Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Harry Potter characters. Everything
belongs to J. K. Rowling. Everything unfamiliar is mine. 9/16
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 check out my
other stories: "Models", "Last Chance", "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione the rest are Draco-Hermione), and my newest fics "The
Haunted" and "It's All About the Money".
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter19:
Back to Hogwarts
The incoming 7th years were now going back to Hogwarts. To the professors' delight, there were more inter-house relationships formed. The one that they were truly proud of was that of Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger's growing relationship. Never had they seen (or anyone for that matter) a Slytherin falling for a Gryffindor.
"I must say this was a successful trip." McGonagall was happy with the results.
Lupin could only smile. He almost lost Hermione to the fairies. He was just glad that nobody got hurt or blamed him for the outcome. "I'm just glad it's all over."
"Remus, are you sure you don't want to teach again this year? I bet a lot of students will be thrilled to have you back."
"I have to decline. I keep forgetting that everything I do has an impact on them. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I make a mistake."
"I've been teaching in Hogwarts for many years now. I've come across that dilemma once in a while. I've had mistakes but one must remember that we only guide students. There are other factors that affect their lives. Their peers are the ones having the biggest influence on them."
"I'll think it over."
~~~~~~~~~~
The 7th year students arrived earlier than the start of classes. Dumbledore left the list of the things needed to the student's families. Harry's list was left in the hands of the Weasley's.
On the journey back, the Gryffindor trio had changed. The group was still composed of three Gryffindor students but the thing was Hermione wasn't part of that group anymore. Lavender had taken her place. Ron wanted to spend more time with her. Harry didn't mind Lavender's company, well he did mind when the couple acted more than cuddly towards each other. He did however feel a small emptiness at Hermione's disappearance.
Now where is Hermione? She hadn't completely left Harry and Ron. She just divided her time in spending it with them and Draco. There was this feeling every time she was with Draco that made her extremely overjoyed. Even when they didn't talk, just feeling the presence of him was enough to make her content for the day.
Even with the truce between Draco and her best friends, Draco would still prefer to be left alone rather than associate with them. Everything was getting weirder. He'd never expected that the barriers between houses could be destroyed. Then again this was only true for the 7th years. The summer camp was something out of a fairytale. He also knew that fairy tales have an ending. He did have a happy ending. He was able to get the 'princess'. He was afraid that now that the fairytale had ended. He was going back to reality where he was supposed to hate all those who were muggle-born. He didn't want to talk about this with Hermione though. He didn't want to ruin their relationship.
~~~~~~~~~~
Back in Hogwarts, everybody still acted the way they did at the Caribbean island. Most of them had made up their minds not to go back to the way they were before they left for camp.
While Harry, Ron and Lavender sat together at the Gryffindor table for dinner, Draco and Hermione finished early and went to the Astronomy tower. Draco placed a blanket at the balcony.
Draco noticed Hermione's face wrinkle, "What?"
"You only brought one blanket."
Draco examined her reaction before smiling, "Is there a problem?"
"It's freezing out here." Hermione shivered but it was not because of the cold.
Draco moved closer and caught her from the back enveloping her in his arms. "That's what I'm here for."
Hermione couldn't resist relaxing in his arms. She found herself smiling from the warmth. "Hmm."
"Sounds like you don't really mind sharing a blanket, eh?" He teased as he felt her relax on him.
"Or I could get one for myself." She started to reach inside her pocket for her wand.
Draco felt her hand move. Before she even had a chance to draw out her wand, He collected her in his arms and sat at the blanket that he prepared.
"Draco! Stop it!" She shrieked in surprise. Although she was having fun, she still struggled from his grasp. She was laughing as she wriggled out of his reach.
Draco felt frustrated as he felt her warmth leave him. "Hey!" He protested when she got away from him.
Hermione couldn't stop laughing at how awkward their position was. She was in a crawling position away from him. She turned her head to look back at his face. Her ass was very close to his face. Draco was lying on his back looking disgruntled. She laughed harder as she tried to move completely away from him.
"Hey, hey, hey!" He exclaimed.
She turned her head again, "What?"
"I was just admiring the view."
"Huh?"
Before she could even register his words, Draco managed to grab her by her waist as they rested in a seating position. This time she didn't struggle. She rested her head on his chest and watched the stars.
Draco felt at peace. He nuzzled at her head inhaling her sweet scent. Everything was perfect. He figured she felt the same as he heard her sigh. "Something wrong?"
"I just thought how much this all seem to fit perfectly in my life. I mean I feel like I can stay forever in your arms and that scares me."
Draco frowned, "Are you scared of our relationship?"
