Chapter 7.
The back of Ginny's head pounded like a hammer to nail. The pain was searing through her lower back and right ankle, never wavering or fading the slightest. She could tell, through her eyelids, the room she currently occupied was bright, but the energy need to open them was absent.
Her right hand was being stroked softly and she could hear distant voices. Carefully, she peaked her eyes open. White surrounded her, on her bed, around the walls, and against her eyes. If she didn't know better, she'd think she was in heaven, but she probably wouldn't feel so much pain in heaven.
"Ginny?" Such a concerned and extremely familiar voice asked. "Ginny, are you alright?" The hand that was stroking her fingers left and returned at her waist, pulling her up right.
"Ron?" Ginny saw a blur of red, two specks of dark brown below, and light brown dots all over his face. "I'm fine, I'm fine."
Ron let go of his little sister and sat back in his chair. He watched her focus her eyes and rub the back of her head. Hermione ran from Dumbledore, whom she was having a discussion with, and to Ginny's bedside when she heard her voice. Colin Creevey followed.
"Oh Ginny! We were so worried! What happened to you? What did Malfoy do?" Hermione's eyes glittered with concern; she kneeled next to her bed.
"What? Malfoy? Malfoy didn't do anything." This was a lie, he had done quite a lot, but she didn't think they'd what to hear what it was he did, especially Ron.
"Are you sure, Ginny?" Ron asked, "Why was he there when you fell?"
Ginny hated when Ron played his older brother role. He meant well, but he was only one year older. "He was only there to practice flying like I was. He didn't bother me. I just fell off my broom because I was so exhausted." This was true, even if she left out some parts of the story.
"Well we had to escort him out only ten minutes ago, he put up a struggle though." Said Ron.
"He wanted to stay?" Ginny liked the sound of that. Draco Malfoy cared about her, he wanted to stay.
"I suppose." He shrugged his shoulders. "I think we'll be going now, Harry said he wanted to talk to me, something about the dance tomorrow."
"THE DANCE IS TOMORROW?" Ginny sat bolt upright. How long had she been knocked out anyway?
"Yes, its tomorrow. You've been in this bed for a week." Hermione cut in.
"Do you mind if I snap a shot? Ginny's face looks really funny!" Colin raised his camera but Ginny smashed her hand in front of the lens. "Alright, alright."
"I've got to get out! I was looking forward to the dance, I have to get my dress robes pressed and pick out earrings to match." Ginny always looked forward to the school dances; they only had one or two a year. The Halloween ball was always her favorite though. Everyone wore dark colors, the Great Hall was a brilliant gold with fake spider webs, Hagrid's pumpkins were larger than the dance floor, and the music was just right.
"You won't be leaving this bed!" Madame Pomfrey had returned. She was holding a bottle full of thick, red, syrupy liquid. "All of you out, Virginia needs her rest." She smiled sweetly and opened the doors for the three students to leave. Ron gave Ginny a kiss on the forehead and left with Hermione and Colin who waved their good-byes.
"Madame Pomfrey, can't I go to the ball tomorrow?" She didn't know how badly she wanted to go until the opportunity was taken away.
"I daresay not! You only just woke, and you have bruises along your lower back and a sprained ankle. Not to mention the concussion you've suffered!" Ginny groaned and turned on her stomach. "Not so fast, open your mouth and take a spoon of this." Pomfrey poured the liquid onto a large soupspoon.
"What is it?" Ginny scrunched up her nose.
"It will stop the pounding in your head and help you sleep. I'll be mending the ankle as your sleeping and trying my best with your back." Ginny opened her mouth to ask another question but Madame Pomfrey stuck the spoon in. The syrup was thick like jello and the taste resembled earwax.
***
"HERMIONE! What's taking so long?"
"I'M NEARLY READY!"
The Halloween feast was taking place in five minutes Ron concluded, checking his watch. The students were already dressed in they're formal robes of mostly scarlet, green, black, and blue. Hermione was really taking her time getting ready, she wanted to look her best for Ron; and she did.
She came out of her room and looked down the balcony of the stairs at her adorable boyfriend. His mouth was hanging open and his eyes were bugging out of his head.
"Wow, 'Mione, you're stunning."
Hermione wore dark blue robes with gold sparkles shining every time she moved. Her hair was pulled up with pins and several brown curly strands fell around her heart-shaped face. She had dark red lipstick on which made her smile brighter than ever. Her eyes were surrounded in a misty gray- blue shadow. She really was stunning.
"Wow, Ron, you're-uh-you're, what are you?" Hermione smirked and kissed Ron's cheek as he blushed. She knew that he didn't own nice dress robes, but she loved him no matter how unfashionable he looked.
Ron took her small arm and led the way to the Hall. "Come on beautiful, we're going to be late."
***
Harry held his still ex-girlfriends hand as they walked into the Great Hall. He was more than thankful he didn't have to share his dinner with Cho, since they were in different houses. The only thing he would have liked to do at dinner was catch a word with Brooke, but she didn't show. He tried repeatedly to talk to her all week long, but she wasn't anywhere. Three days ago, he thought he saw her arm with all the bangles in a crowd, only he didn't make it over in time to see who it was.
Cho nudged his arm, he hadn't said anything to her since they met, and he didn't plan to. "Harry, I know you're shy, but really, I won't bite!"
He hated her so bloody much. "I'm NOT shy!"
"Riiight." Cho was wearing black robes, fitted to make her chest stand out. Her hair was down and certain strands were curled and lay on top of the rest. Her eyes were powdered in green. Harry didn't like the green eye makeup. It made her look even more fake.
Harry looked everywhere around the Hall for Brooke. He just had a feeling in his stomach that he should find her. He wanted to talk to her more than anything in the world. "Why don't we sit down?" Harry didn't want to end up dancing with Cho; that would be wrong because he would imagine her being Brooke anyway.
They sat. And they didn't talk. And Cho started twirling her hair. And Harry started humming. And Harry looked...and looked...and looked. And then Ron and Hermione came over. Thank god.
"What's up, you two?" Hermione looked better than ever. It wasn't her robes or her makeup though, it was her smile. She was sincerely happy, happier than Harry had ever seen her. She had certain glow embedded in her skin.
"We're just uh-sitting." Came Cho's reply.
"I can see that." Ron looked happy too. Actually, he looked overjoyed. He held Hermione's hand tighter than usual and stood closer to her than normal. Harry wanted to be glad for his two friends, he really did. But why was it so simple for them? Why couldn't he be with Brooke right now, holding her hand, standing closer than normal, looking like he inhaled laughing gas? Why did he have to be with Cho Chang?
"Harry, why don't you dance with Cho?" Hermione was oblivious. She obviously thought Harry wanted to be with this stupid girl. Ron knew better and gave Hermione a nudge in the rib. Apparently she caught on. "Or you can just sit there, dancing isn't for everyone of course." She said lamely.
"I think we should dance, Harry." Cho didn't make it sound like a question, it was an order, and Harry was her pitiful lapdog. He wasn't always like this, he used to be brave, and he used to be able to tell people to bug off if he didn't want them near, or at least have the sense to pick himself up and leave. But a shadow had slowly loomed over him. It started just at the end of last year, and for a few shimmering days, the shadow had slightly lifted, but it set back again like a dark black cloud...similar to the weather outside.
