Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter's characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 8/19
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R. OKAY?
Thanks again for the reviewers. Love them all!
Oh and yeah, don't confuse this with my other story (for those who
read Last Chance anyway). Remember, Summer Camp: Snape hates
mudbloods, Last Chance: Snape favors her. Clear? Good!
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter16: The Maze
Potions and Quidditch activities were done. The next activity for the week is Charms. For this week professor Flitwick came to judge and help them.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and Draco gathered around him in the middle of the pitch. "Good day students! Don't you think that this day is quite amazing?" Flitwick mad his introduction. "How are you doing so far?" He was curious about the relationship between Gryffindor and Slytherin after being forced to live and work together.
Nobody bothered to say anything. Flitwick was a bit disappointed; to him it looked like there weren't any changes. But there were, not only between the two houses but also with the Hufflepuff-Ravenclaw team.
"Now back to business. I heard that you have had a potion's war. Tell me what do you expect with Charms?" Flitwick asked the students.
Again the group wasn't the least bit interested.
"Fine, fine. Can't you at least try to act like you are enjoying yourself?" Flitwick glanced at his favorite student, Hermione. "Do you still remember the last task in Tri Wizard Competition?"
Hermione felt obliged to at least nod.
"Well, at the end of the week, you guys will have the opportunity to do what Mr. Potter has done before."
Now he got all the attention of the class. "What is he crazy? I'm not going in some dangerous labyrinth!" People kept on hissing their refusal.
"Settle down. I will not force anyone to participate. Just like in the Tri Wizard Competition there will only be four pairs to enter the maze. So technically there will be four teams. I'm hoping to see four volunteers in this team and four on the other team. Whoever wins will gain 100 points to be added to their house for the house cup next year."
Draco raised his hand.
"Yes Mr. Malfoy." Flitwick seemed amused that there were people listening to him.
"What if the team that wins consists of two houses?"
"Well, then both house will gain 100 points."
Draco looked at Hermione to show his intent on joining the maze.
Hermione nodded in agreement. She raised her hand for another question.
"Yes, Ms. Granger?"
"Sir, how will you pair the teams?"
Flitwick wasn't aware of McGonagall's pairing of students, "I leave it to those who will volunteer. I must say that the pair must trust each other to be able to finish the maze safely, don't you think?"
"I agree sir." She then looked at Draco and smiled.
Harry and Ron looked at each other. They can't believe that Hermione would rather join Draco on the maze. They saw each glance the two shared.
"By the way, the maze will only have Charm related obstacles. They won't be as dangerous as that of the Tri Wizard Competition so you don't have to worry. I'm expecting a lot of volunteers here especially from Gryffindors whose foundation is on their courage. When the two teams have been decided, the rest of you would have to help them to prepare for Saturday. If there's any other questions?" He looked back at Hermione and Draco who both shook their heads. "I'll be taking volunteers now."
Draco immediately raised his hand. Harry and Ron followed suit. There was an exchanged of angry glares.
"Mr. Potter, I expect this to be a breeze with you as you've survived and won before." He looked pleased to have three volunteers already. "Mr. Malfoy since you're the first to volunteer, who would you like to be paired with?"
"Hermione Granger."
Everybody's gaze was fixed on him. "He's messing with the Gryffindor trio. This is bad. I can smell trouble." Harry and Ron were giving him a deadly scowl.
"Ms. Granger, good choice Mr. Malfoy but I have to ask you a question."
Draco nodded.
"Do you trust Ms. Granger to help you out?"
"Yes sir."
"Ms. Granger, how about you?"
Harry met Hermione's gaze challengingly. "I guess so." 'I hope Harry and Ron are not expecting me to pair with them.
"Ok then. I don't see why you can't be paired. Now Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley, you both raised your hands at the same time. I think that you two should talk first on who'll join the activity."
Harry shrugged, "Ron and I could join together." He then looked at Ron for approval.
"Mr. Weasley?"
"Of course."
"Excellent." Flitwick then faced the remainder of the team. "Now everyone that's left will help them out by casting spells on them and the two teams would counteract by using charms. So those of you who's got a grudge have a chance to release them this week." He gave a wink to them.
Draco whispered to Hermione, "I'm seriously considering dropping my spot so that I can get back at those two."
"You're forgetting that they are my friends."
Flitwick then gave a few minutes for the two teams to get together.
Harry and Ron pulled Hermione aside.
"What's up guys?" Hermione asked innocently.
"You told me that if you were to choose between us you'd choose us against him!" Harry exclaimed.
"Yeah, I did tell you that. Tell me, how can I choose between you and Ron then?" She challenged. "I mean, you two did volunteer and let's say both of you would've asked me to be your partner. Do you think I can choose between you?"
Harry sighed, "I guess you're right, still you could've just avoided the activity all together."
"What makes you think that I would pass up this up?" She teased him by flashing he pearly whites.
Harry couldn't think of any reply. He was captivated by her smile.
"Hello? Harry are you there?" She teased.
