As they didn't have classes on the following Thursday morning, Harry and
Hermione slept in until ten. Hermione awoke from a dream with a certain
Slythering and felt an arm around her. Still in dream mode, she muttered,
"Oh, Draco, your hands are so soft." She jumped up at her own words.
Luckily, Harry hadn't heard; he probably wouldn't have awoken if Voldemort
was yelling at the top of his lungs right next to Harry's ear that he was
about to kill him. Harry was a very sound sleeper. Hermione lifted his arm
off her and tiptoed to the bathroom. Following her dentist parents' rules,
she brushed her teeth, only with a simple whitening spell. She changed into
jeans and a pink shirt. She brushed her hair and used another spell to
eliminate the frizz, leaving it in loose curls and very shiny indeed. She
put on a light layer of makeup and strawberry-flavored lip gloss. She was
just leaving to bring some breakfast up from the kitchen when Harry walked
out of the bedroom, rubbing his eyes and hair messier than Hermione had
ever seen it.
"Morning," yawned Harry.
"Morning," returned Hermione. "What do you want for breakfast? I was just going down."
"How 'bout we go down together?" said Harry.
"Sure," agreed Hermione, "but not with you looking like that. Go comb your hair and change."
"Yes, mother," said Harry, which was ironic, because he'd never had a mother to boss him around. He quickly changed his shirt to green, which was a pity, as he was supporting Slytherin while telling Hermione to stay away from Malfoy. He kept on his cargos. After many fruitless attempts of trying to tame his hair, he left with Hermione to the kitchens.
Somewhere three floors below, Harry and Hermione, holding hands, ran into none other than Malfoy himself.
* * * *
Draco awoke and stretched. Looking at his watch, it was 10:00. He rolled over and hit something quite big and hard in his bed. Alarmed, he turned and saw Pansy asleep right next to him.
"Holy shit!" he swore quite loudly. Pansy had apparently cuddled up with him after he had fallen asleep the night before. He noticed a spot of drool from her mouth on the pillow. His pillow. His expensive pillow that his mom had sent him. He slid the pillow out from under her head and threw it into the laundry bag in the corner of the room. Pansy stirred.
"Draco?" she yawned. "Morning."
"Get the hell out of my bed," he returned angrily. "You're sick!"
"Why don't you want to sleep with me?" she asked, sitting up.
"I do," Draco forced himself to say untruthfully. "I'm just not ready." That part was definitely true.
"Well, be ready soon, Draco," said Pansy eagerly. She leaned over to kiss Draco, but he pushed her away.
"I really am hungry," he said to an affronted Pansy. "Later." He got up and went to the kitchens, as breakfast had finished over two hours ago. Mad at Pansy, he had completely forgotten about Granger until he ran into her at the entrance to the kitchens. He couldn't believe his luck. This was going to be easy, if he would keep running into Granger. He was just about to say something to her when he realized that Potter was holding her hand. He was going to make this whole seducing thing much harder, especially if Granger loved him.
"Malfoy?" Harry asked, not believing his luck.
"Glad to know you know my name," said Malfoy sarcastically. "Not that I expected any more knowledge from you," he added.
"I'm laughed," said Harry. "Now if you'd please move, we're going to the kitchens."
"Please?" repeated Malfoy incredulously. "Since when have you been polite to me?"
"Since now," said Harry, not thinking about what he was saying. "Now move or I'll make you."
"Boys, boys," said Hermione in a motherly air.
"I don't see any boys here," said Draco, looking around. Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Really, Draco, you need to move," said Hermione. Both guys stared at her. Harry was fuming, Draco pleased.
"As you wish," he said, bowing. He opened the door for her and Harry. "I'll just skip breakfast then."
Walking in, Harry said through clenched teeth, "Have you ever seen a stupider person?"
"It's 'more stupid,' Harry," Hermione pointed out.
"How could you be so calm and grammatical at a time like this? I don't give a damn if it's more stupid or stupider."
"Really, Harry," said Hermione. "It's not nice to swear."
"Oh, and I suppose you never have?" asked Harry. "What seventeen-year-old doesn't swear?"
"I try not to," said Hermione.
"See," said Harry. "The key work in that phrase is 'try.' But that's beside the point. How could you not be so mad right now?"
"What did Draco do to you?" wondered Hermione. "Why are you so mad at him?" He was furious that she could call him Draco.
Harry used one of his dad's lines. "It's more the mere fact that he exists, if you know what I mean. Just seeing him could ruin the best day of my life. Plus, he indirectly called me a girl and was acting very oddly. I mean, listening to you and opening the door for us?"
"Maybe he's trying to be nice," concluded Hermione.
"Nice?" repeated Harry incredulously. "Nice?"
"Yes, Harry," said Hermione. "Nice. Maybe he's changing." Then, seeing Winky, she added, "can you get us some coffee, toast, marmalade, and a bowl of fruit? Please?"
"Hermione," said Harry, not believing his ears. Why was she sticking up for Malfoy? "That's a person that can't change. That's like saying Voldemort's going to join the Order. It will never happen."
"Speaking of the Order," said Hermione, obviously changing the subject, "have you talked to Lupin lately? See what they're up to?"
"No," said Harry, "but I was going to visit this weekend. I'll ask Dumbledore if I can go. He should let me."
"Okay." Winky came up and pulled on Hermione's robes.
"Your food, miss," she said. Harry took the two mugs of coffee so Hermione could carry the rest of the food upstairs.
Harry decided to keep the day in a happy mood. He didn't like being mad at Hermione. So he said, "What are we doing today?"
"Oh, I don't know," replied Hermione, spreading marmalade on her toast. "Talk to Ron?"
"No," said Harry firmly. "He'll come talking to me soon anyway."
"Well, then, do you have any homework?"
"No," said Harry. "Dumbledore didn't give us any. Good thing, because you weren't there."
"I forgot to ask you," said Hermione suddenly. "What did you do yesterday in class?"
"Oh, it was so boring," said Harry. "We did Patronuses. I've known those for four years. Dumbledore keeps telling me he knows it's boring for me, and we'll move on to better stuff once the rest of the class gets Patronuses."
"I've known how to do those since fifth year," said Hermione. "Remember you taught us at the D.A.?"
"Yeah," said Harry. He still did the D.A., but for fifth years and above, and now that everyone knew Voldemort was back, attendance was high. Dumbledore let Harry use the Great Hall for teaching every Thursday night at seven. "I wonder what Dumbledore's going to do with me gone next year," he said aloud.
"I was thinking about that, too," said Hermione. "I know! You should come back and teach Defense Against the Dark Arts!"
"Are you serious?" asked Harry. "I suck at the D.A. I can't teach. Plus, well never mind..." He stopped talking and looked like he was forcing himself not to laugh.
"What's so funny?" inquired Hermione.
"Well," started Harry, "for one, I can't imagine being called 'Professor Potter,' and if I stay for, like, fifteen years, if I'm alive then, that is, then people that go here now will have had kids. Then they'd come to school and say, 'My mum's told me all about you. My mum said she fought off Death Eaters with you.' I'd hate that."
"Professor Potter," repeated Hermione. "You know, that's almost better than Professor Snape."
"Excuse me?" asked Harry. "I'm deeply offended. Me almost better that Snape? Fine, then, Professor Granger."
Hermione laughed. "You know, it would be fun if we both became professors. I could force Snape to retire, even though he's only, like, forty. That would be awesome. Then, the poor kids wouldn't have to learn from Snape and whoever is going to be Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher next."
"That would be fun," agreed Harry. "Do you think Dumbledore's going to keep teaching?"
"No," said Hermione. "Once you leave, he'll find someone."
"You know what would be great?" asked Harry.
"What?"
"If Lupin became Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher again. The little kids would learn so much. He's a really good teacher."
"You should talk to him about that, Harry," agreed Hermione. "I'm sure Dumbledore could convince parents that he's not really dangerous, compared to some other stuff that's out there. That is, if you don't become the teacher."
"Okay," said Harry. "What do you think I should do for D.A. tonight?"
"I think only sixth and seventh years are coming today," said Hermione. "Fifth years have some activity."
"Good," said Harry happily. "We can do some hard stuff today."
"Like what?"
"I was thinking that Anti-Disapparating Jinx that Dumbledore used at the Department of Mysteries to hold the Death Eaters there until Fudge arrived," proposed Harry.
"Yes, but do you know that one?" asked Hermione.
"Yes, it's 'Immobulo Exilo' and a circular wrist movement. Dumbledore taught me last year."
"All right," agreed Hermione.
"But I'm bored," said Harry.
"Excuse me?"
"Well, we should be doing something together," said Harry. Hermione gave a mischievous grin. "Not what you're thinking," he added. "Though that would be fun."
"Go ask Dumbledore if you can visit the Order now, then."
"Okay," agreed Harry. "Why don't you come with me?"
"Sure." They found Dumbledore's office with no difficulty, and Hermione spoke the password: "Sugar Quills." Rising up in the moving escalator, Hermione commented, "This is so cool. I'd love to have an office here."