"Right." Harry emerged from his chair and followed Cho to the dance floor, giving Hermione a death stare on the way.
Harry wasn't a very good dancer. The Weird Sisters playing from the walls had a fast beat and Harry didn't know what to do. Luckily, a slow song came on. A song that made his heart leap.
The first notes were played and Cho took a step closer to Harry. "Why do you look so funny?" No answer. "Harry, it's alright, you can just hold my waist and we'll dance together." Cho propped her hands on his shoulders.
Harry Potter had enough. This song reminded him too much of the girl he wanted to be with. And this stupid bitch had ruined all the hope he had with her. "Get off of me, Cho. I don't want to be here at this dance with you. I don't even like you." She didn't believe him because she remained smiling. "Oh Merlin! Don't you understand? You're an annoying little prat with some serious problems. I never had an interest in asking you here. I was going to ask another girl, a girl that I really liked to be with, but you interrupted. You took my chances away. And I do not want to dance with you. I NEVER DO!"
Harry left the Hall in a storming blaze. His heart was thumping madly. He descended the grand staircase and out of the front doors. He couldn't remember ever lashing out at someone like that, he was usually very mature and rational, never one to lose his temper so badly, until now.
A strong gust of wind slapped him in the face. The air was freezing cold but it felt good. Harry liked the feeling of the hurt gripping his body. He just wanted to feel something. Something different from wanting-- wanting Brooke.
And there she was by the lake. He could just make her out in the moonlight.
***
Draco was just entering the Great Hall with Pansy Parkinson at his side when he realized this wasn't what he wanted to do. Pansy tugged at his elbow, trying to make him continue on his walk.
"What is it Draco? I want to dance." Pansy's green robes were very small for her. Her breasts stuck out and you could see her bellybutton through the fabric. Her hair was down with thousands of sparkles in it from a glamour charm. She wore dark makeup on her eyes, red blush, and pink lipstick. She was lucky she was naturally pretty, otherwise people would mistake her for a clown.
"You go on ahead, I don't think I'll be attending." Draco wore the same robes as always, since everything he wore day in and day out was fancy. The only thing different in his appearance was he left his hair down. It fell around his face and a few in his eyes. It looked healthy, and for the first time he was happy with it.
"Oh, why not?" Pansy whimpered.
"I have other things to do with my time." Draco gave her a curt nod and turned with a swish of his robes towards the hospital wing.
He didn't know why he was going to see Virginia Weasley. She had been haunting his brain for the past week. When she fell from her broom, Draco was sickened from what he had done. It wasn't the kiss that he felt horrible for; it was the fact he was always ruthless and nasty towards her. She didn't deserve it, not at all.
He arrived at the double doors. His hands were sweaty but his face looked unattached. He hid his feelings better than anyone, with more skill than anyone. But it wasn't much of an accomplishment for Draco.
***
An hour before the dance had started Brooke had just came from her room. She had been in her dormitory for the entire day and thought of looking at a different scene. The students were all at dinner so she had the Common Room to herself, if not for a few people walking through once in a while.
She plopped herself down on a scarlet couch that almost collapsed with the weight. The fire was dyeing ever so slowly, she watched, fascinated. Brooke took out her small notebook she had brought with her and an eagle feather quill.
Out of the ashes
He's born in.
The black waste of love
He's left with.
He yawns and stretches,
Taking in the surroundings,
Of what he has.
Harsh words spoken,
And sights the green has seen,
Hasn't left him marred
Or even broken.
He sings.
For all the others who have fallen.
Brooke smiled as she heard her Phoenix singing softly from her room.
"What have you got there?"
Brooke jumped and whipped her head around. She snapped her book closed and met eyes with a tall, red haired Irish boy. He had purple expensive robes on and an amusing black hat with a bright green feather sticking out.
"It's none of your business. Keep your little nose away from me before you don't have one anymore." She glared at him, but he only smiled.
"Oi, I didn't mean to startle you. Don't you remember me?"
"Remember you? I don't know anyone at this school; I'm new here. I'll be going now." Brooke stood and made an attempt at walking back to her room.
"Brooke Parthenia Parkinson." She stopped walking immediately; the voice was so familiar, how did he know her middle name? It couldn't be? "Brookie Cookie."
"FRED!" Brooke's whole face lit up like a match. She turned around and ran back towards her old friend, Fred Weasley, giving him a big hug. "What are you doing here?" She asked into his shoulder.
"More like what are you doing here? You knew I go-er-went to this school." They finished their hug.
"That was such a long time ago."
"Yeah it was. I came here because Dumbledore wanted to speak with me and a few other graduates. My brother and sister go here now, have you met them? Ron and Ginny." A light went off in Brooke's head. That's why Ron looked so familiar. And Ginny, wasn't Ginny the one who was with Harry in the beginning of the year? She heard a rumor that she's in the hospital wing now in an attempt to commit suicide because she loved Harry so much and couldn't deal with losing him.
"I've met them, Ron's very nice, I didn't realize his last name was Weasley, although I wouldn't say much for his taste in girls." Fred raised a brow. "And Ginny-well-I know her." She changed the subject. "What are you doing with your life, Fred?" Brooke liked saying his name; she hadn't said it in six years.
"I've got my own business with George."
"Business? What kind of business? I'd flip if I found out George and Fred Weasley worked at some desk filing papers all day long."
"It's a very proper business, one that requires great skill and knowledge." Fred put on a false-sophisticated voice and at the same moment he threw a pebble-looking thing onto the ground. The pebble jumped and hopped around the room, gaining speed with every bounce. After about the fifth, it went so high in the air that it hit the ceiling and started to ricochet off the walls.
Brooke was sent into a fit of giggles, she realized how much she had missed Fred at that moment. When she was very young her parents used to work together at the Ministry and were very good friends. The Parkinson's never told the Weasley's that they used to be spies, of course. When the families got together, the children would always play with each other ever since they were in diapers. Brooke seemed to have taken to Fred over Ron and George. When they got together they'd sneak off and cause mischief; they were very good at it too.
Over time Brooke's parents separated. When Brooke turned nine she was taken to live with her father and hadn't seen Fred since.
"It's been a while, hasn't it?" Fred had a serious face, something that looked peculiar on him.
"Yes, it has, but you haven't changed from what I could remember. You're still inventive and creative, that rock thing is spectacular!"
"Weasley's ricocheting-rock." Fred straitened his tie and began smiling again. "And you're remarkably the same! I remember more than you do because I'm older and much more intelligent." His eyes gleamed. "The way you were so feisty when I came up to you was just so Brooke, no one could have pulled that off as well as you did." The teenagers smiled at each other and a slightly awkward silence passed. "I've got to get going, I've got to go to the meeting with Dumbledore, and then I promised to meet up with Ron and Harry before they go to the dance. You know Harry, right? Harry Potter."
She knew him all too well. "I know who he is." She rolled her copper eyes and crossed her arms dramatically.