"No. yes, what I mean is everything feels perfect now. I don't think I would be able to handle it if something goes bad and I know that something will. I can feel it."
Draco hugged her closer, "Have more trust in us. We'll be able to pull this through."
"Come on Draco, you're a Slytherin and I'm-"
"You're my girlfriend. That's all that matters now." Draco continued for her.
"Who are we kidding? We have different views about everything. You can't even join me with my friends." She felt him stiffen.
"Are you saying you want this to end because of that?"
"Maybe. I don't know! It will only be more painful if we let this go on any further."
"Hermione, I know you're feeling scared right now. Hell, I'm frightened!" Hermione looked him in the eye feeling incredulously. "I've never felt this way ever in my life! I mean you're the most important person to me right now. If we do break up I know that it will be painful but-"
Hermione turned her head away; she couldn't take the intensity in his eyes.
"Look at me Hermione." When she didn't oblige, he gently turned her face. "I know if we break up it would hurt like hell but don't you think it's worth taking the risk if you can feel something as wonderful as this?"
Hermione's eyes were getting misty.
"If this is all about Potter and Weasley, then hell, I'm even going to promise to change my behavior with them."
Hermione smiled inwardly as she heard the words she longed to hear.
"I'm willing to risk all the pain in the world for this relationship because I know that it will only bloom to a wonderful ending." He paused to gaze deeply in her eyes to try to connect to her soul, "Hermione, just tell me what you want me to do. I don't want this to end just like that."
This time Hermione's eyes were more than misty. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks. "I didn't think that you could be so romantic."
Draco's spirits lifted a bit. "We can start from the beginning, if that's what you want."
Hermione shook her head in disagreement. "I'm good, although-" she left it hanging on purpose.
"Although?" Draco inquired. He could see her face starting to form a mischievous grin.
"You did say you would do anything I asked."
Draco exhaled a deep breath. "Yes," he agreed cautiously.
"Then I ask you to fulfill your promise." She regained her composure and was smiling widely at him.
"What promise?"
"The one about my best friends."
Draco closed his eyes as he recalled all the ranting he just told her. His eyes flew open as realization dawned on him. 'Bugger! Me and my stupid mouth!'
"Well?" She gazed into his eyes innocently; she even pursed her lips.
'Damn! Why did she have to do that?' His body couldn't seem to resist such temptation and leaned forward."
Hermione broke the silence just as the space between their lips was a few millimeters. "Well?"
Draco couldn't stop himself anymore and planted a kiss on her lips, "If that's what it takes."
Hermione initiated a soft kiss in return. "Thanks. This means you're joining us tomorrow night though."
Draco stopped a groan. He felt her lips form into a smile against his. They stayed like this all night while watching the stars twinkling in the sky.
~~~~~~~~~~
There was a woman who was looking fondly at a little boy. This time Draco realized that the little boy was him. He looked carefully at the woman but her face was covered. He knew well what would happen next although he wanted to change it. A man entered the room looking anxious. Draco watched carefully at the scene in front of him and realized that it was his father Lucius. Draco continued to watch helplessly as his father opened a secret passage. He couldn't remember the room he was in. He was sure however that it was not his. The scene ended by complete darkness.
It was time for the next scene. Draco watched as the couple was dragged to the depths of the dungeon. This time Draco knew the place very well. He had watched his father torture house elves and even some witches and wizards there in front of him. Just as the light was about to touch the woman's body, which would signal for the start of her screeches, he heard someone calling his name. He opened his eyes to find Hermione leaning on him.
"Draco?" Hermione fell asleep in the arms of Draco underneath the stars.
Draco's eyes focused on her face, "Hermione?"
"You were restless. Did you have a nightmare?"
'I wish it was only a nightmare but what if it was my past?' Draco forced a smile, "Sorry. Did I wake you?"
"It's nothing." She eyed him carefully and decided that he'd tell her everything when the time comes. "Are you alright? Do you want to talk?" Well you can't blame her if she believed that the time was now.
"It's nothing I can't handle." All he could produce to comfort her was a weak smile. He was going to add something when he noticed a flash of green lights coming from within Hermione's robe. 'That looks vaguely familiar.' He paused for a moment to think. 'Of course, it's my chain.' He stared at the glowing light thinking of a way to get it from her.
"What are you looking at?" Hermione gazed down to look at what caught his attention. 'Oh no! His father's calling him.' She took it out of her robe.
"Why do you have that?" Draco felt more secure if he accused her. He didn't have to explain anymore.
"I was keeping it for you. You lost it when you got hit by the Bludger." It was not really all lies.
Draco eyed her carefully. He didn't know how to react. "Why didn't you give it back then?"