"I've been here so many times that I hate it. I find out bad new here," said Harry darkly. He knocked on Dumbledore's door.
"Come in, please," said Dumbledore. They walked in. "What a pleasant surprise. Harry, Miss Granger. Where is Mr. Weasley? I trust he is well?"
"Yes," lied Harry. "He's taking a nap."
"Well, one can never have enough sleep," said Dumbledore sagely. "Are you okay, Harry?"
"Yes."
"Scar been hurting too much?"
"No."
"Miss Granger, is he being an absolute nuisance?" he joked.
"No," replied Hermione. "He's absolutely wonderful to be around."
"Is there something going on between you two that I should know about?" questioned Dumbledore. Hermione blushed and shut up. Dumbledore winked at Harry. "Well, Harry," he said, changing the subject, "I suppose you came here to tell me something of importance."
"Yes. I was wondering if I could visit the Order."
"When?" inquired Dumbledore.
"Today," Harry replied. "If it's possible."
"Well, I think that should be all right. Just take your invisibility cloak and stay under it when you Dissapparate. I don't want a Death Eater, or even Voldemort, to see you at Hogsmeade."
"Thank you, Professor," said Harry. "Can Hermione come too?"
"Miss Granger?" he repeated. At this, he looked very worried. "I would feel better if she stayed, but if you promise me to keep her under the cloak, it will be all right."
"Thank you, Professor," said Hermione. Harry nodded in thanks, too. They got up to leave and were at the door when Dumbledore said, "Be back for your D.A. class. What are you doing for it anyway? It's sixth and seventh years only."
"Oh, I was thinking of doing the Anti-Disapparating Jinx."
"Always a good one," said Dumbledore. "Goodbye, Harry, Miss Granger."
"Bye!" they said together. Once they were in the Head Dorm, Harry went to get his cloak.
On the way to Hogsmeade, he asked, "You had to say we were going out? He already knows stuff about me that I don't know. Now he knows about my personal life."
"I didn't tell him we were going out," complained Hermione.
"Oh, you only said I was a wonderful person to be around."
"Well, it's true."
"Thanks, but I don't like him knowing that kind of stuff," said Harry.
"Sorry," apologized Hermione.
"It's all right," said Harry. "Here, get under the cloak." They were just leaving the castle. Once in Hogsmeade, Harry and Hermione concentrated hard about where they were going and Apparated in the kitchen of 12 Grimmauld Place.
* * * *
Draco left to his dormitory, praising no one in particular that Pansy wasn't there. She had remedial classes on Thursday, since she hadn't passed a single O.W.L.; and she wasn't going to pass her N.E.W.T.s, Draco knew. He threw on silver warm-ups and a blue t-shirt. He was going to practice Quidditch before the weather go too cold. Plus, he could clear his mind while flying. Picking up his Firebolt (the original because his dad had never gotten to getting him a new one), he left for the pitch. He hopped onto his broom and took off into the perfectly blue and cloudless sky.
* * * *
Ron woke up and his watch said 11:00. He was hungry but ignored his stomach growling. If today proved to be as bad as yesterday, he would sleep it off until dinner.
* * * *
"Hello, Harry!" said Lupin, who was sitting at the kitchen table. "And Hermione!" he added, seeing her.
"Hey!" said Harry. "How are you?"
"I'm good, of course." He brushed aside Harry's words. "But how are you? Has your scar been hurting?"
"Not that I know of," said Harry. "What's the Order been doing?"
"Oh, the usual. Guess what?"
Harry, suspecting bad news, asked, "What?"
"Voldemort accidentally killed Bellatrix Lestrange," he said. "Apparently, he was going through a house with her, trying to kill its inhabitants. He was shooting killing curses everywhere. She got in the crossfire."
Harry couldn't believe his ears. Finally, Bellatrix was dead. Sirius's death had been avenged. He would have liked her to die in a more painful way, but she was Dead! "Wouldn't Voldemort have been mad that he killed one of his Death Eaters?" Harry asked. "Wouldn't my scar have hurt?"
"No," replied Lupin. "Bellatrix wasn't much of a help anyway. She let you escape before. He didn't care that he killed her."
"I don't care either," said Harry. "Now I just wish he'd kill all of his Death Eaters accidentally. Or, even better, his Death Eaters accidentally kill him."
"Yes," said Lupin seriously, "but the prophecy says you have to kill him."
"That's putting it nicely," said Harry glumly. "He could kill me, or we could both die."
"Let's no think about that," cut in Hermione. "I'm sure you'll defeat him, Harry. Lupin, how is Mr. Weasley liking his new job?" Mr. Weasley had been appointed Minister of Magic that summer when Fudge said he's made enough mistakes and handed over the ministership to him.
"He loves it," said Lupin. "Passing all sorts of anti-Dark Side legislation."
"I bet he's having fun," said Harry. "Who else is here?"
"No one; they're all working," said Lupin. "Where's Ron?"
"Didn't feel good," lied Harry.
"Say hi to him for me."
"What would you be doing if we weren't here?" inquired Harry. He wanted to find out as much as possible before he joined he Order.
"Trying to figure out what Voldemort is up to," replied Lupin.
"How do you do that?" wondered Harry.
"Spies get information," said Lupin. "I interpret it."
"Like what?" interrogated Harry.
"Say a spy heard the Grangers come up in one of Voldemort's conversations," explained Lupin. "I'd tell the Grangers that they might be in trouble. We'd put them in hiding so he couldn't get them. I contact families."
"Oh," said Harry. "Hey, we were wondering if you'd come be the DADA teacher next year."
"You know, Harry," said Lupin, "Dumbledore asked me that last week. I said I'd think about it."
"Please do," begged Hermione. "I was thinking if you didn't, Harry could."
"Well, that's an idea," said Lupin. "What do you think, Harry?"
"Like I told Hermione," Harry commented, "I'd hate being called 'Professor Potter.'" Lupin laughed.
"You know that's funny," he said. "After your father graduated, Dumbledore offered him the DADA job. He refused, saying he didn't want to be called 'Professor Potter," Plus, he said, he was going to get married to Lily and join the Order. You seem to be following his path. Thinking of marrying anyone?"
"No," said Harry quickly. Hermione glared at him. He glared back. Lupin either didn't notice this or didn't comment.
"So," said Hermione, "do you have to eat lunch here by yourself?"
"Yes," replied Lupin, "but I don't mind."
"Why don't you come to Hogwarts?" invited Hermione. "Come spend the day. We'd be bored otherwise."
"Maybe I should. I am pretty bored here," Lupin confessed. "Who would suspect that out of my three best friends, within fifteen years, two died and one became a Death Eater?"
"Please come," said Hermione. "And you can help Harry with DA lessons."
"Okay," agreed Lupin. "Wait. Let me get my cloak and lock the doors. We don't want Death Eaters dropping in when I'm gone."
"Well, so it's not suspicious, me and Hermione-''
"Hermione and I!" she cut in.
"Whatever!" said Harry. "Hermione and I will go first. Lupin, leave in about five minutes."
"Okay," said Lupin. "See you in five minutes, then."
"Bye!" Harry and Hermione Disapparated. Lupin followed several minutes later.
* * * *
Voldemort was sitting at the kitchen table at Malfoy Manor, speaking to Lucius Malfoy.
"Any progress with your son?" asked Voldemor.
"No, master," replied Lucius respectfully. "I should tell you when she's pregnant."
"Very well, Lucius," said Voldemort. "I can't believe that this happened. I can't believe I let it happen."
Malfoy pushed some very imaginative, yet dirty, pictures of Voldemort out of his mind. (A/N: SICK!!!!)
"I didn't know it would end in this. But if she's alive, I might as well use her. But of all the people in the entire world, she had to be Potter's best friend."
"Master," said Malfoy, "may I ask was exactly happened?"
"Lucius, that is personal information," said Voldemort. "I don't know why I'm going to tell you. But eighteen years ago, right before I was nearly killed, someone told me I ought to have an heir. I wondered why, and the person said in case I died. I told him, as I have told many people, that I can't die. But he said just in case."
"Who was the mother?"
"Just some witch. I took her and impregnated her. I modified her memory. I found out the baby's name was Hermione right before my downfall."
"I thought you married this woman," said Malfoy.
"Oh, hell no," said Voldemort. "And she died giving birth, quite like my own idiot mother. I decided to place the baby girl in an orphanage. If I was ever in danger, I would track her down and tell her she was my daughter."
"She doesn't know?" asked Lucius.
"No," replied Voldemort. "And when I kill Potter, because I know I will, it's only a question of time, I might have to kill her, too. I want to be sure I have a relative that's on the Dark Side. I'd take the baby and have your wife raise it properly. Sad thing Granger turned out on Dumbledore's side." At the mention of Dumbledore's name, both fell silent with hatred. "I believe Dumbledore knows about this," said Voldemort. "How, I cannot say. I just know he knows."
"Yes, master," said Malfoy. "You didn't tell me why Draco has to do this, though."
"Well," started Voldemort. "He is in Granger's year. I suppose I have somehow made Potter do it. The baby would have Potter's mother's protection, but I couldn't stand being related to Potter. And the baby would look like him, too. Really disgusting."