"Whoa! I'm defiantly going to have to talk to you later." He reached inside his coat pocket and pulled out a bright yellow card. "Owl me here. I'll also be back to Hogwarts from time to time, there's something funny going on so they'll need as many graduates near by as they can get." He gave her another hug before she could ask about the 'something funny going on.' "See you later, Cookie."
"Bye Freddiekinns!"
"Sshhhh!" His face turned red like it had six years ago and he left.
***
"Hermione, the dance is nearly over, let's get out before the crowd." Ron was dancing in the middle of the Great Hall with the girl he believed to be the most gorgeous out of everyone and anyone else.
"We have a whole half hour before the dance ends! Aren't you enjoying yourself?" Hermione had been so cheery the whole evening with Ron, she figured he felt the same since he hadn't left her side once.
"Of course I am, but I just want to spend some time with you alone." His ears turned pink.
"Oh, Ron." She smiled even though her cheeks hurt from this reoccurring face action and walked out of the massive doors, careful not to step on others robes while leaving. "Where are we going?"
"It doesn't really matter, how 'bout just over there?" Ron pointed to the end of the hallway to his right. There was an uncomfortable looking bench at the end, leaning against a gaping window.
The couple walked to the wooden bench, hand in hand and took a seat. Hermione crossed her legs and started fidgeting, twisting her hands and taking more than one deep breath at a time. Ron only stared, fixated on Hermione. He had a crush on her even before he knew it. He liked her since the day she opened the compartment door on the Hogwarts Express in his first year, asking if he'd seen Neville's lost toad.
He remembered how he had made fun of her just so he could be talking about her with an excuse, how she had no friends and was a snobby know-it-all. That was the day he realized how much he cared about her, he was so frightened the mountain troll would smash her to bits that he'd never have the chance to apologize.
But they became friends, and he was amazed with all the gifts she had. She read books, studied for hours, knew an answer to any question, saved him from Devil's Snare, figured out the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets and the monster inside it, managed to take a billion classes at one time, helped free Sirius...
"Ron, are you alright?" He was looking at her curiously for a long five minutes.
"I'm fine, I'm perfect, Hermione. Thank you." He wanted to thank her for everything she had done for him in his life. She had been his first crush, and still is. She had helped him through things she doesn't even know about, things Ron doesn't even know about yet. Ron's eyes were glazed over in a maniac way and he wouldn't blink for a second. He just looked at Hermione.
"You're starting to scare me, Ron."
"I didn't mean to do that." He didn't sound like he cared too much. "You're brilliant, Hermione. Really, brilliant."
"What?" He looked so sincere; it was really creeping her out.
"You're fascinating, you're so perfect." Ron snapped himself out of his trance; it was as if someone else was forcing him to voice his thoughts. "Sorry, I didn't mean to say that." A very familiar creep of red stained his cheeks.
Hermione blushed along. "Shall we go back to the dance?"
"Only if you let me show you off to everyone. Why did you go with me anyway?"
"Try not to show the stupid git that you are, Ron." He didn't catch on to the joke. "I went with you because you're my boyfriend, because I think you're wonderful and extremely cute." His face turned even redder, if possible. "Let's get back." Hermione ruffled his long, burgundy hair and slid her hand to his cheek, then gave him a sweet his on his pouty lips. "Why do you think I want to get back so badly?" She whispered. "I enjoy showing you off just as much, love."
Ron recovered quickly and returned to smiling, as he had previously been doing all night.
***
Just out of the window he could see the speckled moon. It shown brightly through and its light grazed the cheeks of Ginny. The white room made her seem like an angel. She hadn't noticed the on-looker; she was too busy unwrapping a Chocolate Frog box from one of her admirers.
Ginny mumbled incoherently to herself, "Griselda again, I have about four already."
"Talking to yourself Weasley? That could land you in St. Mungo's if you aren't careful." Ginny jumped, startled. She hastily shoved her card back into the box and set it on her bedside table. She had been wondering when Malfoy would come to see her; she hadn't been expecting the night of the dance.
"Malfoy, what are you doing here?" Draco took two giant steps to Ginny's bedside. The light caste on his face didn't make him look evil like usual, he looked like a regular teenage boy--one with a few troubles--but an average boy none the less. Ginny felt comfortable in his presence for the first time, his insults didn't seem to bother her as much.
"I decided to take a stroll to the hospital wing, don't ask why, but I wanted to see if you were well." Draco adverted his eyes away from her. Silence had passed, slipping into the seconds uncontrollably.
"Take a seat, Draco." She called him Draco. For some reason unbeknownst to him, a weight Draco didn't even know existed was lifted from his chest, allowing him to breathe more freely.
He sat with the elegance only a Malfoy could provide. "So then, how are you feeling?"
"I'm doing fine, I don't know why I wasn't allowed to go to the dance tonight." She sighed. "Why aren't you at the dance?"
"Like I'd go to some immature Halloween ball, I have more class than to do that. Usually the Slytherins have their own party in one of the dungeons, but we weren't able organize it this time." Draco flipped his head back, tossing a strand of blonde in his eye away.
"I see." Ginny had the nerves to do it now, so she might as well carry on and ask him. "Why did you kiss me when we were on our brooms?"
Draco didn't like questions if they weren't subtle. She just came right out and said whatever the bloody hell she wanted to, so unlike a Malfoy. He wanted to say 'I didn't kiss you' but because she was the one he had kissed, he didn't think the lie would go very far. "You had to do something because you lost."
Ginny pondered, Draco could almost see her little mind spinning. "Well I wasn't the one who did anything, it was more like you kissing me, not the other way around."
"Yes, but I knew you wouldn't kiss me so I decided to do it myself."
"You wanted to that badly?" Ginny looked shocked, but also very amused, which pissed the hell out of Draco.
"Of course not! I just knew you wouldn't like it, so that's why I did it." He knew his answer didn't make much sense, but what else could he say? Usually, Draco was very good at making up stories and lies; he was a fast thinker.
"So that was some sort of torture?" Ginny sat up in her bed and scooted over to the side to face Draco. She whispered her words to him so quietly he only just made out what she had said.
"I suppose." Draco gripped the armrest of his chair; he was fucking nervous. She was so close that he could smell her chocolate lip-gloss. Draco rested one hand in Ginny's long red hair.
"Torture me again, Draco." Ginny whispered into his mouth and pressed her lips firmly in Draco's. That familiar taste of vanilla came storming back to her. Draco began to nibble on Ginny's bottom lip and Ginny wrapped her small arms around his back. He brought her closer with one hand and lifted her onto the bed without breaking their kiss.
Draco dipped his tongue inside Ginny's warm mouth, tasting all the riches of her. She slowly massaged her tongue with his. It was like a dream being kissed back by Ginny Weasley, being kissed was one thing, kissing was another, but sharing a warm and sensual kiss like this with the most delicate girl he'd ever seen was something he'd never thought existed. He let his body weight go on top of her and she let out a startled moan, he loved hearing her moan, knowing it was he causing her to do so.