"It sort of left my mind." She decided to act on charms and moved her head closer to his. "You see whenever I'm with you I can't think clearly."
Draco took his chain from her and smiled. "Excuse me, I just have to do something."
Hermione tried to protest but he was quick to his feet. She knew whet that light meant. She then hoped that he wouldn't listen to his father.
~~~~~~~~~~
Draco went inside the Astronomy classroom and shut the door leading to the balcony. He knew he had to take his father's call or else.
In an instant Lucius' hand was projected from the snake's eyes.
"Father." Draco acknowledged him.
"Draco. I see that you're doing well."
"What do you want now?" Draco asked impatiently.
Lucius was amused at his outburst. "You've finally grown some backbone."
"Well?" Draco asked irritably. He had more important things to do, like cuddling with Hermione for instance.
"I assume that everything has worked according to plan?"
'FUCK! I've forgotten about that.' "What if I want out of this plan?"
"You've already spent a lot of time with the mudblood. I even saw you with her earlier. Do you really want to waste all that effort?"
"I really don't think this will go as smoothly as planned. I really think that we can't use her. She wouldn't do anything that would hurt Potter. I can't make her do that."
"Don't tell me you've gone soft boy! Seduce her, threaten her if you have to."
"No, I'm not going to be a part of this anymore!" Draco said forcefully.
"You're already in too deep. You can't back out now. I will expect results soon enough and I'll make sure that you do just that." Lucius matched his fierceness. Then his face disappeared leaving a frustrated Draco.
'What the hell am I supposed to do now? I shouldn't have agreed in the first place.' He shook his head and headed back to the balcony and Hermione's side. What he didn't realize was that there was a pair of eyes who saw his little meeting with his father.
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry sat with Ron and Lavender at the Gryffindor table. He watched anxiously for Hermione's arrival. He knew it was Malfoy's turn to have her for dinner. He waited up to the last minute but he didn't see Hermione. He waited for her in the Gryffindor common room but she didn't appear there as well.
"Come off it Harry. She must be having a good time with him. Let her be." Parvati didn't like being ignored.
"That's what I'm afraid of." Harry said in a whisper.
"Harry if you've made your move before then maybe you could've prevented this to happen." Ron reasoned.
"Where are you going?" Lavender hit Ron lightly for what he said.
"I'm just going out for a walk." Harry answered politely.
"Looks more to me that you're going to look for her. Mate be careful not to push her to Malfoy." Ron warned.
~~~~~~~~~~
Draco relaxed to his original position. Hermione rested comfortably inside his arms.
"Is there something you want to tell me Draco?" She asked sweetly.
Draco was good at hiding things that he didn't even sweat. "What do you want me to say?" He teased.
"How about that chain?"
"What about it? My father gave it to me. There's nothing interesting about it."
"Let me rephrase my question, what did you do in there?" She pointed back on the room.
"Nothing important."
"Are you sure? You kind of left me here out in the cold."
Draco didn't answer instead he kissed her on the lips.
Hermione however didn't let her guard down. She needed to know what he told his father. "Draco, I know about that chain. I know you've spoken to your father just now. What I want to know is the topic of your discussion."
He knew that sooner or later she'd find out anyway. "Hermione, would you just trust me on this?"
Hermione nodded slowly, although there was doubt forming in the back of her mind. She found a comfortable spot in his arms and fell asleep dreaming of a perfect relationship.
~~~~~~~~~~
The next night Harry, Ron, Lavender and Parvati were waiting for Hermione in the common room. Tonight they've planned to play some games together, what they didn't plan on was that Draco was going to crash their game.
"What's taking her so long?" Harry was spacing all over the room.
"Settle down will you? She'll get here." Ron was seated on a couch with his arms draped around Lavender as he watched his friend pace all over.
"Speaking of which, I think that's her now." Everybody turned to see who came in.
Hermione entered with a smile, "Hi guys! Sorry I'm late."
Harry stepped forward, "No problem although we were wondering what took you so long."
Hermione grinned at them as she prepared for their reaction.
"You're up to something aren't you?" Ron noticed.
"You guys do know me well." She paused as she motioned someone at the portrait hole. "You see I thought we could add some more people to this last night of vacation." She peeked through the hall looking for someone.
Hermione's friends all wrinkled their faces, guessing who she meant.
"Come in. You promised." Her head was still at the portrait hole.
The young Gryffindors all hung their mouths as Draco, the prince of Slytherin, entered their common room.
"What the bloody hell is he doing here!" Harry felt outraged.
"Hermione I know you and Malfoy are a couple but don't you think that this is way too much? House dorms were put up for a reason you know." Ron backed Harry.
"I told you this wasn't a good idea." Draco chimed in.