"I agree, My Lord," said Lucius.
"So tell young Draco to hurry. As soon as the baby's born, I will proceed with my plans to attack Hogwarts," said Voldemort.
"I shall," promised Malfoy. "I daresay it's hard to convince Granger to get in bed with him, though. Potter's probably suspected something. He's going to make this harder. I don't know if there's a relationship between him and Granger. The boy's not stupid, you know."
"Oh, I've had too much experience with how his mind works," snapped Voldemort. "I know he's not stupid. That's the reason he's not dead. But, no, he's not smarter than me. Just luckier."
"Undoubtedly," agreed Lucius. "Do you want to talk to Narciss about raising the baby?"
"No, Lucius," said Voldemort. "I told Wormtail I'd meet him at two. Just tell Narcissa that she'll be raising the kid."
"Oh, I will," said Lucius. And with that, Voldemort Disapparated.
* * * *
Draco landed at 1:00, after flying for two and a half hours. He was sweaty and tired, not to mention extremely hungry, due to the fact that he hadn't eaten anything since six the evening before. He thought he'd take a shower, eat lunch, and pay a visit to his father.
After quickly showering, he ran down to the kitchens because he's missed lunch. After eating the steak and potatoes he brought up to his room, he decided to take a nap before going home. He found that his pillow had been washed. He laid his head on it, and put his hands under his head. Draco tried falling asleep, but he could only think of how Granger had called him "Draco." She said it so sweetly, even when she was mad at him. And her hair was so pretty, her lips so red. Shut the hell up, Draco, he thought. You do your job and don't think about her. But how can't I think about her? She's too hot! Maybe she likes me. If she can call me Draco in front of Potter, maybe she wants me. Hang on! Why do I care if she wants me? Am I plotting how to get her to like me? No! Well, yes, I have to. But I can't let myself like her. How did this start? She kisses me and I like her? I don't understand.
His thoughts were so confusing that Draco couldn't fall asleep. He decided to go ask Dumbledore if he could visit his father. He didn't know Dumbledore's password, so he knocked until he heard him.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore.
"Good afternoon," replied Draco stiffly. He hated talking to Dumbledore. After all, his father told him not to. "I was wondering if I could go home for a few hours."
"Home?" Dumbledore looked worried. He knew about his whole plot that concerned Hermione. He'd heard it through spies and was overly glad that Harry was watching her. He didn't want to allow Draco to go home so he and his father could plot some more. "Why do you want to go?" he asked.
"I forgot some books," Draco lied.
"Then write home and tell your father to send them," suggested Dumbledore simply.
"Well, see," started Draco. "I'd like to say hi, too."
"That can also be done in a letter."
"Well, yeah, but-''
"Mr. Malfoy," interrupted Dumbledore. "I don't like students leaving. I'll give you half an hour." He couldn't act too suspiciously. Plus, how much damage could they do in half an hour? Hermione was currently with Lupin. She was safe. There was a knock on the door. "Excuse me, Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore. "Come in!" Harry and Hermione walked in.
"Hello again, Professor," said Hermione. "I was wondering-'' She stopped at the sight of Draco. "What's he doing here?"
"Wondering if he could go home," said Dumbledore. "What do you need?" Harry slightly nodded his head towards Malfoy. "Oh, yes," said Dumbledore. "Mr.Malfoy, half and hour or I'll come after you."
"Thank you, Professor." He left.
"Miss Granger," Dumbledore said, "what is it you want to talk about?"
"Professsor, Lupin is at Hogsmeade. Can he come spend the day?"
"Yes, yes," said Dumbledore. "Mr. Malfoy just left."
"What does that have to do with anything?" asked Harry.
"Well, Harry," covered up Dumbledore, "he could be reporting to Lucius about what goes on here. We don't want Death Eaters knowing that Order members are at Hogwarts."
"Oh," said Harry. "Well, we'll be seeing you later. Bye!"
"Goodbye," said Dumbledore. Harry and Hermione left. "Please watch over her for me, Harry," said Dumbledore to an empty room.
* * * *
"Sit down, Draco," said Lucius. "I was wondering when you'd visit."
"I've been busy, father."
"With Granger, I hope," snapped Lucius.
"I'm making progress, father."
"She's not pregnant, then?" asked Lucius.
"No, father," said Draco. "I'd say, give it a month."
"Draco, you disappoint me," said Lucius.
"You try getting her in bed when she's hanging on to Potter!" Draco nearly yelled.
"Hold your tongue and address me as father or sir," hissed Lucius. "And what about Potter?"
"I said that they're going out," said Draco quietly. He really hated his father.
"Shit!" shouted Lucius.
"I know, father," sighed Draco. "I think she loves him. It makes it very difficult."
"Love always complicates things," said Lucius. "I didn't marry for love. Your mother was a pureblood; that's why I married her."
"I agree, sir," said Draco. If he was ever going to get married, it wouldn't be for love. He couldn't love properly and he knew it.
"Do you have a plan, Draco?" asked Lucius. "The Dark Lord is getting impatient."
"I'm just trying to get her away from Potter," explained Draco. "Then maybe I'll use the Imperius Curse on her."
"I don't care how you do it, Draco. Just hurry. The Dark Lord will attach Hogwarts when the baby is born. And you will have graduated and joined the Deather Eaters by then, Draco."
"Of course, father," replied Draco. In reality, he'd avoid being a Death Eater for as long as he could, even if it included killing his father. But Draco hoped it didn't come to that. "I should be going, father."
"Yes, yes, leave," snapped Lucius. "And write weekly with your progress."
"I will, father," said Draco. "Can I say hello to mother?"
"Just hurry," said Lucius. Draco hurried up the spiral staircase.
"Mother?" he called.
"I'm here, Draco. I'm just writing a letter." Draco followed his mother's voice. He sat down beside her. "Hello, dear," she said in her soft voice. "Are you all right?"
"Okay," said Draco, looking down. Compared with him, even his mother was so innocent. He couldn't stand to look at her.
"What's wrong, baby?" she asked, brushing the hair out of his face. "Was your father harsh on you?"
"I'm fine," whispered Draco.
"I don't like this whole thing," said Narcissa.
"What whole thing?" asked Draco.
"You impregnating the poor girl," said Narcissa. "I don't like you losing your virginity for that reason."
"I don't want to talk about that," said Draco. He didn't tell his mother that he wasn't a virgin in the first place.
"You hate him, too, don't?" asked Narcissa.
"The Dark Lord?" asked Draco.
"Yes, and your father," Narcissa said. "If I could divorce him, I would."
"Why can't you?" wondered Draco.
"I know his secrets," explained Narcissa. "He could kill me."
"Why did you marry him?" asked Draco.
"It was an arranged marriage. My parents made me."
"You should have run away," said Draco.
"It wasn't that simple," replied Narcissa. Draco stood up. He didn't like where the conversation was going.
"I should be going."
"I love you, Draco," said Narcissa.
"Me too, mother," replied Draco. Maybe he wasn't as incapable of love as he thought. Maybe he didn't have to be the person his father was making him out to be.
* * * *
Lupin, Dumbledore, Harry and Hermione were eating dinner in a private room.
"I trust you are well, Remus?" asked Dumbledore.
"Fine, thank you," replied Lupin. "You?"
"I've been better, Remus, if you know what I mean," returned Dumbledore.
"I know exactly, Albus," said Lupin. "Ah, the good old days. What has happened to our world?" He leaned back in his chair, sipping from his goblet.
"Harry, it's 6:45," said Dumbledore. "Do you think you should be getting ready for the DA?"
"Oh, yeah," said Harry, "I hadn't looked at the time. Hermione, let's go." They left for the Great Hall.
* * * *
Ron woke up again at 6:30. Maybe he'd go have dinner. Am I going to the DA? He thought. I don't want to, but mum's making me. I'll go; I just won't talk to Harry or Hemrione. He headed down to the Great Hall.
* * * *
Draco walked into the Great Hall from Hogsmeade. Dinner was just starting. Unfortunately for him, the only seat left was next to Pansy. She had probably saved the seat for him. He sat down.
"Hey, Draco," said Pansy. "Good day?"
"Sure," replied Draco. In his mind, he thought, Anything but. He looked across at the Gryffindor table. Neither Potter or Granger were there. Only Weasel King. I wonder where they are, he thought. He piled food onto his plate and started eating hungrily.
"Are we going to Truth or Dare tomorrow, baby?" asked Pansy.
"I guess," replied Draco. It would be an easy was to kiss Granger in front of Potter, and he couldn't wait.
"What do you want to do tomorrow?" asked Pansy.
"I don't know," said Draco. "Sleep in, fly, eat."
"Is that all you do?" asked Pansy.
"Wait! I forgot," said Draco, ignoring Pansy. "I've got classes tomorrow. And I have homework. I'm going to do it now." He finished eating and left to his room, glad for any excuse that would get him away from Pansy.
* * * *
The Great Hall cleared up after dinner, so Harry, with Hermione's help, vanished the five tables to make way for practicing the Anti- Disapparating Jinx.
