I Love To See You Cry
~hotsleekeyz~
Chapter 8 Signs of the End
Draco sat back to his seat and handed the bouquet of flowers to Hermione. Hermione held her hand to her mouth not expecting to receive such large bouquet of flowers from Draco---compared to what Harry used to give her.
"Malfoy, thank you"
"Do you like it? Those tulips are from Holland. They are famous for it"
"Malfoy, I am in my seventh year in Hogwarts and I know well these plants. Does this look like a bunch of tulips to you?"
Hermione showed the flowers to Draco. Sure enough, it wasn't a bunch of tulips.
"But---- I am sure those were tulips! I bought them myself and stared at it when I got it from the manager. I was holding a bouquet of tulips!"
Hermione only managed to smile. Draco was gaining some blush on his cheeks.
"Malfoy, you must be hungry. Let's eat!"
They ate while talking about anything but love. They were full of that. They talked about their studies, Quidditch matches, how their house teachers would snap at each other themselves, and just about everything. They would laugh once in a while, reminiscing their foolishness in their past years. Hermione and Draco were absolutely enjoying each other's company. Imagine having two of the brightest students together in a lengthy conversation, a CIVIL one, that is.
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Millicent, Mildred, and Mauve, known as the Three Dark Witches viewed the two dine together through their crystal ball.
"I believe, every thing is going on as planned", Mildred said.
"I think so too. These two must enjoy these moments now, before it comes out of sight. Happy you might be but tomorrow will fill you both with agony!", Millicent mouthed.
"Sisters, hear me say thee, Draco and Hermione are bound to each other as an enemy. It pleases me much to see them now with glee and soon after cause them melancholy!", Mauve said last as they watched eagerly at the Serpent and Lioness.
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"Draco, I wish you are being truthful to me"
"Never have I been in my whole life"
"I hope you speak not of lies. . . Lies has broken my heart before, and I had enough of it"
"You still doubt this whole thing I am presenting you with, am I right? You really are smart. . . and wise. You never cease to amaze me"
"I don't know Malfoy. It's hard to give your trust to anyone again having been broken by it. . ."
Hermione looked at her hands that rested on her lap, shy to tell Draco that she was in doubt whether or not to believe him. She knew Draco was sincere but she isn't sure if she is willing to be broken again with more lies.
Draco grabbed something from the pocket of his robe, which is neatly folded at the back of his chair. A box was in his hands, and Draco slowly put it on top of the table. Hermione seeing that Draco has put something on top of the table near her, held her face up and put her hand once more to her mouth seeing a black velvet box in front of her.
Draco said, "Open it. Maybe if you'll see what's inside, you'll believe everything that has been happening tonight". He gave Hermione a sincere smile.
Hermione reached for the box and took a while before she started opening it. She knew what to expect and she didn't want to see it. It looked exactly the same as the box that Viktor Krum once gave her---and Krum gave her an elegant necklace, which was contained in the box. Full of hesitation, she opened it, and to her surprise, a diamond-studded necklace was in front of her, glinting more than the stars above them.
"Malfoy, this is too much.", Hermione mouthed in astonishment.
"Not at all", Draco replied plainly while hiding his own amusement at Hermione's reaction.
"You must have spent a fortune for this!"
"I wouldn't care less. This is priceless, and so are you. . . I could offer nothing more of equal to you. . ."
"Malfoy, I can't---I can't take this", Hermione voiced as her head slowly headed its way facing her lap.
"You are. Take it as a peace offering. I have not a plan of holding up my grudges at you again"
Hermione lifted her head back at Draco to retort but she was cut in, "But--- -"
"No but's. It's only once Draco Malfoy would give something like this, and I am giving you the pleasure of having it"
Draco stood up from his seat and came near Hermione. He got hold of the necklace and placed it on her neck, and touched Hermione's smooth skin after. Draco let his thumb run across Hermione's cheek down to her jaw line while he was standing behind her. Hermione leaned to Draco's hand and closed her eyes, as she tried to cherish the moment.
Draco glided his hands through Hermione's arms and wanted to touch more of her. He reached for Hermione's hands and put it across her, then embracing her, never wanting to let go. Draco's face drew near to Hermione's ear while they both stared at the view in front of them.
"Call me Draco", Draco whispered as his cheeks tensed again to form a sincere smile.
"Am I worthy to call you by your first name?"
"More than you think you are"
"And I, Hermione"
Hermione stood up from her seat as Draco let loose of his touch. She grabbed Draco's pale arm and led him to the side of the balcony. Draco embraced Hermione again with her back facing him, just as they did while Hermione sat. She, on the other hand, bored her weight onto him and felt so comfortable in his arms.
Hermione felt safe in Draco's arms. Never did a man do something like that to her before. The man embracing her had no pretensions whatsoever--- Never did Draco thought of pleasing Hermione but he did. It was a night both of them would never forget.
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In Hogwarts, Hermione lay flat on her back on top of her four-poster. She opened her eyes feeling exhilarated, only figuring out why when she saw a bouquet of roses at her bedside.