Harry blushed a deep red at being caught off guard.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "So are we good?" She posed this question to Ron who seemed to be listening to her.
"We're good." Ron nudged Harry to reply.
"Yeah, I suppose."
"Good, cause I was thinking that maybe the four of us can help each other out."
"Like you really need help. You were the one who helped me accomplish that task in the Tri Wizard Competition." Harry was able to focus now.
"But that was years ago. I think that we need each other. We could practice together and stuff."
"Are you serious?" Ron objected. "From what Flitwick just said, we're already going to have to deal with all of the Slytherins, I don't think I like the idea of having a smug Malfoy with us."
"Oh come on Ron, Draco would also have the same problem with our house."
"No, Hermione," Harry loved the way her name sounds. "Malfoy's got you. I don't think Neville and the others would even dare to challenge you. Besides, us Gryffindors play it fair. I doubt that the Slytherins would waste their chance on getting us without getting themselves in trouble."
Hermione sighed, "I guess but that means that I'd prepare with Draco alone."
Ron and Harry looked at each other at disbelief. "Well if that's how it's going to be then maybe we could all prepare together."
Hermione gave a triumphant look at her two best friends.
She took the arms of Harry and Ron as she led them to Draco. "Sorry it took so long. I hope you didn't get bored."
"So what have you been discussing about?"
"Nothing much." She gave him a smile.
"Well that grin doesn't look good. What did you talk about?"
"Well, I thought that maybe the four of us could help each other out by preparing together."
Draco arched an eyebrow in question. "I thought that I told you not to try to make us friends."
"Don't act as if it's our fault. We wouldn't dream of having anything to do with you!" Ron said in outrage.
"Then I suppose you'd be leaving Hermione alone then, seeing that she's with me." Draco challenged.
Ron tried to lunge at him but Hermione blocked his way. "Guys! Stop this! We're supposed to be a team."
"You do know that you're protecting that git over US!" Ron was fuming with anger.
"Ron back-off. If this is how you're going to react all the time then let's just forget it!" She glared at Ron saying, "You prepare with Harry, and Draco and I will prepare on our own."
She turned around, grabbed Draco's hand and walked to the opposite side of the pitch.
"Hermione wait up!" Harry tried to call after her. "Ron, look at what you did. Stop pushing her to him!" Harry set foot towards her.
Ron sighed in defeat, "Harry if you'd only make your move then she wouldn't have to put up with that slimy git!" He watched as the puppy dog hopelessly followed Hermione, trying to soothe her.
~~~~~~~~~~
The week ended abruptly. Hermione spent most of her time preparing for the maze with Draco. She's been avoiding Ron as much as possible. Harry was doing his best to keep it cool with her. Hermione welcomed his effort. She managed to juggle Draco and Harry at the same time without the help of Ron. There were even times when Ron would practice Quidditch instead and Harry would join Draco and Hermione's practices. Talk about third wheel. Draco couldn't even make a move to improve their relationship with the third wheel and all.
When at last Saturday came, the four pairs that joined the activity each took a different entrance. Draco and Hermione chose the outer left entrance. Harry and Ron chose the outer right entrance. Hermione still wasn't in speaking terms with Ron and she decided to enter the maze as far away from him as possible. Draco didn't mind, in fact he couldn't ask for more.
Last week Draco got upset for wasting precious time alone with Hermione with Harry joining them. He thought of a plan to recover the lost time. They were given instructions that the maze ends in the west. All he got to do is to go the other way around. If Hermione starts noticing that they are heading the wrong way, he can try to persuade her. Of course everything would work out fine if her bodyguards wouldn't suddenly appear.
Then the signal was given. There were pairs that were excited to go inside but some feared for their lives. It was like they weren't really given a choice. Hermione noticed that Padma Patil was one of the contenders. She found this amusing since charms weren't really her strongest point. 'She must have been elected to join since she's their leader.'
Harry and Ron were among the first to enter the maze. It seemed like they want to end the activity as soon as possible. They both wanted to get to the Quidditch part. They do have more fun when they're flying whether they maybe chasing the snitch, passing the Quaffle or avoiding the Bludgers.
Hermione on the other hand was giddy with excitement. This was the first time that she'll work with Draco on their own, no supervisors nor bodyguards. As soon as she heard the signal, she dragged Draco into the maze. Different Charms were swarming on her head trying not to forget anything. This was a good chance to let people know that she can do more than just memorize theories plus this was also a good chance to shove it to Sirius and Lupin's faces that they were wrong about Draco. He has changed and he can be trusted.
Most of the professors watching the activity weren't exactly happy about the pairings of students. McGonagall was very vocal about her stand. Hermione and Draco shouldn't be paired together. She gave them both dangerous look that meant that they were in trouble. Lupin and Sirius were worried at the thought of leaving Hermione on her own with Malfoy. Snape didn't like the idea of Draco associating with a mudblood.