"You know, Harry," pointed out Hermione. "You can't Disapparate in here, anyway."
"I know that," said Harry. "But the jinx stops you from moving, too, so we'll do that. If they want more practice, they can try it in Hogsmeade over the weekend."
"Sounds good," said Hermione.
"Hey, Harry, Hermione," called a voice. Ginny had just walked in. "What are we doing today?"
"Anti-Disapparating Jinx," replied Harry.
"Oh, that one Dumbledore used?" asked Ginny.
"Yeah," said Hermione. "Ginny, have you seen Ron?"
"He was sleeping all day," said Ginny. "Do you know what's wrong with him?"
"No," said Hermione innocently. "Do you know if he's coming?"
"Yes, I talked to him at dinner. He said he was."
"Good," said Hermione. "I want to talk to him." Soon, Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom, Ernie Macmillan, Hannah Abbott, Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas, Lavender Brown, Parvati and Padma Patil, Michael Corner, Zacharias Smithe, Anthony Goldstein, Colin and Dennis Creevey (Dennis was in fourth year, but being the Harry Potter loyalist he was, he probably found a way of coming), and Terry Boot were assembled in front of Harry.
"Should we wait for Ron?" whispered Hermione.
"No need," replied Harry. "He's here." For Ron had just walked in, sitting down as far from Harry and Hermione as possible. "Okay," said Harry loudly. "I was thinking today, because it's only sixth and seventh years, we should do a harder lesson."
"Avada Kedavra?" interrupted Dennis.
"Most definitely not," said Harry. "We're not stooping to the Death Eaters' level. We're just defending ourselves. Anyway, we're doing the Anti- Disapparating Jinx-''
"You can't Disapparate in here anyway," cut in Michael Corner.
"Could you just shut the hell up for a few minutes?" snapped Harry. He didn't like Michael at all. "I'm trying to talk. So, I know you can't Disapparate here. The curse also immobilizes its captors. If you really want to practice it the real way, go to Hogsmeade this weekend. Now get into groups of two. It's easier that way. Once you get good at it, you can perform it on tons of people at a time." Soon, everyone was partnered up: Ginny with Hermione, Ron with Anthony, Luna with Padma, Ernie with Hannah, Seamus with Dean, Colin with Dennis, Lavender with Parvati, Michael with Zacharias, and Neville with Terry. "Okay, guys, the jinx is 'Immobulo Exilo.' It's just a little circular wrist movement. Exactly, Neville. Make sure you're concentrating on the spell. I'll walk around and see how you're doing. Okay, you can start."
Soon, cries of "Immobulo Exilo" echoed through the Great Hall. Harry watched as Neville cast the spell on Terry, and he couldn't move. Hermione, of course, got it right away. Harry avoided going by Ron for twenty minutes, then decided to quickly walk past him. Ron gave him a glare that definitely told him he was pissed off. Harry quickly ran back to Hermione. The last time he and Ron hadn't talked was fourth year, and Ron had been at fault that time. Harry was sure Ron was wrong now, too.
"All right!" called out Harry. "I think you're doing good in pairs. Now go into groups of fours! One person casts the spell on three other people. Start!" Harry watched as great progress was made. Maybe I should be a teacher, he thought.
* * * *
By the time Draco had finished his stupid Transfiguration essay, it was 8:00. Rubbing his eyes and stretching, he pulled out his Charms homework: two rolls of parchment on the uses of Switching Spells. For switching bodies with Potter, he thought. He knew about Switching Spells. Why had he left his homework until the last night? He sighed and dug through his bag for more parchment. I've never been a great student anyway, he thought.
After many crossings-out and mess-ups, he'd finished all his homework at 10:30. He fell asleep in front of the common room fire.
He was walking through the hall of Malfoy Manor. He saw his mother, dead on the floor. She changed into Hermione and started walking toward him.
"What are you doing?" she asked. "You killed your mother!"
"I didn't!" cried Draco.
"You did too," she said. "Now Harry Potter's going to come kill you!" Harry walked in.
"You killed your mother," he said. "I'll have to tell your father!"
"Don't tell him!" Draco yelled.
"I'm already here!" hissed Lucius, stepping through the threshold. "I don't care about Narcissa. Is Granger pregnant?"
"No, father," confessed Draco.
"I am too!" cut in Hermione. "I found out last night, and Harry's the dad!"
"No!" yelled Lucius in Draco's dream, but the real Draco also yelled, "No!" and woke up.
He was breathing fast. He knew the dream wasn't true; it was stupid, but it could very well happen. Who knew if Granger and Potter hadn't had sex yet? I don't know that they haven't, thought Draco. I better hurry before it's too late.
He picked up his bag. Pansy had apparently gone to bed while he was doing homework without saying goodnight, but Draco wasn't complaining. He walked upstairs and slid off his shirt. Looking in the mirror, he noticed his toned, fairly tanned, muscular chest. Any girl would want that, he thought. Grinning, he climbed into bed.
* * * *
Harry and Hermione bade goodnight to everyone and put the tables back.
"That went great!" exclaimed Hermione.
"Yeah," Harry agreed, "but Ron still wasn't talking to either of us."
"He'll realized he's being an idiot, Harry," said Hermione, "then he'll come begging forgiveness."
"How long until then?" wondered Harry.
"Eventually," Hermione answered vaguely. "And you're sleeping in your bed tonight."
"What?"
"You're so funny," she laughed. "Really, we have classes tomorrow, and we'll have double homework in everything except Defense Against the Dark Arts because we missed them all Wednesday. You need sleep, and so do I."
"I sleep fine in your bed," he complained.
"I know, Harry; you sleep fine anywhere, but I can't sleep when you're there."
"I'm that distracting?" asked Harry.
"Actually, yes," answered Hermione. "Either we're talking or snogging. It's 9:30, and I need to sleep."
"I'm feeling rejected," Harry said.
"Oh, stop it," Hermione said. "Let's go."
They walked to the Head Dorm together. Once in their common room, Hermione got on tiptoe and kissed Harry goodnight.
"Mmm... That's more like it," whispered Harry.
Hermione broked apart and said, "That's instead of sleeping in my bed. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," said Harry, and he kissed Hermione once more on the forehead.
* * * *
Ron left the Great Hall in a bad mood, but what was new? I've had enough, he thought. I'm going to talk to them. They' can't be asleep; it's not even ten o'clock. He walked to the Head Dorm and said the password. After all, Hermione said he could come in whenever he wanted. No one was there. They can't be sleeping, can they? Thought Ron. He tiptoed to Harry's room first; he'd probably be asleep. Creaking open the door, he was Harry spread across the bead with the covers thrown on the ground and pillows by his feet. This was urgent; he decided to wake him up.
"Harry!" he said, not too sure whether he should yell or not. Surprisingly, Harry awoke. He probably hadn't been asleep for long.
"Ron?" he asked. "What the hell are you doing here?" It was a good thing he hadn't slept in Hermione's room after all.
"We need to talk," stated Ron simply.
"I sure as hell know that," snapped Harry. "But now?"
"As good a time as any," shrugged Ron. "Don't go wake up Hermione. I can talk to her later."
"After you made her cry?" said Harry.
"Listen," said Ron, "I just didn't like the whole you and her thing. I thought his was going to be the year for her and me. I do love her."
"I know, Ron," said Harry. "The problem is, I don't think she loves you that way."
"I kind of got that message," said Ron sarcastically.
"So don't you want her to have what makes her happy?" asked Harry. "Even if it is me?"
"I guess that's the way it'll have to be," said a resigned Ron. "Too bad for me... About Malfoy..."
"There's nothing about him," said Harry angrily.
"There is too," said Ron. "He's a threat to Hermione, and we all know he's after something."
"I was talking to him-'' started Harry.
"You were talking to him?" Ron cut in. "Like, 'Hey, Draco. We haven't spoken in a while. What's up?'"
"No, Ron," started Harry. "More like, 'I haven't seen you in a while and I'd like to keep it that way.' Anyway, from what he said, I gather that his father is included in this scheme."
"And that makes me feel all warm inside," Ron said grimly. "Because we all know Lucius Malfoy is the most active member of the Order."
"I know," said Harry. "But what could Voldemort want from Hermione?"
"She's only one of your best friends," said Ron. "Well, kind of. Maybe girlfriend. But You-Know-Who could be using her to get to you."
"That makes sense," said Harry, "but how does Malfoy play into that?"
"Listen to this!" exclaimed Ron. "Malfoy gets Hermione alone and tries to get her to like him so she starts pouring out secret stuff about you to him. He tells this all to his dad, and You-Know-Who makes a plan from that information."
"But that's too simple," said Harry. "Voldemort's plans are more complex than that. That's why for the past six years I've never been able to guess them. Remember Moody? The fake one? Even Dumbledore was tricked then."
"I get it, Harry, but maybe he made his plan simple so we wouldn't think that it was his plan."
"Maybe, Ron," said Harry, "but somehow I think there's way more to this story than we know."
If only they knew the whole rest of the story....