She smiled faintly.
Hermione, curled up inside her blanket trying to contain the happiness she was felt. She stayed in bed for half an hour more, trying to rekindle the moments she shared with Draco. She helped herself up the bed and sat beside Ginny, who was half-awake on her bed already.
"Enjoyed last night?", Ginny mouthed lazily.
"Sure did. It was definitely a night to remember"
Hermione headed for the window and saw Harry and Ron walking through the fields.
The sun was up and the breeze was cool. It was as if the weather was one with Hermione. She quickly took a bath, never minding that she was short of 10 minutes in the bathroom and put on casual clothes. It was a Saturday and everyone was allowed to wear anything they wish.
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"Hi!", Hermione greeted cheerily.
Harry and Ron looked from behind them and had bewildered looks on their faces. They didn't expect Hermione to show up to them after a long time that she didn't talk to them.
"I said _hi_. I guess it wouldn't hurt if you two guys would give me a response you know!", Hermione said smiling inevitably.
"Hi Mione", Ron replied.
"Hi Harry", Hermione addressed Harry who was about to step away.
"Hi.", Harry replied with his head lowered at the absurdity of talking to Hermione again.
"Why are you guys looking like that? It's a beautiful morning and you look like prisoners from Azkaban. that was a joke!", Hermione said giggling.
Harry and Ron shot confused looks to each other why Hermione had the sudden urge to joke around.
"Look guys, I'm really sorry for having not talked to you these past months. I see it pointless, actually. I missed you two! I hope you could forgive me for being a spoiled brat"
"It's okay Mione, it's better having you around!", Ron said merrily as he gave a questionning look at Harry who said nothing else but a faint 'hi'.
"Harry, I'm really sorry. I said mean things to you and I was so childish. It could not have gone too far if I pushed it that hard. I really mean it. I'm sorry."
After thinking for a while, Harry gave a response as he tried to look at Hermione's face.
"Mione, I am terribly sorry as well. I should not have done that"
"I shouldn't be holding up with this, but I still love you as well, Harry, but I've decided to stay as this. a friend to each other. I could not afford to lose you. and you too, Ron! Well, want to go to Hogsmeade and have some butterbeer and some candies? My treat!"
"Alright!", Ron cheered while grabbing both their arms heading them back to the Gryffindor Tower.
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After getting their robes with their money in it, and pleading Ginny to come along with them, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were in Hogsmeade in no time. They went from store to store to check out new stuff.
They sat their way through their conversation trying to update each other with what's happened. Hermione had not mentioned anything about Draco.
"Mione, Harry has a problem. He might fail Divination since he was furious with Professor Trelawney telling him of omens and death. you know! The usual. Maybe you could help him out. I know you are trying your best not to drop that subject again, and I expect you've been paying more attention to discussions better than Harry is", Ron said.
Harry gave him a death glare, embarrassing him in front of her girl friends.
"I would be most glad to help you Harry! Even if that is my least liked subject, with Potions tailing behind", Hermione replied with a smile.
The four laughed at her statement. They were having a good time since this was their first time together again, since the second day of classes.
"When do we start then?", Hermoine queried.
"Tonight maybe. Would you be doing anything tonight Mione?"
"Well, yes, but that could wait until tomorrow! I miss you loads Harry!", Hermione said as she gave Harry a bear hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"I missed you too Mione!"
Ginny was feeling uncomfortable for she was the only who knew about Hermione and Draco going out. She wanted to know how soon Hermione would they be telling them about it.
Definitely not that time. . .
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They all drank their butterbeer and went back to Hogwarts, munching on the candies they ate. They stood before the portrait hole and didn't see the Fat Lady on it.
"Where is the Fat Lady?", Ginny inquired.
"Fat Lady! Oh , Fat Lady!", Ron tried to carry a tune as the three whom he was with glared at him.
"WHAT?", Ron asked innocently.
No one answered. They tried looking for the Fat Lady instead, than give Ron the benefit of an answer. They looked, and looked, but to no avail of finding her.
"I think we should report this to Dumbledore", Hermione claimed.
Hermione led the way to Dumbledore's office. They were all silent, trying to muse about the absurdity of the incident.
Hermione stood there at the opening of Dumbledore's office and saw him writing on his desk.
"Professor Dumbledore, we would like to report something", Harry said.
"And what is it?"
"Professor, the Fat Lady on the portrait of our dormitory seemed to have vanished. She is nowhere to be seen. We looked all over for her but was unsuccesful"
"Well then, I'll send Professor McGonagall to look after her together with Filch"
"Thank you Professor", Hermione stated as they went back to their dormitory.
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Professor McGonagall and Filch were already at the door of the dormitory talking to the Fat Lady. Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Hermione hurried their steps up the staircase as they heard them having a conversation.
"What happened?", Ron asked.
"The Fat Lady was held by the Three Dark Witches. I'm afraid I could not tell you more of this. If you'll excuse us"
McGonagall and Filch found their way down the staircases to Dumbledore's office.