The teams from Hufflepuff-Ravenclaw were a bit apprehensive. They were thinking that this maze was similar to that of where Harry entered and where Cedric died. They were just being foolish to think that the professors would even dare hurt them.
Hermione and Draco were doing a pretty good job. Hermione would do charms for their defense while Draco did once for their offense. It was always like this. Gryffindor would protect while Slytherin would attack. That's the only way it made sense.
When they were about halfway through Draco started with his act. He was in charge with directions (mainly because he had plans for them). So he had no trouble leading her into the wrong directions. Instead of heading west, they started heading east.
Hermione easily saw through his plan. She quickly remembered a mark on the wall (made from an explosive charm made by Draco). "Draco, tell me we aren't going in circles."
"Well ok. We aren't."
"Draco, don't make me lose my patience. Tell me the truth." She looked at him sternly.
Draco gave a sigh of defeat, "Fine, you're right."
Hermione cast a dangerous look. She started to wave her wand to cast a spell but Draco took her arm. "What!?!" She was getting irritated.
Draco cast her a seductive look. "No one would blame us if we got lost?"
"Harry knows that that it's impossible. He might search for us."
"But then, we already would've enough time for us."
"You don't understand, I thought Harry a spell so that he won't get lost in the maze before. He'd get worried if we took too long."
"Why does Harry Potter's name keep on popping up in our conversation?" He said crossly.
"I don't know he is my best friend." She replied defensively.
"Just forget it!' He shrugged it off.
Hermione cast the spell and led the way. From the spot they were in they had no choice but to go east to get back to the proper course. Suddenly she lost the will to stand and began to fall.
Draco was shocked to see Hermione faint but he was able to catch her before her head reached the floor. Draco sat down and laid her head in his arms. "Hermione?" He started to shake her lightly. He didn't know what to do. Her face was starting to grow pale. "Hermione wake up, please!" He started to reach for his wand to send fireworks for help when she started to stir. "Hermione?" He asked with concern in his eyes.
Hermione slowly opened her eyes in response. "Draco?"
"Are you alright now?"
Hermione nodded. She stared dreamily onto his face.
Draco felt a rush rising to his face. He looked at her hungrily. This was the first time after a week that they were this close. When she was this close all he could think about was to taste her soft lips.
Hermione lifted her head to gently kiss his cheeks.
"What was that for?" He was shocked and disappointed. He would've loved it even more if the kiss she planted landed on his lips instead.
"I thought that I should thank you." She teased.
"Does that mean you're not that grateful?" 'Well two can play at this game.' He leaned in to place a kiss at her lips.
"You're right, I should've thanked you properly." She placed her hand at the back of his head to kiss him. She felt a small resistance but she didn't let it discourage her. She teased his lower lip to part for her. When her tongue started to move inside him she felt all his resistance fade away. She deepened the kiss by pushing his head closer. She could feel his hands move towards her hair. She couldn't hide the pleasure that ran inside her. "Draco."
Draco was loosing his control when yet again the mention of his name brought back his senses. He gently pulled away from her. He didn't want to look at her because he was afraid to see if she was hurt by his gesture. He stood up abruptly and started to pull her up. "You know, your friends will bound to miss you. Maybe we should get going?"
Hermione was disappointed that the kiss ended. She arched an eyebrow questioningly. "Fine, if that's what you want."
Hermione took the lead once again but she didn't use the spell anymore. She just allowed her intuition to lead her.
"Hermione are you sure we're on the right way?"
"Quiet, I'm concentrating."
Draco didn't mention anything before he noticed the very familiar marking that they've passed earlier before Hermione even fainted. "Um, Hermione, I think we are going in circles."
"No we're not."
"But see that marking proves that we are going back to where we came from." He pointed at the wall.
"That only proves that we are getting closer."
"Closer? Closer to where?"
"How soon can you forget?"
"What are you talking about?"
Hermione abruptly stopped at one corner. She waved her wand dangerously and cast a spell on one wall.
Draco watched in amazement as the wall crumble down to pieces. "What the-"
"See? We're almost there." She pointed at the hole.
Draco's eyes widened in realization.
Before anybody had a chance to say anything two figures appeared out of nowhere. "What happened? Hermione are you alright?" Lupin asked concernedly. "We heard a loud crash-" He scanned the surrounding and saw Hermione pointing her wand towards the hole and everything made sense.
McGonagall suddenly lost her patience at what she saw, "Mr. Malfoy, Ms. Granger, what do you think are you doing?" She raised her eyebrows way up.
"It's not what it looks-" Before he could finish, Hermione once again fainted.
Lupin was able to catch her. He pulled out what looked like ammonia and placed it under her nose.
Within seconds she regain consciousness. She saw Lupin and McGonagall staring down at her and felt confused, "Does this mean we're disqualified?"
"There are more serious matters at hand." McGonagall assured her.
She looked at Draco incredulously and mouthed 'What happened?'
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione and Draco reappeared from the maze followed by McGonagall and Lupin. Harry and Ron with the rest of the Gryffindors surrounded Hermione, protective of her.