* * * *
Ron got back to bed feeling lighter and happier than an hour before. He fell asleep only worried about Harry and Hermione and what You-Know- Who's latest plans were.
SO GUYS!!!! I haven't been answering to you because I posted this all in one big chunk, but maybe I'll reply to reviews later. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!!! I hope you like the story. I know I do. Did you know I have the sequel to this?? It's coming out when I finishing writing it and typing up this one. I have this one all written in six notebooks; I just need to type it. So, keep reading and review, review, review!!!
"Morning," yawned Harry.
"Morning," returned Hermione. "What do you want for breakfast? I was just going down."
"How 'bout we go down together?" said Harry.
"Sure," agreed Hermione, "but not with you looking like that. Go comb your hair and change."
"Yes, mother," said Harry, which was ironic, because he'd never had a mother to boss him around. He quickly changed his shirt to green, which was a pity, as he was supporting Slytherin while telling Hermione to stay away from Malfoy. He kept on his cargos. After many fruitless attempts of trying to tame his hair, he left with Hermione to the kitchens.
Somewhere three floors below, Harry and Hermione, holding hands, ran into none other than Malfoy himself.
* * * *
Draco awoke and stretched. Looking at his watch, it was 10:00. He rolled over and hit something quite big and hard in his bed. Alarmed, he turned and saw Pansy asleep right next to him.
"Holy shit!" he swore quite loudly. Pansy had apparently cuddled up with him after he had fallen asleep the night before. He noticed a spot of drool from her mouth on the pillow. His pillow. His expensive pillow that his mom had sent him. He slid the pillow out from under her head and threw it into the laundry bag in the corner of the room. Pansy stirred.
"Draco?" she yawned. "Morning."
"Get the hell out of my bed," he returned angrily. "You're sick!"
"Why don't you want to sleep with me?" she asked, sitting up.
"I do," Draco forced himself to say untruthfully. "I'm just not ready." That part was definitely true.
"Well, be ready soon, Draco," said Pansy eagerly. She leaned over to kiss Draco, but he pushed her away.
"I really am hungry," he said to an affronted Pansy. "Later." He got up and went to the kitchens, as breakfast had finished over two hours ago. Mad at Pansy, he had completely forgotten about Granger until he ran into her at the entrance to the kitchens. He couldn't believe his luck. This was going to be easy, if he would keep running into Granger. He was just about to say something to her when he realized that Potter was holding her hand. He was going to make this whole seducing thing much harder, especially if Granger loved him.
"Malfoy?" Harry asked, not believing his luck.
"Glad to know you know my name," said Malfoy sarcastically. "Not that I expected any more knowledge from you," he added.
"I'm laughed," said Harry. "Now if you'd please move, we're going to the kitchens."
"Please?" repeated Malfoy incredulously. "Since when have you been polite to me?"
"Since now," said Harry, not thinking about what he was saying. "Now move or I'll make you."
"Boys, boys," said Hermione in a motherly air.
"I don't see any boys here," said Draco, looking around. Hermione rolled her eyes.
"Really, Draco, you need to move," said Hermione. Both guys stared at her. Harry was fuming, Draco pleased.
"As you wish," he said, bowing. He opened the door for her and Harry. "I'll just skip breakfast then."
Walking in, Harry said through clenched teeth, "Have you ever seen a stupider person?"
"It's 'more stupid,' Harry," Hermione pointed out.
"How could you be so calm and grammatical at a time like this? I don't give a damn if it's more stupid or stupider."
"Really, Harry," said Hermione. "It's not nice to swear."
"Oh, and I suppose you never have?" asked Harry. "What seventeen-year-old doesn't swear?"
"I try not to," said Hermione.
"See," said Harry. "The key work in that phrase is 'try.' But that's beside the point. How could you not be so mad right now?"
"What did Draco do to you?" wondered Hermione. "Why are you so mad at him?" He was furious that she could call him Draco.
Harry used one of his dad's lines. "It's more the mere fact that he exists, if you know what I mean. Just seeing him could ruin the best day of my life. Plus, he indirectly called me a girl and was acting very oddly. I mean, listening to you and opening the door for us?"
"Maybe he's trying to be nice," concluded Hermione.
"Nice?" repeated Harry incredulously. "Nice?"
"Yes, Harry," said Hermione. "Nice. Maybe he's changing." Then, seeing Winky, she added, "can you get us some coffee, toast, marmalade, and a bowl of fruit? Please?"
"Hermione," said Harry, not believing his ears. Why was she sticking up for Malfoy? "That's a person that can't change. That's like saying Voldemort's going to join the Order. It will never happen."
"Speaking of the Order," said Hermione, obviously changing the subject, "have you talked to Lupin lately? See what they're up to?"
"No," said Harry, "but I was going to visit this weekend. I'll ask Dumbledore if I can go. He should let me."
"Okay." Winky came up and pulled on Hermione's robes.
"Your food, miss," she said. Harry took the two mugs of coffee so Hermione could carry the rest of the food upstairs.
Harry decided to keep the day in a happy mood. He didn't like being mad at Hermione. So he said, "What are we doing today?"
"Oh, I don't know," replied Hermione, spreading marmalade on her toast. "Talk to Ron?"
"No," said Harry firmly. "He'll come talking to me soon anyway."
"Well, then, do you have any homework?"
"No," said Harry. "Dumbledore didn't give us any. Good thing, because you weren't there."
"I forgot to ask you," said Hermione suddenly. "What did you do yesterday in class?"
"Oh, it was so boring," said Harry. "We did Patronuses. I've known those for four years. Dumbledore keeps telling me he knows it's boring for me, and we'll move on to better stuff once the rest of the class gets Patronuses."
"I've known how to do those since fifth year," said Hermione. "Remember you taught us at the D.A.?"
"Yeah," said Harry. He still did the D.A., but for fifth years and above, and now that everyone knew Voldemort was back, attendance was high. Dumbledore let Harry use the Great Hall for teaching every Thursday night at seven. "I wonder what Dumbledore's going to do with me gone next year," he said aloud.
"I was thinking about that, too," said Hermione. "I know! You should come back and teach Defense Against the Dark Arts!"
"Are you serious?" asked Harry. "I suck at the D.A. I can't teach. Plus, well never mind..." He stopped talking and looked like he was forcing himself not to laugh.
"What's so funny?" inquired Hermione.
"Well," started Harry, "for one, I can't imagine being called 'Professor Potter,' and if I stay for, like, fifteen years, if I'm alive then, that is, then people that go here now will have had kids. Then they'd come to school and say, 'My mum's told me all about you. My mum said she fought off Death Eaters with you.' I'd hate that."
"Professor Potter," repeated Hermione. "You know, that's almost better than Professor Snape."
"Excuse me?" asked Harry. "I'm deeply offended. Me almost better that Snape? Fine, then, Professor Granger."
Hermione laughed. "You know, it would be fun if we both became professors. I could force Snape to retire, even though he's only, like, forty. That would be awesome. Then, the poor kids wouldn't have to learn from Snape and whoever is going to be Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher next."
"That would be fun," agreed Harry. "Do you think Dumbledore's going to keep teaching?"
"No," said Hermione. "Once you leave, he'll find someone."
"You know what would be great?" asked Harry.
"What?"
"If Lupin became Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher again. The little kids would learn so much. He's a really good teacher."
"You should talk to him about that, Harry," agreed Hermione. "I'm sure Dumbledore could convince parents that he's not really dangerous, compared to some other stuff that's out there. That is, if you don't become the teacher."
"Okay," said Harry. "What do you think I should do for D.A. tonight?"
"I think only sixth and seventh years are coming today," said Hermione. "Fifth years have some activity."
"Good," said Harry happily. "We can do some hard stuff today."
"Like what?"
"I was thinking that Anti-Disapparating Jinx that Dumbledore used at the Department of Mysteries to hold the Death Eaters there until Fudge arrived," proposed Harry.
"Yes, but do you know that one?" asked Hermione.
"Yes, it's 'Immobulo Exilo' and a circular wrist movement. Dumbledore taught me last year."
"All right," agreed Hermione.
"But I'm bored," said Harry.
"Excuse me?"
"Well, we should be doing something together," said Harry. Hermione gave a mischievous grin. "Not what you're thinking," he added. "Though that would be fun."
"Go ask Dumbledore if you can visit the Order now, then."
"Okay," agreed Harry. "Why don't you come with me?"
"Sure." They found Dumbledore's office with no difficulty, and Hermione spoke the password: "Sugar Quills." Rising up in the moving escalator, Hermione commented, "This is so cool. I'd love to have an office here."
"I've been here so many times that I hate it. I find out bad new here," said Harry darkly. He knocked on Dumbledore's door.
"Come in, please," said Dumbledore. They walked in. "What a pleasant surprise. Harry, Miss Granger. Where is Mr. Weasley? I trust he is well?"
"Yes," lied Harry. "He's taking a nap."
"Well, one can never have enough sleep," said Dumbledore sagely. "Are you okay, Harry?"
"Yes."
"Scar been hurting too much?"
"No."
"Miss Granger, is he being an absolute nuisance?" he joked.