The four entered the common room after uttering the Fat Lady the password of the week, "Fizzle Fluffy Sticks".
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"Albus, the Fat Lady was held captive by the Three Dark Witches this morning. They wanted to tell us that the end is near. Mr. Malfoy and Ms. Granger have been under the curse and their plan was going on as they wanted it. They will soon break those two apart as the Dark Side will start the war. I'm afraid, we have to tell them about it now, before any of the students will be used to act upon the Three Dark Witches' will", McGonagall stated with a grave look on her face.
"Not yet, Minerva. We still have to be sure that Ms. Granger and Mr. Malfoy are into each other that much"
"How MUCH? Albus, if there is the right time to tell them about this, it is now"
"As much. to the extent that they will swear to be together, forever."
"But isn't that the plan the witches want? To hold them captives to the spell to eternity?"
"Not to that extent. They shall not be held captives to the witches. I will not allow them"
"Albus, the students are in grave danger. even Mr. Potter"
"I reckon we have to let them handle this. If Mr. Malfoy would be turning away from the Dark Side and prove allegiance to us, there is a possibility that the curse be broken"
"How? Mr. Malfoy would be given only two choices: one, to go with his father to the Dark Side and fight against us in the coming war, or two, choose to love Ms. Granger, willing to love her to death. running away from the Dark Side who will be wanting of take hold of the Lioness"
"He could do both Minerva. As Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy seen it in their dreams, young Malfoy will be choosing to join the Dark Side, only to take revenge as he has proven his allegiance to them. Scary, it seems, Lucius Malfoy is to die in the hands of his son. After avenging for Ms. Granger, hopefully, he will return to her, as both of them will set the Dark Side's captives free, and hopefully still, end the curse of the witches"
"What if they won't be successful? What if Mr. Malfoy would not come back to our side? Albus, even us, would be facing our end"
"In the right time Minerva. It is too early to tell them about it. Christmas vacation will be coming and Mr. Malfoy would be coming back home to spend with his family. I reckon Lucius will inform him of the upcoming war and will ask young Malfoy to join them. As wise as he his, young Malfoy will not succumb to his father's plans. It is in his eyes, Minerva. He isn't the same as his ancestors."
"I know. I remember the prophecy of a Serpent who will be the only one in history ever to resist the offer of power, fame, and glory. I hope that Serpent is the young Malfoy"
"He is Minerva. He is"
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Nighttime came and they sat by the fireplace of the common room. Harry and Ron played wizards' chess, and Ginny and Hermione were busy reading for their homework.
"Hey! Don't you two get tired of reading?", Ron asked.
"NO!", as Ginny and Hermione said in unison.
"At least we know how to value our studies and the benefit it could bring us when we would be applying for a job", Hermione spat.
"Fine!. . . Harry, I'm getting tired. This is game 128 right? I've lost count"
"I think so. Mione, could we study Divination now?", Hary asked kindly.
"Okay, I'll just fix these up and we'll start"
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Hermione and Ginny went back to their room to return their things. Ginny changed into her nightgown, ready to doze off, as Hermione set a foot towards their bedroom door.
"Mione, will you tell him about Malfoy tonight?", Ginny asked.
"Ginny, I haven't decided on that", Hermione replied plainly.
"But when? Hermione Granger, I thought you hated people who are living lies! No offense, you are yourself"
"I know. I don't know if Harry would be able to take this lightly. I mean, it's Malfoy. Harry wasn't even pleased when he knew about Krum. What more Malfoy? I don't even consider telling him, or Ron, even if that would be LIVNG A LIE, as you put it"
"I don't think that would be a good idea. It's up to you, but I tell you, I'm out of it"
Hermione dragged herself heavily down to the common room seeing Harry all puzzled while reading their third year book, Unfogging the Future.
"Harry, what's it you want help with?", Hermione queried.
"Promise you won't laugh"
"Okay"
"It's about the use of tea leaves. Professor Trelawney wants me to perfect the ART of using tea leaves. It's been years now and she is bugging me about it just now. She said my inner eye was fogged up during those times. She said it will be of use to me when the time comes"
"Sheesh! Talk about those stupid tea leaves!"
"You can't help me then", Harry mouthed with a cute frown.
"I can Harry, it's just that I hated it when she told me I wasn't a potential seer, and that I have little aura in me. I can't believe she said that. Even Dumbledore counted how many times she was able to predict the future to two. I couldn't quite fathom why she has to be our Divination teacher"
"Let's get started then. It's late and I think you want to catch some zZ's tonight"
Hermione nodded and sat beside Harry. Everything went well. Harry was able to understand some parts of using the tea leaves. He practiced what he learned from time to time and was getting it right.
It was 12:30 a.m. and they were nearing the end of their study period.
"Harry, there is something I have to tell you"
"I've got it wrong again, didn't I?"
"No, you're doing great. It's something else."
"What is it then?"