He smiled into her mouth and began to feel her body with his own. Draco could tell Ginny didn't have a bra on, he felt her breasts through the single white sheet and his own clothes. Her waist was so small and petite, and her butt curved nicely out, then her slim legs, intertwined around his.
"Weasley." He gasped. Little innocent Virginia was stroking his arse. It was such a nice arse too. Actually, his whole body was fantastic. His chest was hard from playing Quidditch and his shoulders were thin but broad. One of his pale arms was holding her hip and his other was tucked underneath her head. Then, he snaked one hand up Ginny's pajama top. He felt her small bellybutton, and stroked her stomach. He started to reach up farther when Ginny broke their heavy kiss.
"Not so fast Malfoy," She half panted. "I might blind you, remember?"
"That's impossible, you're gorgeous." It was the first true statement he made about Ginny.
She laced her fingers into Draco's white locks. "I like your hair like this, it makes you look less snotty." She grinned and began to sit back up, pushing Draco's warmth off of her.
"I'll wear it like this from now on, then." He sat up too but didn't leave her hospital bed.
"You should get going, Draco. I'll see you again soon." She tucked a piece of her lovely hair behind her ear.
"Goodbye Weasley." He nodded and took a step away from her bed to leave but stopped short and turned back around. "I'll see you at the next Quidditch match in three days." He came closer to her and said with a husky voice, "don't fall off of your broom again when we beat you." He smirked and took his leave with a dramatic toss of his robes.
***
The bottoms of her jeans were torn, leaving strands of thread hanging to her shoes. She had holes in her pants at the knees and smaller ones at her thighs too. Her black sweatshirt had the word 'Dance' embroidered across the chest in pink. Her hood was up, blocking the wind from her stunning face. Her golden hair peaked out on the left side of the hood, playing into the breeze.
She was unfocused, sorting through her thoughts while leaning against a tall tree facing the pond. Harry wondered what she was thinking. He was scared to walk up to her, to interrupt the stigmatized moment.
He only stood a yard away and she still didn't take notice. Maybe she knew he was there but pretended she didn't realize? He figured that was the case, after all, she should be upset with him. Then she spoke, "you always show up when I want to be alone."
Brooke didn't turn her head towards him; she was still looking off into the lake. Harry wondered how she knew it was him she was speaking to. "I could leave," Only he didn't leave, he stepped closer and knelt down beside her. The dirt was cold against his hands that balanced him and the grass was damp, seeping through his robes at the knees.
He only whispered to her, he felt like he shouldn't interrupt the quietness. "I just wanted you to know that I don't have any interest in Cho Chang, she's an old girlfriend. I couldn't help thinking of you all this week; you were on my mind every second. I couldn't find you anywhere, not even at meal times."
She acted like she hadn't heard him at all; she kept on looking strait ahead. A waft of her sent spilled onto Harry when another breeze passed. She didn't smell like he remembered, she smelled--if possible--depressed, just like he was. It was the sent of laying in bed without falling asleep all night, of sitting in darkness while the sun was high in the air, of staring out into nothing, of not remembering what shirt you were wearing right then, of ignoring everyone around you. "Brooke, what's wrong?"
Then she finally turned, her eyes were the brightest gold he had ever seen them. His head started to ache under her stare. It was like she wasn't looking at him, but at the same time she was. "I don't feel like talking." Harry thought for a glimmer of a second that she would open her heart to him again, instead she said 'get the fuck away from me'-well, more or less.
Harry stood and Brooke focused her attention back to the lake. He started walking back to the castle when she spoke again, "The question is Potter, what's wrong with you?"
He turned back around and found her staring into him. His features were distorted: his hair was the messiest it had ever been (like he hadn't brushed it for months), his face was pale like chalk, his robes looked like he had thrown them on in a hurry with his tie loosened, and his eyes shot emerald daggers at anyone who looked into them. It was undoubtedly, the sexiest Brooke at ever seen him.
"Nothing's wrong with me."
"Well then, nothing's wrong with me either." She turned back towards the lake. Harry sighed and sat next to her for a second time.
"You want to know what's wrong?" She nodded. Harry bit his lip and focused on what to say. "I...It's just..." He shook his head in argumentation. "I don't have anybody. That's how I feel, its how I've always felt." Brooke looked back to him and it seemed her eyes had grown softer, although he could have been imagining it. "Everyone that's ever been there for me was taken away. And the thing that bothers me the most is that I was the reason they were taken away; it was my fault."
"Are you talking about your parents?"
"My parents and Sirius, my god father. And you were taken away too-."
"You care about me that much?" Brooke looked shocked, like she had come to some outrageous realization.
"Of course I do, you helped me forget. You made me happy to be here, for the simple reason that you were depressed too. I was so glad that you were happier around me and I was ecstatic just saying one word to you. Everything made some sort of sense around you, either that, or it didn't matter that it didn't make sense."
She giggled. It was so innocent and sweet that Harry had to smile. The movement his face made felt unfamiliar. "You're gorgeous when you smile." Said Brooke and Harry's face returned some of its color.
"Where have you been this past week? Why didn't you go to the dance?"
"I've been in my room mostly, I called a house elf for my food. And I didn't go to the dance because I didn't have a date or any friends."
Harry's heart gave a tight squeeze. He couldn't figure out why no one would be friends with her, she's so attractive and interesting. "I'm your friend." She nodded.
"I don't really mind not having friends; I like being by myself. I wouldn't have to trouble them with my problems."
"What problems?" He raised an eyebrow.
"I can't tell you." She paused, "I couldn't ever tell you."
"Why not?"
She heaved a sigh and stared back to the lake, "because you wouldn't be my friend anymore."
***
"We'll be getting a move on any day now."
"As we should, the nights are getting darker and the storms getting restless."
"Parkinson."
"Yes, My Lord?"
"Bring me your daughters tomorrow night, I wish to start then."
"Of course, My Lord."
"Malfoy, same for you. Bring me my young Malfoy."
"Yes, My Lord."
The death eaters stood in a circle around their master. They had their black robes on over their heads and masks over their faces. They were inside an old muggle house-their lord's old muggle house.
"My Lord, sir?"
"What is it, Wormtail?"
"Sir, I was just wondering about our plans of attack, sir. Against Harry Potter."
"That will be settled tomorrow. I have plans for our three guests, as I have already told those worthy of hearing. I will be starting our plans tonight. Malfoy, Parkinson, Crabbe, Goyle get a move on."
***
A/N: That chapter went fast! The next one will start my plot and wont have much romance in it (but of course a nice bit, I wouldn't be able to write anything without love) but more action/fighting/dueling.
Thank you for the TWO people who reviewed, it was much appreciated.
I'd like to think more people are reading this and if there is, please review, it means so much.
Silver: I'm very glad you like the pairings, I wasn't sure if people would like Brooke. The action is coming next chapter, promise! Review again, I love them sooo much :-) Oh yeah, very happy you liked the fight with Harry and Ron, it was hard to write though, I like them as friends.
Janet: You always review and I thank you for that a billion times. I put more Draco and Ginny there for you, and I'm happy with the way it turned out. Review soon, and please update your story.