"No," replied Hermione. "He's absolutely wonderful to be around."
"Is there something going on between you two that I should know about?" questioned Dumbledore. Hermione blushed and shut up. Dumbledore winked at Harry. "Well, Harry," he said, changing the subject, "I suppose you came here to tell me something of importance."
"Yes. I was wondering if I could visit the Order."
"When?" inquired Dumbledore.
"Today," Harry replied. "If it's possible."
"Well, I think that should be all right. Just take your invisibility cloak and stay under it when you Dissapparate. I don't want a Death Eater, or even Voldemort, to see you at Hogsmeade."
"Thank you, Professor," said Harry. "Can Hermione come too?"
"Miss Granger?" he repeated. At this, he looked very worried. "I would feel better if she stayed, but if you promise me to keep her under the cloak, it will be all right."
"Thank you, Professor," said Hermione. Harry nodded in thanks, too. They got up to leave and were at the door when Dumbledore said, "Be back for your D.A. class. What are you doing for it anyway? It's sixth and seventh years only."
"Oh, I was thinking of doing the Anti-Disapparating Jinx."
"Always a good one," said Dumbledore. "Goodbye, Harry, Miss Granger."
"Bye!" they said together. Once they were in the Head Dorm, Harry went to get his cloak.
On the way to Hogsmeade, he asked, "You had to say we were going out? He already knows stuff about me that I don't know. Now he knows about my personal life."
"I didn't tell him we were going out," complained Hermione.
"Oh, you only said I was a wonderful person to be around."
"Well, it's true."
"Thanks, but I don't like him knowing that kind of stuff," said Harry.
"Sorry," apologized Hermione.
"It's all right," said Harry. "Here, get under the cloak." They were just leaving the castle. Once in Hogsmeade, Harry and Hermione concentrated hard about where they were going and Apparated in the kitchen of 12 Grimmauld Place.
* * * *
Draco left to his dormitory, praising no one in particular that Pansy wasn't there. She had remedial classes on Thursday, since she hadn't passed a single O.W.L.; and she wasn't going to pass her N.E.W.T.s, Draco knew. He threw on silver warm-ups and a blue t-shirt. He was going to practice Quidditch before the weather go too cold. Plus, he could clear his mind while flying. Picking up his Firebolt (the original because his dad had never gotten to getting him a new one), he left for the pitch. He hopped onto his broom and took off into the perfectly blue and cloudless sky.
* * * *
Ron woke up and his watch said 11:00. He was hungry but ignored his stomach growling. If today proved to be as bad as yesterday, he would sleep it off until dinner.
* * * *
"Hello, Harry!" said Lupin, who was sitting at the kitchen table. "And Hermione!" he added, seeing her.
"Hey!" said Harry. "How are you?"
"I'm good, of course." He brushed aside Harry's words. "But how are you? Has your scar been hurting?"
"Not that I know of," said Harry. "What's the Order been doing?"
"Oh, the usual. Guess what?"
Harry, suspecting bad news, asked, "What?"
"Voldemort accidentally killed Bellatrix Lestrange," he said. "Apparently, he was going through a house with her, trying to kill its inhabitants. He was shooting killing curses everywhere. She got in the crossfire."
Harry couldn't believe his ears. Finally, Bellatrix was dead. Sirius's death had been avenged. He would have liked her to die in a more painful way, but she was Dead! "Wouldn't Voldemort have been mad that he killed one of his Death Eaters?" Harry asked. "Wouldn't my scar have hurt?"
"No," replied Lupin. "Bellatrix wasn't much of a help anyway. She let you escape before. He didn't care that he killed her."
"I don't care either," said Harry. "Now I just wish he'd kill all of his Death Eaters accidentally. Or, even better, his Death Eaters accidentally kill him."
"Yes," said Lupin seriously, "but the prophecy says you have to kill him."
"That's putting it nicely," said Harry glumly. "He could kill me, or we could both die."
"Let's no think about that," cut in Hermione. "I'm sure you'll defeat him, Harry. Lupin, how is Mr. Weasley liking his new job?" Mr. Weasley had been appointed Minister of Magic that summer when Fudge said he's made enough mistakes and handed over the ministership to him.
"He loves it," said Lupin. "Passing all sorts of anti-Dark Side legislation."
"I bet he's having fun," said Harry. "Who else is here?"
"No one; they're all working," said Lupin. "Where's Ron?"
"Didn't feel good," lied Harry.
"Say hi to him for me."
"What would you be doing if we weren't here?" inquired Harry. He wanted to find out as much as possible before he joined he Order.
"Trying to figure out what Voldemort is up to," replied Lupin.
"How do you do that?" wondered Harry.
"Spies get information," said Lupin. "I interpret it."
"Like what?" interrogated Harry.
"Say a spy heard the Grangers come up in one of Voldemort's conversations," explained Lupin. "I'd tell the Grangers that they might be in trouble. We'd put them in hiding so he couldn't get them. I contact families."
"Oh," said Harry. "Hey, we were wondering if you'd come be the DADA teacher next year."
"You know, Harry," said Lupin, "Dumbledore asked me that last week. I said I'd think about it."
"Please do," begged Hermione. "I was thinking if you didn't, Harry could."
"Well, that's an idea," said Lupin. "What do you think, Harry?"
"Like I told Hermione," Harry commented, "I'd hate being called 'Professor Potter.'" Lupin laughed.
"You know that's funny," he said. "After your father graduated, Dumbledore offered him the DADA job. He refused, saying he didn't want to be called 'Professor Potter," Plus, he said, he was going to get married to Lily and join the Order. You seem to be following his path. Thinking of marrying anyone?"
"No," said Harry quickly. Hermione glared at him. He glared back. Lupin either didn't notice this or didn't comment.
"So," said Hermione, "do you have to eat lunch here by yourself?"
"Yes," replied Lupin, "but I don't mind."
"Why don't you come to Hogwarts?" invited Hermione. "Come spend the day. We'd be bored otherwise."
"Maybe I should. I am pretty bored here," Lupin confessed. "Who would suspect that out of my three best friends, within fifteen years, two died and one became a Death Eater?"
"Please come," said Hermione. "And you can help Harry with DA lessons."
"Okay," agreed Lupin. "Wait. Let me get my cloak and lock the doors. We don't want Death Eaters dropping in when I'm gone."
"Well, so it's not suspicious, me and Hermione-''
"Hermione and I!" she cut in.
"Whatever!" said Harry. "Hermione and I will go first. Lupin, leave in about five minutes."
"Okay," said Lupin. "See you in five minutes, then."
"Bye!" Harry and Hermione Disapparated. Lupin followed several minutes later.
* * * *
Voldemort was sitting at the kitchen table at Malfoy Manor, speaking to Lucius Malfoy.
"Any progress with your son?" asked Voldemor.
"No, master," replied Lucius respectfully. "I should tell you when she's pregnant."
"Very well, Lucius," said Voldemort. "I can't believe that this happened. I can't believe I let it happen."
Malfoy pushed some very imaginative, yet dirty, pictures of Voldemort out of his mind. (A/N: SICK!!!!)
"I didn't know it would end in this. But if she's alive, I might as well use her. But of all the people in the entire world, she had to be Potter's best friend."
"Master," said Malfoy, "may I ask was exactly happened?"
"Lucius, that is personal information," said Voldemort. "I don't know why I'm going to tell you. But eighteen years ago, right before I was nearly killed, someone told me I ought to have an heir. I wondered why, and the person said in case I died. I told him, as I have told many people, that I can't die. But he said just in case."
"Who was the mother?"
"Just some witch. I took her and impregnated her. I modified her memory. I found out the baby's name was Hermione right before my downfall."
"I thought you married this woman," said Malfoy.
"Oh, hell no," said Voldemort. "And she died giving birth, quite like my own idiot mother. I decided to place the baby girl in an orphanage. If I was ever in danger, I would track her down and tell her she was my daughter."
"She doesn't know?" asked Lucius.
"No," replied Voldemort. "And when I kill Potter, because I know I will, it's only a question of time, I might have to kill her, too. I want to be sure I have a relative that's on the Dark Side. I'd take the baby and have your wife raise it properly. Sad thing Granger turned out on Dumbledore's side." At the mention of Dumbledore's name, both fell silent with hatred. "I believe Dumbledore knows about this," said Voldemort. "How, I cannot say. I just know he knows."
"Yes, master," said Malfoy. "You didn't tell me why Draco has to do this, though."
"Well," started Voldemort. "He is in Granger's year. I suppose I have somehow made Potter do it. The baby would have Potter's mother's protection, but I couldn't stand being related to Potter. And the baby would look like him, too. Really disgusting."
"I agree, My Lord," said Lucius.
"So tell young Draco to hurry. As soon as the baby's born, I will proceed with my plans to attack Hogwarts," said Voldemort.
"I shall," promised Malfoy. "I daresay it's hard to convince Granger to get in bed with him, though. Potter's probably suspected something. He's going to make this harder. I don't know if there's a relationship between him and Granger. The boy's not stupid, you know."
