniel did. He came up behind me and placed a comforting arm around my shoulders as he spoke to Malfoy.
"You stay away from her Malfoy or I'll get everyone on your back," Daniel fired at the silver haired boy.
Malfoy raised his eyebrow exquisitely at us.
"Is that so?" he asked not hiding his amusement, "And a 'brave' Hufflepuff as yourself is going to save her?"
I felt Daniel tense up and his arm clap down on my shoulder. Malfoy chuckled soundly.
"Thought so. I'm so scared of a pack of mindless idiots," he said crossing his arms over his chest.
"Excuse me? This is coming from a git who has a couple of mindless idiots as bodyguards and not to mention, pathetic friends? Actually scrap that, only friends," I said angrily. I was annoyed at the fact of something like this happened and with Malfoy. Malfoy just smirked.
"There's that stupid Gryffindor pride and bravery shining through," Malfoy said shaking his head and rolling his eyes heavenwards.
"Sure is," I back to him, still bringing my hand back to life.
"OH please," Malfoy said turning sharply on his heel.
"OH please yourself!" Daniel finally spoke up after a while. Malfoy spun around quickly, black robes trimmed with green flying.
"So the boy hasn't lost his voice," said Malfoy in mock horror.
"Get out of here Malfoy before I loose my patience" I said irritated.
"Oh, yes. anything for the poor, shameful Weasley Gryffindor as yourself and your prince charming Hufflepuff," Malfoy said and he raised his head higher in the air. He turned and stalked down the hallway. I was going to call out again but I didn't for three reasons. One, I'm already late for class, Two, Daniel said not too and he wasn't worth it and lastly, it would just cause more trouble for me and maybe even Daniel. If it wasn't for Daniel, Malfoy could've done anything. Anything and with that thought, I shuddered.
We watched till he was out of sight.
"Are you all right? Did he hurt you?" Daniel asked turning to face me.
"Oh, I'll be all right," I answered, "let's just get to class."
I hid my hand under my robe but I knew that it was too late and Daniel had seen the damage made by Malfoy. Daniel looked uneasy but I started to walk off. He followed after a while and we left for class later than usual. Now only problem was, Professor McGonagall.
******************
Authors Note: Well everyone that is the end of Chapter Seven!! I do hope it wasn't TOO bad. Please leave a review if you like or a FLAME if it was that bad. Also if there are any questions or inquiries just e-mail me if they're personal or if not, leave a review with it!
My e-mail - pip_star_6@hotmail.com
Okay, well, now that, that is done. I thought I might let you all know that if you are a Draco/Hermione shipper or something like that (but obviously enjoy Draco/Ginny) I have a new story that is out called, Into the Darkness. Well, I'm hoping there is no name like that so I can have that name. It's not going to be a "lovey-dovey" story just for the record. I don't know what I'm actually doing with it at the moment... Well, actually I do now thanks to my two best buddies! Please if you have nothing else to read or just bored, just go check it out and see what it's like!! I'd really appreciate it! ^_^ You'll be able to find it under "Stories Authored" or whatever the heck it is in my pen name. Thanks SO much!! Hope to see you all there! I'll post the next Chapter up VERY shortly! After I get my new one going!!
Next Chapter:
Chapter Eight - Silver Eyes/Steely Gaze
Catch you all later then! Also I'm SO sorry that this Chapter was crap. Seriously, when I think about it... *shakes head and looks away* never mind. Bye all! *waves*
Thanks
Pippin