Hermione's hands were cold. Words seem not to find their way out of her mouth. She was still trying to figure out how she could explain it all to him without making him wake the other students with his scream.
//Hermione, there is no better time for this.//, Hermoine thought to herself.
"Harry."
"Yes?"
"Harry."
"What is it Mione?"
"Hope you could understand what I'm going to say. Give me the opportunity to explain every thing before you react, ok?"
"Okay"
"Harry, I'm going out with Malfoy. We went out for the first time last night, and honestly, I did enjoy my time with him. I love him, Harry, and I know you will not agree to what connection Malfoy and I have right now. I am happy with him. I learned to understand him last night--- he told me why he has been making our live terrible and all that. Harry, he is not bad as we think he is. He is just forced to live by his father's principles, not wanting his father to be displeased of him. I'm really sorry Harry, I told you just now. Ginny knows about it already and has been pushing me to tell you this"
Harry was shocked though he kept his cool, suppressing his jealousy and tried hard to be a real gentleman. "I'm happy for you Mione"
Hermione had a very startled look in her face. She could not fathom why Harry wasn't screaming his lung out of how pathetic of a choice Hermione has done. Draco Malfoy was their enemy, and Harry gave his blessing to their newfound FRIENDSHIP.
"Mione, I am most happy for you. Malfoy should make sure that he would treat you nicely, or I'll be the first one to bring out my wand and kill him"
"Harry, I didn't expect you to take it like this. You know, you being my ex- boyfriend and he being your enemy. I don't get it"
"Mione, I have come to accepting that even if you love me the same way you did before, our former connection has closed up. It's better that way, so that not one of us would be hurt again. Besides, I want you to be happy. I don't want you to be hurt again. I'm your friend remember?"
"Yes. I couldn't thank you enough. You have not an idea how much this means to me"
"Tell me more of your date last night", Harry said as he Hermione a warm grin.
"It's magical. the stars and the moon above us. and the view was spectacular. He brought me to this place up in the highest peak of the mountain around here. We dined at Magnifico's"
"Wow, Mione! Eating there would be like buying a new broomstick!"
"I know! I was so surprised! We talked through the night talking about things we fancy and all that. He gave me a diamond necklace and put it on my neck. It was so romantic! Then a funny thing before he did that, he came from the manager, holding a bouquet of flowers. he told me it was tulips, and he was so proud that tulips were famous in Holland."
"What's funny with the tulips?"
"The flowers weren't tulips! They were red roses! Hahahahaha! I told him then to eat instead. He might be hallucinating already.
Hermione stood up and ran to her room excitedly having told Harry her stories again after months. She told Harry to wait for a minute and that he did. She went back down, carrying something in her arms.
"Mione, red roses you say?", Harry asked while looking oddly at the tea leaves inside the cup.
Hermione stood in front of him holding the flowers Draco gave her and the diamond necklace in the other.
"Mione, that necklace costs more than the one I gave you."
//You are stupid Harry! Why did you bring that up?//, Harry thought.
"Mione, the flowers, I say, are not at all tulips", Harry forced a laugh.
"That's the funny thing about it'
"Mione, there is also something I have to say"
"What is it?"
"Everything that has been happening between you and Malfoy, which also concerns me as well, has been in Malfoy and I's dreams. We aren't sure about it but we are cursed. Mione, you'll hurt yourself again in the end. Malfoy's PRINCIPLES and his love for you will be tested again. And I, I will be the one to save you two"
The roses shimmered the same it did during the first day when Hermione received one. A snake came hissing from nowhere and bit Hermione in the leg, seconds after, causing her to drop on the floor unconscious.
~Disclaimer: J.K. Rowling owns characters, setting, etc. Except: the plot is mine.~
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Alright, y'all!
This is the edited version of the eighth chapter and I hope you liked this one the same way you might have had with the others.
Anyways, I hope you do have time to check out my other fics as well!
POINTS TO CONSIDER:
*Draco and Hermione had their intimate moments together at the restaurant, and there, they got the chance to know each other well. It might cross your mind that it is nearly impossible to have them together, but, let's not forget there are the Three Dark Witches who were controlling their Fates. But again, with or without them controlling the Ftaes, I reckon there is still a chance for them to get together like that. Besides, don't argue about it. This is fanfiction! I can do anything with it!
*While Hermione went up to her room as she mentioned of the roses Draco gave her, she went back with Harry oddly looking at the tea leaves. Harry saw roses inside his tea cup, and so his question came out of him, whether or not he heard Hermione right if the flowers she received were roses.
*The snake came out fro somewhere and bit Hermione. If you are a first time reader, you might want to hold on to the next chapter to find out why and how the snake came out inside the common room---not to mention, WHO, was the snake after all. [on second thoughts, hold on until I finish the whole fic, ayt?]
I think that's just about it. Kindly drop me review, my ego needs it for inspiration to continue typing the other chapters. And to those who already did, thanks a bunch you guys!
Review! Review! Review!
Smile!