"Oh, I've had too much experience with how his mind works," snapped Voldemort. "I know he's not stupid. That's the reason he's not dead. But, no, he's not smarter than me. Just luckier."
"Undoubtedly," agreed Lucius. "Do you want to talk to Narciss about raising the baby?"
"No, Lucius," said Voldemort. "I told Wormtail I'd meet him at two. Just tell Narcissa that she'll be raising the kid."
"Oh, I will," said Lucius. And with that, Voldemort Disapparated.
* * * *
Draco landed at 1:00, after flying for two and a half hours. He was sweaty and tired, not to mention extremely hungry, due to the fact that he hadn't eaten anything since six the evening before. He thought he'd take a shower, eat lunch, and pay a visit to his father.
After quickly showering, he ran down to the kitchens because he's missed lunch. After eating the steak and potatoes he brought up to his room, he decided to take a nap before going home. He found that his pillow had been washed. He laid his head on it, and put his hands under his head. Draco tried falling asleep, but he could only think of how Granger had called him "Draco." She said it so sweetly, even when she was mad at him. And her hair was so pretty, her lips so red. Shut the hell up, Draco, he thought. You do your job and don't think about her. But how can't I think about her? She's too hot! Maybe she likes me. If she can call me Draco in front of Potter, maybe she wants me. Hang on! Why do I care if she wants me? Am I plotting how to get her to like me? No! Well, yes, I have to. But I can't let myself like her. How did this start? She kisses me and I like her? I don't understand.
His thoughts were so confusing that Draco couldn't fall asleep. He decided to go ask Dumbledore if he could visit his father. He didn't know Dumbledore's password, so he knocked until he heard him.
"Good afternoon, Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore.
"Good afternoon," replied Draco stiffly. He hated talking to Dumbledore. After all, his father told him not to. "I was wondering if I could go home for a few hours."
"Home?" Dumbledore looked worried. He knew about his whole plot that concerned Hermione. He'd heard it through spies and was overly glad that Harry was watching her. He didn't want to allow Draco to go home so he and his father could plot some more. "Why do you want to go?" he asked.
"I forgot some books," Draco lied.
"Then write home and tell your father to send them," suggested Dumbledore simply.
"Well, see," started Draco. "I'd like to say hi, too."
"That can also be done in a letter."
"Well, yeah, but-''
"Mr. Malfoy," interrupted Dumbledore. "I don't like students leaving. I'll give you half an hour." He couldn't act too suspiciously. Plus, how much damage could they do in half an hour? Hermione was currently with Lupin. She was safe. There was a knock on the door. "Excuse me, Mr. Malfoy," said Dumbledore. "Come in!" Harry and Hermione walked in.
"Hello again, Professor," said Hermione. "I was wondering-'' She stopped at the sight of Draco. "What's he doing here?"
"Wondering if he could go home," said Dumbledore. "What do you need?" Harry slightly nodded his head towards Malfoy. "Oh, yes," said Dumbledore. "Mr.Malfoy, half and hour or I'll come after you."
"Thank you, Professor." He left.
"Miss Granger," Dumbledore said, "what is it you want to talk about?"
"Professsor, Lupin is at Hogsmeade. Can he come spend the day?"
"Yes, yes," said Dumbledore. "Mr. Malfoy just left."
"What does that have to do with anything?" asked Harry.
"Well, Harry," covered up Dumbledore, "he could be reporting to Lucius about what goes on here. We don't want Death Eaters knowing that Order members are at Hogwarts."
"Oh," said Harry. "Well, we'll be seeing you later. Bye!"
"Goodbye," said Dumbledore. Harry and Hermione left. "Please watch over her for me, Harry," said Dumbledore to an empty room.
* * * *
"Sit down, Draco," said Lucius. "I was wondering when you'd visit."
"I've been busy, father."
"With Granger, I hope," snapped Lucius.
"I'm making progress, father."
"She's not pregnant, then?" asked Lucius.
"No, father," said Draco. "I'd say, give it a month."
"Draco, you disappoint me," said Lucius.
"You try getting her in bed when she's hanging on to Potter!" Draco nearly yelled.
"Hold your tongue and address me as father or sir," hissed Lucius. "And what about Potter?"
"I said that they're going out," said Draco quietly. He really hated his father.
"Shit!" shouted Lucius.
"I know, father," sighed Draco. "I think she loves him. It makes it very difficult."
"Love always complicates things," said Lucius. "I didn't marry for love. Your mother was a pureblood; that's why I married her."
"I agree, sir," said Draco. If he was ever going to get married, it wouldn't be for love. He couldn't love properly and he knew it.
"Do you have a plan, Draco?" asked Lucius. "The Dark Lord is getting impatient."
"I'm just trying to get her away from Potter," explained Draco. "Then maybe I'll use the Imperius Curse on her."
"I don't care how you do it, Draco. Just hurry. The Dark Lord will attach Hogwarts when the baby is born. And you will have graduated and joined the Deather Eaters by then, Draco."
"Of course, father," replied Draco. In reality, he'd avoid being a Death Eater for as long as he could, even if it included killing his father. But Draco hoped it didn't come to that. "I should be going, father."
"Yes, yes, leave," snapped Lucius. "And write weekly with your progress."
"I will, father," said Draco. "Can I say hello to mother?"
"Just hurry," said Lucius. Draco hurried up the spiral staircase.
"Mother?" he called.
"I'm here, Draco. I'm just writing a letter." Draco followed his mother's voice. He sat down beside her. "Hello, dear," she said in her soft voice. "Are you all right?"
"Okay," said Draco, looking down. Compared with him, even his mother was so innocent. He couldn't stand to look at her.
"What's wrong, baby?" she asked, brushing the hair out of his face. "Was your father harsh on you?"
"I'm fine," whispered Draco.
"I don't like this whole thing," said Narcissa.
"What whole thing?" asked Draco.
"You impregnating the poor girl," said Narcissa. "I don't like you losing your virginity for that reason."
"I don't want to talk about that," said Draco. He didn't tell his mother that he wasn't a virgin in the first place.
"You hate him, too, don't?" asked Narcissa.
"The Dark Lord?" asked Draco.
"Yes, and your father," Narcissa said. "If I could divorce him, I would."
"Why can't you?" wondered Draco.
"I know his secrets," explained Narcissa. "He could kill me."
"Why did you marry him?" asked Draco.
"It was an arranged marriage. My parents made me."
"You should have run away," said Draco.
"It wasn't that simple," replied Narcissa. Draco stood up. He didn't like where the conversation was going.
"I should be going."
"I love you, Draco," said Narcissa.
"Me too, mother," replied Draco. Maybe he wasn't as incapable of love as he thought. Maybe he didn't have to be the person his father was making him out to be.
* * * *
Lupin, Dumbledore, Harry and Hermione were eating dinner in a private room.
"I trust you are well, Remus?" asked Dumbledore.
"Fine, thank you," replied Lupin. "You?"
"I've been better, Remus, if you know what I mean," returned Dumbledore.
"I know exactly, Albus," said Lupin. "Ah, the good old days. What has happened to our world?" He leaned back in his chair, sipping from his goblet.
"Harry, it's 6:45," said Dumbledore. "Do you think you should be getting ready for the DA?"
"Oh, yeah," said Harry, "I hadn't looked at the time. Hermione, let's go." They left for the Great Hall.
* * * *
Ron woke up again at 6:30. Maybe he'd go have dinner. Am I going to the DA? He thought. I don't want to, but mum's making me. I'll go; I just won't talk to Harry or Hemrione. He headed down to the Great Hall.
* * * *
Draco walked into the Great Hall from Hogsmeade. Dinner was just starting. Unfortunately for him, the only seat left was next to Pansy. She had probably saved the seat for him. He sat down.
"Hey, Draco," said Pansy. "Good day?"
"Sure," replied Draco. In his mind, he thought, Anything but. He looked across at the Gryffindor table. Neither Potter or Granger were there. Only Weasel King. I wonder where they are, he thought. He piled food onto his plate and started eating hungrily.
"Are we going to Truth or Dare tomorrow, baby?" asked Pansy.
"I guess," replied Draco. It would be an easy was to kiss Granger in front of Potter, and he couldn't wait.
"What do you want to do tomorrow?" asked Pansy.
"I don't know," said Draco. "Sleep in, fly, eat."
"Is that all you do?" asked Pansy.
"Wait! I forgot," said Draco, ignoring Pansy. "I've got classes tomorrow. And I have homework. I'm going to do it now." He finished eating and left to his room, glad for any excuse that would get him away from Pansy.
* * * *
The Great Hall cleared up after dinner, so Harry, with Hermione's help, vanished the five tables to make way for practicing the Anti- Disapparating Jinx.
"You know, Harry," pointed out Hermione. "You can't Disapparate in here, anyway."
"I know that," said Harry. "But the jinx stops you from moving, too, so we'll do that. If they want more practice, they can try it in Hogsmeade over the weekend."
"Sounds good," said Hermione.
"Hey, Harry, Hermione," called a voice. Ginny had just walked in. "What are we doing today?"
"Anti-Disapparating Jinx," replied Harry.