"Can't a girl dream? I want you guys to be friends. I just thought that it wouldn't hurt to try."
"Isn't the truce enough?" Harry whined.
"Look Potter, I wouldn't-"
Hermione didn't let him finish. She gave him a light nudge to shut him up. "Guys, just this once. I really think you guys have a lot in common. Just this once." She pleaded. She also wore her best puppy dog eyes.
Harry was the first to give in and sighed. "Fine but just this once."
Hermione smiled and gave him a friendly kiss on his cheek. For her it meant nothing but for Harry and Draco it meant a lot. Harry felt enigmatic. Although he knew it was only a friendly kiss it was still a kiss. Apparently Draco was on the same track of thinking. His face turned red with anger. He knew well that Harry is attracted to Hermione and he felt a propriety issue. He went to her side and wrapped an arm around her slim waist. This time Harry's face burned with anger.
"Since he's joining us tonight, I thought we could make our night a little interesting." Parvati formed a seductive smile.
"Meaning?" Lavender seemed to be interested.
"Why don't we play a game?" It looked like the only ones communicating were the two girls. Hermione glanced at the three guys and exchanged incredulous faces.
"What game?" Lavender asked.
"Truth or Dare." Parvati's eyes glistened with mischief.
"Oh please! This is our last year in Hogwarts, don't you think we're too old for that?" Hermione saw it as a waste of time.
"You know Hermione, you're right. This is our last year. This is our last year for childish things and I say we abuse it." Parvati proposed. She was curious about the outsider. Draco Malfoy was a mystery with a great body. He was one of those guys who girls would die to meet in a Broom Closet. Opportunity was screaming at her.
"You know guys, it might be fun." Harry was clearly thinking to bust Draco Malfoy in front of Hermione.
"Fine but only a few rounds. I'd rather waste my time with other interesting activities though." Hermione was embarrassed at how childish her friends could be.
Although Draco didn't really want to play the game, he didn't have a choice. He was just the guest here. He also wanted to spill Harry's feelings towards Herm. It could ruin their relationship and he wouldn't have to worry anymore about Harry.
The group formed a small circle in front of the fire. Hermione sat in between Draco and Harry. Parvati sat next to Draco. Ron came in between Parvati and Lavender. The rules were they were going to let a bottle decide who's going to be asked "Truth or Dare."
The game started with a few simple questions like why does Harry Potter hate Draco Malfoy. Things were bound to get exciting pretty soon though. It was Ron's time to ask Hermione. "Truth or Dare?"
Hermione thought carefully, "Dare."
"I dare you to kiss Harry on the lips after the sorting ceremony." Ron's eyes glimmered.
Harry blushed furiously but didn't argue.
"Ron! What the hell are you thinking? He's Harry!" She turned to look at the pained Harry. "Sorry Harry but you're like a brother to me."
"Aha! So that's the reason why you and Ron were together for a long period." Parvati teased.
"Funny!" Hermione could feel Draco tense up. She reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze as the bottle stopped at Ron. "My turn now, I dare you to kiss Pansy Parkinson in front of Snape."
"Hey!" Both Lavender and Ron protested.
"I didn't even say I wanted a Dare." Ron added.
"I think it's more interesting this way. Don't you think?" She posed the question to Parvati who nodded eagerly. Both Ron and Lavender sent the two girls icy glares.
The bottle spins again. Everybody held their breaths eager to find out if they can have their revenge. To most of the people's dismay, the bottle pointed to Draco.
"Let me do the honors." Harry piped in. "Truth or Dare Malfoy?"
"You're being generous, eh Potter?"
"Fine, is it true that you were sneaking to talk to your father about using Hermione?"
Draco's expression changed from serious to crazed.
Hermione caught Draco's attention. "Is it true Draco?"
Draco felt like there was no escape. "Fine! My turn, Potter, is it true that you were spying on Hermione and me last night?"
Harry's face turned red, "You have some nerve to accuse me!"
"Then tell me Potter, how the hell did you find out?" Draco shouted.
Hermione now was confused on who she hated the most. Harry didn't trust her and spied on her private life while Draco admitted that he was using her. It may be easy to choose from anybody's point of view but Hermione did have feelings for Draco, which made it harder for her to choose between them.
"Shut up both of you!" Ron intervened. He saw the hurt in Hermione's eyes and he didn't like it.
Hermione stood up from the circle.
"Hermione let me explain." Draco followed suit pleading to her.
"No Draco, I've heard enough." She marched away from her friends to her room.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Sorry if I'm taking too long. Last time my classes ended at
noon, now my schedule takes up my whole day leaving me with very
little free time. Sorry.