~kaye~
Chapter 8 Signs of the End
Draco sat back to his seat and handed the bouquet of flowers to Hermione. Hermione held her hand to her mouth not expecting to receive such large bouquet of flowers from Draco---compared to what Harry used to give her.
"Malfoy, thank you"
"Do you like it? Those tulips are from Holland. They are famous for it"
"Malfoy, I am in my seventh year in Hogwarts and I know well these plants. Does this look like a bunch of tulips to you?"
Hermione showed the flowers to Draco. Sure enough, it wasn't a bunch of tulips.
"But---- I am sure those were tulips! I bought them myself and stared at it when I got it from the manager. I was holding a bouquet of tulips!"
Hermione only managed to smile. Draco was gaining some blush on his cheeks.
"Malfoy, you must be hungry. Let's eat!"
They ate while talking about anything but love. They were full of that. They talked about their studies, Quidditch matches, how their house teachers would snap at each other themselves, and just about everything. They would laugh once in a while, reminiscing their foolishness in their past years. Hermione and Draco were absolutely enjoying each other's company. Imagine having two of the brightest students together in a lengthy conversation, a CIVIL one, that is.
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Millicent, Mildred, and Mauve, known as the Three Dark Witches viewed the two dine together through their crystal ball.
"I believe, every thing is going on as planned", Mildred said.
"I think so too. These two must enjoy these moments now, before it comes out of sight. Happy you might be but tomorrow will fill you both with agony!", Millicent mouthed.
"Sisters, hear me say thee, Draco and Hermione are bound to each other as an enemy. It pleases me much to see them now with glee and soon after cause them melancholy!", Mauve said last as they watched eagerly at the Serpent and Lioness.
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"Draco, I wish you are being truthful to me"
"Never have I been in my whole life"
"I hope you speak not of lies. . . Lies has broken my heart before, and I had enough of it"
"You still doubt this whole thing I am presenting you with, am I right? You really are smart. . . and wise. You never cease to amaze me"
"I don't know Malfoy. It's hard to give your trust to anyone again having been broken by it. . ."
Hermione looked at her hands that rested on her lap, shy to tell Draco that she was in doubt whether or not to believe him. She knew Draco was sincere but she isn't sure if she is willing to be broken again with more lies.
Draco grabbed something from the pocket of his robe, which is neatly folded at the back of his chair. A box was in his hands, and Draco slowly put it on top of the table. Hermione seeing that Draco has put something on top of the table near her, held her face up and put her hand once more to her mouth seeing a black velvet box in front of her.
Draco said, "Open it. Maybe if you'll see what's inside, you'll believe everything that has been happening tonight". He gave Hermione a sincere smile.
Hermione reached for the box and took a while before she started opening it. She knew what to expect and she didn't want to see it. It looked exactly the same as the box that Viktor Krum once gave her---and Krum gave her an elegant necklace, which was contained in the box. Full of hesitation, she opened it, and to her surprise, a diamond-studded necklace was in front of her, glinting more than the stars above them.
"Malfoy, this is too much.", Hermione mouthed in astonishment.
"Not at all", Draco replied plainly while hiding his own amusement at Hermione's reaction.
"You must have spent a fortune for this!"
"I wouldn't care less. This is priceless, and so are you. . . I could offer nothing more of equal to you. . ."
"Malfoy, I can't---I can't take this", Hermione voiced as her head slowly headed its way facing her lap.
"You are. Take it as a peace offering. I have not a plan of holding up my grudges at you again"
Hermione lifted her head back at Draco to retort but she was cut in, "But--- -"
"No but's. It's only once Draco Malfoy would give something like this, and I am giving you the pleasure of having it"
Draco stood up from his seat and came near Hermione. He got hold of the necklace and placed it on her neck, and touched Hermione's smooth skin after. Draco let his thumb run across Hermione's cheek down to her jaw line while he was standing behind her. Hermione leaned to Draco's hand and closed her eyes, as she tried to cherish the moment.
Draco glided his hands through Hermione's arms and wanted to touch more of her. He reached for Hermione's hands and put it across her, then embracing her, never wanting to let go. Draco's face drew near to Hermione's ear while they both stared at the view in front of them.
"Call me Draco", Draco whispered as his cheeks tensed again to form a sincere smile.
"Am I worthy to call you by your first name?"
"More than you think you are"
"And I, Hermione"
Hermione stood up from her seat as Draco let loose of his touch. She grabbed Draco's pale arm and led him to the side of the balcony. Draco embraced Hermione again with her back facing him, just as they did while Hermione sat. She, on the other hand, bored her weight onto him and felt so comfortable in his arms.
Hermione felt safe in Draco's arms. Never did a man do something like that to her before. The man embracing her had no pretensions whatsoever--- Never did Draco thought of pleasing Hermione but he did. It was a night both of them would never forget.
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In Hogwarts, Hermione lay flat on her back on top of her four-poster. She opened her eyes feeling exhilarated, only figuring out why when she saw a bouquet of roses at her bedside.
She smiled faintly.