Harry reached her first, "What happened? Are you ok? Did Malfoy hurt you?"
"I'm fine." She didn't know how to face them. Once again, she fell under the fairies control.
"Are you sure? We heard a loud bang and thought Malfoy-" Harry was cut short.
"Look, Draco did nothing wrong!" She yelled at him. "Stop assuming that Draco's responsible for everything that's gone wrong!"
"What do you expect, he was the only one with you." Harry said as gently as possible.
"That's right, and if it wasn't for him, then maybe I'd be in a much worse state!"
Lupin tried to interfere but decided to disperse the crowd instead, "Nothing to see here!" He watched as everybody left the premises leaving him, McGonagall, Ron, Harry, Draco, Hermione and Sirius behind. Professor Flitwick accompanied the buzzing crowd.
Lupin then turned to Draco. To him, it only made sense to hear everything from the person who was not incapacitated, lucid even. "Mr. Malfoy, tell me what exactly happened?"
"We um- we were doing great when she fainted."
"And you didn't even ask for help?" McGonagall joined the conversation.
"I was about to when she regained consciousness. That's when she acted weird. But she said that she was ok so we continued the activity."
"Didn't you even notice that you were back where you started?" McGonagall couldn't believe his stupidity. (He is not stupid! I don't think he is so please don't comment about this. What can I say, each person has different perspectives and McGonagall was not fond of Malfoy, Snape's pet. Don't comment on that one either.)
"Of course I realized but she was saying that we were getting nearer. I tried to argue when she blast a wall down. Then you know what happened next."
"Tell me Mr. Malfoy, why am I supposed to believe this?"
"She was controlled ok! The only thing I'm sorry for is that I didn't notice till it was too late!"
"You see Mr. Malfoy, I almost believed you but the problem is if she was controlled as you said earlier, shouldn't you be controlled as well?" McGonagall challenged.
"That's the reason why I didn't believe that she was controlled in the first place!" Draco was loosing patience. 'Why argue with what happened today when they could start finding a solution to her problem!'
"Are you telling me Mr. Malfoy that Hermione was the only one controlled?" Lupin interrupted.
"Yes sir! For crying out loud you saw her in that state. That's the reason she fainted again!"
"Interesting, that would only mean that you are cured then."
Hermione and Draco exchanged glances. 'If I'm cured then does that mean I truly like her?' Draco asked himself.
"And what about Hermione?" Harry wanted to know whether she was already acting from her own freewill. He wanted to know whether she really likes him.
"I think it's quite obvious Harry that Hermione is still being controlled." Lupin deduced.
"How can that be?" Harry asked.
"One theory is that Mr. Malfoy was able to free himself by staying far away from the lake. Another theory is that the fairies have no purpose anymore with Mr. Malfoy and they decided to let him go."
Everybody looked confused. What does Hermione got that the fairies could want so badly.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, and Mr. Malfoy." McGonagall asked for their attention. "Would it be alright if the three of you would look after Ms. Granger?"
All three of them nodded without hesitation.
"Very well, I expect that Ms. Granger wouldn't be able to leave the camp with the three of you watching her." She then looked at Hermione, "I'm afraid that I can't allow you to join any activities anymore. While your team competes, you will be sitting next to me. Is that clear?"
Hermione nodded.
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry, Ron, Draco and Hermione were watching the waves as they hit the beach. Earlier, their team won the Charms and Quidditch activity. Harry and Ron's team was the first to finish the maze. Harry was also able to catch the snitch as soon as it appeared. True to their words. The three guys kept a good watch on Hermione. But she was itching to find out something from Draco, "Harry, Ron could you please give me a minute with Draco?"
The three guys looked shock. Harry was more hurt. 'Why him?'
"Just a minute?" Ron was able to ask.
Hermione nodded as she smiled at him. "Thanks."
When Harry and Ron left, Draco dared to talk first. "What did you want to talk to me about?"
"Now that we know you're cured, can you tell me how you really feel about me?"
"What do you think? I'm here with you aren't I?"
She noticed his refusal in saying the words but let it pass. "I guess."
"Besides, why should I say it when you're not yet sure of what you feel about me? I don't think that's fair." He teased.
Hermione sighed, feeling content with his answer and gave him a welcoming smile.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: IMPORTANT!!! Please read! The story DEPENDS on this!
My apologies for the grammar thingy. The only way that I can improve
it is if somebody would like to be my beta. Anybody who's interested
email me hbpikapi@yahoo.com. I guess it is a bit too late is it?
Lastly, I'm sorry for those who wants this to be a Harry-
Hermione fic. I already planned this to be a Draco-Hermione. If you
want a fic that ends up with Harry then I suggest you read "Models".
Then again I would suggest that you stay away from "Last Chance", its
sequel because it is also a Draco-Hermione thing.
RECAP: Beta, Draco-Hermione shipper.
A/N: '' - Basically means that the character is thinking
"" - Basically means that the character is speaking
R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R, R&R. OKAY?