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 check out my
other stories: "Models", "Last Chance", "Picture Perfect" (Sirius-
Hermione the rest are Draco-Hermione), and my newest fics "The
Haunted" and "It's All About the Money".
Title: Summer Camp
Chapter19:
Back to Hogwarts
The incoming 7th years were now going back to Hogwarts. To the professors' delight, there were more inter-house relationships formed. The one that they were truly proud of was that of Draco Malfoy and Hermione Granger's growing relationship. Never had they seen (or anyone for that matter) a Slytherin falling for a Gryffindor.
"I must say this was a successful trip." McGonagall was happy with the results.
Lupin could only smile. He almost lost Hermione to the fairies. He was just glad that nobody got hurt or blamed him for the outcome. "I'm just glad it's all over."
"Remus, are you sure you don't want to teach again this year? I bet a lot of students will be thrilled to have you back."
"I have to decline. I keep forgetting that everything I do has an impact on them. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if I make a mistake."
"I've been teaching in Hogwarts for many years now. I've come across that dilemma once in a while. I've had mistakes but one must remember that we only guide students. There are other factors that affect their lives. Their peers are the ones having the biggest influence on them."
"I'll think it over."
~~~~~~~~~~
The 7th year students arrived earlier than the start of classes. Dumbledore left the list of the things needed to the student's families. Harry's list was left in the hands of the Weasley's.
On the journey back, the Gryffindor trio had changed. The group was still composed of three Gryffindor students but the thing was Hermione wasn't part of that group anymore. Lavender had taken her place. Ron wanted to spend more time with her. Harry didn't mind Lavender's company, well he did mind when the couple acted more than cuddly towards each other. He did however feel a small emptiness at Hermione's disappearance.
Now where is Hermione? She hadn't completely left Harry and Ron. She just divided her time in spending it with them and Draco. There was this feeling every time she was with Draco that made her extremely overjoyed. Even when they didn't talk, just feeling the presence of him was enough to make her content for the day.
Even with the truce between Draco and her best friends, Draco would still prefer to be left alone rather than associate with them. Everything was getting weirder. He'd never expected that the barriers between houses could be destroyed. Then again this was only true for the 7th years. The summer camp was something out of a fairytale. He also knew that fairy tales have an ending. He did have a happy ending. He was able to get the 'princess'. He was afraid that now that the fairytale had ended. He was going back to reality where he was supposed to hate all those who were muggle-born. He didn't want to talk about this with Hermione though. He didn't want to ruin their relationship.
~~~~~~~~~~
Back in Hogwarts, everybody still acted the way they did at the Caribbean island. Most of them had made up their minds not to go back to the way they were before they left for camp.
While Harry, Ron and Lavender sat together at the Gryffindor table for dinner, Draco and Hermione finished early and went to the Astronomy tower. Draco placed a blanket at the balcony.
Draco noticed Hermione's face wrinkle, "What?"
"You only brought one blanket."
Draco examined her reaction before smiling, "Is there a problem?"
"It's freezing out here." Hermione shivered but it was not because of the cold.
Draco moved closer and caught her from the back enveloping her in his arms. "That's what I'm here for."
Hermione couldn't resist relaxing in his arms. She found herself smiling from the warmth. "Hmm."
"Sounds like you don't really mind sharing a blanket, eh?" He teased as he felt her relax on him.
"Or I could get one for myself." She started to reach inside her pocket for her wand.
Draco felt her hand move. Before she even had a chance to draw out her wand, He collected her in his arms and sat at the blanket that he prepared.
"Draco! Stop it!" She shrieked in surprise. Although she was having fun, she still struggled from his grasp. She was laughing as she wriggled out of his reach.
Draco felt frustrated as he felt her warmth leave him. "Hey!" He protested when she got away from him.
Hermione couldn't stop laughing at how awkward their position was. She was in a crawling position away from him. She turned her head to look back at his face. Her ass was very close to his face. Draco was lying on his back looking disgruntled. She laughed harder as she tried to move completely away from him.
"Hey, hey, hey!" He exclaimed.
She turned her head again, "What?"
"I was just admiring the view."
"Huh?"
Before she could even register his words, Draco managed to grab her by her waist as they rested in a seating position. This time she didn't struggle. She rested her head on his chest and watched the stars.
Draco felt at peace. He nuzzled at her head inhaling her sweet scent. Everything was perfect. He figured she felt the same as he heard her sigh. "Something wrong?"
"I just thought how much this all seem to fit perfectly in my life. I mean I feel like I can stay forever in your arms and that scares me."
Draco frowned, "Are you scared of our relationship?"
"No. yes, what I mean is everything feels perfect now. I don't think I would be able to handle it if something goes bad and I know that something will. I can feel it."