Hermione, curled up inside her blanket trying to contain the happiness she was felt. She stayed in bed for half an hour more, trying to rekindle the moments she shared with Draco. She helped herself up the bed and sat beside Ginny, who was half-awake on her bed already.
"Enjoyed last night?", Ginny mouthed lazily.
"Sure did. It was definitely a night to remember"
Hermione headed for the window and saw Harry and Ron walking through the fields.
The sun was up and the breeze was cool. It was as if the weather was one with Hermione. She quickly took a bath, never minding that she was short of 10 minutes in the bathroom and put on casual clothes. It was a Saturday and everyone was allowed to wear anything they wish.
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"Hi!", Hermione greeted cheerily.
Harry and Ron looked from behind them and had bewildered looks on their faces. They didn't expect Hermione to show up to them after a long time that she didn't talk to them.
"I said _hi_. I guess it wouldn't hurt if you two guys would give me a response you know!", Hermione said smiling inevitably.
"Hi Mione", Ron replied.
"Hi Harry", Hermione addressed Harry who was about to step away.
"Hi.", Harry replied with his head lowered at the absurdity of talking to Hermione again.
"Why are you guys looking like that? It's a beautiful morning and you look like prisoners from Azkaban. that was a joke!", Hermione said giggling.
Harry and Ron shot confused looks to each other why Hermione had the sudden urge to joke around.
"Look guys, I'm really sorry for having not talked to you these past months. I see it pointless, actually. I missed you two! I hope you could forgive me for being a spoiled brat"
"It's okay Mione, it's better having you around!", Ron said merrily as he gave a questionning look at Harry who said nothing else but a faint 'hi'.
"Harry, I'm really sorry. I said mean things to you and I was so childish. It could not have gone too far if I pushed it that hard. I really mean it. I'm sorry."
After thinking for a while, Harry gave a response as he tried to look at Hermione's face.
"Mione, I am terribly sorry as well. I should not have done that"
"I shouldn't be holding up with this, but I still love you as well, Harry, but I've decided to stay as this. a friend to each other. I could not afford to lose you. and you too, Ron! Well, want to go to Hogsmeade and have some butterbeer and some candies? My treat!"
"Alright!", Ron cheered while grabbing both their arms heading them back to the Gryffindor Tower.
***********************************************************************
After getting their robes with their money in it, and pleading Ginny to come along with them, Harry, Ron, Hermione, and Ginny were in Hogsmeade in no time. They went from store to store to check out new stuff.
They sat their way through their conversation trying to update each other with what's happened. Hermione had not mentioned anything about Draco.
"Mione, Harry has a problem. He might fail Divination since he was furious with Professor Trelawney telling him of omens and death. you know! The usual. Maybe you could help him out. I know you are trying your best not to drop that subject again, and I expect you've been paying more attention to discussions better than Harry is", Ron said.
Harry gave him a death glare, embarrassing him in front of her girl friends.
"I would be most glad to help you Harry! Even if that is my least liked subject, with Potions tailing behind", Hermione replied with a smile.
The four laughed at her statement. They were having a good time since this was their first time together again, since the second day of classes.
"When do we start then?", Hermoine queried.
"Tonight maybe. Would you be doing anything tonight Mione?"
"Well, yes, but that could wait until tomorrow! I miss you loads Harry!", Hermione said as she gave Harry a bear hug and a kiss on the cheek.
"I missed you too Mione!"
Ginny was feeling uncomfortable for she was the only who knew about Hermione and Draco going out. She wanted to know how soon Hermione would they be telling them about it.
Definitely not that time. . .
***********************************************************************
They all drank their butterbeer and went back to Hogwarts, munching on the candies they ate. They stood before the portrait hole and didn't see the Fat Lady on it.
"Where is the Fat Lady?", Ginny inquired.
"Fat Lady! Oh , Fat Lady!", Ron tried to carry a tune as the three whom he was with glared at him.
"WHAT?", Ron asked innocently.
No one answered. They tried looking for the Fat Lady instead, than give Ron the benefit of an answer. They looked, and looked, but to no avail of finding her.
"I think we should report this to Dumbledore", Hermione claimed.
Hermione led the way to Dumbledore's office. They were all silent, trying to muse about the absurdity of the incident.
Hermione stood there at the opening of Dumbledore's office and saw him writing on his desk.
"Professor Dumbledore, we would like to report something", Harry said.
"And what is it?"
"Professor, the Fat Lady on the portrait of our dormitory seemed to have vanished. She is nowhere to be seen. We looked all over for her but was unsuccesful"
"Well then, I'll send Professor McGonagall to look after her together with Filch"
"Thank you Professor", Hermione stated as they went back to their dormitory.
************************************************************************
Professor McGonagall and Filch were already at the door of the dormitory talking to the Fat Lady. Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Hermione hurried their steps up the staircase as they heard them having a conversation.
"What happened?", Ron asked.
"The Fat Lady was held by the Three Dark Witches. I'm afraid I could not tell you more of this. If you'll excuse us"
McGonagall and Filch found their way down the staircases to Dumbledore's office.