The back of Ginny's head pounded like a hammer to nail. The pain was searing through her lower back and right ankle, never wavering or fading the slightest. She could tell, through her eyelids, the room she currently occupied was bright, but the energy need to open them was absent.
Her right hand was being stroked softly and she could hear distant voices. Carefully, she peaked her eyes open. White surrounded her, on her bed, around the walls, and against her eyes. If she didn't know better, she'd think she was in heaven, but she probably wouldn't feel so much pain in heaven.
"Ginny?" Such a concerned and extremely familiar voice asked. "Ginny, are you alright?" The hand that was stroking her fingers left and returned at her waist, pulling her up right.
"Ron?" Ginny saw a blur of red, two specks of dark brown below, and light brown dots all over his face. "I'm fine, I'm fine."
Ron let go of his little sister and sat back in his chair. He watched her focus her eyes and rub the back of her head. Hermione ran from Dumbledore, whom she was having a discussion with, and to Ginny's bedside when she heard her voice. Colin Creevey followed.
"Oh Ginny! We were so worried! What happened to you? What did Malfoy do?" Hermione's eyes glittered with concern; she kneeled next to her bed.
"What? Malfoy? Malfoy didn't do anything." This was a lie, he had done quite a lot, but she didn't think they'd what to hear what it was he did, especially Ron.
"Are you sure, Ginny?" Ron asked, "Why was he there when you fell?"
Ginny hated when Ron played his older brother role. He meant well, but he was only one year older. "He was only there to practice flying like I was. He didn't bother me. I just fell off my broom because I was so exhausted." This was true, even if she left out some parts of the story.
"Well we had to escort him out only ten minutes ago, he put up a struggle though." Said Ron.
"He wanted to stay?" Ginny liked the sound of that. Draco Malfoy cared about her, he wanted to stay.
"I suppose." He shrugged his shoulders. "I think we'll be going now, Harry said he wanted to talk to me, something about the dance tomorrow."
"THE DANCE IS TOMORROW?" Ginny sat bolt upright. How long had she been knocked out anyway?
"Yes, its tomorrow. You've been in this bed for a week." Hermione cut in.
"Do you mind if I snap a shot? Ginny's face looks really funny!" Colin raised his camera but Ginny smashed her hand in front of the lens. "Alright, alright."
"I've got to get out! I was looking forward to the dance, I have to get my dress robes pressed and pick out earrings to match." Ginny always looked forward to the school dances; they only had one or two a year. The Halloween ball was always her favorite though. Everyone wore dark colors, the Great Hall was a brilliant gold with fake spider webs, Hagrid's pumpkins were larger than the dance floor, and the music was just right.
"You won't be leaving this bed!" Madame Pomfrey had returned. She was holding a bottle full of thick, red, syrupy liquid. "All of you out, Virginia needs her rest." She smiled sweetly and opened the doors for the three students to leave. Ron gave Ginny a kiss on the forehead and left with Hermione and Colin who waved their good-byes.
"Madame Pomfrey, can't I go to the ball tomorrow?" She didn't know how badly she wanted to go until the opportunity was taken away.
"I daresay not! You only just woke, and you have bruises along your lower back and a sprained ankle. Not to mention the concussion you've suffered!" Ginny groaned and turned on her stomach. "Not so fast, open your mouth and take a spoon of this." Pomfrey poured the liquid onto a large soupspoon.
"What is it?" Ginny scrunched up her nose.
"It will stop the pounding in your head and help you sleep. I'll be mending the ankle as your sleeping and trying my best with your back." Ginny opened her mouth to ask another question but Madame Pomfrey stuck the spoon in. The syrup was thick like jello and the taste resembled earwax.
***
"HERMIONE! What's taking so long?"
"I'M NEARLY READY!"
The Halloween feast was taking place in five minutes Ron concluded, checking his watch. The students were already dressed in they're formal robes of mostly scarlet, green, black, and blue. Hermione was really taking her time getting ready, she wanted to look her best for Ron; and she did.
She came out of her room and looked down the balcony of the stairs at her adorable boyfriend. His mouth was hanging open and his eyes were bugging out of his head.
"Wow, 'Mione, you're stunning."
Hermione wore dark blue robes with gold sparkles shining every time she moved. Her hair was pulled up with pins and several brown curly strands fell around her heart-shaped face. She had dark red lipstick on which made her smile brighter than ever. Her eyes were surrounded in a misty gray- blue shadow. She really was stunning.
"Wow, Ron, you're-uh-you're, what are you?" Hermione smirked and kissed Ron's cheek as he blushed. She knew that he didn't own nice dress robes, but she loved him no matter how unfashionable he looked.
Ron took her small arm and led the way to the Hall. "Come on beautiful, we're going to be late."
***
Harry held his still ex-girlfriends hand as they walked into the Great Hall. He was more than thankful he didn't have to share his dinner with Cho, since they were in different houses. The only thing he would have liked to do at dinner was catch a word with Brooke, but she didn't show. He tried repeatedly to talk to her all week long, but she wasn't anywhere. Three days ago, he thought he saw her arm with all the bangles in a crowd, only he didn't make it over in time to see who it was.
Cho nudged his arm, he hadn't said anything to her since they met, and he didn't plan to. "Harry, I know you're shy, but really, I won't bite!"
He hated her so bloody much. "I'm NOT shy!"
"Riiight." Cho was wearing black robes, fitted to make her chest stand out. Her hair was down and certain strands were curled and lay on top of the rest. Her eyes were powdered in green. Harry didn't like the green eye makeup. It made her look even more fake.
Harry looked everywhere around the Hall for Brooke. He just had a feeling in his stomach that he should find her. He wanted to talk to her more than anything in the world. "Why don't we sit down?" Harry didn't want to end up dancing with Cho; that would be wrong because he would imagine her being Brooke anyway.
They sat. And they didn't talk. And Cho started twirling her hair. And Harry started humming. And Harry looked...and looked...and looked. And then Ron and Hermione came over. Thank god.
"What's up, you two?" Hermione looked better than ever. It wasn't her robes or her makeup though, it was her smile. She was sincerely happy, happier than Harry had ever seen her. She had certain glow embedded in her skin.
"We're just uh-sitting." Came Cho's reply.
"I can see that." Ron looked happy too. Actually, he looked overjoyed. He held Hermione's hand tighter than usual and stood closer to her than normal. Harry wanted to be glad for his two friends, he really did. But why was it so simple for them? Why couldn't he be with Brooke right now, holding her hand, standing closer than normal, looking like he inhaled laughing gas? Why did he have to be with Cho Chang?
"Harry, why don't you dance with Cho?" Hermione was oblivious. She obviously thought Harry wanted to be with this stupid girl. Ron knew better and gave Hermione a nudge in the rib. Apparently she caught on. "Or you can just sit there, dancing isn't for everyone of course." She said lamely.
"I think we should dance, Harry." Cho didn't make it sound like a question, it was an order, and Harry was her pitiful lapdog. He wasn't always like this, he used to be brave, and he used to be able to tell people to bug off if he didn't want them near, or at least have the sense to pick himself up and leave. But a shadow had slowly loomed over him. It started just at the end of last year, and for a few shimmering days, the shadow had slightly lifted, but it set back again like a dark black cloud...similar to the weather outside.