Draco hugged her closer, "Have more trust in us. We'll be able to pull this through."
"Come on Draco, you're a Slytherin and I'm-"
"You're my girlfriend. That's all that matters now." Draco continued for her.
"Who are we kidding? We have different views about everything. You can't even join me with my friends." She felt him stiffen.
"Are you saying you want this to end because of that?"
"Maybe. I don't know! It will only be more painful if we let this go on any further."
"Hermione, I know you're feeling scared right now. Hell, I'm frightened!" Hermione looked him in the eye feeling incredulously. "I've never felt this way ever in my life! I mean you're the most important person to me right now. If we do break up I know that it will be painful but-"
Hermione turned her head away; she couldn't take the intensity in his eyes.
"Look at me Hermione." When she didn't oblige, he gently turned her face. "I know if we break up it would hurt like hell but don't you think it's worth taking the risk if you can feel something as wonderful as this?"
Hermione's eyes were getting misty.
"If this is all about Potter and Weasley, then hell, I'm even going to promise to change my behavior with them."
Hermione smiled inwardly as she heard the words she longed to hear.
"I'm willing to risk all the pain in the world for this relationship because I know that it will only bloom to a wonderful ending." He paused to gaze deeply in her eyes to try to connect to her soul, "Hermione, just tell me what you want me to do. I don't want this to end just like that."
This time Hermione's eyes were more than misty. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks. "I didn't think that you could be so romantic."
Draco's spirits lifted a bit. "We can start from the beginning, if that's what you want."
Hermione shook her head in disagreement. "I'm good, although-" she left it hanging on purpose.
"Although?" Draco inquired. He could see her face starting to form a mischievous grin.
"You did say you would do anything I asked."
Draco exhaled a deep breath. "Yes," he agreed cautiously.
"Then I ask you to fulfill your promise." She regained her composure and was smiling widely at him.
"What promise?"
"The one about my best friends."
Draco closed his eyes as he recalled all the ranting he just told her. His eyes flew open as realization dawned on him. 'Bugger! Me and my stupid mouth!'
"Well?" She gazed into his eyes innocently; she even pursed her lips.
'Damn! Why did she have to do that?' His body couldn't seem to resist such temptation and leaned forward."
Hermione broke the silence just as the space between their lips was a few millimeters. "Well?"
Draco couldn't stop himself anymore and planted a kiss on her lips, "If that's what it takes."
Hermione initiated a soft kiss in return. "Thanks. This means you're joining us tomorrow night though."
Draco stopped a groan. He felt her lips form into a smile against his. They stayed like this all night while watching the stars twinkling in the sky.
~~~~~~~~~~
There was a woman who was looking fondly at a little boy. This time Draco realized that the little boy was him. He looked carefully at the woman but her face was covered. He knew well what would happen next although he wanted to change it. A man entered the room looking anxious. Draco watched carefully at the scene in front of him and realized that it was his father Lucius. Draco continued to watch helplessly as his father opened a secret passage. He couldn't remember the room he was in. He was sure however that it was not his. The scene ended by complete darkness.
It was time for the next scene. Draco watched as the couple was dragged to the depths of the dungeon. This time Draco knew the place very well. He had watched his father torture house elves and even some witches and wizards there in front of him. Just as the light was about to touch the woman's body, which would signal for the start of her screeches, he heard someone calling his name. He opened his eyes to find Hermione leaning on him.
"Draco?" Hermione fell asleep in the arms of Draco underneath the stars.
Draco's eyes focused on her face, "Hermione?"
"You were restless. Did you have a nightmare?"
'I wish it was only a nightmare but what if it was my past?' Draco forced a smile, "Sorry. Did I wake you?"
"It's nothing." She eyed him carefully and decided that he'd tell her everything when the time comes. "Are you alright? Do you want to talk?" Well you can't blame her if she believed that the time was now.
"It's nothing I can't handle." All he could produce to comfort her was a weak smile. He was going to add something when he noticed a flash of green lights coming from within Hermione's robe. 'That looks vaguely familiar.' He paused for a moment to think. 'Of course, it's my chain.' He stared at the glowing light thinking of a way to get it from her.
"What are you looking at?" Hermione gazed down to look at what caught his attention. 'Oh no! His father's calling him.' She took it out of her robe.
"Why do you have that?" Draco felt more secure if he accused her. He didn't have to explain anymore.
"I was keeping it for you. You lost it when you got hit by the Bludger." It was not really all lies.
Draco eyed her carefully. He didn't know how to react. "Why didn't you give it back then?"
"It sort of left my mind." She decided to act on charms and moved her head closer to his. "You see whenever I'm with you I can't think clearly."