The four entered the common room after uttering the Fat Lady the password of the week, "Fizzle Fluffy Sticks".
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"Albus, the Fat Lady was held captive by the Three Dark Witches this morning. They wanted to tell us that the end is near. Mr. Malfoy and Ms. Granger have been under the curse and their plan was going on as they wanted it. They will soon break those two apart as the Dark Side will start the war. I'm afraid, we have to tell them about it now, before any of the students will be used to act upon the Three Dark Witches' will", McGonagall stated with a grave look on her face.
"Not yet, Minerva. We still have to be sure that Ms. Granger and Mr. Malfoy are into each other that much"
"How MUCH? Albus, if there is the right time to tell them about this, it is now"
"As much. to the extent that they will swear to be together, forever."
"But isn't that the plan the witches want? To hold them captives to the spell to eternity?"
"Not to that extent. They shall not be held captives to the witches. I will not allow them"
"Albus, the students are in grave danger. even Mr. Potter"
"I reckon we have to let them handle this. If Mr. Malfoy would be turning away from the Dark Side and prove allegiance to us, there is a possibility that the curse be broken"
"How? Mr. Malfoy would be given only two choices: one, to go with his father to the Dark Side and fight against us in the coming war, or two, choose to love Ms. Granger, willing to love her to death. running away from the Dark Side who will be wanting of take hold of the Lioness"
"He could do both Minerva. As Mr. Potter and Mr. Malfoy seen it in their dreams, young Malfoy will be choosing to join the Dark Side, only to take revenge as he has proven his allegiance to them. Scary, it seems, Lucius Malfoy is to die in the hands of his son. After avenging for Ms. Granger, hopefully, he will return to her, as both of them will set the Dark Side's captives free, and hopefully still, end the curse of the witches"
"What if they won't be successful? What if Mr. Malfoy would not come back to our side? Albus, even us, would be facing our end"
"In the right time Minerva. It is too early to tell them about it. Christmas vacation will be coming and Mr. Malfoy would be coming back home to spend with his family. I reckon Lucius will inform him of the upcoming war and will ask young Malfoy to join them. As wise as he his, young Malfoy will not succumb to his father's plans. It is in his eyes, Minerva. He isn't the same as his ancestors."
"I know. I remember the prophecy of a Serpent who will be the only one in history ever to resist the offer of power, fame, and glory. I hope that Serpent is the young Malfoy"
"He is Minerva. He is"
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Nighttime came and they sat by the fireplace of the common room. Harry and Ron played wizards' chess, and Ginny and Hermione were busy reading for their homework.
"Hey! Don't you two get tired of reading?", Ron asked.
"NO!", as Ginny and Hermione said in unison.
"At least we know how to value our studies and the benefit it could bring us when we would be applying for a job", Hermione spat.
"Fine!. . . Harry, I'm getting tired. This is game 128 right? I've lost count"
"I think so. Mione, could we study Divination now?", Hary asked kindly.
"Okay, I'll just fix these up and we'll start"
**********************************************************************
Hermione and Ginny went back to their room to return their things. Ginny changed into her nightgown, ready to doze off, as Hermione set a foot towards their bedroom door.
"Mione, will you tell him about Malfoy tonight?", Ginny asked.
"Ginny, I haven't decided on that", Hermione replied plainly.
"But when? Hermione Granger, I thought you hated people who are living lies! No offense, you are yourself"
"I know. I don't know if Harry would be able to take this lightly. I mean, it's Malfoy. Harry wasn't even pleased when he knew about Krum. What more Malfoy? I don't even consider telling him, or Ron, even if that would be LIVNG A LIE, as you put it"
"I don't think that would be a good idea. It's up to you, but I tell you, I'm out of it"
Hermione dragged herself heavily down to the common room seeing Harry all puzzled while reading their third year book, Unfogging the Future.
"Harry, what's it you want help with?", Hermione queried.
"Promise you won't laugh"
"Okay"
"It's about the use of tea leaves. Professor Trelawney wants me to perfect the ART of using tea leaves. It's been years now and she is bugging me about it just now. She said my inner eye was fogged up during those times. She said it will be of use to me when the time comes"
"Sheesh! Talk about those stupid tea leaves!"
"You can't help me then", Harry mouthed with a cute frown.
"I can Harry, it's just that I hated it when she told me I wasn't a potential seer, and that I have little aura in me. I can't believe she said that. Even Dumbledore counted how many times she was able to predict the future to two. I couldn't quite fathom why she has to be our Divination teacher"
"Let's get started then. It's late and I think you want to catch some zZ's tonight"
Hermione nodded and sat beside Harry. Everything went well. Harry was able to understand some parts of using the tea leaves. He practiced what he learned from time to time and was getting it right.
It was 12:30 a.m. and they were nearing the end of their study period.
"Harry, there is something I have to tell you"
"I've got it wrong again, didn't I?"
"No, you're doing great. It's something else."
"What is it then?"