"Oh, that one Dumbledore used?" asked Ginny.
"Yeah," said Hermione. "Ginny, have you seen Ron?"
"He was sleeping all day," said Ginny. "Do you know what's wrong with him?"
"No," said Hermione innocently. "Do you know if he's coming?"
"Yes, I talked to him at dinner. He said he was."
"Good," said Hermione. "I want to talk to him." Soon, Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom, Ernie Macmillan, Hannah Abbott, Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas, Lavender Brown, Parvati and Padma Patil, Michael Corner, Zacharias Smithe, Anthony Goldstein, Colin and Dennis Creevey (Dennis was in fourth year, but being the Harry Potter loyalist he was, he probably found a way of coming), and Terry Boot were assembled in front of Harry.
"Should we wait for Ron?" whispered Hermione.
"No need," replied Harry. "He's here." For Ron had just walked in, sitting down as far from Harry and Hermione as possible. "Okay," said Harry loudly. "I was thinking today, because it's only sixth and seventh years, we should do a harder lesson."
"Avada Kedavra?" interrupted Dennis.
"Most definitely not," said Harry. "We're not stooping to the Death Eaters' level. We're just defending ourselves. Anyway, we're doing the Anti- Disapparating Jinx-''
"You can't Disapparate in here anyway," cut in Michael Corner.
"Could you just shut the hell up for a few minutes?" snapped Harry. He didn't like Michael at all. "I'm trying to talk. So, I know you can't Disapparate here. The curse also immobilizes its captors. If you really want to practice it the real way, go to Hogsmeade this weekend. Now get into groups of two. It's easier that way. Once you get good at it, you can perform it on tons of people at a time." Soon, everyone was partnered up: Ginny with Hermione, Ron with Anthony, Luna with Padma, Ernie with Hannah, Seamus with Dean, Colin with Dennis, Lavender with Parvati, Michael with Zacharias, and Neville with Terry. "Okay, guys, the jinx is 'Immobulo Exilo.' It's just a little circular wrist movement. Exactly, Neville. Make sure you're concentrating on the spell. I'll walk around and see how you're doing. Okay, you can start."
Soon, cries of "Immobulo Exilo" echoed through the Great Hall. Harry watched as Neville cast the spell on Terry, and he couldn't move. Hermione, of course, got it right away. Harry avoided going by Ron for twenty minutes, then decided to quickly walk past him. Ron gave him a glare that definitely told him he was pissed off. Harry quickly ran back to Hermione. The last time he and Ron hadn't talked was fourth year, and Ron had been at fault that time. Harry was sure Ron was wrong now, too.
"All right!" called out Harry. "I think you're doing good in pairs. Now go into groups of fours! One person casts the spell on three other people. Start!" Harry watched as great progress was made. Maybe I should be a teacher, he thought.
* * * *
By the time Draco had finished his stupid Transfiguration essay, it was 8:00. Rubbing his eyes and stretching, he pulled out his Charms homework: two rolls of parchment on the uses of Switching Spells. For switching bodies with Potter, he thought. He knew about Switching Spells. Why had he left his homework until the last night? He sighed and dug through his bag for more parchment. I've never been a great student anyway, he thought.
After many crossings-out and mess-ups, he'd finished all his homework at 10:30. He fell asleep in front of the common room fire.
He was walking through the hall of Malfoy Manor. He saw his mother, dead on the floor. She changed into Hermione and started walking toward him.
"What are you doing?" she asked. "You killed your mother!"
"I didn't!" cried Draco.
"You did too," she said. "Now Harry Potter's going to come kill you!" Harry walked in.
"You killed your mother," he said. "I'll have to tell your father!"
"Don't tell him!" Draco yelled.
"I'm already here!" hissed Lucius, stepping through the threshold. "I don't care about Narcissa. Is Granger pregnant?"
"No, father," confessed Draco.
"I am too!" cut in Hermione. "I found out last night, and Harry's the dad!"
"No!" yelled Lucius in Draco's dream, but the real Draco also yelled, "No!" and woke up.
He was breathing fast. He knew the dream wasn't true; it was stupid, but it could very well happen. Who knew if Granger and Potter hadn't had sex yet? I don't know that they haven't, thought Draco. I better hurry before it's too late.
He picked up his bag. Pansy had apparently gone to bed while he was doing homework without saying goodnight, but Draco wasn't complaining. He walked upstairs and slid off his shirt. Looking in the mirror, he noticed his toned, fairly tanned, muscular chest. Any girl would want that, he thought. Grinning, he climbed into bed.
* * * *
Harry and Hermione bade goodnight to everyone and put the tables back.
"That went great!" exclaimed Hermione.
"Yeah," Harry agreed, "but Ron still wasn't talking to either of us."
"He'll realized he's being an idiot, Harry," said Hermione, "then he'll come begging forgiveness."
"How long until then?" wondered Harry.
"Eventually," Hermione answered vaguely. "And you're sleeping in your bed tonight."
"What?"
"You're so funny," she laughed. "Really, we have classes tomorrow, and we'll have double homework in everything except Defense Against the Dark Arts because we missed them all Wednesday. You need sleep, and so do I."
"I sleep fine in your bed," he complained.
"I know, Harry; you sleep fine anywhere, but I can't sleep when you're there."
"I'm that distracting?" asked Harry.
"Actually, yes," answered Hermione. "Either we're talking or snogging. It's 9:30, and I need to sleep."
"I'm feeling rejected," Harry said.
"Oh, stop it," Hermione said. "Let's go."
They walked to the Head Dorm together. Once in their common room, Hermione got on tiptoe and kissed Harry goodnight.
"Mmm... That's more like it," whispered Harry.
Hermione broked apart and said, "That's instead of sleeping in my bed. Goodnight."
"Goodnight," said Harry, and he kissed Hermione once more on the forehead.
* * * *
Ron left the Great Hall in a bad mood, but what was new? I've had enough, he thought. I'm going to talk to them. They' can't be asleep; it's not even ten o'clock. He walked to the Head Dorm and said the password. After all, Hermione said he could come in whenever he wanted. No one was there. They can't be sleeping, can they? Thought Ron. He tiptoed to Harry's room first; he'd probably be asleep. Creaking open the door, he was Harry spread across the bead with the covers thrown on the ground and pillows by his feet. This was urgent; he decided to wake him up.
"Harry!" he said, not too sure whether he should yell or not. Surprisingly, Harry awoke. He probably hadn't been asleep for long.
"Ron?" he asked. "What the hell are you doing here?" It was a good thing he hadn't slept in Hermione's room after all.
"We need to talk," stated Ron simply.
"I sure as hell know that," snapped Harry. "But now?"
"As good a time as any," shrugged Ron. "Don't go wake up Hermione. I can talk to her later."
"After you made her cry?" said Harry.
"Listen," said Ron, "I just didn't like the whole you and her thing. I thought his was going to be the year for her and me. I do love her."
"I know, Ron," said Harry. "The problem is, I don't think she loves you that way."
"I kind of got that message," said Ron sarcastically.
"So don't you want her to have what makes her happy?" asked Harry. "Even if it is me?"
"I guess that's the way it'll have to be," said a resigned Ron. "Too bad for me... About Malfoy..."
"There's nothing about him," said Harry angrily.
"There is too," said Ron. "He's a threat to Hermione, and we all know he's after something."
"I was talking to him-'' started Harry.
"You were talking to him?" Ron cut in. "Like, 'Hey, Draco. We haven't spoken in a while. What's up?'"
"No, Ron," started Harry. "More like, 'I haven't seen you in a while and I'd like to keep it that way.' Anyway, from what he said, I gather that his father is included in this scheme."
"And that makes me feel all warm inside," Ron said grimly. "Because we all know Lucius Malfoy is the most active member of the Order."
"I know," said Harry. "But what could Voldemort want from Hermione?"
"She's only one of your best friends," said Ron. "Well, kind of. Maybe girlfriend. But You-Know-Who could be using her to get to you."
"That makes sense," said Harry, "but how does Malfoy play into that?"
"Listen to this!" exclaimed Ron. "Malfoy gets Hermione alone and tries to get her to like him so she starts pouring out secret stuff about you to him. He tells this all to his dad, and You-Know-Who makes a plan from that information."
"But that's too simple," said Harry. "Voldemort's plans are more complex than that. That's why for the past six years I've never been able to guess them. Remember Moody? The fake one? Even Dumbledore was tricked then."
"I get it, Harry, but maybe he made his plan simple so we wouldn't think that it was his plan."
"Maybe, Ron," said Harry, "but somehow I think there's way more to this story than we know."
If only they knew the whole rest of the story....
* * * *
Ron got back to bed feeling lighter and happier than an hour before. He fell asleep only worried about Harry and Hermione and what You-Know- Who's latest plans were.
SO GUYS!!!! I haven't been answering to you because I posted this all in one big chunk, but maybe I'll reply to reviews later. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!!! I hope you like the story. I know I do. Did you know I have the sequel to this?? It's coming out when I finishing writing it and typing up this one. I have this one all written in six notebooks; I just need to type it. So, keep reading and review, review, review!!!