Draco took his chain from her and smiled. "Excuse me, I just have to do something."
Hermione tried to protest but he was quick to his feet. She knew whet that light meant. She then hoped that he wouldn't listen to his father.
~~~~~~~~~~
Draco went inside the Astronomy classroom and shut the door leading to the balcony. He knew he had to take his father's call or else.
In an instant Lucius' hand was projected from the snake's eyes.
"Father." Draco acknowledged him.
"Draco. I see that you're doing well."
"What do you want now?" Draco asked impatiently.
Lucius was amused at his outburst. "You've finally grown some backbone."
"Well?" Draco asked irritably. He had more important things to do, like cuddling with Hermione for instance.
"I assume that everything has worked according to plan?"
'FUCK! I've forgotten about that.' "What if I want out of this plan?"
"You've already spent a lot of time with the mudblood. I even saw you with her earlier. Do you really want to waste all that effort?"
"I really don't think this will go as smoothly as planned. I really think that we can't use her. She wouldn't do anything that would hurt Potter. I can't make her do that."
"Don't tell me you've gone soft boy! Seduce her, threaten her if you have to."
"No, I'm not going to be a part of this anymore!" Draco said forcefully.
"You're already in too deep. You can't back out now. I will expect results soon enough and I'll make sure that you do just that." Lucius matched his fierceness. Then his face disappeared leaving a frustrated Draco.
'What the hell am I supposed to do now? I shouldn't have agreed in the first place.' He shook his head and headed back to the balcony and Hermione's side. What he didn't realize was that there was a pair of eyes who saw his little meeting with his father.
~~~~~~~~~~
Harry sat with Ron and Lavender at the Gryffindor table. He watched anxiously for Hermione's arrival. He knew it was Malfoy's turn to have her for dinner. He waited up to the last minute but he didn't see Hermione. He waited for her in the Gryffindor common room but she didn't appear there as well.
"Come off it Harry. She must be having a good time with him. Let her be." Parvati didn't like being ignored.
"That's what I'm afraid of." Harry said in a whisper.
"Harry if you've made your move before then maybe you could've prevented this to happen." Ron reasoned.
"Where are you going?" Lavender hit Ron lightly for what he said.
"I'm just going out for a walk." Harry answered politely.
"Looks more to me that you're going to look for her. Mate be careful not to push her to Malfoy." Ron warned.
~~~~~~~~~~
Draco relaxed to his original position. Hermione rested comfortably inside his arms.
"Is there something you want to tell me Draco?" She asked sweetly.
Draco was good at hiding things that he didn't even sweat. "What do you want me to say?" He teased.
"How about that chain?"
"What about it? My father gave it to me. There's nothing interesting about it."
"Let me rephrase my question, what did you do in there?" She pointed back on the room.
"Nothing important."
"Are you sure? You kind of left me here out in the cold."
Draco didn't answer instead he kissed her on the lips.
Hermione however didn't let her guard down. She needed to know what he told his father. "Draco, I know about that chain. I know you've spoken to your father just now. What I want to know is the topic of your discussion."
He knew that sooner or later she'd find out anyway. "Hermione, would you just trust me on this?"
Hermione nodded slowly, although there was doubt forming in the back of her mind. She found a comfortable spot in his arms and fell asleep dreaming of a perfect relationship.
~~~~~~~~~~
The next night Harry, Ron, Lavender and Parvati were waiting for Hermione in the common room. Tonight they've planned to play some games together, what they didn't plan on was that Draco was going to crash their game.
"What's taking her so long?" Harry was spacing all over the room.
"Settle down will you? She'll get here." Ron was seated on a couch with his arms draped around Lavender as he watched his friend pace all over.
"Speaking of which, I think that's her now." Everybody turned to see who came in.
Hermione entered with a smile, "Hi guys! Sorry I'm late."
Harry stepped forward, "No problem although we were wondering what took you so long."
Hermione grinned at them as she prepared for their reaction.
"You're up to something aren't you?" Ron noticed.
"You guys do know me well." She paused as she motioned someone at the portrait hole. "You see I thought we could add some more people to this last night of vacation." She peeked through the hall looking for someone.
Hermione's friends all wrinkled their faces, guessing who she meant.
"Come in. You promised." Her head was still at the portrait hole.
The young Gryffindors all hung their mouths as Draco, the prince of Slytherin, entered their common room.
"What the bloody hell is he doing here!" Harry felt outraged.
"Hermione I know you and Malfoy are a couple but don't you think that this is way too much? House dorms were put up for a reason you know." Ron backed Harry.
"I told you this wasn't a good idea." Draco chimed in.