Thanks again for the reviewers. Love them all!
Oh and yeah, don't confuse this with my other story (for those who
read Last Chance anyway). Remember, Summer Camp: Snape hates
mudbloods, Last Chance: Snape favors her. Clear? Good!
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter16: The Maze
Potions and Quidditch activities were done. The next activity for the week is Charms. For this week professor Flitwick came to judge and help them.
Harry, Ron, Hermione and Draco gathered around him in the middle of the pitch. "Good day students! Don't you think that this day is quite amazing?" Flitwick mad his introduction. "How are you doing so far?" He was curious about the relationship between Gryffindor and Slytherin after being forced to live and work together.
Nobody bothered to say anything. Flitwick was a bit disappointed; to him it looked like there weren't any changes. But there were, not only between the two houses but also with the Hufflepuff-Ravenclaw team.
"Now back to business. I heard that you have had a potion's war. Tell me what do you expect with Charms?" Flitwick asked the students.
Again the group wasn't the least bit interested.
"Fine, fine. Can't you at least try to act like you are enjoying yourself?" Flitwick glanced at his favorite student, Hermione. "Do you still remember the last task in Tri Wizard Competition?"
Hermione felt obliged to at least nod.
"Well, at the end of the week, you guys will have the opportunity to do what Mr. Potter has done before."
Now he got all the attention of the class. "What is he crazy? I'm not going in some dangerous labyrinth!" People kept on hissing their refusal.
"Settle down. I will not force anyone to participate. Just like in the Tri Wizard Competition there will only be four pairs to enter the maze. So technically there will be four teams. I'm hoping to see four volunteers in this team and four on the other team. Whoever wins will gain 100 points to be added to their house for the house cup next year."
Draco raised his hand.
"Yes Mr. Malfoy." Flitwick seemed amused that there were people listening to him.
"What if the team that wins consists of two houses?"
"Well, then both house will gain 100 points."
Draco looked at Hermione to show his intent on joining the maze.
Hermione nodded in agreement. She raised her hand for another question.
"Yes, Ms. Granger?"
"Sir, how will you pair the teams?"
Flitwick wasn't aware of McGonagall's pairing of students, "I leave it to those who will volunteer. I must say that the pair must trust each other to be able to finish the maze safely, don't you think?"
"I agree sir." She then looked at Draco and smiled.
Harry and Ron looked at each other. They can't believe that Hermione would rather join Draco on the maze. They saw each glance the two shared.
"By the way, the maze will only have Charm related obstacles. They won't be as dangerous as that of the Tri Wizard Competition so you don't have to worry. I'm expecting a lot of volunteers here especially from Gryffindors whose foundation is on their courage. When the two teams have been decided, the rest of you would have to help them to prepare for Saturday. If there's any other questions?" He looked back at Hermione and Draco who both shook their heads. "I'll be taking volunteers now."
Draco immediately raised his hand. Harry and Ron followed suit. There was an exchanged of angry glares.
"Mr. Potter, I expect this to be a breeze with you as you've survived and won before." He looked pleased to have three volunteers already. "Mr. Malfoy since you're the first to volunteer, who would you like to be paired with?"
"Hermione Granger."
Everybody's gaze was fixed on him. "He's messing with the Gryffindor trio. This is bad. I can smell trouble." Harry and Ron were giving him a deadly scowl.
"Ms. Granger, good choice Mr. Malfoy but I have to ask you a question."
Draco nodded.
"Do you trust Ms. Granger to help you out?"
"Yes sir."
"Ms. Granger, how about you?"
Harry met Hermione's gaze challengingly. "I guess so." 'I hope Harry and Ron are not expecting me to pair with them.
"Ok then. I don't see why you can't be paired. Now Mr. Potter and Mr. Weasley, you both raised your hands at the same time. I think that you two should talk first on who'll join the activity."
Harry shrugged, "Ron and I could join together." He then looked at Ron for approval.
"Mr. Weasley?"
"Of course."
"Excellent." Flitwick then faced the remainder of the team. "Now everyone that's left will help them out by casting spells on them and the two teams would counteract by using charms. So those of you who's got a grudge have a chance to release them this week." He gave a wink to them.
Draco whispered to Hermione, "I'm seriously considering dropping my spot so that I can get back at those two."
"You're forgetting that they are my friends."
Flitwick then gave a few minutes for the two teams to get together.
Harry and Ron pulled Hermione aside.
"What's up guys?" Hermione asked innocently.
"You told me that if you were to choose between us you'd choose us against him!" Harry exclaimed.
"Yeah, I did tell you that. Tell me, how can I choose between you and Ron then?" She challenged. "I mean, you two did volunteer and let's say both of you would've asked me to be your partner. Do you think I can choose between you?"
Harry sighed, "I guess you're right, still you could've just avoided the activity all together."
"What makes you think that I would pass up this up?" She teased him by flashing he pearly whites.
Harry couldn't think of any reply. He was captivated by her smile.