"Right." Harry emerged from his chair and followed Cho to the dance floor, giving Hermione a death stare on the way.
Harry wasn't a very good dancer. The Weird Sisters playing from the walls had a fast beat and Harry didn't know what to do. Luckily, a slow song came on. A song that made his heart leap.
The first notes were played and Cho took a step closer to Harry. "Why do you look so funny?" No answer. "Harry, it's alright, you can just hold my waist and we'll dance together." Cho propped her hands on his shoulders.
Harry Potter had enough. This song reminded him too much of the girl he wanted to be with. And this stupid bitch had ruined all the hope he had with her. "Get off of me, Cho. I don't want to be here at this dance with you. I don't even like you." She didn't believe him because she remained smiling. "Oh Merlin! Don't you understand? You're an annoying little prat with some serious problems. I never had an interest in asking you here. I was going to ask another girl, a girl that I really liked to be with, but you interrupted. You took my chances away. And I do not want to dance with you. I NEVER DO!"
Harry left the Hall in a storming blaze. His heart was thumping madly. He descended the grand staircase and out of the front doors. He couldn't remember ever lashing out at someone like that, he was usually very mature and rational, never one to lose his temper so badly, until now.
A strong gust of wind slapped him in the face. The air was freezing cold but it felt good. Harry liked the feeling of the hurt gripping his body. He just wanted to feel something. Something different from wanting-- wanting Brooke.
And there she was by the lake. He could just make her out in the moonlight.
***
Draco was just entering the Great Hall with Pansy Parkinson at his side when he realized this wasn't what he wanted to do. Pansy tugged at his elbow, trying to make him continue on his walk.
"What is it Draco? I want to dance." Pansy's green robes were very small for her. Her breasts stuck out and you could see her bellybutton through the fabric. Her hair was down with thousands of sparkles in it from a glamour charm. She wore dark makeup on her eyes, red blush, and pink lipstick. She was lucky she was naturally pretty, otherwise people would mistake her for a clown.
"You go on ahead, I don't think I'll be attending." Draco wore the same robes as always, since everything he wore day in and day out was fancy. The only thing different in his appearance was he left his hair down. It fell around his face and a few in his eyes. It looked healthy, and for the first time he was happy with it.
"Oh, why not?" Pansy whimpered.
"I have other things to do with my time." Draco gave her a curt nod and turned with a swish of his robes towards the hospital wing.
He didn't know why he was going to see Virginia Weasley. She had been haunting his brain for the past week. When she fell from her broom, Draco was sickened from what he had done. It wasn't the kiss that he felt horrible for; it was the fact he was always ruthless and nasty towards her. She didn't deserve it, not at all.
He arrived at the double doors. His hands were sweaty but his face looked unattached. He hid his feelings better than anyone, with more skill than anyone. But it wasn't much of an accomplishment for Draco.
***
An hour before the dance had started Brooke had just came from her room. She had been in her dormitory for the entire day and thought of looking at a different scene. The students were all at dinner so she had the Common Room to herself, if not for a few people walking through once in a while.
She plopped herself down on a scarlet couch that almost collapsed with the weight. The fire was dyeing ever so slowly, she watched, fascinated. Brooke took out her small notebook she had brought with her and an eagle feather quill.
Out of the ashes
He's born in.
The black waste of love
He's left with.
He yawns and stretches,
Taking in the surroundings,
Of what he has.
Harsh words spoken,
And sights the green has seen,
Hasn't left him marred
Or even broken.
He sings.
For all the others who have fallen.
Brooke smiled as she heard her Phoenix singing softly from her room.
"What have you got there?"
Brooke jumped and whipped her head around. She snapped her book closed and met eyes with a tall, red haired Irish boy. He had purple expensive robes on and an amusing black hat with a bright green feather sticking out.
"It's none of your business. Keep your little nose away from me before you don't have one anymore." She glared at him, but he only smiled.
"Oi, I didn't mean to startle you. Don't you remember me?"
"Remember you? I don't know anyone at this school; I'm new here. I'll be going now." Brooke stood and made an attempt at walking back to her room.
"Brooke Parthenia Parkinson." She stopped walking immediately; the voice was so familiar, how did he know her middle name? It couldn't be? "Brookie Cookie."
"FRED!" Brooke's whole face lit up like a match. She turned around and ran back towards her old friend, Fred Weasley, giving him a big hug. "What are you doing here?" She asked into his shoulder.
"More like what are you doing here? You knew I go-er-went to this school." They finished their hug.
"That was such a long time ago."
"Yeah it was. I came here because Dumbledore wanted to speak with me and a few other graduates. My brother and sister go here now, have you met them? Ron and Ginny." A light went off in Brooke's head. That's why Ron looked so familiar. And Ginny, wasn't Ginny the one who was with Harry in the beginning of the year? She heard a rumor that she's in the hospital wing now in an attempt to commit suicide because she loved Harry so much and couldn't deal with losing him.
"I've met them, Ron's very nice, I didn't realize his last name was Weasley, although I wouldn't say much for his taste in girls." Fred raised a brow. "And Ginny-well-I know her." She changed the subject. "What are you doing with your life, Fred?" Brooke liked saying his name; she hadn't said it in six years.
"I've got my own business with George."
"Business? What kind of business? I'd flip if I found out George and Fred Weasley worked at some desk filing papers all day long."
"It's a very proper business, one that requires great skill and knowledge." Fred put on a false-sophisticated voice and at the same moment he threw a pebble-looking thing onto the ground. The pebble jumped and hopped around the room, gaining speed with every bounce. After about the fifth, it went so high in the air that it hit the ceiling and started to ricochet off the walls.
Brooke was sent into a fit of giggles, she realized how much she had missed Fred at that moment. When she was very young her parents used to work together at the Ministry and were very good friends. The Parkinson's never told the Weasley's that they used to be spies, of course. When the families got together, the children would always play with each other ever since they were in diapers. Brooke seemed to have taken to Fred over Ron and George. When they got together they'd sneak off and cause mischief; they were very good at it too.
Over time Brooke's parents separated. When Brooke turned nine she was taken to live with her father and hadn't seen Fred since.
"It's been a while, hasn't it?" Fred had a serious face, something that looked peculiar on him.
"Yes, it has, but you haven't changed from what I could remember. You're still inventive and creative, that rock thing is spectacular!"
"Weasley's ricocheting-rock." Fred straitened his tie and began smiling again. "And you're remarkably the same! I remember more than you do because I'm older and much more intelligent." His eyes gleamed. "The way you were so feisty when I came up to you was just so Brooke, no one could have pulled that off as well as you did." The teenagers smiled at each other and a slightly awkward silence passed. "I've got to get going, I've got to go to the meeting with Dumbledore, and then I promised to meet up with Ron and Harry before they go to the dance. You know Harry, right? Harry Potter."
She knew him all too well. "I know who he is." She rolled her copper eyes and crossed her arms dramatically.