"Can't a girl dream? I want you guys to be friends. I just thought that it wouldn't hurt to try."
"Isn't the truce enough?" Harry whined.
"Look Potter, I wouldn't-"
Hermione didn't let him finish. She gave him a light nudge to shut him up. "Guys, just this once. I really think you guys have a lot in common. Just this once." She pleaded. She also wore her best puppy dog eyes.
Harry was the first to give in and sighed. "Fine but just this once."
Hermione smiled and gave him a friendly kiss on his cheek. For her it meant nothing but for Harry and Draco it meant a lot. Harry felt enigmatic. Although he knew it was only a friendly kiss it was still a kiss. Apparently Draco was on the same track of thinking. His face turned red with anger. He knew well that Harry is attracted to Hermione and he felt a propriety issue. He went to her side and wrapped an arm around her slim waist. This time Harry's face burned with anger.
"Since he's joining us tonight, I thought we could make our night a little interesting." Parvati formed a seductive smile.
"Meaning?" Lavender seemed to be interested.
"Why don't we play a game?" It looked like the only ones communicating were the two girls. Hermione glanced at the three guys and exchanged incredulous faces.
"What game?" Lavender asked.
"Truth or Dare." Parvati's eyes glistened with mischief.
"Oh please! This is our last year in Hogwarts, don't you think we're too old for that?" Hermione saw it as a waste of time.
"You know Hermione, you're right. This is our last year. This is our last year for childish things and I say we abuse it." Parvati proposed. She was curious about the outsider. Draco Malfoy was a mystery with a great body. He was one of those guys who girls would die to meet in a Broom Closet. Opportunity was screaming at her.
"You know guys, it might be fun." Harry was clearly thinking to bust Draco Malfoy in front of Hermione.
"Fine but only a few rounds. I'd rather waste my time with other interesting activities though." Hermione was embarrassed at how childish her friends could be.
Although Draco didn't really want to play the game, he didn't have a choice. He was just the guest here. He also wanted to spill Harry's feelings towards Herm. It could ruin their relationship and he wouldn't have to worry anymore about Harry.
The group formed a small circle in front of the fire. Hermione sat in between Draco and Harry. Parvati sat next to Draco. Ron came in between Parvati and Lavender. The rules were they were going to let a bottle decide who's going to be asked "Truth or Dare."
The game started with a few simple questions like why does Harry Potter hate Draco Malfoy. Things were bound to get exciting pretty soon though. It was Ron's time to ask Hermione. "Truth or Dare?"
Hermione thought carefully, "Dare."
"I dare you to kiss Harry on the lips after the sorting ceremony." Ron's eyes glimmered.
Harry blushed furiously but didn't argue.
"Ron! What the hell are you thinking? He's Harry!" She turned to look at the pained Harry. "Sorry Harry but you're like a brother to me."
"Aha! So that's the reason why you and Ron were together for a long period." Parvati teased.
"Funny!" Hermione could feel Draco tense up. She reached for his hand and gave it a squeeze as the bottle stopped at Ron. "My turn now, I dare you to kiss Pansy Parkinson in front of Snape."
"Hey!" Both Lavender and Ron protested.
"I didn't even say I wanted a Dare." Ron added.
"I think it's more interesting this way. Don't you think?" She posed the question to Parvati who nodded eagerly. Both Ron and Lavender sent the two girls icy glares.
The bottle spins again. Everybody held their breaths eager to find out if they can have their revenge. To most of the people's dismay, the bottle pointed to Draco.
"Let me do the honors." Harry piped in. "Truth or Dare Malfoy?"
"You're being generous, eh Potter?"
"Fine, is it true that you were sneaking to talk to your father about using Hermione?"
Draco's expression changed from serious to crazed.
Hermione caught Draco's attention. "Is it true Draco?"
Draco felt like there was no escape. "Fine! My turn, Potter, is it true that you were spying on Hermione and me last night?"
Harry's face turned red, "You have some nerve to accuse me!"
"Then tell me Potter, how the hell did you find out?" Draco shouted.
Hermione now was confused on who she hated the most. Harry didn't trust her and spied on her private life while Draco admitted that he was using her. It may be easy to choose from anybody's point of view but Hermione did have feelings for Draco, which made it harder for her to choose between them.
"Shut up both of you!" Ron intervened. He saw the hurt in Hermione's eyes and he didn't like it.
Hermione stood up from the circle.
"Hermione let me explain." Draco followed suit pleading to her.
"No Draco, I've heard enough." She marched away from her friends to her room.
~~~~~~~~~~
A/N: Sorry if I'm taking too long. Last time my classes ended at
noon, now my schedule takes up my whole day leaving me with very
little free time. Sorry.