"Hello? Harry are you there?" She teased.
Harry blushed a deep red at being caught off guard.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "So are we good?" She posed this question to Ron who seemed to be listening to her.
"We're good." Ron nudged Harry to reply.
"Yeah, I suppose."
"Good, cause I was thinking that maybe the four of us can help each other out."
"Like you really need help. You were the one who helped me accomplish that task in the Tri Wizard Competition." Harry was able to focus now.
"But that was years ago. I think that we need each other. We could practice together and stuff."
"Are you serious?" Ron objected. "From what Flitwick just said, we're already going to have to deal with all of the Slytherins, I don't think I like the idea of having a smug Malfoy with us."
"Oh come on Ron, Draco would also have the same problem with our house."
"No, Hermione," Harry loved the way her name sounds. "Malfoy's got you. I don't think Neville and the others would even dare to challenge you. Besides, us Gryffindors play it fair. I doubt that the Slytherins would waste their chance on getting us without getting themselves in trouble."
Hermione sighed, "I guess but that means that I'd prepare with Draco alone."
Ron and Harry looked at each other at disbelief. "Well if that's how it's going to be then maybe we could all prepare together."
Hermione gave a triumphant look at her two best friends.
She took the arms of Harry and Ron as she led them to Draco. "Sorry it took so long. I hope you didn't get bored."
"So what have you been discussing about?"
"Nothing much." She gave him a smile.
"Well that grin doesn't look good. What did you talk about?"
"Well, I thought that maybe the four of us could help each other out by preparing together."
Draco arched an eyebrow in question. "I thought that I told you not to try to make us friends."
"Don't act as if it's our fault. We wouldn't dream of having anything to do with you!" Ron said in outrage.
"Then I suppose you'd be leaving Hermione alone then, seeing that she's with me." Draco challenged.
Ron tried to lunge at him but Hermione blocked his way. "Guys! Stop this! We're supposed to be a team."
"You do know that you're protecting that git over US!" Ron was fuming with anger.
"Ron back-off. If this is how you're going to react all the time then let's just forget it!" She glared at Ron saying, "You prepare with Harry, and Draco and I will prepare on our own."
She turned around, grabbed Draco's hand and walked to the opposite side of the pitch.
"Hermione wait up!" Harry tried to call after her. "Ron, look at what you did. Stop pushing her to him!" Harry set foot towards her.
Ron sighed in defeat, "Harry if you'd only make your move then she wouldn't have to put up with that slimy git!" He watched as the puppy dog hopelessly followed Hermione, trying to soothe her.
~~~~~~~~~~
The week ended abruptly. Hermione spent most of her time preparing for the maze with Draco. She's been avoiding Ron as much as possible. Harry was doing his best to keep it cool with her. Hermione welcomed his effort. She managed to juggle Draco and Harry at the same time without the help of Ron. There were even times when Ron would practice Quidditch instead and Harry would join Draco and Hermione's practices. Talk about third wheel. Draco couldn't even make a move to improve their relationship with the third wheel and all.
When at last Saturday came, the four pairs that joined the activity each took a different entrance. Draco and Hermione chose the outer left entrance. Harry and Ron chose the outer right entrance. Hermione still wasn't in speaking terms with Ron and she decided to enter the maze as far away from him as possible. Draco didn't mind, in fact he couldn't ask for more.
Last week Draco got upset for wasting precious time alone with Hermione with Harry joining them. He thought of a plan to recover the lost time. They were given instructions that the maze ends in the west. All he got to do is to go the other way around. If Hermione starts noticing that they are heading the wrong way, he can try to persuade her. Of course everything would work out fine if her bodyguards wouldn't suddenly appear.
Then the signal was given. There were pairs that were excited to go inside but some feared for their lives. It was like they weren't really given a choice. Hermione noticed that Padma Patil was one of the contenders. She found this amusing since charms weren't really her strongest point. 'She must have been elected to join since she's their leader.'
Harry and Ron were among the first to enter the maze. It seemed like they want to end the activity as soon as possible. They both wanted to get to the Quidditch part. They do have more fun when they're flying whether they maybe chasing the snitch, passing the Quaffle or avoiding the Bludgers.
Hermione on the other hand was giddy with excitement. This was the first time that she'll work with Draco on their own, no supervisors nor bodyguards. As soon as she heard the signal, she dragged Draco into the maze. Different Charms were swarming on her head trying not to forget anything. This was a good chance to let people know that she can do more than just memorize theories plus this was also a good chance to shove it to Sirius and Lupin's faces that they were wrong about Draco. He has changed and he can be trusted.
Most of the professors watching the activity weren't exactly happy about the pairings of students. McGonagall was very vocal about her stand. Hermione and Draco shouldn't be paired together. She gave them both dangerous look that meant that they were in trouble. Lupin and Sirius were worried at the thought of leaving Hermione on her own with Malfoy. Snape didn't like the idea of Draco associating with a mudblood.