"Whoa! I'm defiantly going to have to talk to you later." He reached inside his coat pocket and pulled out a bright yellow card. "Owl me here. I'll also be back to Hogwarts from time to time, there's something funny going on so they'll need as many graduates near by as they can get." He gave her another hug before she could ask about the 'something funny going on.' "See you later, Cookie."
"Bye Freddiekinns!"
"Sshhhh!" His face turned red like it had six years ago and he left.
***
"Hermione, the dance is nearly over, let's get out before the crowd." Ron was dancing in the middle of the Great Hall with the girl he believed to be the most gorgeous out of everyone and anyone else.
"We have a whole half hour before the dance ends! Aren't you enjoying yourself?" Hermione had been so cheery the whole evening with Ron, she figured he felt the same since he hadn't left her side once.
"Of course I am, but I just want to spend some time with you alone." His ears turned pink.
"Oh, Ron." She smiled even though her cheeks hurt from this reoccurring face action and walked out of the massive doors, careful not to step on others robes while leaving. "Where are we going?"
"It doesn't really matter, how 'bout just over there?" Ron pointed to the end of the hallway to his right. There was an uncomfortable looking bench at the end, leaning against a gaping window.
The couple walked to the wooden bench, hand in hand and took a seat. Hermione crossed her legs and started fidgeting, twisting her hands and taking more than one deep breath at a time. Ron only stared, fixated on Hermione. He had a crush on her even before he knew it. He liked her since the day she opened the compartment door on the Hogwarts Express in his first year, asking if he'd seen Neville's lost toad.
He remembered how he had made fun of her just so he could be talking about her with an excuse, how she had no friends and was a snobby know-it-all. That was the day he realized how much he cared about her, he was so frightened the mountain troll would smash her to bits that he'd never have the chance to apologize.
But they became friends, and he was amazed with all the gifts she had. She read books, studied for hours, knew an answer to any question, saved him from Devil's Snare, figured out the mystery of the Chamber of Secrets and the monster inside it, managed to take a billion classes at one time, helped free Sirius...
"Ron, are you alright?" He was looking at her curiously for a long five minutes.
"I'm fine, I'm perfect, Hermione. Thank you." He wanted to thank her for everything she had done for him in his life. She had been his first crush, and still is. She had helped him through things she doesn't even know about, things Ron doesn't even know about yet. Ron's eyes were glazed over in a maniac way and he wouldn't blink for a second. He just looked at Hermione.
"You're starting to scare me, Ron."
"I didn't mean to do that." He didn't sound like he cared too much. "You're brilliant, Hermione. Really, brilliant."
"What?" He looked so sincere; it was really creeping her out.
"You're fascinating, you're so perfect." Ron snapped himself out of his trance; it was as if someone else was forcing him to voice his thoughts. "Sorry, I didn't mean to say that." A very familiar creep of red stained his cheeks.
Hermione blushed along. "Shall we go back to the dance?"
"Only if you let me show you off to everyone. Why did you go with me anyway?"
"Try not to show the stupid git that you are, Ron." He didn't catch on to the joke. "I went with you because you're my boyfriend, because I think you're wonderful and extremely cute." His face turned even redder, if possible. "Let's get back." Hermione ruffled his long, burgundy hair and slid her hand to his cheek, then gave him a sweet his on his pouty lips. "Why do you think I want to get back so badly?" She whispered. "I enjoy showing you off just as much, love."
Ron recovered quickly and returned to smiling, as he had previously been doing all night.
***
Just out of the window he could see the speckled moon. It shown brightly through and its light grazed the cheeks of Ginny. The white room made her seem like an angel. She hadn't noticed the on-looker; she was too busy unwrapping a Chocolate Frog box from one of her admirers.
Ginny mumbled incoherently to herself, "Griselda again, I have about four already."
"Talking to yourself Weasley? That could land you in St. Mungo's if you aren't careful." Ginny jumped, startled. She hastily shoved her card back into the box and set it on her bedside table. She had been wondering when Malfoy would come to see her; she hadn't been expecting the night of the dance.
"Malfoy, what are you doing here?" Draco took two giant steps to Ginny's bedside. The light caste on his face didn't make him look evil like usual, he looked like a regular teenage boy--one with a few troubles--but an average boy none the less. Ginny felt comfortable in his presence for the first time, his insults didn't seem to bother her as much.
"I decided to take a stroll to the hospital wing, don't ask why, but I wanted to see if you were well." Draco adverted his eyes away from her. Silence had passed, slipping into the seconds uncontrollably.
"Take a seat, Draco." She called him Draco. For some reason unbeknownst to him, a weight Draco didn't even know existed was lifted from his chest, allowing him to breathe more freely.
He sat with the elegance only a Malfoy could provide. "So then, how are you feeling?"
"I'm doing fine, I don't know why I wasn't allowed to go to the dance tonight." She sighed. "Why aren't you at the dance?"
"Like I'd go to some immature Halloween ball, I have more class than to do that. Usually the Slytherins have their own party in one of the dungeons, but we weren't able organize it this time." Draco flipped his head back, tossing a strand of blonde in his eye away.
"I see." Ginny had the nerves to do it now, so she might as well carry on and ask him. "Why did you kiss me when we were on our brooms?"
Draco didn't like questions if they weren't subtle. She just came right out and said whatever the bloody hell she wanted to, so unlike a Malfoy. He wanted to say 'I didn't kiss you' but because she was the one he had kissed, he didn't think the lie would go very far. "You had to do something because you lost."
Ginny pondered, Draco could almost see her little mind spinning. "Well I wasn't the one who did anything, it was more like you kissing me, not the other way around."
"Yes, but I knew you wouldn't kiss me so I decided to do it myself."
"You wanted to that badly?" Ginny looked shocked, but also very amused, which pissed the hell out of Draco.
"Of course not! I just knew you wouldn't like it, so that's why I did it." He knew his answer didn't make much sense, but what else could he say? Usually, Draco was very good at making up stories and lies; he was a fast thinker.
"So that was some sort of torture?" Ginny sat up in her bed and scooted over to the side to face Draco. She whispered her words to him so quietly he only just made out what she had said.
"I suppose." Draco gripped the armrest of his chair; he was fucking nervous. She was so close that he could smell her chocolate lip-gloss. Draco rested one hand in Ginny's long red hair.
"Torture me again, Draco." Ginny whispered into his mouth and pressed her lips firmly in Draco's. That familiar taste of vanilla came storming back to her. Draco began to nibble on Ginny's bottom lip and Ginny wrapped her small arms around his back. He brought her closer with one hand and lifted her onto the bed without breaking their kiss.
Draco dipped his tongue inside Ginny's warm mouth, tasting all the riches of her. She slowly massaged her tongue with his. It was like a dream being kissed back by Ginny Weasley, being kissed was one thing, kissing was another, but sharing a warm and sensual kiss like this with the most delicate girl he'd ever seen was something he'd never thought existed. He let his body weight go on top of her and she let out a startled moan, he loved hearing her moan, knowing it was he causing her to do so.