Hermione's hands were cold. Words seem not to find their way out of her mouth. She was still trying to figure out how she could explain it all to him without making him wake the other students with his scream.
//Hermione, there is no better time for this.//, Hermoine thought to herself.
"Harry."
"Yes?"
"Harry."
"What is it Mione?"
"Hope you could understand what I'm going to say. Give me the opportunity to explain every thing before you react, ok?"
"Okay"
"Harry, I'm going out with Malfoy. We went out for the first time last night, and honestly, I did enjoy my time with him. I love him, Harry, and I know you will not agree to what connection Malfoy and I have right now. I am happy with him. I learned to understand him last night--- he told me why he has been making our live terrible and all that. Harry, he is not bad as we think he is. He is just forced to live by his father's principles, not wanting his father to be displeased of him. I'm really sorry Harry, I told you just now. Ginny knows about it already and has been pushing me to tell you this"
Harry was shocked though he kept his cool, suppressing his jealousy and tried hard to be a real gentleman. "I'm happy for you Mione"
Hermione had a very startled look in her face. She could not fathom why Harry wasn't screaming his lung out of how pathetic of a choice Hermione has done. Draco Malfoy was their enemy, and Harry gave his blessing to their newfound FRIENDSHIP.
"Mione, I am most happy for you. Malfoy should make sure that he would treat you nicely, or I'll be the first one to bring out my wand and kill him"
"Harry, I didn't expect you to take it like this. You know, you being my ex- boyfriend and he being your enemy. I don't get it"
"Mione, I have come to accepting that even if you love me the same way you did before, our former connection has closed up. It's better that way, so that not one of us would be hurt again. Besides, I want you to be happy. I don't want you to be hurt again. I'm your friend remember?"
"Yes. I couldn't thank you enough. You have not an idea how much this means to me"
"Tell me more of your date last night", Harry said as he Hermione a warm grin.
"It's magical. the stars and the moon above us. and the view was spectacular. He brought me to this place up in the highest peak of the mountain around here. We dined at Magnifico's"
"Wow, Mione! Eating there would be like buying a new broomstick!"
"I know! I was so surprised! We talked through the night talking about things we fancy and all that. He gave me a diamond necklace and put it on my neck. It was so romantic! Then a funny thing before he did that, he came from the manager, holding a bouquet of flowers. he told me it was tulips, and he was so proud that tulips were famous in Holland."
"What's funny with the tulips?"
"The flowers weren't tulips! They were red roses! Hahahahaha! I told him then to eat instead. He might be hallucinating already.
Hermione stood up and ran to her room excitedly having told Harry her stories again after months. She told Harry to wait for a minute and that he did. She went back down, carrying something in her arms.
"Mione, red roses you say?", Harry asked while looking oddly at the tea leaves inside the cup.
Hermione stood in front of him holding the flowers Draco gave her and the diamond necklace in the other.
"Mione, that necklace costs more than the one I gave you."
//You are stupid Harry! Why did you bring that up?//, Harry thought.
"Mione, the flowers, I say, are not at all tulips", Harry forced a laugh.
"That's the funny thing about it'
"Mione, there is also something I have to say"
"What is it?"
"Everything that has been happening between you and Malfoy, which also concerns me as well, has been in Malfoy and I's dreams. We aren't sure about it but we are cursed. Mione, you'll hurt yourself again in the end. Malfoy's PRINCIPLES and his love for you will be tested again. And I, I will be the one to save you two"
The roses shimmered the same it did during the first day when Hermione received one. A snake came hissing from nowhere and bit Hermione in the leg, seconds after, causing her to drop on the floor unconscious.
~Disclaimer: J.K. Rowling owns characters, setting, etc. Except: the plot is mine.~
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Alright, y'all!
This is the edited version of the eighth chapter and I hope you liked this one the same way you might have had with the others.
Anyways, I hope you do have time to check out my other fics as well!
POINTS TO CONSIDER:
*Draco and Hermione had their intimate moments together at the restaurant, and there, they got the chance to know each other well. It might cross your mind that it is nearly impossible to have them together, but, let's not forget there are the Three Dark Witches who were controlling their Fates. But again, with or without them controlling the Ftaes, I reckon there is still a chance for them to get together like that. Besides, don't argue about it. This is fanfiction! I can do anything with it!
*While Hermione went up to her room as she mentioned of the roses Draco gave her, she went back with Harry oddly looking at the tea leaves. Harry saw roses inside his tea cup, and so his question came out of him, whether or not he heard Hermione right if the flowers she received were roses.
*The snake came out fro somewhere and bit Hermione. If you are a first time reader, you might want to hold on to the next chapter to find out why and how the snake came out inside the common room---not to mention, WHO, was the snake after all. [on second thoughts, hold on until I finish the whole fic, ayt?]
I think that's just about it. Kindly drop me review, my ego needs it for inspiration to continue typing the other chapters. And to those who already did, thanks a bunch you guys!
Review! Review! Review!
Smile!
~kaye~