The teams from Hufflepuff-Ravenclaw were a bit apprehensive. They were thinking that this maze was similar to that of where Harry entered and where Cedric died. They were just being foolish to think that the professors would even dare hurt them.
Hermione and Draco were doing a pretty good job. Hermione would do charms for their defense while Draco did once for their offense. It was always like this. Gryffindor would protect while Slytherin would attack. That's the only way it made sense.
When they were about halfway through Draco started with his act. He was in charge with directions (mainly because he had plans for them). So he had no trouble leading her into the wrong directions. Instead of heading west, they started heading east.
Hermione easily saw through his plan. She quickly remembered a mark on the wall (made from an explosive charm made by Draco). "Draco, tell me we aren't going in circles."
"Well ok. We aren't."
"Draco, don't make me lose my patience. Tell me the truth." She looked at him sternly.
Draco gave a sigh of defeat, "Fine, you're right."
Hermione cast a dangerous look. She started to wave her wand to cast a spell but Draco took her arm. "What!?!" She was getting irritated.
Draco cast her a seductive look. "No one would blame us if we got lost?"
"Harry knows that that it's impossible. He might search for us."
"But then, we already would've enough time for us."
"You don't understand, I thought Harry a spell so that he won't get lost in the maze before. He'd get worried if we took too long."
"Why does Harry Potter's name keep on popping up in our conversation?" He said crossly.
"I don't know he is my best friend." She replied defensively.
"Just forget it!' He shrugged it off.
Hermione cast the spell and led the way. From the spot they were in they had no choice but to go east to get back to the proper course. Suddenly she lost the will to stand and began to fall.
Draco was shocked to see Hermione faint but he was able to catch her before her head reached the floor. Draco sat down and laid her head in his arms. "Hermione?" He started to shake her lightly. He didn't know what to do. Her face was starting to grow pale. "Hermione wake up, please!" He started to reach for his wand to send fireworks for help when she started to stir. "Hermione?" He asked with concern in his eyes.
Hermione slowly opened her eyes in response. "Draco?"
"Are you alright now?"
Hermione nodded. She stared dreamily onto his face.
Draco felt a rush rising to his face. He looked at her hungrily. This was the first time after a week that they were this close. When she was this close all he could think about was to taste her soft lips.
Hermione lifted her head to gently kiss his cheeks.
"What was that for?" He was shocked and disappointed. He would've loved it even more if the kiss she planted landed on his lips instead.
"I thought that I should thank you." She teased.
"Does that mean you're not that grateful?" 'Well two can play at this game.' He leaned in to place a kiss at her lips.
"You're right, I should've thanked you properly." She placed her hand at the back of his head to kiss him. She felt a small resistance but she didn't let it discourage her. She teased his lower lip to part for her. When her tongue started to move inside him she felt all his resistance fade away. She deepened the kiss by pushing his head closer. She could feel his hands move towards her hair. She couldn't hide the pleasure that ran inside her. "Draco."
Draco was loosing his control when yet again the mention of his name brought back his senses. He gently pulled away from her. He didn't want to look at her because he was afraid to see if she was hurt by his gesture. He stood up abruptly and started to pull her up. "You know, your friends will bound to miss you. Maybe we should get going?"
Hermione was disappointed that the kiss ended. She arched an eyebrow questioningly. "Fine, if that's what you want."
Hermione took the lead once again but she didn't use the spell anymore. She just allowed her intuition to lead her.
"Hermione are you sure we're on the right way?"
"Quiet, I'm concentrating."
Draco didn't mention anything before he noticed the very familiar marking that they've passed earlier before Hermione even fainted. "Um, Hermione, I think we are going in circles."
"No we're not."
"But see that marking proves that we are going back to where we came from." He pointed at the wall.
"That only proves that we are getting closer."
"Closer? Closer to where?"
"How soon can you forget?"
"What are you talking about?"
Hermione abruptly stopped at one corner. She waved her wand dangerously and cast a spell on one wall.
Draco watched in amazement as the wall crumble down to pieces. "What the-"
"See? We're almost there." She pointed at the hole.
Draco's eyes widened in realization.
Before anybody had a chance to say anything two figures appeared out of nowhere. "What happened? Hermione are you alright?" Lupin asked concernedly. "We heard a loud crash-" He scanned the surrounding and saw Hermione pointing her wand towards the hole and everything made sense.
McGonagall suddenly lost her patience at what she saw, "Mr. Malfoy, Ms. Granger, what do you think are you doing?" She raised her eyebrows way up.
"It's not what it looks-" Before he could finish, Hermione once again fainted.
Lupin was able to catch her. He pulled out what looked like ammonia and placed it under her nose.
Within seconds she regain consciousness. She saw Lupin and McGonagall staring down at her and felt confused, "Does this mean we're disqualified?"
"There are more serious matters at hand." McGonagall assured her.
She looked at Draco incredulously and mouthed 'What happened?'