He smiled into her mouth and began to feel her body with his own. Draco could tell Ginny didn't have a bra on, he felt her breasts through the single white sheet and his own clothes. Her waist was so small and petite, and her butt curved nicely out, then her slim legs, intertwined around his.
"Weasley." He gasped. Little innocent Virginia was stroking his arse. It was such a nice arse too. Actually, his whole body was fantastic. His chest was hard from playing Quidditch and his shoulders were thin but broad. One of his pale arms was holding her hip and his other was tucked underneath her head. Then, he snaked one hand up Ginny's pajama top. He felt her small bellybutton, and stroked her stomach. He started to reach up farther when Ginny broke their heavy kiss.
"Not so fast Malfoy," She half panted. "I might blind you, remember?"
"That's impossible, you're gorgeous." It was the first true statement he made about Ginny.
She laced her fingers into Draco's white locks. "I like your hair like this, it makes you look less snotty." She grinned and began to sit back up, pushing Draco's warmth off of her.
"I'll wear it like this from now on, then." He sat up too but didn't leave her hospital bed.
"You should get going, Draco. I'll see you again soon." She tucked a piece of her lovely hair behind her ear.
"Goodbye Weasley." He nodded and took a step away from her bed to leave but stopped short and turned back around. "I'll see you at the next Quidditch match in three days." He came closer to her and said with a husky voice, "don't fall off of your broom again when we beat you." He smirked and took his leave with a dramatic toss of his robes.
***
The bottoms of her jeans were torn, leaving strands of thread hanging to her shoes. She had holes in her pants at the knees and smaller ones at her thighs too. Her black sweatshirt had the word 'Dance' embroidered across the chest in pink. Her hood was up, blocking the wind from her stunning face. Her golden hair peaked out on the left side of the hood, playing into the breeze.
She was unfocused, sorting through her thoughts while leaning against a tall tree facing the pond. Harry wondered what she was thinking. He was scared to walk up to her, to interrupt the stigmatized moment.
He only stood a yard away and she still didn't take notice. Maybe she knew he was there but pretended she didn't realize? He figured that was the case, after all, she should be upset with him. Then she spoke, "you always show up when I want to be alone."
Brooke didn't turn her head towards him; she was still looking off into the lake. Harry wondered how she knew it was him she was speaking to. "I could leave," Only he didn't leave, he stepped closer and knelt down beside her. The dirt was cold against his hands that balanced him and the grass was damp, seeping through his robes at the knees.
He only whispered to her, he felt like he shouldn't interrupt the quietness. "I just wanted you to know that I don't have any interest in Cho Chang, she's an old girlfriend. I couldn't help thinking of you all this week; you were on my mind every second. I couldn't find you anywhere, not even at meal times."
She acted like she hadn't heard him at all; she kept on looking strait ahead. A waft of her sent spilled onto Harry when another breeze passed. She didn't smell like he remembered, she smelled--if possible--depressed, just like he was. It was the sent of laying in bed without falling asleep all night, of sitting in darkness while the sun was high in the air, of staring out into nothing, of not remembering what shirt you were wearing right then, of ignoring everyone around you. "Brooke, what's wrong?"
Then she finally turned, her eyes were the brightest gold he had ever seen them. His head started to ache under her stare. It was like she wasn't looking at him, but at the same time she was. "I don't feel like talking." Harry thought for a glimmer of a second that she would open her heart to him again, instead she said 'get the fuck away from me'-well, more or less.
Harry stood and Brooke focused her attention back to the lake. He started walking back to the castle when she spoke again, "The question is Potter, what's wrong with you?"
He turned back around and found her staring into him. His features were distorted: his hair was the messiest it had ever been (like he hadn't brushed it for months), his face was pale like chalk, his robes looked like he had thrown them on in a hurry with his tie loosened, and his eyes shot emerald daggers at anyone who looked into them. It was undoubtedly, the sexiest Brooke at ever seen him.
"Nothing's wrong with me."
"Well then, nothing's wrong with me either." She turned back towards the lake. Harry sighed and sat next to her for a second time.
"You want to know what's wrong?" She nodded. Harry bit his lip and focused on what to say. "I...It's just..." He shook his head in argumentation. "I don't have anybody. That's how I feel, its how I've always felt." Brooke looked back to him and it seemed her eyes had grown softer, although he could have been imagining it. "Everyone that's ever been there for me was taken away. And the thing that bothers me the most is that I was the reason they were taken away; it was my fault."
"Are you talking about your parents?"
"My parents and Sirius, my god father. And you were taken away too-."
"You care about me that much?" Brooke looked shocked, like she had come to some outrageous realization.
"Of course I do, you helped me forget. You made me happy to be here, for the simple reason that you were depressed too. I was so glad that you were happier around me and I was ecstatic just saying one word to you. Everything made some sort of sense around you, either that, or it didn't matter that it didn't make sense."
She giggled. It was so innocent and sweet that Harry had to smile. The movement his face made felt unfamiliar. "You're gorgeous when you smile." Said Brooke and Harry's face returned some of its color.
"Where have you been this past week? Why didn't you go to the dance?"
"I've been in my room mostly, I called a house elf for my food. And I didn't go to the dance because I didn't have a date or any friends."
Harry's heart gave a tight squeeze. He couldn't figure out why no one would be friends with her, she's so attractive and interesting. "I'm your friend." She nodded.
"I don't really mind not having friends; I like being by myself. I wouldn't have to trouble them with my problems."
"What problems?" He raised an eyebrow.
"I can't tell you." She paused, "I couldn't ever tell you."
"Why not?"
She heaved a sigh and stared back to the lake, "because you wouldn't be my friend anymore."
***
"We'll be getting a move on any day now."
"As we should, the nights are getting darker and the storms getting restless."
"Parkinson."
"Yes, My Lord?"
"Bring me your daughters tomorrow night, I wish to start then."
"Of course, My Lord."
"Malfoy, same for you. Bring me my young Malfoy."
"Yes, My Lord."
The death eaters stood in a circle around their master. They had their black robes on over their heads and masks over their faces. They were inside an old muggle house-their lord's old muggle house.
"My Lord, sir?"
"What is it, Wormtail?"
"Sir, I was just wondering about our plans of attack, sir. Against Harry Potter."
"That will be settled tomorrow. I have plans for our three guests, as I have already told those worthy of hearing. I will be starting our plans tonight. Malfoy, Parkinson, Crabbe, Goyle get a move on."
***
A/N: That chapter went fast! The next one will start my plot and wont have much romance in it (but of course a nice bit, I wouldn't be able to write anything without love) but more action/fighting/dueling.
Thank you for the TWO people who reviewed, it was much appreciated.
I'd like to think more people are reading this and if there is, please review, it means so much.
Silver: I'm very glad you like the pairings, I wasn't sure if people would like Brooke. The action is coming next chapter, promise! Review again, I love them sooo much :-) Oh yeah, very happy you liked the fight with Harry and Ron, it was hard to write though, I like them as friends.
Janet: You always review and I thank you for that a billion times. I put more Draco and Ginny there for you, and I'm happy with the way it turned out. Review soon, and please update your story.