~~~~~~~~~~
Hermione and Draco reappeared from the maze followed by McGonagall and Lupin. Harry and Ron with the rest of the Gryffindors surrounded Hermione, protective of her.
Harry reached her first, "What happened? Are you ok? Did Malfoy hurt you?"
"I'm fine." She didn't know how to face them. Once again, she fell under the fairies control.
"Are you sure? We heard a loud bang and thought Malfoy-" Harry was cut short.
"Look, Draco did nothing wrong!" She yelled at him. "Stop assuming that Draco's responsible for everything that's gone wrong!"
"What do you expect, he was the only one with you." Harry said as gently as possible.
"That's right, and if it wasn't for him, then maybe I'd be in a much worse state!"
Lupin tried to interfere but decided to disperse the crowd instead, "Nothing to see here!" He watched as everybody left the premises leaving him, McGonagall, Ron, Harry, Draco, Hermione and Sirius behind. Professor Flitwick accompanied the buzzing crowd.
Lupin then turned to Draco. To him, it only made sense to hear everything from the person who was not incapacitated, lucid even. "Mr. Malfoy, tell me what exactly happened?"
"We um- we were doing great when she fainted."
"And you didn't even ask for help?" McGonagall joined the conversation.
"I was about to when she regained consciousness. That's when she acted weird. But she said that she was ok so we continued the activity."
"Didn't you even notice that you were back where you started?" McGonagall couldn't believe his stupidity. (He is not stupid! I don't think he is so please don't comment about this. What can I say, each person has different perspectives and McGonagall was not fond of Malfoy, Snape's pet. Don't comment on that one either.)
"Of course I realized but she was saying that we were getting nearer. I tried to argue when she blast a wall down. Then you know what happened next."
"Tell me Mr. Malfoy, why am I supposed to believe this?"
"She was controlled ok! The only thing I'm sorry for is that I didn't notice till it was too late!"
"You see Mr. Malfoy, I almost believed you but the problem is if she was controlled as you said earlier, shouldn't you be controlled as well?" McGonagall challenged.
"That's the reason why I didn't believe that she was controlled in the first place!" Draco was loosing patience. 'Why argue with what happened today when they could start finding a solution to her problem!'
"Are you telling me Mr. Malfoy that Hermione was the only one controlled?" Lupin interrupted.
"Yes sir! For crying out loud you saw her in that state. That's the reason she fainted again!"
"Interesting, that would only mean that you are cured then."
Hermione and Draco exchanged glances. 'If I'm cured then does that mean I truly like her?' Draco asked himself.
"And what about Hermione?" Harry wanted to know whether she was already acting from her own freewill. He wanted to know whether she really likes him.
"I think it's quite obvious Harry that Hermione is still being controlled." Lupin deduced.
"How can that be?" Harry asked.
"One theory is that Mr. Malfoy was able to free himself by staying far away from the lake. Another theory is that the fairies have no purpose anymore with Mr. Malfoy and they decided to let him go."
Everybody looked confused. What does Hermione got that the fairies could want so badly.
"Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, and Mr. Malfoy." McGonagall asked for their attention. "Would it be alright if the three of you would look after Ms. Granger?"
All three of them nodded without hesitation.
"Very well, I expect that Ms. Granger wouldn't be able to leave the camp with the three of you watching her." She then looked at Hermione, "I'm afraid that I can't allow you to join any activities anymore. While your team competes, you will be sitting next to me. Is that clear?"
Hermione nodded.
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry, Ron, Draco and Hermione were watching the waves as they hit the beach. Earlier, their team won the Charms and Quidditch activity. Harry and Ron's team was the first to finish the maze. Harry was also able to catch the snitch as soon as it appeared. True to their words. The three guys kept a good watch on Hermione. But she was itching to find out something from Draco, "Harry, Ron could you please give me a minute with Draco?"
The three guys looked shock. Harry was more hurt. 'Why him?'
"Just a minute?" Ron was able to ask.
Hermione nodded as she smiled at him. "Thanks."
When Harry and Ron left, Draco dared to talk first. "What did you want to talk to me about?"
"Now that we know you're cured, can you tell me how you really feel about me?"
"What do you think? I'm here with you aren't I?"
She noticed his refusal in saying the words but let it pass. "I guess."
"Besides, why should I say it when you're not yet sure of what you feel about me? I don't think that's fair." He teased.
Hermione sighed, feeling content with his answer and gave him a welcoming smile.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: IMPORTANT!!! Please read! The story DEPENDS on this!
My apologies for the grammar thingy. The only way that I can improve
it is if somebody would like to be my beta. Anybody who's interested
email me hbpikapi@yahoo.com. I guess it is a bit too late is it?
Lastly, I'm sorry for those who wants this to be a Harry-
Hermione fic. I already planned this to be a Draco-Hermione. If you
want a fic that ends up with Harry then I suggest you read "Models".
Then again I would suggest that you stay away from "Last Chance", its
sequel because it is also a Draco-Hermione thing.
RECAP: Beta, Draco-Hermione shipper.